TURKISH DELIGHT
With an Optional Cappadocia Extension
Air and Land 9 Days, 8 Nights Including Hotels, Meals, Day Trips, and Airfare From New York
Immerse yourself in a land where East meets West, as you explore the iconic landmarks of Istanbul, including the majestic Blue Mosque, the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, and the historic Roman Hippodrome. Navigate the vibrant streets of the Golden Horn, honing your haggling skills as you peruse the world-renowned Grand Bazaar for unique treasures and souvenirs. Delight in the luxury of Topkapi Palace, home to extraordinary artifacts, including the seventh-largest diamond in the world. From the city’s bustling energy, journey to the charming seaside town of Kuşadasi, where more unforgettable moments await. Fulfill your dream of visiting one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World as you stand before the magnificent Temple of Artemis, the grand Temple of Hadrian, and the awe-inspiring Library of Celsius in ancient Ephesus. Take time to explore the breathtaking travertine terraces of Pamukkale and the revered House of the Virgin Mary. Enhance your ultimate Turkish adventure with an optional extension to Cappadocia and the Whirling Dervishes.
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS
Experience Istanbul • Where Europe and Asia meet • Learn of the Ottoman Empire • Majestic Blue Mosque • Fascinating Hagia Sophia • Roman Hippodrome • Golden Horn • Bosporus Straight • Topkapi Palace Museum • See the seventh-largest diamond in the world • Galata Bridge • Basilica Cistern • Famous Grand Bazaar • The Aegean seaside town of Kuşadası • Ephesus, the world’s best preserved ancient city • Temple of Hadrian • Library of Celsius • Turkish Rugs - Basilica of St John • House of Virgin Mary • Spectacular rock formations of Pamukkale • The Path of St. Paul • Enchanting Cappadocia • Fairy Chimneys • Göreme Open-Air Museum • Whirling Dervish performanceand much, much more.
MAIN PROGRAM INCLUDED FEATURES
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AIR TRANSPORTATION Air transportation from New York and all intra-Turkey flights
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FIRST-CLASS ACCOMMODATIONS 7 nights in first-class hotels
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MEALS 12 included meals consisting of 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 4 dinners
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THE PROGRAM Sightseeing, including local guide and all entrance fees as follows: Istanbul tour including the Old City, the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, a half-day tour including the Galata Bridge and Grand Bazaar, a tour of the House of the Virgin Mary, and a tour of Ephesus. Optional tours available
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JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY Our program encompasses cultural connections, in-depth learning on the local economy and social systems, and interaction with locals such as a Turkish crafts workshop and a visit to a Turkish carpet factory
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PROFESSIONAL TOUR DIRECTOR Assistance of a professional Tour Director during tours and transfers
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FIRST-CLASS MOTORCOACHES Touring by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach
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BAGGAGE HANDLING AND TRANSFERS Baggage handling for one piece of checked luggage outside of the airport
OPTIONAL EXTENSION TO CAPPADOCIA INCLUDED
FEATURES
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ROUND-TRIP AIR Intra-Turkey air transportation
- FIRST-CLASS ACCOMMODATIONS 3 nights in a first-class hotel
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MEALS 6 included meals consisting of 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners
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THE PROGRAM Sightseeing, including local guide and all entrance fees as follows: Tours of Pigeon Valley, Göreme, the underground cities, Monks Valley and its Fairy Chimneys
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PROFESSIONAL TOUR DIRECTOR Assistance of a professional Tour Director for the entire length of the tour
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FIRST CLASS MOTORCOACHES Touring by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach
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BAGGAGE HANDLING AND TRANSFERS Baggage handling for one piece of checked luggage outside of the airport
Leave the USA Set off on your overnight international trip to Istanbul. Meals and beverages are served on board.
Day 2 Arrive Istanbul, Turkey Welcome to Istanbul! A captivating destination where East meets West and a place that promises extraordinary experiences. As you arrive in Istanbul, clear customs and immigration, your Tour Director will greet you and take you to your hotel.
