11-Day History and Culture Journey Through Turkey from Istanbul

Welcome to the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul, Türkiye's largest city! Upon your arrival, a dedicated tour guide will be at the airport to greet you. They will ensure you're comfortably checked into your hotel. Complimentary airport pick-up services are provided from Istanbul Airport (IST). Please join our staff at the scheduled time with your luggage. Please be punctual at the meeting point. No meals will be provided on your arrival day.

Immerse yourself in the magic of Istanbul, once known as Constantinople, Türkiye's economic, cultural, and historical nucleus. The city elegantly bridges Europe and Asia across the Bosporus strait.

Itinerary: Hotel → Hagia Sophia (45 mins, Tickets included; rent headphones for USD $2.00 for cathedral entry) → Topkapi Palace (60 mins, ticket included) → Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Square & Theodosius Obelisk (30 mins) → Istanbul Grand Bazaar (60 mins) → Bosporus Strait Cruise (60 mins, ticket included) → Hotel

Embark on an adventure to Lake Abant Nature Park, home to stunning forests and serene lakes in Türkiye's Black Sea region. Following a stroll around the UNESCO World Heritage City of Safranbolu, we'll head to Türkiye's capital, Ankara.

Itinerary: Istanbul → Lake Abant Nature Park (60 mins) → Safranbolu (60 mins) → Ankara

Today, explore the Ataturk Mausoleum, a tribute to the founder and first president of the Republic of Türkiye. Next, delve into history at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. We'll then venture to Lake Tuz, Türkiye's salt lake gem, before setting off to the mesmerizing landscape of Cappadocia.

Itinerary: Ataturk Mausoleum (30 mins) → Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (60 mins, ticket included) → Lake Tuz (30 mins) → Cappadocia (120 mins) → Optional belly dance show (1.5 hours)

Continue your exploration of Cappadocia, a region acclaimed by National Geographic as one of the ten most beautiful places on earth. Sample local treats such as Turkish pistachio ice cream and black tea. The afternoon is yours to enjoy the stunning Anatolian landscape.

Itinerary: Optional hot air balloon flight (30 mins) → Goreme Open Air Museum (60 mins, ticket included) → Cappadocia Pigeon Valley (30 mins) → Özkonak Underground City (45 mins, ticket included) → Fairy Chimneys (20 mins, ticket included) → Free time

We journey to Konya, the 13th-century capital of ancient Türkiye. Famous for whirling dances and one of the oldest urban centers globally, Konya is a historical treasure. We then proceed to Antalya, passing through the Tena sub-mountains.

Itinerary: Cappadocia → Konya → Kültür Park Alaeddin Tepesi (45 mins) → Antalya → Antalya Archaeological Museum (30 mins, ticket included) → Kaleici, Antalya Old Town (60 mins)

We head to Pamukkale, a renowned resort area of Türkiye's natural wonders. After lunch, visit the ancient city ruins of Hierapolis and a local cotton spinning shop. Rest at the hotel and enjoy a complimentary soak in the locally acclaimed "Red Spring" hot bath.

Itinerary: Pamukkale (3 hours) → Hierapolis Ancient Ruins (60 mins, ticket included)

Set off to Kusadasi, an Aegean Sea resort at Türkiye's western edge. After lunch, we'll explore the remarkably preserved ancient city of Ephesus. Enjoy a sunset stroll along the Aegean Sea after dinner.

Itinerary: Ephesus (120 mins) → Hotel check-in → Free time in Kusadasi

Savor a buffet breakfast before heading to the charming mountain town of Sirince, nestled 9 kilometers from Seljuk Province's eastern outskirts.

Itinerary: Sirince (120 mins)

We travel to the ancient port of Canakkale, home to the ancient city of Troy. Marvel at the colossal Trojan Horse and the city's historical relics. Upon returning to Istanbul, you have the option to explore Taksim Square or visit the Dolmabahce Palace at your expense.

Itinerary: Hotel → Ancient city of Troy (60 mins) → Istanbul → Taksim Square (3.5 hours, Dolmabahce Palace visit optional) → Hotel

Our exhilarating journey through Türkiye culminates today. Based on your schedule, you can book a flight from Istanbul Airport (IST). Thank you for choosing to explore the wonders of Türkiye with us!