Istanbul and Aegean

Istanbul and Aegean

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Istanbul’s cultural landmarks, step back in time exploring the ancient marvels of Ephesus, and rejuvenate amidst the natural beauty of Pamukkale on this captivating and diverse journey through Turkey.

Includes

Private air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour
First class hotels throughout the tour
All museum and site entrances as indicated on itinerary
Guidance with licensed guide throughout the tour
Meals as indicated on itinerary by B breakfast, L lunch, D dinner
Luggage handling at the hotels
Parking fees and all toll fees
Local taxes and service charges

Excludes

Visa fees to Turkey (if required)
All additional meals
Beverages during the meals
Additional visits and optional tours
Tips
All other expenses

DESCRIPTION

IMPORTANT NOTES

1st Day

Arrival – Istanbul

Arrival transfer from airport to hotel. Welcome cocktail and briefing.
2nd Day

Istanbul

Tour Topkapi Palace (Closed on Tuesdays) residence of Ottoman sultans, the Hippodrome, site of chariot races, the Blue Mosque, famous for its colorful ceramics, Underground Cistern and Saint Sophia (Closed on Mondays) decorated with ancient frescoes. Enjoy the 3,000 shops in the Covered Bazaar. Overnight in Istanbul. B L
3rd Day

Istanbul

A half-day tour including Spice Market and cruise on the Bosphorus. Free time to explore the city. B
4th Day

Istanbul – Izmir – Pergamum – Kusadasi

Early morning flight to Izmir. Arrive and transfer to Pergamum’s ancient acropolis, home to the Altar of Zeus and the Roman Medical Center of Asclepion, work site of the great physician. Drive to Kusadasi for overnight. B L D
5th Day

Kusadasi – Ephesus – Kusadasi

Tour to Ephesus where you will explore 2,000 year-old marble streets, a theater, the library of Celsius, a gymnasium, St. John’s Basilica and Hadrian’s Temple in Ephesus. Visit Virgin Mary’s stone cottage. Overnight in Kusadasi. B L D
6th Day

Kusadası – Aphrodisias – Pamukkale

Drive through fertile valleys to Aphrodisias city of Aphrodite, then continue to and visit Hierapolis. Overnight in Pamukkale. Dinner in the hotel. B L D
7th Day

Kusadasi – Izmir – Istanbul

After breakfast depart for Izmir for your flight to home via Istanbul. B

Meals: B= Breakfast L=Lunch D=Dinner

Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays
Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays.
Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
Spice Market is closed during Eids
The order of visits and the route of itinerary may be changed if it is necessary.