Day 3 Istanbul – Old City Tour Today enjoy a full-day tour of Istanbul. Begin your adventure at the Roman Hippodrome, once the vibrant heart of Byzantine life. Then, marvel at the iconic Blue Mosque, with its stunning interior adorned with over 20,000 precious Iznik tiles. See the magnificence of the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Enjoy some free time for a delightful lunch before visiting Topkapi Palace, the former center of the Ottoman Empire. Discover the Treasury section, showcasing the seventh-largest diamond in the world. This evening marks the beginning of your journey as you enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel. (B, D)
Day 4 Istanbul – Galata Bridge - Grand Bazaar Tour Today embark on an unforgettable tour to discover the charms of Istanbul. Begin with a stroll along the Galata Bridge, where you can capture breathtaking views of the bustling ferry boats and local fishermen while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Turkish coffee houses. Next, cross the Golden Horn, arriving at the Caferağa Medresesi. A cultural hub that teaches traditional Turkish handicrafts such as ceramic tile art, jewelry making, and carpet weaving. Then continue your day with a visit to the Basilica Cistern, an engineering marvel that once supplied water to the city. Then onwards to the world-renowned 15th-century Grand Bazaar. This historic covered market is a shopper’s paradise, with 4,400 authentic shops, 61 covered streets, and employing 25,000 staff. Immerse yourself in the diverse array of treasures, including handmade carpets, silver, copper, bronze souvenirs, ceramics, onyx, and leather. (B)
Day 5 Istanbul Today is a day of leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the bustling markets, savor delectable cuisine, or embark on an optional tour to the enchanting Spice Bazaar, Ortaköy fishing village, and a picturesque cruise on the Bosphorus. Begin your day at the Spice Bazaar, a rich and aromatic treasure trove for sensory experiences. Immerse yourself in its bustling atmosphere, filled with colorful stalls offering an enticing array of spices, teas, Turkish delight, and other delightful culinary pleasures. Then take a captivating cruise along the Bosporus Strait, a narrow waterway that divides Europe and Asia. Admire the late Ottoman Palaces, as well as the elegant wooden mansions and modern villas that dot the shoreline. The final stop is the charming Ortaköy fishing village, known for its harmonious coexistence throughout the centuries. (B)
Day 6 Istanbul – Kuşadasi After breakfast in Istanbul, you’ll fly to Izmir and then travel to the stunning seaside town of Kuşadası. Along the way you visit the picturesque town of Şirince and visit the spiritually moving House of the Virgin Mary. Enjoy lunch at a family-run restaurant in Şirince. Nestled on the Aegean coastline, it’s a perfect mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Enjoy pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets. It’s an ideal starting point for exploring the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the world’s best-preserved archaeological sites. (B,L,D)
Day 7 Kuşadasi – Ephesus Tour Today, a fascinating journey awaits in the ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was once the provincial capital of Asia during Roman times. Explore this great site, including the monumental amphitheater that can still accommodate 24,000 spectators for events today. As you walk along the Sacred Way, marvel at the innovative water and sewer system ingeniously constructed beneath the marble paving stones. Witness the architectural wonders of the Temple of Hadrian, adorned with a Corinthian-style design and the head of Medusa as protection against evil spirits. Admire the magnificent Library of Celsius, a testament to the grandeur of ancient knowledge. Your journey continues to Sultanköy, where you will partake in the intricate art of rug-making. Enjoy lunch at a local farm restaurant. (B,L,D)
Day 8 Kuşadasi Enjoy a leisure day or embark on an optional tour to Pamukkale, where nature has created a mesmerizing spectacle for countless millennia. Witness the stunning travertine formations cascading down the mountainside and forming vast circular basins adorned with stalactites, set against dazzling white calcareous rock. Explore the expansive ancient site of Hierapolis, where you can view the waters of Cleopatra Pool and therapeutic hot springs. After lunch, drive back to Kusadasi (B)
Day 9 Kuşadasi to the USA or extend your stay with an optional Cappadocia extension As your time in Kuşadasi and the beautiful Aegean coast draws to a close, bid farewell to this captivating destination. This morning, you will be transferred to the airport and embark on your flight back to the USA. (B)
OPTIONAL CAPPADOCIA EXTENSION
Day 9 Kuşadasi – Cappadocia Today you will fly from Izmir to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and relish the unique ambiance. (B)
Day 10 Cappadocia Start your day visiting Uçhisar town and castle. Take a hike through Pigeon Valley to reach Göreme. Explore a unique landscape adorned with geological formations and frescoed churches. Witness the effects of wind and rain erosion on volcanic rock, creating whimsical rock cones, towering pinnacles, and intricate ravines. Discover the Open-Air Museum nestled within cliffs housing hidden churches dating back to the 9th century. Explore the elaborate network of homes, churches, communal kitchens, and burial chambers designed for defense and survival during the conflict. Optional: In the evening, prepare to be enthralled by the mesmerizing artistry of the Whirling Dervishes. Witness their graceful and hypnotic dance, known as the Sema, as they symbolize the soul’s transformative journey toward spiritual enlightenment. (B,D)
Day 11 Cappadocia – Cappadocia Tour Today, be ready to be astounded as you tour one of the remarkable underground cities carved into volcanic tufa stone to glimpse the complex communities that thrive in this unique underground world. Visit Monk’s Valley to see the astonishing Fairy Chimneys reaching heights up to 130 feet. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch in the charming village of Ayvalı. End your day with a visit to the Avanos Handcraft Center along the scenic banks of the Kizilirmak River. Witness skilled artisans at work, creating masterpieces of pottery and ceramics while immersing yourself in local craft traditions. (B,L,D)
Day 12 Cappadocia to the USA After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to the USA. (B)
(B) – Breakfast, (L) – Lunch, (D) – Dinner.
Hotel (when listed) and Itinerary are subject to change. Quest Voyager reserves the right to make corrections or adjustments to the travel program as necessary.