11 Nights – 12 Days Best of Turkey with the Agean Greek Island (Chios)
(Available for F.IT. & Group Travelers)
Belongs on this itinerary you willl explore the comprehensive richest history of Turkey, be amazed by incredible history and landscapes, sunbathe, swim in turquoise blue crystal-clear Agean waters including Greek Island Chios, and walk in the Footsteps of History's Treasuries as you will visit impressive ruins...
Istanbul – Cannakale – Izmir – Chios Island (Greece) -Kusadasi – Pamukkale -Konya - Cappadocia -Ankara
Day 1 – Arrival Istanbul and Check in to your Hotel (MOB)
Upon Arrival Istanbul International Airport, after custom and clearence meet with your Local Representetive Official Guide and transfer to your hotel for Check in and Overnight.
Day 2 – Istanbul (Full Day Tour) (B)
After Breakfast at hotel, Our full day tour includes sightseeing outstanding Byzantine and Ottoman edifices and monuments which takes place in the ancient city centre. Our journey begins with the heartland of the archaic Constantinople, The Hippodrome dating back to early 3rd century AD, which functioned as the recreational and ceremonial hub of the city as well as hosting the chariot races. We will be taking a closer look at the picturesque antiquities such as the Egyptian Obelisk, The Serpentine Column and The Walled Obelisk, which once adorned the arena, and the German Fountain of Wilhelm II symbolizing the alliance and amity between the German and the Ottoman Empire in the late 19th century. Next, we step into the Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque for its adagial tiles mainly in blue and turquoise. Besides seeing the striking decorative elements, it is worth hearing the rumours about its six minarets and the construction phase of the mosque. Our next spot is the unequivocally one of the most renowned landmarks of Istanbul, The Hagia Sofia. Having been destructed twice by two insurrections in the capital of the Empire, The Hagia Sofia found another chance to resurrect in 532 AD. Justinian I commissioned two virtuosos, Isidorus of Miletos and Anthemius of Tralles, in an attempt to rebuild the revered church. The outcome of their work along with the admirable mosaics and resplendent dome was so awe-inspiring that people believed the new Hagia Sofia was by “divine intervention”. This stately edifice was converted into a mosque following the conquest of Constantinople by Mehmet II, the victorious Ottoman Sultan. Although it has been used as a mosque for centuries -except a break from 1934 to 2020-, the opulent mosaics and Christian relics can still be seen except the praying hours. After Lunch break at Sultanahmet area, in the afternoon Our next point in the itinerary is the Topkapı Palace which was both the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire and the residence of the Sultan until the second half of the 19th century. Consisting of four large courtyards and numerous premises, the palace both reflects the sense of art of the Ottomans in different eras and accommodates various mini museums in which objects used by Ottomans Sultans, Islamic relics and prominent pieces like The Dagger of Topkapı (Topkapı Hançeri) and Spoonmaker’s diamond (Kaşıkçı Elması) will be feast for the eyes.
*After this in the first courtyard of Topkapı Palace there is The Church of Hagia Eirene (“Divine Peace”) is a Byzantine church located within in the first courtyard of Topkapı Palace. After Hagia Eirene built by Constantine burned down, it was rebuilt by Justinian in the 6th century and extensively rebuilt by the Iconoclast emperor Constantine V in the 8th century, when its apse was decorated by a simple mosaic cross. After functioning as an arsenal or armory for centuries in the Ottoman era, it became the first museum of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century. Hagia Eirene, which was also known as the “Old Church”, served as the cathedral of Constantinople until the inauguration of Hagia Sophia in 360.
In the first courtyard of Topkapı Palace, Hagia Irene, a church known to have been built even before Hagia Sophia, is located. The church was partly damaged by the earthquake in the midts of the 8th century and repaired. After the conquest of the City by Mehmet II, unlike most of the chruches in the City, it was never converted into a mosque. Instead, was used as an arsenal of the Topkapı place. Later in the 19 th century when the lapsed warfare materials were discovered, the church was commenced to be used as a museum of antqiue warfare.
Finaly Return back to your hotel for Overnight.
Day 3 –ISTANBUL / ANKARA (BREAKFAST and DINNER)
After Buffet Breakfast at your hotel, we drive towards the nation's capital, Ankara Upon arrival Lunch Break will be given at the Foots of Ankara Castle before proceed to to visit Anitkabir, the Mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Ataturk, in the afternoon will have some free time at Old Ankara Town. Finaly Check in to your hotel for Dinner and Overnight in Ankara.
