In-depth Turkey Holiday

Welcome to explore Turkey with us! Upon your arrival, our local representative will pick you up on time and then transfer you to the hotel. On the way, you’ll have an overview of our itinerary. After checking in, have a good rest in the hotel to ease fatigue, or explore Istanbul at your own pace to feel its unique charm integrating eastern and western culture. Our well-chosen hotel is located in the core area of the old city, so you will easily encounter ancient mosques, public baths, traditional bazaars and restaurants, etc.

► Tips from Insiders:
1. Scams: Avoid picking up shoe brushes, in case of being charged a high shoe polishing fee; be wary of people who pose as police officers and ask to check your passport; take a photo of the menu when ordering as waiters may show you an expensive one at checkout;
2. Transportation: Use Uber or Bitaksi to hire a car instead of hailing a street taxi directly, unless the online wait time is too long. When you take a taxi, ask drivers to use the meter and check whether its reading is at zero. Carrying enough lira change is necessary since some drivers may decline to give change;
3. Tipping: Pay 10% of the bill as a tip after a meal if it is not included in. If you are satisfied with the private tour guide and driver, tipping $3 for the guide and $2 for the driver per day is appropriate;
4. Diet: Refrain from eating with your left hand and pork-related food to show respect to Muslims;
5. Customs: When visiting religious sites, wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Women should also wear a headscarf.

Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan Hotel, Istanbul (4 stars) or similar

Today we’ll explore the historical area of Istanbul, where has been listed as the UNESCO world cultural heritage. You’ll be firstly leaded to visit the Hagia Sophia. Its multiple identities of mosque, church and museum undoubtedly mirror the history and culture of Turkey. Listen to our knowledgeable guide tell you stories about royal celebrations, transitions of power and religious worship taken place beneath its towering dome. The adjacent Hippodrome of Constantinople (Sultanahmet Square) is our next destination. Once as the sporting and social center of the Byzantine Empire (395-1453), its expansive space will remind you of horse racing and chariot events held there. Then we’ll visit the Blue Mosque. With 6 soaring minarets, it even rivals the Great Mosque of Mecca. Your visual focus will be drawn to the captivating views and light impact created by the blue-and-white tiles and more than 260 windows.

In the afternoon, we will go on to visit Topkapi Palace, which once served as the working and living place for Ottoman (1299-1923) sultans for over 400 years. We’ll visit the Basilica Cistern instead when the Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday.

★ Exclusive Access to the Harem of Topkapi Palace
The Harem, the private living quarters of the Sultans and his family, is the most mysterious place in Topkapi Palace. Our all-inclusive tickets offer you a rare privilege to delve into the details of Ottoman royal life and unveil the secret stories that had been buried in the dust of history.Afterwards, we will head to the lively Grand Bazaar, picking Turkish specialties and experiencing the fun of bargaining here. But please skip the following categories: jewelry, varying in quality and difficult to guarantee value for money; carpets, not all are hand-woven boutiques and inconvenient to transport; glass lamps, challenging to quickly identify flaws and hard to carry. We’ll visit the Beyazit Square instead when the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday. When today's sightseeing is over, the guide will escort you back to the hotel.

► Recommended Restaurant: Seagull Seafood and Sushi Terrace
You can dine at the Grand Bazaar, or explore Turkish delicacies near your hotel. Seagull Seafood and Sushi Terrace is an ideal option, which is a 15-minute walk southeast of your hotel and costs about TL 800-900 (USD 24-27) per person. Savor your meal while appreciating the landmarks like Blue Mosque and magnificent sea views on its terrace. The menu boasts a diverse selection, and the highlights are fresh seafood, juicy kebabs and exquisite sushi. Don’t miss the mussel (Midye), one of the representatives of Turkish street food, which gets an innovation here.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan Hotel, Istanbul (4 stars) or similar

This morning, we will drive for about 4.5 hours to the Gallipoli Peninsula, site of the Gallipoli Campaign in the World War I. We’ll visit the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park, which was built to commemorate more than 50,000 soldiers who sacrificed in the battle. The Kabatepe War Museum, Anzac Cove, Chunuk Bair Memorial, Lone Pine Memorial and Canakkale Martyrs Monument all witnessed the tragedy of the Galipoli Campaign. Through the in-depth explanation by our guide, those heroic deeds are vividly displayed in front of your eyes, reminding us of the cruelty of war and the value of peace. Natural beauty can also be found here. When the sea breeze blows and the waves pat the shore, it seems that the martyrs are also watching the beautiful scene of their last resting place. Afterwards, drive about 1 hour to Canakkale and stay overnight in a local hotel.

