Turkey
By Irfan Biyik Discovery Tours Specializing in Turkey and World's Top Destinations
Usd 4,999
DAY 1 ARRIVAL IN ISTANBUL
Check into the hotel and relax
DAY 2 ISTANBUL / EPHESUS
Today we get over jet lag by spending an exciting day seeing the many sites of the Sultanahmet area of Istanbul. Highlights will include the iconic Hagia Sophia, built as a church by Emperor Justinian in the sixth century and converted to a mosque some 900 years later; and the Hippodrome, which was the former center of coronations and chariot races in what was then Constantinople. Then, see the 15 th century Topkapi Palace from which the Ottoman Empire was ruled for 400 years. Late in the afternoon, we are off to the airport for our an hour flight to Izmir.
DAY 3 EPHESUS / BODRUM
This morning, we are departing to visit Ephesus, the largest archeological site in Turkey. First founded around 2000 BC, Ephesus was once home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It is one of the best preserved Greco-Roman cities with its Great Theater, Terrace Houses, elaborate water systems and beautiful mosaics. Following lunch, we are departing for Bodrum, located on the spectacular Aegean coast.
DAY 4 BODRUM / PAMUKKALE
This morning, we'll enjoy strolling along the beautiful town of Bodrum and visit the Castle of St. Peter, a 15th century crusader fortress that now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology with impressive collection of items excavated from ancient shipwrecks most found in the Aegean and Mediterranean. In the afternoon, we depart for the UNESCO spa town of Pamukkale best known for its healing waters since Roman times.
DAY 6 PAMUKKALE / FETHIYE
In the morning, we depart for the white terraces formed by the deposit of mineral waters and enjoy walking barefoot in the warm waters like once Cleopatra did ! Then drive to Fethiye, a true paradise for cruising.
DAY 7 FETHIYE
Enjoy the spectacular Aegean Sea touring around islands
DAY 8 FETHIYE / ANTALYA
Following breakfast, depart for the most popular summer resort ; Antalya. The city's crystal clear waters, miles long sandy beaches, and its historic town attract millions every year.
DAY 9 KONYA / CAPPADOCIA
Depart for Cappadocia to discover the surreal volcanic moonscape. Whittled into unique formations by wind and rain over millions of years. During our visit over this vast region, you'll understand what really happened here in the course of centuries. In the 3rd century, for instance, Christians fleeing Roman persecution lived in churches and villages entirely carved into the volcanic rocks…
DAY 10 CAPPADOCIA
Whittled into unique formations by wind and rain over millions of year. During our visit over this vast region, you'll understand what really happened here in the course of centuries. In the 3rd century, for instance, Christians fleeing Roman persecution lived in churches and villages entirely carved into the volcanic rocks. After lunch we stop to take photos at the best vantage points such as Uchisar and then visit the deep underground city of Kaymakli, dating back to the era of the Hittites.
DAY 11 CAPPADOCIA / ANKARA
Depart for the capital to see the amazing Anatolian Civilzations Museum where a large number of collections from various civilizations including paleolithic period are on display. Stroll through the old town.
DAY 12 ANKARA / ISTANBUL
Today we are flying back to Istanbul and late in the afternoon, we'll be heading to the pier to cruise along the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia. During the private boat ride you'll be seeing great Ottoman Palaces and some of the most luxurious and expensive houses in the world.
DAY 13 ISTANBUL
Free time till dinner in the evening.
DAY 14 DEPART
Includes :
Great hotels throughout the trip, Domestic Flights, Private Transportation, Private Guiding, Entrance fees, Breakfasts & Dinners.
Excludes :
International flights, hot air ballon
IRFAN BIYIK STYLE OF TRAVEL
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Private touring with your own personal guides and drivers
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Accommodation in the very best luxury hotels
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Firsthand, sophisticated destination knowledge and recommendations
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Tailor made itineraries that perfectly fit your preferences, interests and schedule
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Upgrades
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VIP and fast-track airport assistance in many destinations, performance tickets, skipping lines during touring whenever possible, top restaurant reservations, private airport transfers, internal transportation
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Around-the-clock support in each destination during your trip
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Unique, insider travel experiences and access to Irfan Biyik network of experts around the world