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Glories of Turkey 14 days
Beyond the sea, the sun and the mountains lies Turkey, a unique country that bridges two continents. Its magnificent landscape encompassing an incredible variety of dramatic scenery. But more importantly, Turkey possesses a rich past where the remnants of ancient civilizations are on display throughout the country. Visit the opulent palaces of the sultans whose wealth was beyond imagination, museums that are filled with priceless relics, walk in the footsteps of the ancients and be amazed by the labyrinth of underground churches hollowed out of soft volcanic stone lying beneath the earth's surface. Turkey is all this and more. Day 1, Istanbul Upon arrival into Istanbul, transfer to your hotel and participate in a welcome briefing. Overnight: Istanbul. Day 2, Istanbul Your fascinating day tour introduces Istanbul’s highlights including the exotic Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque and nearby St. Sophia, the Byzantine Hippodrome and the bustling Grand Bazaar. Overnight: Istanbul. (B) Day 3, Istanbul - Gallipoli Depart Istanbul for Gallipoli. Here visit the sobering sights of ANZAC Cove, Chunuk Bair and Lone Pine cemetery. Cross the Dardanelle Strait. Overnight: Canakkale. (B,D) Day 4, Troy & Kusadasi Drive out to the amazing World Heritage Site of Troy. Here visit the ancient ruins and the huge replica of the magnificent wooden Trojan Horse. From Troy continue on to the ancient Greek city of Pergamum, with astounding views of the surrounding countryside. Departing Pergamum, drive 150km on to your overnight stop at Kusadasi, famous for its beaches and panoramic views. Overnight: Kusadasi. (B,D) Day 5, Ephesus & St Mary’s House Visit the stunning ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary’s cottage today. Wander these ancient ruins, once the capital of the Roman Republic. Enjoy some free time this afternoon or opt for some additional touring to Sardis or Sirince. Overnight: Kusadasi. (B,D) Day 6, Kusadasi - Pamukkale Drive through fertile valleys to Pamukkale and site the remarkable calcium cliffs and pools that form the natural ‘White Castle’. Afterwards visit Hierapolis and enjoy the thermal pools at your hotel. Overnight: Pamukkale. (B,D) Day 7, Pamukkale - Perge - Antayla Morning drive to Antalya. This afternoon visit the ancient city of Perge, then enjoy some free time to relax by the Mediterranean Coast. Overnight: Antalya. (B,D) Day 8, Antalya Today is free with optional tours available to Phaselis, an ancient coastal city, or a lazy yacht cruise along the turquoise coast. Overnight: Antalya. (B,D) Day 9, Antalya - Aspendos - Konya After breakfast depart for Konya, en-route visiting the famous theatre at Aspendos, the Mevlana Mausoleum and Karatay Koran School. Overnight: Konya. (B,D) Day 10, Konya - Cappadocia On the way to Cappadocia, visit the 13th century Agzikarahan caravansaray and the land of the ‘fairy chimneys.’ Also explore the underground city of Kaymakli and stop by a carpet production centre. Overnight: Cappadocia. (B,D) Day 11, Cappadocia Opt this morning to take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the stunning scenery of Cappadocia. Today’s full day tour includes the ‘fairy chimneys’ rock formation at Goreme, the old city of Avanos and the underground city of Ozkanak. Overnight: Cappadocia. (B,D) Day 12, Cappadocia - Ankara Depart Cappadocia and journey to Ankara, Turkey’s capital. Upon arrival in Ankara, tour the foremost attraction in the city, the Anatolian Civilisations Museum, with artifacts from Turkey’s past. Overnight: Ankara. (B,D) Day 13, Ankara - Istanbul After breakfast drive to Istanbul. Optional half day Bosphorous Cruise. Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening. Overnight: Istanbul. (B,D) Day 14, Istanbul Your tour ends today with a transfer to the airport. (B) Price includes accommodation, meals as indicated, transfers and sightseeing as specified, porterage and local English speaking guides. Deluxe accommodation options available - please ask for prices. |