Today Evening Optionaly If you would, you may Enjoy Traditional Ebru Art Marbeling Painting Course to have fun time.
Day 4 – ANKARA / CAPPADOCIA (BREAKFAST and DINNER)
After Breakfast at hotel In the morning, drive to Cappadocia via drive pass picturesque Salt Lake, which is second biggest lake in Turkey, Lunch break will be given enroute, Thereafter continue the Journey for Cappadocia. Upon arrival to Cappadocia (the town is cannot be expressed in words) Picture stops will be given at the Valley of the Birds and at the foot of the Uchisar Castle, next visit will be (SUNSET HILL) During the Sunset Period you may enjoy the spectacular colors, afterwards we will get a Photo with a Ottoman Sultans Family Costumes with in Complimentary. Finaly Check in to your hotel for Dinner and Overnight in Cappadocia.
DAY 5- CAPPADOCIA (BREAKFAST and DINNER)
Today Optionaly : An early start for an optional Hot Air Balloon Flight (one hour), this is truly a once in a lifetime experience and there is no better way to see the distinctive landscapes of Cappadocia than by gently floating overhead in a hot air balloon. Your skillful pilot will skim the basket across fruit trees and rise up over the fairy chimneys, before ascending to great heights for breathtaking views. Upon landing, you will celebrate your flight with a champagne toast! Return to your hotel for breakfast.
Following the breakfast at hotel, today we are starting to visit magnificent Valley of Fairy Chimneys, it is most unique formations area of Cappadocia. Today be enchanted by the incredible Underground City of Ozkonak In order to protect themselves from invading armies, Cappadocians dug complete cities underground. Whenever they felt threatened, they would move their families and livestock into underground cities where they could live comfortably for many months. You can see evidence of stables, grain storage rooms, wineries, kitchens and ventilation systems. *Our Next stop at Esentepe Hill, where we will be able to see all Cappadocia with Birth Eye view. Next, get the rare chance to experience the beauty and work of Turkey’s Handmade Crafts through a Turkish Carpet Weaving Course. Following this, enjoy lovely view of the Pigeon Valley and Then proceed to the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum to visit Goreme National Park the rock carved churches hollowed out of volcanic ash, the Goreme valley holds the highest concentration of rock-cut chapels and monasteries in Cappadocia. View the churches with superb Byzantine frescoes depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments, the life of Christ and deeds of the Saints. Afterwards. Lunch will be at Avanos Village followed by the famous local pottery and carpet shows allowing ample time for shopping in the afternoon. Today. If the Time permits set on the banks of the Kizilirmak ( Red River ) After free time , return to our Hotel for Dinner. Dinner and overnight in Cappadocia.
Today Evening Otionaly: You may join Turkish Traditional Folkloric Performance including with local drinks.
Today Afternoon Optionaly you may join Jeep Safari Adventure around the Charming Landscape during sun set is this afternoon time.
DAY 6 – CAPPADOCIA/ KONYA (BREAKFAST and DINNER)
Today, After OBF Breakfast check out from hotel and drive to Konya. Enroute first visit will be the World Famous Turkish Turquoise Onyx Stone Jewellery Center to have Rare Chance for Shopping. Next visit the 700 year old Ancient Caravanserai Tepesidelikhan (a’hotel’ for ancient traders and travelelers on silk road) (a’hotel’ for ancient traders and travelelers on silk road). After this proceed for visit the Obruk (a sinkhole lake). Upon Arrival Konya Lunch break will be given at the City Center. In the afternoon visit the Museum of 13th century Philosopher Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi which used to be the cloister for Mevlevi Dervishes. Today’s final resting place for members of the Whirling Derwish mystic sect. Today Lastly we visit the Historical Alaeddin Mosque, (1156-1220) Construction started in 1156 and completed in 1220, the Alaeddin Camii is the oldest known Seljuk mosque in Turkey with the exception of Izzeddin Keykawus, all of the Seljuk sultans after 1156 are interred in the complex. Once enter the building, you will explore the hall is divided into bays and aisles by 42 columns gathered and reused from more older antique buildings. These 42 columns support the vaulted stone ceiling. The ebony minbar dates to 1155 and is probably the only element surviving from the earliest mosque. After the day Check in to your hotel for Dinner and Overnight in Konya.
