Magnificent architecture, the natural wonders of Cappadocia and Pamukkale, impressive Roman ruins and a moving visit to Gallipoli Battlefields.
Pick up between 6:15 am - 6:45 am from your hotel in the old city of Istanbul, Taksim and depart from Istanbul for the nation's capital, Ankara, to visit Anitkabir, the Mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Ataturk before continuing on to the surreal landscape of Cappadocia.
Today we tour the Goreme open-air museum, Pasabag and Uchisar castle. Photo opportunities are everywhere so have your cameras ready! Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and at the carpet village we learn how the carpets are made by hand what determines their value. Tonight, don't miss the optional Turkish folklore evening featuring folklore and belly dancers... a night you won't forget!
This morning we visit and explore Kaymakli underground city. Then leaving Cappadocia we head south, towards Konya, along the ancient Silk Road, visiting Sultanhani Caravansary, just as the ancient traders did. Once in Konya we tour the Mevlana Museum and Alaeddin Mosque.
Today we head for Pamukkale and it's calcium travertines. Along the way we visit the ancient site of Sagalassos. Conquered by Alexander the Great in 333 BC, earthquakes and plague saw its demise in 541-2. Today it is one of the best preserved sites in Turkey and is on the UNESCO Tentaice list.
Visit the ruins of Hierapolis, the Temple of Apollo, Necropolis, and stroll over the magnificent white calcium terraces of Pamukkale. This afternoon we will enjoy a display of locally handcrafted leather goods.
Absorb yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the Temple of Artemis. Feel the mystical atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and at the carpet village we learn how the carpets are made by hand what determines their value. Our tour concludes with the arrival to Istanbul at approximately 7 pm.
Today it's back to Istanbul, passing through rural Turkey and ancient Bursa to visit the famous Green Mosque and explore the Silk Bazaar. Tour ends on arrival into Istanbul.