► A Little-known Story about Australian and New Zealand Army Corps in WWI
During the Gallipoli campaign, young Australian soldiers longed for a special symbol to mark their identity, linking their bravery with the nostalgia for home. What could represent Australia better than kangaroos? Therefore, many Australian troops brought kangaroos as mascots on their ships before embarking on the expedition. Some other Australian-specific animals, such as koalas and wallabies, were also “recruited” by some troops.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Kolin Hotel Spa & Convention Center, Canakkale (5 stars) or similar

After having breakfast, drive 1 hour to reach the Troy Ancient City, showcasing nine eras of Troy’s history. The sixth and seventh layers are highly consistent with the descriptions in Homer’s Epics. Explore ruins spanning 3000 BC to 400 AD, including the council house, market, and theater of the Roman Empire. With our guide’s detailed explanation, you’ll delve deeper into ancient Greek civilization and the Trojan War. A huge model of the Trojan Horse here also invites you to ascend for a panoramic view of the site, but be careful due to narrow and steep stairs.

In the afternoon, drive for about 3 hours more to visit Pergamon Ancient City. Buildings such as Pergamon Athena, Altar of Zeus and Temple of Dionysos will leave you a deep impression. Besides, to honor the ancient Greek god of medicine, the Asclepion was built here. It was not just a mental hospital, but more a healing center that combined luxury, mystery and entertainment. You will be amazed by the 3,500-seat Roman theater inside, which was designed for patients to watch performances in their spare time. Many ministers of state who believed that dreams were divine messages also came here to relieve stress by receiving dream interpretation spa.

Then we will drive about 2.5 hours to Kusadasi and check into a local hotel. Once settled, you can enjoy free time and leisurely plan your own activities. Take in stunning sea views from our well-chosen oceanfront hotel, and venture out to visit the iconic El Heykeli sculptures on the beach. Or take a 10-minute taxi ride to Ladies Beach, where free lounge chairs and parasols are available. The clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and water activities such as jet ski, parasailing, and banana boats are also offered here. At night, a variety of restaurants and bars along the promenade will add a lot of fun to your nightlife. If you just want to rest, the hotel also has a rooftop pool where you can relax.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel, Kusadasi (4 stars) or similar

Today, we’ll will start from the Ephesus Ancient City, which is the largest and best-preserved ancient Greek-Roman city in the world. Temple of Hadrian here mirrors the religious belief of ancient Greek and Roman, while towering Roman Columns on the Curetes Street narrate tales of the city’s rise and fall. The most magnificent building is the Celsus Library at the end of the street, which is beautifully carved and printed on the Turkish lira. Next to the library, an ingenious carving lay on the ground, which is said to be the oldest erotic advertisement in the world. It consisted of a footprint, a female head, a coin and a heart pattern, hinting at paid female companionship across the library. It is said that rulers used this adult-sized footprint as a gauge, whose footprints smaller than this one was not allowed to enter the brothel. No clear sign indicating it, so keep a keen eye for this footprint when walking in the midway of the Curetes Street!

