Turkish Odyssey Istanbul to Cappadocia - 13 Days

Welcome to your Turkish adventure! Once you arrive in Istanbul, we will provide a transfer to your hotel, where you�ll have some free time to settle in and explore at your leisure. In the afternoon, be sure to check the boards at the hotel reception for important information about the beginning of your tour. Rest and recharge for the exciting days ahead. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Today promises a captivating journey through the heart of Istanbul. We will embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of this vibrant city, beginning with a visit to the impressive S�leymaniye Mosque, renowned as the largest in Istanbul. You will walk along ancient city walls and the picturesque shores of the Golden Horn, soaking in the lively atmosphere of the bustling fishing district. We will then admire the exterior of the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.

Next on our itinerary is the Topkapi Palace, the former administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire. With entry tickets included, you will have the chance to explore its magnificent courtyards and pavilions, each reflecting the grandeur of the period.

In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to independently discover the unique charm of Istanbul, straddling both Europe and Asia. As evening approaches, we will provide a transfer to Taksim, the city's dynamic commercial hub. Here, you can choose to dine at one of the many restaurants and perhaps catch a glimpse of the charming vintage tram that runs through the district. If you wish, a visit to the nearby Galata Tower may also be on your agenda.

Today we embark on an enchanting boat trip along the Bosphorus, the famous strait that elegantly connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. This two-hour journey on a private vessel offers exclusive views for our group, as we cruise between the bustling European and Asian sides of Istanbul. As we glide through the waters, we'll witness the vibrant activity of the strait and pass beneath the majestic bridges that unite the two continents.

This scenic route reveals the stunning outlines of Sultan�s palaces, intricate traditional wooden houses, and remarkable Ottoman architecture. Upon our return to the heart of Istanbul, you�ll have free time to further explore this captivating city, rich in history and culture.

On the fourth day, we'll make an early departure from Istanbul, continuing our journey through Turkey with a destination of Ephesus, arriving around midday. Ephesus, once a thriving city with a population of 250,000, is the best-preserved ancient city of Asia Minor. Our visit will include a tour of the archaeological site, the Basilica of St. John, and the House of the Virgin Mary � all entrance tickets are included. Following our exploration of Ephesus's rich historical tapestry, we will proceed to the coastal town of Kusadasi. This popular town is renowned for its lively atmosphere, vibrant commercial life, and charming castle. We will spend the night in Kusadasi, with dinner provided.

Please note, during the high season from May to October, we will stay in Aydin instead. In that case, after our visit to Ephesus, we will stop in Kusadasi from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a panoramic tour of the city before continuing to Aydin for the night.

We begin our day with an early departure to the natural wonder of Lake Bafa, where you'll have the chance to soak in its peaceful and picturesque surroundings. Following this, we head to Bodrum, a charming city rich in history with its Greek origins. Here, you can explore the impressive castle, wander through vibrant streets, or simply enjoy the atmosphere at the marina. After lunch, our journey continues to Marmaris, a delightful coastal resort known for its castle, lively pier, and scenic fountains. Dinner is included with your accommodation. Please note, during the peak summer season, we may stay in the nearby town of Mugla instead of Marmaris.

Today, we embark on an adventure to Dalyan, a charming location set along a beautiful, navigable river. We�ll enjoy a leisurely one-hour boat journey to the historic Lycian Rock Tombs. Our exploration continues by boat to a vast lake, where you can pause at the hot springs. Here, you have the option to take a refreshing dip in the warm waters or treat yourself to a mud bath. You'll also have the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of the inviting riverside restaurants. Following our exploration, we proceed to Antalya, a lively coastal city home to over a million people. In Antalya, we�ll explore the historical Hadrian's Gate, wander the picturesque Ottoman district, and marvel at the magnificent waterfall that plunges directly into the sea. Dinner will be provided as part of today's experience.

Today, we will depart Antalya for Aspendos, where we will explore its renowned Roman theatre � one of the best-preserved in the world. Following this, we will travel to Side, where you have the opportunity to admire the stunning seaside Temple of Apollo. Take time to wander through Side bustling port and vibrant streets, soaking up the lively atmosphere. Our journey then takes us across the Taurus Mountains, where the peaks soar above 3,500 metres and remain cloaked in snow for much of the year.

We will make a brief stop in Karaman to view its historic fortress from the outside. Our day concludes as we continue into the fascinating region of Cappadocia. Dinner will be provided in Nigde.

Today, we dedicate our day to exploring the extraordinary region of Cappadocia, celebrated for its surreal landscapes, ancient churches, and unique troglodyte villages. Our adventure begins with a visit to the monastic complex of Gumusler, dating back to the 7th century, where you will discover some of Turkey's most exquisite Byzantine frescoes. Next, in Kaymakli, we'll delve deep into the fascinating underground city, designed to shelter up to 30,000 people in times of danger. From here, we proceed to Uchisar, a remarkable natural fortress offering panoramic views of the area. After lunch, we continue to the Goreme Valley, where you can explore the open-air museum filled with remarkable rock-cut churches entry tickets are included. Our journey culminates with an overnight stay in Avanos, where dinner is provided.

Today, as we venture from the far reaches of Cappadocia, our first stop is the enchanting Ihlara Valley. Known for its cool streams and rock-carved churches and villages, this valley offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. Continuing our journey, we'll visit a 13th-century caravanserai, an important rest stop for traders of the Silk Road era, providing a unique insight into medieval times. Our next destination is Konya, where we'll explore the Mevlana Mausoleum, dedicated to the revered poet and spiritual leader Rumi. Here, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the Dervish order. Dinner is included, providing a sample of local culinary delights. In the evening, we suggest attending a mesmerising Dervish dance performance at the cultural centre, offering a window into this captivating tradition.

As we set off on a picturesque journey through the lake-dotted landscapes, we arrive in Eirdir, a charming lakeside town renowned for its historic walls and mosques. Here, you'll have some free time to enjoy lunch and soak in the tranquil atmosphere before we continue our adventure. Our next stop is the ancient city of Hierapolis, home to Pamukkale, famous for its stunning natural terraces of mineral-rich waters, often referred to as the "Cotton Palace." Enjoy exploring this fabulous geological wonder with tickets included in your itinerary. Dinner will be provided as we unwind from today explorations.

We begin our day with a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus, a magnificent testament to the bygone days of Asia Minor. You will have ample free time to explore the well-preserved ruins, which once thrived as a major Roman city. Our travels continue to Kusadasi, a vibrant coastal town celebrated for its lively atmosphere, bustling shopping areas, and a charming castle perched by the sea. After an engaging day, we will provide a delicious dinner.

Please note: From May through October, during the high season, we will stay in Izmir instead of Kusadasi. In this case, after exploring Ephesus, we'll head directly to Izmir without stopping in Kusadasi and enjoy a brief panoramic tour of the Aegean coast. On the following day, on our way back to Istanbul, we'll make an extra stop in the charming traditional town of Balikesir, allowing you time for lunch.

We depart for Izmir, Turkey's third-largest city, where a guided tour awaits to introduce you to this bustling and modern metropolis, known for its westernised flair. After enjoying the sights and sounds of Izmir, we journey inland, taking a break for lunch en route to Bursa. This city, steeped in history, ranks as Turkey's fourth largest and is home to a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Bursa, you'll discover traditional bazaars, majestic mosques, religious schools, and public baths. Don't miss the iconic Green Mosque, a prominent highlight of the city. We conclude our journey in Istanbul by day's end.

After enjoying breakfast, our journey concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of your travels.