|
DAY 1: ARRIVE ISTANBUL Upon arrival in Istanbul today, you will be met and transferred to luxurious Four Seasons Istanbul for a three night stay. Tonight we recommend dining at Sarnic, a spectacular restaurant located in an ancient underground cistern. DAY 2: ISTANBUL This morning your driver and guide will meet you for a full day private tour. Begin with a visit to Aya Sofya, one of the greatest marvels of architecture constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. Next visit the Blue Mosque, facing Aya Sofya, famous for its blue Iznik tiles and unique with its 6 minarets. Built in the name of Sultan Ahmet in the 17th century, it's one of the best examples of classical Turkish art. Pass the Hippodrome, the scene of Byzantine chariot races, athletic events, victory celebrations, and political activities of the old city where one can also see today the Obelisk from Egypt, the Serpentine Column from Delphi, the Fountain of Wilhelm II, and the Colossus. Also visit the Yerebatan Saray, a fascinating Byzantine underground cistern dating from 532 AD. Next visit the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum with its art collection from different civilizations of Anatolia. After lunch, proceed to the Suleymaniye Mosque that dominates the skyline of Istanbul, built by the famous architect Sinan the Great during the reign of Suleyman the Magnificent in the 16th century. Time permitting, visit Topkapi Palace to tour the Harem residences with their beautiful tiles and the spectacular collection of imperial treasures. Conclude your day with a stroll through the Grand Covered Bazaar (closed on Sundays), the most attractive shopping center in the world with nearly 4,000 shops filled with antiques, jewelry, gold, carpets and leather goods. (B,L) DAY 3: ISTANBUL Depart in the morning to visit the aromatic Spice Market, also known as Egyptian Bazaar as it was once endowed with the Cairo imposts. Explore the domed and vaulted shops selling spices and herbs along with a wide variety of commodities, then proceed to the pier to embark a cruise from the Golden Horn that continues through the waterway separating the two continents -- Asia and Europe - passing marble palaces and ancient wooden villas of Ottoman architecture besides modern residents. Also visit the Rumeli Fortress, an historical armament built by the Conqueror to control and protect the Bosphorus. This afternoon is at your leisure. (B,L) DAY 4: ISTANBUL - KAYSERI, CAPPADOCIA This morning you will be transferred to the airport for the flight to Kayseri, in Cappadocia, where nature has scoured surrealistic moonscape shapes, and where the persecuted Christians dug underground cities and churches during the 9th Century. Cappadocia is located along the ancient Silk Road, and Caravanserais -- the old lodging and trading posts -- are scattered throughout the region and provide a fascinating glimpse into history of the region. This afternoon visit the Soganli Village where you can see the most authentic dwelling place of the whole area. The next two nights will be at the Kappadokya Lodge or the Dedeman Hotel. (B, L,) DAY 5: CAPPADOCIA Today enjoy a full day of flexible, private sightseeing in Cappadocia. Visit the natural fortress Uçhisar with its spectacular views of the region. Tour the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu that are believed to be 4,000 years old. Visit the Göreme Open Air Museum with early Christian churches; Pasabagi and Zelve with its panoramic view, fairy chimneys, and rock-dwelling houses. There will be plenty of time to explore the many carpet and pottery shops in the region. (B, L) DAY 6: CAPPADOCIA - ANKARA - IZMIR Depart early this morning for the scenic drive to Ankara, the capital of Turkey. En route visit the 13th century Seljukian Caravanserai Agzikarahan. Ankara's colorful old town is quite a contrast to its new, post-modern skyscrapers. Visit the Anatolian Civilizations Museum and the Mausoleum of Ataturk before the flight to Izmir-- the birthplace of Homer, and the "Pearl of the Aegean." Accommodation for the next two nights is at the Swissotel. (B,L) DAY 7: EXCURSION TO EPHESUS Depart this morning to visit the House of Virgin Mary where she is supposed to have spent her last years together with St. John. Also visit Ephesus Antique City, one of the most popular ancient sites of Turkey with many acres of carefully excavated ruins. After lunch visit St. John's Basilica, the temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), and the Ephesus Museum. There will also be a short visit to Kusadasi. Return to your hotel for the night. (B,L) DAY 8: IZMIR - ANTALYA Today you will be transferred to the airport for the flight to Istanbul, connecting with the flight to Antalya, on the "Turquoise Coast." This afternoon visit the Pamphylian cities of Perge and Aspendos, famous for the well preserved theater of the ancient world which is still used during annual festivals. Overnight at the deluxe Sheraton Voyager. (B,L) DAY 9: ANTALYA Today is free to enjoy at your leisure. Relax at the resort, or meander through the picturesque city with its ancient Roman walled port, and its lovely 'old town', Kaleici, with its beautifully restored ottoman mansions and Handrian's Gate. Kaleici and the port abound with little cafes, restaurants and boutiques. A visit to the local museum is also highly recommended. Sailing excursions are also available. Overnight at the Sheraton Voyager. (B) DAY 10: ANTALYA - ISTANBUL Today fly to Istanbul, where you will be met and transferred to the Çiragan Palace Hotel (Sea View Room) for a two night stay. The balance of the day is free at your leisure. (B) DAY 11: ISTANBUL Today is free to enjoy at your leisure. There's plenty to explore in the old part of the city right near your hotel. You might want also want to explore Taksim Square, with its many shops and local specialty restaurants, eventually ending up at the Galata Tower with its spectacular roof-top view of the city. Another interesting neighborhood is Ortakoy with its cafes overlooking the Bosphorus. (B) DAY 12: DEPART TURKEY Today you will be transferred to the airport for your international flight. (B) |