In the afternoon, we will go to trace the Temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World due to its splendid architectural style and huge scale. Unluckily, it was destroyed badly and only a stone pillar remained to tell its location. Then we’ll head to visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, housing a large collection of artifacts excavated from the Ephesus Ancient City and Temple of Artemis. Learn about the superb sculpture art of ancient Greek and Roman times and the magnificent scene of the Temple of Artemis in the past through these treasures. Our last stop of today will be the House of the Virgin Mary. Virgin Mary was said to be taken here by Jesus’s disciple John, living in this small house in the back hills of Ephesus until her death. Within is a small church with a statue of Virgin Mary, making it a holy place to worship and pray. You can seek spiritual comfort in this sacred and serene atmosphere. Afterwards, you’ll be transferred back to the hotel.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel, Kusadasi (4 stars) or similar

Today’s itinerary will be relatively easy since you may feel a little tired after a long journey of previous days. The morning will be your free time. Sleep more in bed to replenish strength, and then take a 5-minute taxi ride from the hotel to Kusadasi Castle. Located on a small island near the coast, it is easily accessible by a causeway, offering you a glimpse into bygone architectural style and an excellent view of the Aegean Sea. Take a leisurely stroll along the surrounding paths and capture every scenic moment with your camera.

In the afternoon, the guide and the driver will pick you up and then head to Pamukkale about 3 hours’ drive away. Check into the hotel on arrival, which is equipped with hot springs. The clean and soothing water will melt away all your fatigue. Unwind your body and mind, recharging for tomorrow’s discovery.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Spa Hotel Colossae Thermal, Pamukkale (5 stars) or similar

After breakfast, our driver and guide will accompany you to visit Pamukkale, a well-known hot spring resort since ancient Rome. Its name is the combination of Turkish words “Pamuk” and “Kale”, literally meaning “cotton castle”, which instantly evokes images of its striking terrain.

★ Our Guest Privilege: Immersive Hot Spring Experience in Travertine Pools
Get your swimsuit ready for immersing in our specially arranged hot spring experience. Both treading through the clear water and basking in the gentle water flows are ideal ways to relax. Elevate your experience further by applying the white mud from the bottom of the pools to nourish your skin.

► Tips for Capturing Unparalleled Photos at Pamukkale
a. High-angle shooting promises a spectacular view of the entire Pamukkale, while the low-angle emphasizes the texture of rocks and the flow of hot springs;
b. Get more dynamic photos by capturing the moment of walking in the travertine pools;
c. Enhance the visual impact by wearing yellow and red clothing. For a more subtle yet harmonious look, blue attires are better.

Next, we’ll visit the Hierapolis Ancient City, located on the top of Pamukkale. Hot-spring water here had magic healing powers, mainly effective for arteriosclerosis, digestive problems, neurasthenia and rheumatoid arthritis. So worshipers from all over the world came here especially to bathe and purify souls. Although it was destroyed by a major earthquake in the 17th century, you can still feel its former prosperity from the old city gate, cemetery and grand theater.

In the afternoon, we will drive for about 3.5 hours to Antalya, the terminal of today’s journey. Antalya is a beautiful seaside city known as the “pearl of the Mediterranean Sea”. After check-in, you can explore it by yourself. It is highly recommended to take a stroll in the old town, blowing the sea breeze through the narrow alleys. Along the road are many Ottoman-style restaurants, bars and craft shops for your exploration.

► Recommended Restaurant: Fatma Sultan Restaurant
This restaurant is a 10-minute taxi ride from the hotel and costs about TL 400-500 (USD 12-15) per person. It serves classic Turkish specialties like Meatball and Manti, and innovative dishes such as Stuffed Vine Leaves and Pomegranate Jam Salad can also be found here. Try the ice cream made with smoked goat milk, whose unique smoky flavor is intertwined with the rich milk aroma bringing an unprecedented taste enjoyment. A cup of hot black tea, paired with lokums hidden under the tea lid, will be a perfect end of your dinner.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Adalya Port Hotel, Antalya or similar

After breakfast, our driver and guide will pick you up and lead you to visit the majestic Upper Duden Waterfalls. Hidden in a peaceful park and surrounded by lush greenery, it is an ideal summer resort. Sit by the waterfall to unwind your mind with the cool mist and cascading symphony. Next to the waterfall is an artificial cave, affording you an exclusive view of the waterfall through its window.

