Turkey is a country that divides people. Some love it, some don't. Nevertheless, had an amazing time and cannot recommend this tour enough. You might not love their political landscape, but that does not mean you won't love travelling in beautiful Turkey.
This tour is a must in Istanbul. You will begin the day with Roman Hippodrome, where the chariot races were organised by the Romans and Byzantines. Blue Mosque-the only mosque with six minarets and its surroundings will be our next place to visit. Next, you will see the German Fountain - a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm 2. And listen the stories of his liaison with the orient. Hagia Sophia - The Church of Divine Wisdom is the highlight of this day. Following the visits your guide will take you the Grand Bazaar for demonstration of Turkish Handicrafts.
Special Note: Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Blue Mosque is closed on Fridays until 2 pm; Caferaga Medrese and Blue Mosque will switch places on Fridays.
Experience the stunning sights and tantalising tastes of Turkey on this two-week adventure that takes in all the highlights and then some. Become acquainted with illustrious Istanbul, behold landscapes like no other around Cappadocia and sail the all-too-pretty islands off Kekova. Marvel at the ancient ruins of Ephesus, settle in for a spectacular soaking in Pamukkale’s thermal hot springs and reflect on the tragedies and gallantries that took place along Gallipoli’s windswept peninsula. Brimming with history, bustling with progress and bursting with flavour, Turkey intrigues and delights at every turn of this perfectly paced small group adventure.
Tour of "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.
Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian.
Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets,
built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the
old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are
the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world
with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir.
(Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
Great range of activities and interesting things to do. The boat trip in particular stood out as a very high quality inclusion. Our day in Cappadocia was particularly memorable.
Explore Istanbul; where Asia meets Europe and was capital for 3 different empires. Walk on the ancient street of the historical peninsula and witness monuments bearing the traces of 3 different empires such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome. Learn history about Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans and Modern Turks from your expert local guide. Take photos from the best photoshoot points, experience shopping with locals in Grand Bazaar. Enjoy cruising on Bosphorus and watch traditional Turkish Dance Shows, taste typical Turkish food and enjoy the panoramic view of Ottoman Mansions, Ortkaoy Mosque, and Bosphorus Bridge
Tour of "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.
Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. (Entrance ticket is not included)
Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets,
built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world
with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir.
(Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
Lunch at a Turkish Restaurant.
Topkapı Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics
of Prophet Mohammed, kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy section etc. Live guide commentary is not allowed in special sections. (Harem is not included in the program)
Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine). It was also the second largest church in İstanbul after Hagia Sophia. It’s a typical Byzantine structure with its materials and architecture, was built on the site of an old temple in 330.
I have been dreaming of traveling to Turkey for a long time. I had initially booked this tour in 2020 and clearly it had to be cancelled. Five years later, my expectations were exceeded by this tour. The rich history, culture, the food and the beautiful people of Turkey— this is a trip not to be missed!
Excellent trip. Excellent knowledge from Sukran. Only reason for 4 stars is because there was a bit of
repetition of information and some of the panoramic views seemed unnecessary. Very good care taken
of use and amazing cave hotel. Memories to last a lifetime. Thank you.
> Internal Flight tickets, Airport transfers, 3-night accommodation in a cave hotel, Lunch at tours provided >Discover UNESCO Sites of Turkey with a customized 4 days tour by plane from/to Istanbul. Explore Istanbul; where Asia Meets Europe and was the capital of 3 different Empires, visit historical monuments such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar. Discover Cappadocia; The land of beautiful horses and the home of fairy chimneys. Walk in the ancient corridors and see rock churches, witness home of early Christians. Take photos of magnificent fairy chimneys from the best photo points. Experience how to make pottery, enjoy typical Turkish foods in local restaurants
The Lycian guided walk from Fettiye to Antayla was a wonderful experience with two very capable and personable guides… our leader Egemen and cultural guide Tuncay.
They were wonderful companions as well as expert guides. We were a small group and at times our pace was slow however adjustments were made accordingly. The coastal scenery was sensational and well worth the effort of walking up and down stony tracks! We swam every day, ate terrific authentic Turkish meals and the accomodation was very good. We learnt so much about this historic part of Turkey.
Itinerary is good except that it would be good to have one more day at Istanbul.
Tour guide and the driver are helpful , knowledgeable and the tour guide Suat is delightful to deal with.