The Best of Turkey [08 Nights / 09 days]

Day  2  Istanbul to Ankara                                                                   (B,D)

Full Day Istanbul sightseeing tour including Topkapi Palace, St. Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar. Haghia Sophia, the most influential church of Byzantium. Originally built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, reconstructed by Emperor Justinian in 6th century and converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century, it still stands today as one of the world's greatest architectural marvels. The magnificent interior is testament to the unique east-west synthesis that is manifest in Istanbul. Shimmering biblical mosaics juxtapose huge plaques bearing the names of Islamic caliphs. Blue Mosque, another of the world's most important religious buildings. Built in the 16th century the mosque is unique for it's 6 minarets and it's celestial interior decorated with the famous blue Iznik tiles.The Hippodrome, scene of chariot races. Although little remains of the great stadium which, in its hey day, is thought to have held 100'000 people, the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine are highlights. Grand Topkapi Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultan's from the 15th to the 19th century. With its impressive treasury, exquisite harem, attractive courtyards and pavilions housing huge collections of antiquities, Topkapi Palace offers a true insight into the heart of the Ottoman Empire..And late departue  for Ankara  around 15.00 hrs and a late arrival at Ankara. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 3  Ankara - Cappadocia                                                               (B,D)

Morning departure for Ankara capital of Turkey and one of the fastest growing cities in the world with a history dating back 3000 years, visit the Anatolian Civilisations Museum that also exhibits the remains of Catalhoyuk, the Neolithic village dating back to 6500 BC. Then, visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. Drive to Cappadocia, touring a 13th century caravan inn en route. Overnight in Cappadocia.

Day 4  Cappadocia                                                                              (B,D)

Tour Goreme's rock chapels decorated with 6th century frescoes, Zelve's cliff-side Byzantine monastic complex and Uchisar's natural citadel. Dinner and overnight in Cappadocia. Tonight Optional: Whirling Dervishes performance

Day  5  Cappadocia to Pamukkale                                                       (B,D)

Drive to Pamukkale. En route  we  visit the  famous mouseleum of the sufi philosopher  Mevlana. Next  a secenic drive to Pamukkale and check in the hotel.

Day 6  Pamukkale / Ephesus & St. Mary's House / Kusadasi    (B,D)

Today is the  day  to pay  an early morning visit the unique Cotton Fortress, the white calcium cascades, and also pay a visit to one of the first modern spa centers of the ancient World, Hierapolis. Then we drive on to tour the famous ruins of Ephesus and St. Mary's cottage. Overnight in Kusadasý.

Day  7    Pergamum / Troy / Canakkale                                               (B,D)

Visit Pergamon, tour Troy with its famous wooden horse and continue on to Canakkale for overnight.

Day 8   Gallipoli / Dardanelles / Istanbul                                            (B)

Morning departure for Gallipoli and visit Anzac Cove  Lone pine cemetery,Chunuk Bair, Gabatepe War Museum  then across the Dardanelles and drive  to Istanbul for overnight .

Day 9   Istanbul / Return                                                                     (B)

Transfer to airport.

Exclusions

• Flights
• Personal expenses
• Lunches
• Drinks at meals
• Tips to the driver and the guide