Glory of Turkey - By Air - 9 Days

Day 1 - Arrival in Istanbul

Upon your arrival at the airport, one of our team members will be there to greet you and escort you to your overnight accommodation. The remainder of this first day is yours to unwind from your journey and prepare for tomorrow's adventure. Stay overnight in Istanbul.

Day 2 - Istanbul Old City Tour

Explore the enchanting city of Istanbul today, where history envelops you and minarets pierce the skyline like arrows pointing towards the heavens. As one of the world's most vibrant cities, Istanbul welcomes you with an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality, as if you're returning home. Your journey will lead you to iconic landmarks steeped in history, amidst the sights, sounds, and aromas that define this bustling metropolis. Once known as Constantinople and ruled by diverse civilizations, Istanbul bears the indelible imprints of its past.

From the opulent chambers of the Topkapi Palace to the intricate architectural marvels of its mosques' domes, and from the bustling aisles of the Grand Bazaar—the world's oldest and largest market—to the ancient Hippodrome, where chariots once thundered through the heart of the city, Istanbul unfolds before you, a tapestry of wonders both imagined and beyond belief. Witnessing it firsthand will surely leave you in awe.

After the day's guided tour concludes, we recommend exploring the Spice Bazaar at your leisure. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrances of Turkish tea, spices, and sweets, though this excursion is not included in your package. Feel free to make your own way back to your hotel when you're ready.

Please note some important details:

The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
Due to Friday prayers, entry to the Blue Mosque is restricted.
Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays.
Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
We provide hotel pickups from central areas in Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, and the Taksim vicinity. Any pickups outside these areas may incur additional charges. Feel free to reach out to our team if you have any inquiries. Enjoy your overnight stay in Istanbul.

Included: Breakfast  Lunch 

Day 3 - Bosphorus Cruise & Bus Tour

This morning, following a satisfying breakfast, we'll pick you up for your day exploring the waters. The Bosphorus straits hold significant historical importance for the city's development and are adorned with stunning landmarks and architectural marvels.

Your first stop will be the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace. You'll have ample time to wander through its grand rooms and corridors, once graced by numerous Sultans. Admire its opulence, highlighted by the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier.

As you sail along, soak in the picturesque vistas and pass by iconic sites such as the Maidens Tower, Kucuksu Palace, Rumeli Fortress, the ancient walls of Constantinople, Ortakoy Mosque, Ciragan Palace, and glide beneath the majestic Bosphorus Bridge.

Later in the day, reacquaint yourself with solid ground for a tour of Pierre Loti hill. This elevated, romantic enclave offers breathtaking views that will linger in your memory. Conclude your day with a cable car descent to the bus, which will transport you back to the heart of the old city.

Please note: Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays. On this day, the tour will commence two hours later. Overnight stay in Istanbul.

Included: Breakfast  

Day 4 - Flight to Konya

This morning, you'll embark on a flight to the captivating city of Konya. With a population exceeding 2 million and a history spanning over 3000 years, Konya promises an enriching visit. In the 13th century, it nurtured and bore witness to the birth of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, a revered Sufi mystic who founded the Mevlevi Order, known to many as the Whirling Dervishes of Konya.

Throughout this enchanting city, you'll explore mosques, madrasas, tombs, and museums dedicated to the life and teachings of Rumi. Admire the inspiring architecture and exquisite buildings as you delve into his profound philosophy of life. Additionally, you'll immerse yourself in Konya's vibrant culture by visiting its grand bazaar and the felt house, where the ancient tradition of felt-making, dating back over 2500 years, still thrives. Witness the craftsmanship firsthand and gain insights into this revered art form.

Just a stone's throw away from the city center lies the quaint village of Sille, where Greek and Turkish communities have coexisted for over 800 years. Until 1922, the village even maintained its own Cappadocian Greek language. Explore the picturesque streets adorned with historical landmarks, including one of the world's earliest monasteries and the charming Church of Hagia Eleni, each weaving a rich tapestry of history and culture.

As the day draws to a close, you'll board the Overnight Bus to Cappadocia, concluding your memorable journey through Konya's timeless allure.

Included: Breakfast  Lunch 

Day 5 - South Cappadocia

This morning, your adventure begins with the full-day South Cappadocia tour, commencing around 9 am. Tailored to complement the northern tour, today's itinerary unveils the most extraordinary sites in the southern region, including the awe-inspiring underground city—an architectural marvel featuring multi-level dwellings, churches, livestock shelters, communal spaces, schools, burial chambers, and an ingenious ventilation network. Remarkably, this subterranean labyrinth, initiated between the 8th and 7th centuries BCE, served as a refuge for early Christians fleeing persecution, a testament to ancient craftsmanship and resilience.