The next stop we’ll visit is the Aspendos Theater, by far the most completely preserved ancient Roman theater in the world. It was built in 155 AD with a capacity of 15,000 spectators. Owing to outstanding acoustics, it is still used today as the venue of International Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival every year, and amplification equipment is unnecessary. A legend about the theater said that to seek a suitable husband for his daughter, a Roman Emperor asked the candidates to construct a great building as a test. During the acceptance inspection, whispers of Aspendos Theater’s designer and his companions in the center of the theater were clearly heard by the emperor, who was impressed by the amazing acoustics. But the work of another architect was also excellent. To fulfill his promise, the emperor cut his daughter in half to show fairness. Unexpectedly, the construction of the theater was accompanied by such a tragedy of love!

In the afternoon, we’ll return to visit the Kaleici (Antalya Old City). Red-roofed wooden Ottoman buildings lining the streets will surely attract your attention. Our knowledgeable guide will accompany you through the ancient alleys and give you an insight into Antalya’s rich cultural heritage by visiting Antalya Clock Tower, Hadrian’s Gate, Broken Minaret Mosque (Kesik Minare Cami), and Hidirlik Tower. When we arrive at Kaleici Marina (Roman Harbour), enjoy the bustling ambiance and experience Antalya’s unique seaside charm here. Today’s itinerary ends. If you want to stay a little longer, visit the handicraft shops and bars near the marina by yourself and explore Antalya’s rich nightlife. Our carefully selected hotel is just next to the marina, so you can walk back when you’re done.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Adalya Port Hotel, Antalya or similar

Today we will move on to the next destination, Konya. It is one of the oldest cities in Turkey and the traditional religious and cultural center of Turkey. It takes about 4 hours to drive there. Upon arrival, after a break, you’ll be leaded to visit the Mevlana Museum. It was formerly the mausoleum of Mevlana, the spiritual leader of Konya, and was later converted into a museum. The world’s largest and smallest Quran manuscripts are exhibited here. In addition, the museum houses a beard hair of Prophet Muhammad, which is placed in an exquisitely crafted small box. Maybe you’ll witness a special scene of someone walking around this box seven times. After each circle, they will tap on the outer glass. Actually, this action is an admiration manner and a prayer for peace and happiness. Furthermore, the well-known whirling dervishes originated from here. To achieve unity with Allah, dervishes pursued the fusion of heart, emotion and soul through constantly spinning. Learn about their daily lives through wax figures, musical instruments and rosaries in the museum.

After that, we’ll visit the Karatay Medresesi (Tile Works Museum). The most dazzling pearl in the museum is an octagonal tile made in 1236 AD, which is carved with a double-headed eagle pattern that has remained majestic for more than 700 years. Our last destination will be Sultanhan Caravanserai. During the Ottoman Empire, to develop trade and protect caravans along the ancient Silk Road, caravanserais were set up every 30 to 40 kilometers according to the daily distance traveled by camels. Sultanhan Caravanserai is the oldest and best preserved one among them, deserving the name of five-star hotel at that time with its complete functions. At the end of the day, check into a local hotel for overnight stay.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Konya (5 stars) or similar

Today we are going to Cappadocia 330km (205 miles) away. It takes about 4 hours to get there. Cappadocia is a must-visit place in Turkey due to its moonlike landscapes, cave architecture and long history. Arriving in the afternoon, we will firstly explore its northern area. Our first stop is Goreme Open Air Museum, a collection of more than 30 cave churches built by Christians who fled here to escape persecution.

★ VIP Tickets to the Dark Church in Goreme Open Air Museum
The Dark Church is the biggest highlight among the many churches in Goreme. The absence of window and dim light earn it the name and provide you with a mysterious space to appreciate its well-preserved murals. With our all-inclusive tickets, observe the vivid figures in murals such as the Almighty Lord Jesus and Jesus on the Cross, just like a graphic version of the Bible.

