12 Nights Highlights Civilizations of Central Anatolia
Ancient Anatolia
Anadolu, also called Asia Minor, because of its location at the point where the continents of Asia and Europe meet, Anatolia was, from the beginnings of civilization, a milestone for numerous peoples migrating or conquering from either continent.
Turkey’s heartland is home to some of the world’s earliest civilisations, in neolithic Catalhüyük and Göbekli Tepe. In their footsteps came Hittites, with their capital at Hatussa, and Phrygian King Midas at Gordion. The Seljuks built their great mosques in Konya and Divriği and the Ottomans added their handsome mansions. From the Lakes District and stony wastes of Cappadocia with its cave churches and extraordinary landscapes of fairy chimneys, the scene is dotted with monuments, while modern civilisation peaks at the capital, Ankara, another city with ancient roots.
Through on this route, you will be witness by unforgettable memories in Anatolia, the turning point of history.
Day 1 - ISTANBUL – ARRIVAL (MOB)
Arrive in Istanbul, meet & greet at the airport and transfer to Hilton Garden Inn Istanbul Golden Horn on the European Side. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Istanbul
Day 2 - ISTANBUL – FULL DAY OLD CITY & BOSPHORUS CRUISE TOUR ( B & L)
After Breakfast at Hotel, meet your tour guide at the lobby for your private full day tour.;
Full Day Tour starting with visit the Topkapi Palace, the residence of the Sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. This setting provides a magnificent view. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. 4,000 people lived in the Palace. In the Treasury section, you will see breathtaking displays, including the 7th largest diamond in the world, the “Spoonmaker’s Diamond”.
Next proceed to visit Archaeological Museum which is located in the first court of Topkapi Palace. Museum of the Ancient Orient Istanbul Turkey. Osman Hamdi Bey who was a famous Turkish archaeologist, diplomat and painter opened the museum both as a museum for the ancient antiquities conversation and as a school of fine arts in 1883. Lunch will be served at a nice local traditional Restaurant.
After lunch, we will have a visit to the Ancient Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. You will take a short walk to the Blue Mosque, completed in 1616, ıt is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. Its colourful 260 windows enables the sunlight to reach inside. This makes the interior unusually light. The blue Iznik tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
Thereafter you will visit the grand 16th century palace of the sultan’s Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasa, which today houses the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum, containing what many consider to be the finest collection of Islamic artifacts in the world. The museum is well laid out and contains more than 40,000 examples including ceramics, Koran cases, calligraphy, textiles, metalwork, and illuminated manuscripts. Its antique carpet exhibit is renowned; the carpets, kilims and prayer rugs forming one of the richest and oldest collections in the world.
Today lastly, you will visit Haghia Sophia, the church of the Divine Wisdom. The architectural marvel of all time. It was built during Emperor Justinian reign ( AD 537 ) and it remained the greatest church in Christendom until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by Sultan Mehmet II who ordered to convert Hagia Sophia into a Mosque. In 1934, Atatürk proclaimed it a museum. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics.
At the end of the tour return to your Hotel in Istanbul. Overnight in Istanbul (B&L)
Day 3 - ISTANBUL – ESKISEHIR ( B, L, D )
After breakfast check-out from the hotel, meet your Guide at the Lobby, Directly drive to SOGUT. Today first visit will be the Tomb of Dursun Fakih, Tomb of Ertugrul Gazi, the Museum of Ertugrul Gazi. Next continue to visit the BILECIK (Sogut) City, A cradle of civilizations, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bilecik, has much to offer history buffs as a source of archaeology and ancient artifacts dating back to 3,000 B.C. The little-known mountainous Marmara province. Sogut where the Legent it all began Establishment of Ottoman Empire. Here visit the Tomb of Syekh Edibali. After Lunch will be served at Local Restaurant In the afternoon continue the journey for Eskisehir. after 2,5 Hours drive Upon Arrival to Eskisehir City Center start to explore with Old Town of the City ‘Odun Pazarı’ With meandering alleys, wooden mansions, age-old fountains it invites you to a playful atmosphere right out of story books. Of course the town also nests the historical Kurşunlu Külliye (Ottoman social complex) and Atlıhan inn where travelers and their horses used to rest but Ottoman social complexes, inns and mosques are to be found everywhere. The town was taken under protection as historical urban heritage with the initiative of the local administration and it is very pleasing to see 300 more old houses in 30 different streets have been renovated to date. Thereafter proceed to visit Kursunlu Kulliye (OTTOMAN SOCIAL COMPLEX KURSUNLU KULLIYE) A typical 16th century structure, the Kurşunlu social complex is made up of a mosque and a public fountain together with a newly added museum, art workshop and library that compliments its architecture. A visit to the social complex promises not only the opportunity to rest in a cool, breezy courtyard overlooking the town but also the chance to see the best samples of meerschaum and glass art typical of the region., Today Lastly will visit the one of the very few remaining samples of Anatolian Selchukian monument (Alaaddin Mosque) was bult on 1297. Finaly Check in to your hotel for Dinner and Overnight in ESKISEHIR.
