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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Begin discovering this fascinating city on a tour showcasing the highlights. Visit the remains of the Hippodrome – the former site of chariot races and focal point of civic life back in its’ heyday. Adjacent to this piece of history is the infamous ‘Blue Mosque’ which got its name from the light that shines through over 2,500 stained-glass windows and reflects onto the dark blue Iznik tiles. A masterpiece of woodworking and calligraphy, the mosque is also home to the tomb of Sultan Ahmet I. Admire the mosaic murals and colossal columns at the Basilica of St. Sophia before visiting the Topkapi Palace. Built around four courtyards, view many treasures of the Ottoman sultans including fine porcelains, gem-encrusted art objects, traditional armor, imperial costumes, and stunning tile work. Return to the hotel where dinner is included this evening. Meals: B, D

Day 4 -Sept 9,2026: Istanbul

The day begins with a tour of the amazing Basilica Cistern (Sunken Palace), a majestic underground reservoir. Marvel at the architecture where over 300 ancient columns support the vaulted ceilings. You may also recognize this from scenes in the James Bond movie ‘From Russia With Love’. Return to the surface and visit the Grand Bazaar, the legendary market considered the best souk in the world featuring antiques, jewelry, and carpets. Enjoy a traditional Turkish coffee in the old town before visiting the Spice Market – the second largest covered market of the city. See the vast array of herbs, spices, and dried fruit. A sampling of a local delicacy, Turkish Delight, will be provided from a local shop before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Meals: B, D

Day 5 -Sept 10, 2026: Istanbul/ Cappadocia

It’s time to depart Istanbul with a transfer to the airport for the flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, visit Kaymakli Underground City, a subterranean settlement composed of troglodytic cave dwellings from the 6th – 9th centuries, providing shelter for early Christians protecting themselves from invaders. Extending five levels below ground, see the living quarters, kitchens, wine presses, storage rooms, stables, and ventilation shafts. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening. Meals: B, D

Day 6 -Sept 11, 2026: Cappadocia

If you choose, start the day with an optional early morning hot-air balloon ride. After breakfast explore Cappadocia with its unique landscapes formed by erosions of winds and water. Your expedition starts with a visit to the Monastic Center of Goreme, founded by St. Basil as the first Monastic Center of Christianity during the 4th century. As an open-air museum, see the well-preserved rock-hewn churches decorated with Byzantine frescoes. Continue to Pasabag Valley where you will adore the view of the tower-shaped hermitages that look as if they have been sculptured by contemporary artists! Continue to the rock-carved natural citadel of Uchisar promising a superb view of the region from its top. The last stop of today’s tour is Avanos, the famous town of Cappadocia that was established by the Hittites on the riverbanks of Halys River. Visit the studio of a pottery artist and watch the interactive presentation of creating masterpieces of pottery and ceramics. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. Meals B, D 

Day 7 -Sept 12, 2026: Cappadocia - Konya - Pamukkale

After breakfast, depart by coach for Pamukkale with touring enroute. Visit the Sultanhan Caravansarai, one of the most significant attractions in the region and the most preserved Seljuk Caravansarai (rest place for travelers on caravans) in Turkey. Upon arrival in Konya, a former important post for Roman legion and control of the trade routes of antiquity, visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana (founder of the Whirling Dervishes) and Sultanhan Caravanserai, a building that ranks as one of the Seljuk masterpieces. Continue on to Pamukkale for dinner and overnight at the hotel. Meals: B, D

Day 8 -Sept 13, 2026: Hierapolis

Today’s excursion explores Hierapolis, recently appointed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meaning ‘Sacred City’ in Greek, it was founded during the Hellenistic period, and was a control point of trade routes connecting East to West. In the Roman Period, it became a thermal center where massive Roman Baths were built utilizing the spring waters of the area. Wandering through the colossal tomb chambers of Necropolis, comprehend the wealth of a society that could afford such impressive graves. See the Gate of Domitianus, the Byzantine Baths, and one of the best-preserved Roman Theaters in the world of archaeology. Return to the hotel in Pamukkale for the afternoon at leisure before the included dinner this evening. Meals: B, D

Day 9 -Sept 14, 2026: Pamukkale - Magnesia - Kusadasi

Depart for Kusadasi with touring enroute. Visit the ancient city of Magnesia where current excavations are taking place to uncover the past. Not yet open to the public, we have arranged for exclusive access to the archaeological site and a private lecture by the archeologists. Continue to Sirince Village, at the end of a valley, with impressive vineyards, peach trees, and beautiful views. An old Greek village, it’s most famous for its local wine and olive oil. Today it’s a synthesis of Turkish-Greek culture with 19th-century Anatolian style houses. Continue to Kusadasi for dinner at the hotel and overnight. Meals: B, D

Day 10 -Sept 15, 2026:  Kusadasi

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

• Land Only Package does not include international flights
• Travel Insurance
• Gratuities (suggested $10 per day for tour guide, $5 per day for driver)
• Items of a personal nature
• Meals except where noted above
• Additional excursions offered by Tour Guide

Cancellation policy: