DAY 3: Istanbul, TURKEY
Explore the masterpieces of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture: the sixth-century Basilica Cistern and the timeless Hagia Sophia, one of the greatest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture. Visit Topkapi Palace, a resplendent complex that is the former seat of the Ottoman government. Explore the Pera District, the presentday heart of Istanbul, and go atop the ancient Galata Tower for 360-degree views of this beautiful city.
►For Istanbul hotel suggestions, see above.
DAY 4: Istanbul, TURKEY / Cappadocia, TURKEY
Your guide travels with you throughout the program. Fly to Cappadocia to see the rock-carved churches at Göreme. The unique landscape of this area was created by volcanic, geological and erosive activity. Here, amid the soft type of rock called tuff, one of the most ancient and influential monastic movements took root in the fourth century. Retire to your boutique hotel, renovated from authentic Cappadocian housing.
►Some suggested Cappadocia hotels (in alphabetical order): Anatolian Houses Museum Hotel, Cappadocia
►Together, we will find the best choice for you!
DAY 5: Cappadocia, TURKEY
This morning you may choose an optional hot air balloon excursion
(cost not included) over Cappadocia. Then, explore the underground
village of Kaymakli. After lunch, visit the potters of Avanos, who
have practiced their craft for more than 4,000 years.
►For Cappadocia hotel suggestions, see above.
DAY 6: Cappadocia, TURKEY / Izmir, TURKEY / Ephesus, TURKEY / Kusadasi,
TURKEY
Fly to Izmir and view the remains of the great Ionian city of Ephesus, the best-preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean.
►Some suggested Kusadasi hotels (in alphabetical order): Charisma Hotel, Kusadasi KoruMar
Hotel De Luxe
►Together, we will find the best choice for you!
DAY 7: Kusadasi, TURKEY / Bodrum, TURKEY
Explore the ruins of Priene, the massive Temple of Apollo at Didyma and the temple at Euromos en route to Bodrum.
►Some suggested Bodrum hotels (in alphabetical order): Amanruya Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum (V) Marmara Bodrum
►Together, we will find the best choice for you!
DAY 8: Bodrum, TURKEY
Discover Bodrum's fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housed in a former castle and containing many artifacts salvaged from the surrounding waters.
►For Bodrum hotel suggestions, see above.
DAY 9: Bodrum, TURKEY / Istanbul, TURKEY
Fly to Istanbul and view the City Walls; then visit Dolmabahçe Palace, the largest and finest example of Ottoman Baroque architecture in the city. Continue with a private afternoon cruise on the Bosphorus.
►For Istanbul hotel suggestions, see above.
DAY 10: Istanbul, TURKEY
Explore the Suleymaniye Mosque, a symbol of the Golden Age created by the great architect Sinan. Visit the 3,500-stall Grand Covered Bazaar.
►For Istanbul hotel suggestions, see above.
DAY
1: Depart for Istanbul, TURKEY