Your journey continues through pigeon valley, teeming with countless birds adorning the landscape, before venturing into diverse valleys, each distinguished by its unique rock formations. Meskendir Valley unveils an ancient church hewn from the rugged rocks, adorned with frescoes and mosaics dating back to the era of early Christian settlers.

Evening -
Optional Tour: Turkish Night Show & Dinner.
Indulge in an evening of Turkish culture and entertainment with our optional Turkish Night Show & Dinner. Departing from your hotel, you'll be whisked away to an authentic cave restaurant nestled in the heart of Cappadocia, promising an unforgettable night of festivities. Please note, this tour is not included in your itinerary and requires an additional fee. Overnight stay in Cappadocia.

Included: Breakfast  Lunch 

Day 6 - North Cappadocia & Flight to Ephesus

Early Morning -
Optional Tour: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight

Embrace the tranquility of dawn with a mesmerizing Hot Air Balloon journey, an optional addition to your itinerary. Witness the enchanting vistas of Cappadocia from lofty heights as the sun casts its first rays upon the rugged landscape. This captivating experience comes at an additional cost.

North Cappadocia Tour

Explore the wonders of northern Cappadocia accompanied by your knowledgeable guide. Traverse the quaint villages and historic towns that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site, from the breathtaking panoramic views of Goreme Esentepe to the remarkable open-air museum showcasing chapels, homes, and monasteries hewn into the rocky terrain. Pasabag, or Monks Valley, unveils an endless expanse of fairy chimneys, a sight to behold.

Journey to Avanos, renowned for its exquisite handmade ceramics, where the crimson river meanders through the heart of the town. Witness the artisans' expertise as they craft intricate pieces in traditional workshops. Make a stop at the iconic landmark, the Three Beauties sculpture, nestled in Urgup. This colossal rock formation, shaped by the elements, is steeped in legend—an anecdote your guide can share upon inquiry.

Conclude the tour with a transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted and escorted to your accommodation in the Ephesus region. Overnight in Ephesus

Included: Breakfast  Lunch 

Day 7 - Ancient City Of Ephesus

After breakfast this morning, we'll pick you up from your hotel to embark on a journey to the captivating ancient city of Ephesus. Prepare to be mesmerized by its rich history and remarkable architecture, offering a glimpse into daily life spanning over 3000 years. As you tread upon the marble streets, envision the bustling activity of the city's past inhabitants. From civic and government buildings to prisons, shops, courts of law, churches, and even the renowned Library of Celsus, each step unveils layers of the city's vibrant past. Your path leads you through the agora and culminates at the grand Ephesus amphitheater, where crowds of over 25,000 once gathered for spectacles ranging from plays to executions.

Just beyond the city limits lies the tranquil abode believed to be the home of the Virgin Mary during her later years—a humble dwelling that echoes with spiritual significance. Nearby, remnants of the majestic Temple of Artemis, one of the ancient wonders of the world, stand as a testament to its former grandeur, its colossal foundations evoking awe-inspiring memories.

As the day draws to a close, your final stop will be the exquisite İsabey Mosque, a masterpiece of Seljukian architecture dating back to 1374. Admire its timeless beauty and intricately preserved decorations, a testament to centuries of cultural richness and artistic excellence.

Prepare for an unforgettable overnight stay immersed in the ancient allure of Ephesus.

Included: Breakfast  Lunch 

Day 8 - Pamukkale & Ancient Hierapolis

Pamukkale presents a mesmerizing sight, almost as if sculpted by human hands. Its pristine white allure juxtaposed against the lush greenery of the mountains and the azure expanse of the sky remains perpetually enchanting. This captivating landscape has evolved over millions of years, shaped by the emergence of hot thermal waters from the depths of the earth's core. Rich in calcium, these waters have crafted natural pools that seemingly cascade down the mountainside. Don't forget your swimwear, as you'll have the opportunity to dip your toes into these pools and even take a refreshing swim in the expansive thermal pool located atop the city of Hierapolis. This ancient city flourished around the renowned healing properties of these waters, with remnants of its grandeur now scattered amidst the ancient stones.

Afterwards, enjoy an overnight stay in Ephesus.

Included: Breakfast  

Day 9 - Farewell

This morning, we bid farewell as we prepare to accompany you to Izmir airport after breakfast, marking the end of your stay and your return flight to Istanbul. Until we meet again, safe travels!

Included: Breakfast