zTraditions of Turkey

Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to the 5-star Divan Hotel. This evening, you’ll dine at a traditional Turkish restaurant on the Bosphorus.  Meals D

Take a step back to the early days of Christianity at the Hagia Sofia and see the Roman Hippodrome. Visit the Blue Mosque and discover the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace. End your day at the bustling Grand Bazaar. Meals B+L

Cross the Bosphorus to the Asian side of the city and explore an exotic market with tastings of local specialties. At a nearby restaurant, you’ll dine on delicious regional cuisine. Cruise the Bosphorus calling upon villages in both Europe and Asia and then visit the opulent Beylerbeyi Palace. Meals B+L

A scenic drive via Cannakale brings you to the archaeological site of Troy for a guided tour. Continue to the Kervansaray Hotel in Assos. Meals B+D

Explore the ruins of Pergamum and dine with a village family in Bergama. Continue to the 5-star Swissotel Grand Efes in Izmir. Meals B+L+D

Thrill to the renowned archaeological site of Ephesus, one of the most important cities of the ancient world. Enjoy lunch in medieval Sirince and visit the House of the Virgin Mary and Basilica of St. John. Meals B+L+D

Discover two significant sites of antiquity, Aphrodisias and Hierapolis, before traveling on the Pam Thermal Hotel. Meals B+L+D

Visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana; built in the 13th century, this is the birthplace of the Whirling Dervish order. Continue to the deluxe Dedeman Konya Hotel. Meals B+D

Descend into the underground city of Kaymakli for a guided tour through this remarkable subterranean network of tunnels, storage areas, stables and living quarters. Carved centuries ago, they were used by early inhabitants, including Byzantine-era Christians, as protection from the weather as well as invading armies. Continue to the Gamirasu Hotel, situated in a monastic retreat from the Byzantine era. 

This morning’s hot air balloon ride is the best way to take in the landscapes of Cappadocia. Then join Mehmet, an engaging lifelong resident, for our special walking tour. With his intimate knowledge of the region, you’ll discover little-known facts and facets as you explore remote valleys. Then tour the 1,000 year-old painted cave-churches of the Goreme Open Air Museum and see skilled artisans at work in the village of Avanos. Later, sample the unheralded wines of Turkey and thrill to a performance by the Whirling Dervishes. Meals B

Fly to Istanbul and transfer once again to the Divan Hotel. Meals B

We’ll take you to the airport today for your departure flight.  Meals B