10D9N TURKEY HIGHLIGHTS

Day 01: Istanbul – Cappadocia    

Arrival in Istanbul and our first stop will be Hippodrome, was once the center of Byzantine public life and hosted many events and ceremonies throughout history. Nearby, you can find the Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, which was built in the early 17th century and is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul. Another iconic landmark nearby is Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque that is known for its massive dome and unique architecture. Catch a flight to Cappadocia and visit the Cavusin Church, which is in a cave and full of unique carving picture on the wall. Then picture stops will be given at the Valley of the Birds and at the foot Transfer to hotel for dinner & overnight stay.

Utopia Cave Hotel or similar class

Day 02: Cappadocia

After breakfast visit The Underground City of Kaymakli, a historic site located in the region of Cappadocia. It was carved into the soft volcanic rock by early Christians to protect themselves from invaders. At Uchisar Castle, a towering fortress that was built into a natural rock formation and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Proceed to Goreme Open Air Museum, which features a collection of rock-cut churches, chapels, and monasteries that date back to the 10th century. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the Byzantine period of Turkish history and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have lunch at Avanos Village followed by the famous local pottery and carpet shows. You will have ample time for shopping in the afternoon.

Later you will visit the Pigeon Valley, which is named for the many pigeons that make their homes in the cliffs and offers breath-taking views of the surrounding rock formations and vineyards.

Day 03: Cappadocia / Konya

After breakfast, proceed to Konya. It was once the capital of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum and is now the seventh-most populous city in Turkey. We will visit the Mevlana Museum, which is dedicated to the teachings of the Sufi poet and mystic Jalaluddin Rumi. Overnight in Konya.

Bayir Diamond Hotel or similar class

Day 04: Konya / Pamukkale

This morning you will visit the Antique City of Hierapolis, where you can explore several well-preserved ruins and landmarks, including the Necropolis, a large cemetery that features thousands of tombs; the Roman Theatre, which was built in the 2nd century AD and could seat up to 15,000 spectators; and the Cleopatra Pool, a thermal pool believed to have been used by the ancient queen. Another notable attraction at Hierapolis is the Pamukkale travertine terraces, also known as the Cotton Castle, which are a series of natural hot springs that cascade down a hillside, forming stunning white terraces. Transfer to hotel for dinner and overnight in Pmaukkale.

Day 05: Pamukkale / Antalya

After breakfast drive to Antalya. Visit the Perge Ancient City, exploring the ruins of Perge, including the Roman theater, agora, stadium, and bathhouses. After lunch, head to Aspendos Ancient City, which is about 48 km east of Antalya. Spend about 2-3 hours exploring the Aspendos Theater and the aqueduct and visit the Aspendos Museum, which is located near the theater. Overnight in Antalya.

Day 06: Antalya

The highlights today will be to explore the Old Town of Antalya, also known as Kaleici. Start your tour at Hadrian's Gate: This ancient Roman monument is located at the entrance of Kaleici and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Antalya. Take some time to explore the gate and learn about its history. Make a stop at The Clock Tower, the rising stone structure looms over the surrounding cityscape as a reminder of its rich history. Followed by the Republic Square, a buzzy public square fringed with cafes, featuring an equestrian statue of former president Ataturk. Visit the Duden Waterfall, a marvelous waterfall and its surrounding gardens are a popular picnic spot in Antalya. The Duden Waterfalls consists of Upper Duden and Lower Duden. After then transfer to hotel.

Day 07: Antalya / Kusadasi

Our first stop today is Ephesus, The best-preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean. Stroll through the marble streets and along mosaic-paved sidewalks to the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. See the stunning façade of the Celsus Library. After then enjoy Leather Show and drive to IZMIR.

Doubletree Hilton Bosphorus or similar class

Day 09: Istanbul

After breakfast, we will do a Bosphorus Cruise Tour on a private yacht. We will learn about the important and strategic waterway that straddles the Asian and European continents while enjoying an impressive showcase of many historic Istanbul buildings, including the decadent façade of Dolmabahce Palace (exterior viewing), the 15th-century fortress Rumelihisari (exterior viewing), the Beylerbeyi Palace (exterior viewing), which served as the summer home of Ottoman sultans, and many more.

Next, you will visit the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. This historic covered market is located in the Eminonu district and is filled with shops selling spices, sweets, tea, and other Turkish specialties. Later, head north towards the Grand Bazaar. This sprawling market is one of the world's largest covered markets and has been a hub of commerce for centuries.