Discover the Magic of Anatolia: A 10-Day Journey Through Turkey

April 21 - May 1, 2024

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Anatolia, the stunning peninsula that bridges Europe and Asia. Bordered by the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea, and the Mediterranean, this breathtaking region is the gateway to the East.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul, the only city in the world that spans two continents. Upon landing at Istanbul Airport, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time before a welcome dinner.

• Hotel Options: La Quinta by Wyndham, Mercure West Hotel, Dosso Dossi Golden Horn, or similar.

• Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Exploring Istanbul

After breakfast, explore Istanbul’s rich history with visits to:

• Hagia Sophia Mosque – A stunning architectural wonder with a 1,500-year history.

• The Hippodrome – Once a Byzantine-era sporting stadium.

• The Blue Mosque – An iconic symbol of Ottoman architecture.

• The Grand Bazaar – A vibrant marketplace with over 4,000 shops.

• Topkapi Palace – Featuring the Imperial Treasury, Sultan’s Kitchen, and Sacred Relics.

• Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 3: Istanbul to Cappadocia

Fly to Cappadocia (1-hour flight). Upon arrival, visit:

• Ozkonak Underground City – A fascinating ancient underground settlement.

• Avanos Town – Known for its traditional pottery craftsmanship. Check-in to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

• Hotel Options: Suhan Cappadocia, Ramada Hotel Cappadocia, or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Cappadocia Adventures

Start your day with an optional hot air balloon ride, then visit:

• Devrent & Pasabagi Valleys – Home to the famous fairy chimneys.

• Goreme Open Air Museum – A collection of cave churches and frescoes.

• Uchisar Castle Panorama – Offering breathtaking views of the region.

• Rug Weaving Center & Gemstone Gallery – Experience Turkish craftsmanship.

• Evening: Belly Dancing Dinner Show in a Cave.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Cappadocia – Konya – Pamukkale

Journey to Pamukkale with stops at:

• Sultanhan Caravanserai – A 13th-century Silk Road trading post.

• Mevlâna Museum – The resting place of Rumi, the famous Sufi poet. Arrive in Pamukkale for dinner and an overnight stay.

• Hotel Options: Adempira Thermal Hotel, Hierapark Thermal Hotel, or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Hierapolis & Laodicea

Explore:

• Hierapolis – A well-preserved ancient city.

• Pamukkale’s Travertine Terraces – Breathtaking thermal pools.

• Cleopatra’s Antique Pool – A legendary natural thermal bath.

• Laodicea – A key trade center of ancient Asia Minor. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel’s thermal baths.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Pamukkale – Ephesus – Izmir

Discover:

• Ephesus – One of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities.

• Basilica of St. John – A historic religious site.

• Leather Goods Factory – A glimpse into local craftsmanship. Arrive in Izmir for an overnight stay.

• Hotel Options: Best Western Premier, La Blanca Hotel, Ramada by Wyndham, or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Izmir – Thyatira – Sardis – Philadelphia

Visit:

• Saint Polycarp Church in Smyrna – A significant Christian landmark.

• Thyatira – Known for its historical ties to the Roman era.

• Sardis – A city rich in ancient history and culture.

• Philadelphia – Famed for its ancient temples and ruins. Overnight stay in Izmir.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Pergamon – Nicea – Istanbul

Explore:

• Pergamon – Home to the Acropolis and an ancient theater.

• Nicea (Iznik) – Site of the First Council of Nicaea in 325 A.D.

• Church of Saint Sophia – Where the Seventh Church Council convened in 787 A.D. Return to Istanbul for the final night.

• Hotel Options: Mercure West Hotel, Crown Plaza, La Quinta by Wyndham, or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 10: Departure from Istanbul

Enjoy breakfast before transferring to the airport for your flight home.

• Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included:

✅ Private transfers with professional tour guides ✅ Deluxe air-conditioned vehicles ✅ 2-night stays in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Izmir ✅ Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia & Belly Dancing Dinner Show ✅ Entrance fees, meals, and excursions as listed ✅ Farewell dinner at a local restaurant

What’s Not Included:

❌ International airfare & travel insurance ❌ Thermal spa treatments in Pamukkale ❌ Extra meals, beverages & personal expenses ❌ Tips for guides, drivers & hosts

💰 Total Price: $3,875 (including airfare)

Book now for an adventure of a lifetime through the wonders of Anatolia! ✨