PEARLS OF TURKEY (8 days/7 nights, by Orion Tour)
Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Izmir, Ephesus
Walk in the footsteps of Süleyman the Magnificent, as you explore the far reaches of this astounding country. From Istanbul bridging two continents to the Anatolian plateau to the sparkling shores of the Aegean, you will marvel at the variety and diversity of this land.
Day 1 – Istanbul
Arrival at Istanbul airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Day 2 – Istanbul
Following breakfast, we drive to the ‘Old City’ where we will visit the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, famous for its delicate blue ceramic tiles and Saint Sophia. This church – turned mosque – turned museum takes the breath away with the sheer architectural size of its interior and magnificent dome and next we will visit the spectacular Topkapi Palace. Built on one of the seven hills of Istanbul, this huge complex commands views of the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. It was the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire for many centuries (1453-1852) and we will see the extravagant Treasury, the priceless Chinese porcelain. We will finish up the day in the bustling Grand Bazaar that is an attractive shopping center and biggest “souk” in the world. (BL)
Day 3 – Istanbul – Ankara
Following the breakfast we will fly to Ankara , where you’ll visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. Ankara is the capital of Turkey. The history of the city reaches way beyond 3rd century BC. Dinner and overnight in Ankara. (BD)
Day 4 – Cappadocia – Ankara
Early in the morning we will drive to the Cappadocian Valley in the heart of the Anatolian Plateau, and marvel at the twisted lunar land scape. Successive eruptions of a now-extinct volcano left the plateau covered with volcanic tufa, which was transformed by intense erosion into beautiful landscapes of cones, columns, and canyons. Between the 4th and 13th centuries, Christians hewed dwellings and sanctuaries from the rock, totally incorporating the architecture into the landscape. Overnight in Cappadocia. (BLD)
Day 5 – Cappadocia – Izmir
Further exploration today includes the Valley of Fairy Chimneys, Goreme Valley, with its Byzantine rock churches, the Valley of Pasabag with the Fairy Chimneys and the subterranean city of Kaymakli. Return to Ankara for your flight to Izmir and get settled in your hotel. (BLD)
Day 6 – Ephesus Excursion – Istanbul
Your full day tour of Ephesus includes visits to the Arcadian Way, the Marble Road, the Great Theater, the Library of Celcius and the Shrine of Virgin Mary. Following the excursion, we will drive to Izmir for our flight to Istanbul. Overnight in Istanbul. (BL)
Day 7 – Istanbul
Spend the day exploring the city of the sultans as you like. An optional Bosphorus Cruise is also available. (B)
Day 8 – Istanbul
Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)
(Tour code: ORNDTPT5)
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