Day 4 - ESKISEHIR – FULL DAY TOUR TO ANCIENT CITY OF AIZONAI - ESKISEHIR ( B, L, D )
After breakfast at hotel, Lets start full day tour with drive to Kutahya (136 km.) Upon Arrival visit the Roman ruins at Aizonai with their well-preserved Temple of Zeus. Aizonai the antique city which making important contributions to tourism in Kütahya. The city was opened to settlement from 3000BC and became the main area of settlement for Aizanitis under the rule of Phrygians. Walk in the old city of Kutahya. Kütahya is known for its beautiful colored tiles and pottery.
Lunch will be served in Kutahya. After lunch, visit the Tile Museum of Kutahya and have some free time for shopping in Kutahya. Return to Eskisehir for overnight. Overnight at Hotel in Eskisehir (B&L)
Day 5 - ESKISEHIR – ANKARA ( B, L & D)
After breakfast check-out and depart from the hotel for visit the Acient city of Yazilikaya (46 km) (the city of Midas along with some monuments of Seljuk &Ottoman periods). Antique Yazilikaya City; located in the village of Yazilikaya in Han Town is the holy and religion center of Phrygians and was a candidate to be taken into the list of World Cultural and Natural Heritages.
After Lunch continue the Journey to Ankara (Polatli) (approx 145 km) today aftenoon visit the capital Phrygia Gordion, the city famous for Gordion Knot, King Midas and his golden touch. Midas or King Midas is popularly remembered in Greek mythology for his ability to turn everything he touched into gold. This was called the Golden touch. Visit Tumulus, is the most famous of which belonged to King Midas; with its 53-meter height and 300-meter width, it is the second biggest tomb of its type in the world. Next proceed to Ankara check in to your Hotel in Ankara. Overnight at hotel in Ankara
Day 6 - ANKARA – FULL DAY TOUR TO HATTUSAS - ANKARA ( B,L,D)
After Breakfast at Hotel, Start Full Day tour after (approx. 2,5 hrs drive) (208 km) to Hattusas and visit the Capital of Hitties “Hattusas” and summer palace of Hitites, with Lion’s Gate, Tunnel, King’s Gate, Citadel and Grand Temple.
After Lunch, proceed to visit the Ancient Ruins Yazılıkaya to see the open air sanctuary as the sun light comes on the bas-reliefs direct in the morning. Drive back to Ankara for overnight. Overnight Hotel in Ankara
Day 7- ANKARA – KONYA – FULL DAY TOUR OF ANKARA & SURROUNDINGS - KONYA ( B, L & D )
After breakfast check-out from the Hotel, and visit the famous selected the European Museum of the Year in 1997, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is located on the hill with Ankara's ancient Citadel. The museum has Paleolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Late Bronze Age, Hittite, Phrygia, Urartu and Late Hittite sections. Short walk in the Old part of the city and take photos from the Citadel of Ankara. After Lunch will be served at Local Restaurant, continue drive to Konya Upon Arrival check-in to your hotel Overnight in Konya.