Day 7- KONYA / SAGALASSOS / PAMUKKALE (BREAKFAST and DINNER)
After breakfast check out from hotel during the trip we head for Pamukkale and it's calcium travertines. Enroute we visit the ancient site of Sagalassos (also known as Selgessos). Sagalassos Conquered by Alexander the Great in 333 BC, The urban site was laid out on various terraces at an altitude between 1400 and 1600 m. After Suffering from a major earthquake and plague saw and after finally another devastating earthquake around the middle of the seventh century forced the inhabitants to abandon their town and resettle in the valley, for these reasons Sagalassos demise in 541-2. Today it is one of the best preserved sites and is on the UNESCO Tentaice list in Turkey. After Lunch Break, the tour continue on to the ancient Roman thermal city of Hierapolis, where we will visit the beautiful snow – like white ‘frozen waterfalls’ see the wonderful formation of stalactites in Pamukkale, highligts of the day in Pamukkale will be the Roman thermal baths, and health centre, the sites extensive ruins of Hierapolis & Necropolis. known for its thermal baths and health centre. visit ‘’ Cotton Castle ‘’ or Pamukkale’s Magical and unique terraces & Castles created by deposits of white limestone from thermal springs. Finaly Vheck in to your hotel in Pamukkale for Dinner and Overnight.
Ps: We have Free Time to enjoy with our Thermal Bath in our Hotel. Kindly bring your Swimming Clothes
DAY 8 – PAMUKKALE / SELCHUK / EPHESUS/ IZMIR (B)
Following breakfast, depart from hotel and proceed to Kusadasi. Upon Arrival first visit will be the Light Fashion Show,here you may have chance for Shopping at World Famous Turkish Leather Products Center. Today Lunch break will be given at the former Greek village of Sirince which is listed by UNESCO Heritages, and famous for its fruit wines and Traditional Greek Settlement, here you will have some free time for rest and leisure. next proceed for visit one of the world’s most outstanding archeological sites Ancient City of Ephesus which is listed by UNESCO Heritage, one of the world’s most outstanding archeological sites. Ephesus was an ancient Grecoroman City and the Capital of Ancient Ionia on the west coast of Asia Minor, during your visit will see Odeon, Marble streets (walk in its well preserved), Hadrian Temple, Roman Bath, Library of Celcius (3rd biggest in the ancient World), Grand Amphi Theathre, Temple of Artemis etc. (which is one of the seven wonders of ancient the World). Next View of St. John Basalica where the < St.John Evangelist was buried here > Ancient City of Ephesus was a major trading center in its time. A must-see for history enthusiasts. Next visit will be the World Famous Turkish Olive Oil Cosmetics Center with the Turkish Delight and Candy products, here you will able to experienced organic cosmatics and taste delight and candies products. After the day continue drive to Turkey’s 3rd Biggest City and famous with the Sunset view from Agean Sea Coasts. Upon arrival Check in to your hotel, during your free time in the evening you may enjoy Konak Town and Alsancak Square in the center of Izmir, marked by its iconic Clock Tower that serves as a common meeting point for travelers and locals alike. for Overnight in Izmir.
DAY 9 IZMIR / CHIOS / IZMIR [B]
After Breakfast at hotel In the morning, depart from hotel for visit Coastal Town of Cesme. The town of Çeşme, a unique seaside resort on the Aegean Sea, very famous for travelers and windsurfers. Then, take a ferry to Chios Island, a mastic-scented Greek island with fascinating history, for sightseeing. It’s one of the most unexplored and unspoiled islands of the North Aegean. Ø On returning to Cesme, proceed to Alacati. The charming port town offers an idyllic seaside break on the Turkish Aegean coast as you explore the narrow cobbled streets lined with cosy outdoor cafés and restaurants. After that, return to Izmir for dinner and another night stay.
DAY 10 – IZMIR/ PERGAMON /CANAKKALE (BREAKFAST and DINNER)
After OBF Breakfast, depart for Canakkale, enroute we will visit.. Journey continuing with visit the Medical Centre of Ancient Pergamon City (Asclepion) was Advanced architectural settlement, perhaps Asclepion was the world’s most famous ancient middle and is that the second-most important site in Bergama., treatment methods had a reputation as being the most important cure center in western Anatolia. Treatments included psychotherapy, massage, herbal treatments, clay and bathing treatments, surgeries, and also the drinking of water, which were prescribed in line with what dreams the patient had experienced – it had been believed that dreams recounted a visit by the god Asklepios, who held the key to curing all illness. After sightseeing drive to After that, leave for Assos, an Aegean-coast seaside retreat amid ancient ruins After Lunch Break in the afternoon, leave for Assos, an Aegean-coast seaside retreat amid ancient ruins. Next proceed to our next visit UNESCO Herritage Site Ancient city of Troy. Here visit the Ruins of Troy its famed Trojan Horse. Having been built as a fortress by the sea approximately 5000 years ago, Troy developed into a commercial centre in time and was one of the most affluent cities of the bronze age. However, what rendered the city immortal was “Iliad” of Homer in which heroes like Achilles, Hector, Paris and Gods and Goddesses of Pagan theology – Zeus, Aphrodite, Hera, Athena - are introduced. Having been unearthed by Schliemann in the late 19th century, Troy is now an archaeological site, which offers a rare chance to indulge in the ruins from the bronze age, Hellenistic and Roman periods.Finaly Check in to Hotel Dinner and overnight will be at hotel in Canakkale.
