Welcome to Istanbul! A captivating destination where East meets West and a place that promises extraordinary experiences. As you arrive in Istanbul, clear customs, and immigration, your Tour Director will greet you and take you to your hotel.

Today enjoy a full day tour of Istanbul. Begin your adventure at the Roman Hippodrome, once the vibrant heart of Byzantine life. Then, marvel at the iconic Blue Mosque, with its stunning interior adorned by over 20,000 precious Iznik tiles. See the magnificence of the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Enjoy some free time for a delightful lunch before visiting Topkapi Palace, the former center of the Ottoman Empire. Discover the Treasury section, showcasing the seventh-largest diamond in the world. This evening marks the beginning of your journey as enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel. (B, D)

Today embark on an unforgettable tour to discover the charms of Istanbul. Begin with a stroll along the Galata Bridge, where you can capture breathtaking views of the bustling ferry boats and local fishermen while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Turkish coffee houses. Next, cross the Golden Horn, arriving at the Caferağa Medresesi. A cultural hub that teaches traditional Turkish handicrafts such as ceramic tile art, jewelry making, and carpet weaving. Then continue your day with a visit to the Basilica Cistern, an engineering marvel that once supplied water to the city. Then onwards to the world-renowned 15th-century Grand Bazaar. This historic covered market is a shopper's paradise, with 4,400 authentic shops, 61 covered streets, and employing 25,000 staff. Immerse yourself in the diverse array of treasures, including handmade carpets, silver, copper, bronze souvenirs, ceramics, onyx, and leather. (B)

Today is a day of leisure, to explore the city at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the bustling markets, savor delectable cuisine, or embark on an optional tour to the enchanting Spice Bazaar, Ortaköy fishing village, and a picturesque cruise on the Bosphorus. Begin your day at the Spice Bazaar, a rich and aromatic treasure trove for sensory experiences. Immerse yourself in its bustling atmosphere, filled with colorful stalls offering an enticing array of spices, teas, Turkish delight, and other delightful culinary pleasures. Then take a captivating cruise along the Bosporus Strait, a narrow waterway that divides Europe and Asia. Admire the late Ottoman Palaces, as well as the elegant wooden mansions and modern villas that dot the shoreline. The final stop is the charming Ortaköy fishing village, known for its harmonious coexistence throughout the centuries. (B)

After breakfast in Istanbul, you'll fly to Izmir and then travel to the stunning seaside town of Kuşadası. Along the way you visit the picturesque town of Şirince and visit the spiritually moving House of the Virgin Mary. Enjoy lunch at a family-run restaurant in Şirince. Nestled on the Aegean coastline, it's a perfect mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Enjoy pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets. It's an ideal starting point for exploring the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the world's best-preserved archaeological sites.(B,L,D)

Today a fascinating journey awaits in the ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was once the provincial capital of Asia during Roman times. Explore this great site, including the monumental amphitheater that can still accommodate 24,000 spectators for events today. As you walk along the Sacred Way, marvel at the innovative water and sewer system ingeniously constructed beneath the marble paving stones. Witness the architectural wonders of the Temple of Hadrian, adorned with a Corinthian-style design and the head of Medusa as protection against evil spirits. Admire the magnificent Library of Celsius, a testament to the grandeur of ancient knowledge. Your journey continues to Sultanköy, where you will partake in the intricate art of rug-making. Enjoy lunch, at a local farm restaurant. (B,L,D)

Enjoy a leisure day or embark on an optional tour to Pamukkale, where nature has created a mesmerizing spectacle for countless millennia. Witness the stunning travertine formations cascading down the mountainside and forming vast circular basins adorned with stalactites, set against dazzling white calcareous rock. Explore the expansive ancient site of Hierapolis, where you can view the waters of Cleopatra Pool and therapeutic hot springs. After lunch, drive back to Kusadasi (B,D)

As your time in Kuşadasi and the beautiful Aegean coast draws to a close, bid farewell to this captivating destination. This morning, you will be transferred to the airport and embark on your flight back to the USA. (B)

Key: (B) – Breakfast, (L) – Lunch, (D) – Dinner

On some occasions, depending on intra-Turkey flights and connections to international carriers, the program may change as follows: On the main program, an extra night/breakfast at no cost may be required in Istanbul. For the extension, on the evening of day 11, you may fly back to Istanbul instead of staying overnight in Cappadocia. Please note: Hotels (when listed) and Itinerary are subject to change. This program is classified as a level 3 program - A Moderate activity tour. All optional Day tours and extensions require a minimum of 15 passengers. 

Today you will fly from Izmir to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and relish the unique ambiance. (B,D)

Start your day visiting Uçhisar town and castle. Take a hike through Pigeon Valley to reach Göreme. Explore a unique landscape adorned with geological formations and frescoed churches. Witness the effects of wind and rain erosion on volcanic rock, creating whimsical rock cones, towering pinnacles, and intricate ravines. Discover the Open-Air Museum nestled within cliffs housing hidden churches dating back to the 9th century. Explore the elaborate network of homes, churches, communal kitchens, and burial chambers designed for defense and survival during the conflict. Optional: In the evening, prepare to be enthralled by the mesmerizing artistry of the Whirling Dervishes. Witness their graceful and hypnotic dance, known as the Sema, as they symbolize the soul's transformative journey toward spiritual enlightenment. (B,D)

Today, be ready to be astounded as you tour one of the remarkable underground cities carved into volcanic tufa stone to glimpse the complex communities that thrive in this unique underground world. Visit Monk's Valley to see the astonishing Fairy Chimneys reaching heights up to 130 feet. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch in the charming village of Ayvalı. End your day with a visit to the Avanos Handcraft Center along the scenic banks of the Kizilirmak River. Witness skilled artisans at work, creating masterpieces of pottery and ceramics while immersing yourself in local craft traditions. (B,L)

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to the USA. (B)

Key: (B) – Breakfast, (L) – Lunch, (D) – Dinner

 On some occasions, depending on intra-Turkey flights and connections to international carriers, the program may change as follows: On the main program, an extra night/breakfast at no cost may be required in Istanbul. For the extension, on the evening of day 11, you may fly back to Istanbul instead of staying overnight in Cappadocia. Please note: Hotels (when listed) and Itinerary are subject to change. This program is classified as a level 3 program - A Moderate activity tour. All optional Day tours and extensions require a minimum of 15 passengers.