Day 8 - KONYA – FULL DAY TOUR TO KONYA & CATALHOYUK - KONYA ( B, L, D )
After breakfast, start a full day tour with visit the Mevlana Museum and the tomb of Jelaleddim Rumi, founder of the whirling dervishes, in Konya. Visit, The Karatay Madrasa, built in 1251, is adjacent to the citadel. Its portal displays alternating stones of light and dark, a hallmark of Syrian influence today the Madrasa serves as a tile museum. After lunch, drive for visit the Ancient Catalhoyuk “Forked Tumulus” (60 kms). Catal Hoyuk is an Early Neolithic site in Turkey (6300-5500 BC), and so far the oldest civilization on earth. Return to Konya for overnight. (B&L)
Day 9 - KONYA – FULL DAY TOUR TO YALVAC (PISIDIAN ANTIOCH) - KONYA ( B, L, D )
Following the Breakfast at hotel, depart and drive for visit the site of Ancient Pisidian Antioch is located on the outlying districts of the Turkish town of Yalvac. Lunch in Antioch. Paul and Barnabas visited the city on their first missionary journey (Acts 13:13–50; 14:22). St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Barnabas, and St. Timothy all preached here. All the missionary journeys of St. Paul started here in Antioch. Antioch now became a major Christian city and the centre of the Eastern Christian church which proclaimed its independence from Rome in 341. Also the first church of Christianity was founded in Antioch. Return to Konya for overnight.
Day 10 - KONYA – CAPPADOCIA ( B, L & D )
After breakfast at hotel, depart from Konya for Cappadocia enroute photo stop will be given at a 700 year old Ancient Caravanserai Sultanhani (a’hotel’ for ancient traders and travelelers on silk road). Next visit the Obruk (a sinkhole lake). Upon Arrival Lunch will be served at Local Restaurant in Cappadocia, in the afternoon we are starting Cappadocia Tour with visit magnificent Valley of Fairy Chimneys, it is most unique formations area of Cappadocia. Today be enchanted by the incredible Underground City of Kaymakli one a place of refuge for 15000 Christians. Our Next stop at Esentepe Hill, where we will be able to see all Cappadocia with Birth Eye view. Following this, enjoy with hike through the Rose Valley with visits to the churches. Afterwards visit to the old Christian village of Cavusin. Finaly Check in to your hotel for Dinner and Overnight.
Day 11 - CAPPADOCIA FULL DAY TOUR ( B, L & D )
Today Early Morning Optionaly, you may join Hot Air Balooning over the Charming Landscape during sun rise is this morning time.
After breakfast at hotel, today get the rare chance to experience the beauty and work of Turkey’s Handmade Crafts through the Turkish Carpet Weaving Course. where you will have the opportunity to see how they weave their carpets and a small lecture will be given. Following this, continiue the journey with visit the Pasabag / Pigeon Valley and next proceed to the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum to visit the Goreme National Park the rock carved churches hollowed out of volcanic ash. Today Lunch will be served at Avanos Village, Avanos Village also famous with the pottery handicraft atteleries, here you may try making a handcrafted Local clay potteries. Followed by allowing ample time for shopping in the afternoon. Next Picture stops will be given at the Valley of the Birds, on the way to back hotel will visit the Local Cellar to degustate Famous Local Wines.
Today Afternoon Optionaly, you may join JEEP Safari Adventure along the Fairy Chimneys with a Charming Landscape during sun set time.
Finaly Return Back to your hotel for Dinner and Overnight.