DAY 11 - CANAKKALE / ISTANBUL (B)
After Early Breakfast depart from hotel, Enroute crossing from Dardanelles by ferryboat. photo stop will be given at Replica of Trojan Horse (which is popular with Brad PiTt’s Movie) mythological & legendary city of Homeros. Next continue drive to to Istanbul. Upon Arrival Istanbul in the afternoon a comprehensive city tour starts including Bosphorus Cruise, a natural channel between Europe and Asia. See the Ottoman mansions, fortresses and charming “yali” houses of the 18th and 19th centuries along the strait. After Disembark from the boat, enjoy to visit the Spice Bazaar Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar) was constructed Through the orders of Safiye Sultan, who was the wife of Sultan Murad III and the mother of Sultan Mehmed III, the construction was apart of the complex of New mosque Yeni Valide (New Queen Mother) in 1663. Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar) was consructed as part of Yeni Valide (New Queen Mother) Mosque Copmplex to act as an economic institution making the pious foundation survive in order to generate funds for the upkeep of the mosque. Spice Bazaar has a total of 85 shops selling spices, Turkish delight and other sweets, jewellery, souvenirs, and dried fruits and nuts. The bazaar was (and still is) the center for spice trade in Istanbul.etc. After Lunch break in the afternoon enjoy your free time to visit and explore ninety-two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The merchants are selling everything from antiques, home wares, books, copper ware, ceramics, gold and inexpensive souvenirs. Venture into the hidden courtyards or hans, lookout for marble fountains and ornate kiosks. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc. Finaly Check in to your hotel for Overnight in Istanbul.
DAY 12 - LEAVING ISTANBUL (BREAKFAST,)
After OBF Breakfast Today is the Free and Easy Day for Rest and Leisure, untill your Transfer Time Back to Airport for your flight to back home.
____________________________________ END OF SERVICE WITH OUR WARMEST REGARDS _______________________________
*Due to unforeseen circumstances, the sequence of itinerary may subject to changes without prior notice.
*Due to local museums enterence fees, and unforeseen circumstances, the package rate of the itinerary is The prices that can be applied to the Museum Tickets by the Ministry of Tourism will be reflected on package rates with prior notice…
*Due to local/religious festivals, new year period and unforeseen circumstances cause of local Suppliers, below mentioned rates can be change.
SUGGESTED 5 & 4 STARS CATEGORY HOTELS :
CANAKKALE : DOUBLE TREE by HILTON GALLIPOLI HOTEL or Similar Category Hotels (5*)
IZMIR : KAYA THERMAL HOTEL or Similar Category Hotels (5*)
PAMUKKALE : RICHMOND THERMAL HOTEL or Similar Category Hotels (4*)
KONYA : GRAND KONYA HOTEL or Similar Category Hotels (5*)
CAPPADOCIA : CRYSTAL KAYMAKLI HOTEL or Similar Category Hotels (5*)
ANKARA : ICKALE HOTEL or Similar Category Hotels (5*)
ISTANBUL : GRAND YAVUZ HOTEL or Similar Category Hotels (4*)
ABOVE ITINERARY INCLUDE :
11 NIGHTS Accomodation (5 or 4 Stars Category Hotels ) at the Above Mentioned Itinerary
Licensed professional local tour guide in English language throughout the itinerary.
Private Vehicle with A/C over 2016 Year
2 x 500ml Miniral Water Each Day for Per Person Onboard Coach Through the Itinerary
V.A.T. / All Enterence Fees and Parking, Autoban, Ferry Expences
Meals mentioned on the itinerary (B, L, D)
1 Big Bottle of water for 4 pax during meals
EXCLUDE :
Beverages during the meals
Guide and Driver Gratitudues
Personal expenses (extra meals, telephone, loundry, minibar, porterages at Airports and hotels etc.)
Domestic and International Flights
Travel Insurance & Photo and Camera Fees in Museums
All Others which not mentioned Above Itinerary