SHADES OF TURKEY

Welcome to Turkey, a country rich in culture, history, and unique experiences, where the differences between East and West blend together. Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST), which opened in April 2019 and is now the largest in Europe and one of the largest in the world, you will need to go through immigration and collect your luggage. After that, head to our meeting point (please refer to your voucher), where our team will greet you. Following this, you will meet your drivers for the transfer to your hotel. Arrival and check-in. Free time to relax. Accommodation.

At the indicated time, departure to enjoy the “Pearls of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus” excursion (includes lunch at a traditional restaurant). Visit the old Jewish neighborhood in Balat, the Greek neighborhood in Fener, and admire the magnificent views of the Golden Horn. Afterward, visit St. George Cathedral, the main patriarchate of the Greek Orthodox Church; then continue to the Suleymaniye Mosque, designed by the Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, which features the largest dome of all the mosques in Istanbul. We will head to the Spice Bazaar, a place with a special charm due to its colors and aromas, the ideal place to purchase teas, herbs, dried fruits, traditional sweets, and of course, spices. The tour concludes with a boat ride through the Bosphorus, the strait that divides the city between Europe and Asia, where we will appreciate the marvelous views of the Ottoman fortresses, palaces, villas, and the bridges connecting both sides of the city. Transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.

Free day. Optional excursion “Jewels of Constantinople” (not included). You’ll set out to explore the historic center of the city, where the remnants of multiple empires will tell their stories. First, marvel at the Roman Hippodrome, the heart of social life in ancient Constantinople, where you can see the Obelisk of Theodosius and the German Fountain. Then, continue to the Blue Mosque, famous for its more than 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles. After that, enjoy an impressive panoramic view of Hagia Sophia, an architectural symbol that has dazzled the world since 537. Next, we invite you to visit the Topkapi Palace, with its royal gardens and the enigmatic Harem, where you’ll experience the opulence of the Ottoman sultans. Finally, visit the Church of St. Irene, a Byzantine treasure, and the Grand Bazaar, a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. (Lunch at a traditional restaurant included). Return to the hotel.

Departure to Ankara, the majestic capital of Turkey. Enjoy a panoramic tour and visit the iconic Atatürk Mausoleum, the founder of the Republic. During the journey to Cappadocia, you’ll make a stop at the spectacular Salt Lake, perfect for capturing memorable photographs. Additionally, you’ll explore a fascinating Caravanserai, an ancient resting place on the Silk Road. At the end of the day, relax with a delicious dinner at the hotel where you’ll be staying.

At the designated time, depart to visit this marvelous region with its fascinating and unique landscape formed by volcanic lava over 3 million years ago. You will begin at the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a monastery with chapels carved into volcanic rock and decorated with 13th-century frescoes. Next, you will continue to the stunning valleys of the region, where you can appreciate the "otherworldly" geological formations, including the famous "Fairy Chimneys." There will be a stop to enjoy the incredible panoramic views of some of the well-known valleys with their spectacular rock formations. Then, you will visit the underground city of Cappadocia, one of the many impressive engineering feats built by ancient communities to protect themselves from attacks throughout history. At the end of the tour, you will visit a carpet center to learn about the artisanal production of these pieces, which are true treasures, as well as a gem center showcasing exclusive regional designs. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Optional programs in Cappadocia:

• TURKISH NIGHT: Presentation of folk dances in a traditional cave with local beverages.
• JEEP SAFARI: Adventure through the mystical valleys of the region with stops for the best photo opportunities.
• BALLOON RIDE: Early in the morning to admire one of the most beautiful landscapes on earth.

Today you will head to Pamukkale to visit the ancient Hierapolis and the Cotton Castle, a true natural wonder featuring a massive waterfall, stalactites, and natural pools. The name "Hierapolis" comes from Greek and means "sacred city," referring to the numerous temples and religious sites that existed in the city. One of the highlights of Hierapolis was its famous theater, which could accommodate thousands of spectators and is still largely well-preserved today. The city gained recognition as a popular spa and healing destination due to its natural hot springs and white travertine pools. These mineral-rich waters created stunning terraces and natural waterfalls known as "Pamukkale," which means "cotton castle" in Turkish. Pamukkale and Hierapolis are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to their historical significance and natural beauty. The region is also known for its cotton production, and we will have the opportunity to learn about locally made textile products. Dinner at the hotel and accommodation.

At the scheduled time, you will depart for the iconic House of Mary, a sacred place located on a nearby hill. This site, where the mother of Jesus is believed to have found her final resting place, is revered by both Christians and Muslims, making it an important pilgrimage destination. After that, you will head to Selçuk, where you will take a panoramic tour to admire the majestic Ottoman castle, the impressive Basilica of St. John, and the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, a symbol of the cultural wealth of ancient Ephesus. You will also have the opportunity to explore a specialized exhibition room featuring high-quality leather goods made from the finest sheep leather. At the end of the day, you will return to the hotel for dinner and accommodation.

At the indicated time, transfer to the airport to take the departure flight (Flight not included).