Day 12 - CAPPADOCIA è Domestic Flight to ISTANBUL ( B & L )
After an early breakfast check-out from the Hotel and transfer to Nevsehir (NAV) or Kayseri (ASR) Airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul. Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to the pier for Day Tour Started with an unforgettable Bosphorus Cruise Excursion starts between two continents, Europe and Asia. Here, you will be able to soak in the sights and sounds of Turkey’s Asia and Europe sector as you cruise through this water channel that is the very beat of life in Istanbul. Witness the magnificent architecture of the buildings along the Bosphorus and the interesting activities of our local people. We will get very chance of taking photo of Dolmabahce Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, Rumeli Castle and Anatolia Castle build by the conquerer of Istanbul in 1453. Enjoy Sipping a glass of tea or coffee in the breeze of Bosphorous along with history and impressive nature will be a never-forgotten experience in your memories. After the Bosphorus Cruise you will disembark from the boat and continue to your tour with a visit to the visit the Egyptian Spice Bazaar. The Spice Bazaar is a must-experience for foodies visiting Istanbul. Also known as the Egyptian Market, or Misir Çarsisi, in Turkish, this market dates back to 1664 and is the second-oldest covered shopping area in Istanbul. (The oldest is the Grand Bazaar.) The Spice Bazaar is not only a great place to buy spices, but it's also where you can pick up dried fruits and nuts, tea, candy and caviar. Lunch at Havuzlu Restaurant in the Grand Bazaar. After Lunch enjoy your free time and your last minute shopping at Grand Bazaar. In the late afternoon, enjoy walking in the new part of the city walk through the most famous pedestrian street, Istiklal Caddesi (Beyoglu) and feel the heartbeats of Istanbul. Continue your walk at Taksim Square and stroll down the grand boulevard called Istiklal Caddesi, keep a lookout for the historical tram that runs the length of the street. During your walk you will see many hidden churches and cathedrals, embassies and consulates, and boutiques and art galleries and the historical Pera Palace Hotel and Mevlevi Museum. Finaly C/ in to your hotel for overnight.
Day 13 - ISTANBUL – DEPARTURE ( MOB)
After breakfast check-out from the Hotel and depending on your flight time, you will be transferred to the Airport for your homebound flight. (B)
ACCOMODATIONS:
2 Nights at Delta by Marriot Halic Hotel or similar Category 4+5 hotels in Istanbul on BB bases
Delta Hotels by Marriott Istanbul Kagithane | Marriott Bonvoy
2 Nights at 4* Anemon Hotel or similar in Eskisehir on a HB basis
2 Nights at 4* Sergah Hotel or similar in Ankara on HB basis
3 Nights at Grand Hotel Konya or similar in Konya on HB basis
2 Nights at Stone Designed Burcu Kaya Hotel or similar category (SC) hotels in Cappadocia on HB
1 Nights at Delta by Marriot Halic Hotel or similar Category 4+5 hotels in Istanbul on BB bases
Delta Hotels by Marriott Istanbul Kagithane | Marriott Bonvoy
Included Services:
* Istanbul Hotel accommodations on BB basis
* Anatolia Hotels accommodations on HB basis
* Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast / Lunch >& Dinner )
* Licensed professional local tour guide in English-Spanish-German- Japanese- Chinese (Mandarin) Languages throughout the itinerary.
* A/C Luxury van with professional driver during tours & transfers.
* All arrival and departure transfers for Istanbul/Eskisehir/Ankara/Konya/Cappadocia/Istanbul
* Entrance fees to the all sites and museums, as mentioned on the itinerary
Excluded Services:
International airfare
Domestic flights
Porterages at airports
Gratuities to the driver, guide
Beverages with meals.
Which is not mentioned clearly as above
REMARKS FOR MUSEUMS CLOSED DAYS :
Istanbul Modern Art Museum and Galata Mevlevi Museum are closed on Mondays
Turkish Islamic Arts museum are closed on Mondays
Istanbul Archeology Museum is closed on Mondays
Dolmabahce Palace Museum is closed on Mondays
Topkapi Palace Museum is closed on Tuesdays
Chora Museum is closed on Wednesday
Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays
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You'll explore the comprehensive richest history of Turkey, be amazed by incredible history and landscapes and waterfalls, sunbathe, swim in turquoise blue crystal-clear waters, and walk in the footsteps of some of history's treasuries as you visit impressive ruins.
The perfect excursion in Turkey; we begin highlights of the Cappadocia tour with the magical Istanbul. Enjoy the highlights of Old City of Constantinople, next visit Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square and Bosphorus Cruise sailing before heading to Cappadocia
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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...
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