After that, we’ll visit Avanos, a well-known ceramic town since Ottoman Empire. Its unique charm comes from the iron-rich soil underfoot. Red clay, the best raw material for pottery-making, is nurtured by the Kizilirmak River flowing through the center of the town. Uncover the process of transforming this clay into porcelain with our guide. Then we’ll head to visit the Pasabag Valley (Monks Valley), a stone-pillar gallery formed by solidified volcanic ash. Some stone pillars have large flat areas on top, and some even have small monasteries and churches built on them. Next, you’ll be leaded to the Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley). We will arrive at dusk so that you can avoid the crowds to admire various animal-shaped rock formations. Let your imagination run wild and see what animals you can find here. Today’s guided tour will be ended with the visit of Love Valley, a good place to take pictures of Cappadocia at sunset. Then, you’ll be transferred to a cave hotel in downtown for a good rest.

★ Unique Accommodation in the Cave Hotel
Our carefully selected cave hotel is carved out of volcanic rock, and every detail in the room has retained the original charm of the cave without losing luxury and elegance. Particularly worth mentioning is the well-decorated rooftop, which allows you to enjoy the magnificent scene of flying hot air balloons in the early morning while sipping a complimentary tea!

► Recommended Activity: Hot Air Balloon
Morning glow before sunrise with dancing hot air balloons grants you a stunning scene. Take shots quickly since the scenery of every moment differs as the hot air balloon moves. In addition, hot air balloons mostly fly at 4-5 am, so thick coats and trousers are essential to keep warm while ensuring convenient activities. If you wish to try it, please inform us beforehand as tickets are limited.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hera Cave Suites, Cappadocia or similar

The first stop of today’s escorted exploration in southern Cappadocia will be the Cavusin Village, an ancient Greek village showcasing original natural beauty. The Great Basilica (St. John the Baptist Chapel) we are going to visit was built in the 5th century AD. Compared with other cave churches in Cappadocia, it is larger and preserves some murals depicting biblical scenes. Then the guide will accompany you to Red Valley, having a 2-hour hiking filled with surreal rock formations, pink caves and beautiful vineyards. Packing ample water and comfortable shoes will make it easier. Since there are many hiking trails and the signs are not clear, be sure to follow our guide closely. Afterwards, we’ll visit the Uchisar Castle. This 60-meter-high towering rock was hollowed out by early settlers to form a large residential area. When foreign enemies invaded, they could resist for months relied on stored water and food inside. The castle’s top provides an excellent viewing platform where you can overlook the natural wonders around.

In the afternoon, we’ll drive to visit the Pigeon Valley. Its history dates back to the 9th century, when pigeon eggs served as filling material for murals, while their droppings were used in vineyards and farms to obtain high-yield crops. Take a close look at these ancient pigeon nests and learn about their historical use and contribution to local agriculture. Our last destination is the Kaymakli Underground City, the largest underground city in Cappadocia. It has eight floors and only four are open to the public currently. Even though, you’d better follow our guide to avoid getting lost in the labyrinthine tunnels. Could dwellers escape the enemies by just entering into the underground city? Obviously not. Upon exploration, you’ll find that the passageways connecting the various levels are guarded by massive stone plates. They were actually unique safety devices, which could be flexibly moved to open or close from one side according to needs. If someone invaded, they would automatically seal the entrance as long as the hidden mechanism was pulled, blocking the enemy chasing outside. Today’s sightseeing will end here, and the guide will escort you back to the hotel.

► Recommended Restaurant: Göreme Kadın Kooperatifi
This restaurant is a 10-minute walk northeast of your hotel and costs about TL 200-300 (USD 6-9).  It is run by a cooperative of local women, so you can experience real Turkish home cooking here. The menu changes daily, but always includes 4 courses: carbohydrates, protein, vegetable soup and dessert. You can also choose additional dishes from the list. No extra decorations, just high quality food to make you feel like home.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hera Cave Suites, Cappadocia or similar

After breakfast, we will drive about 5 hours to Ankara in private car. Along the way you will have the opportunity to see Lake Tuz, a famous saline lake. Due to the different salinity and temperature, the lake water appears in various hues like pink and red. Feel free to ask for stops to take photos.

► Shooting Skills of Lake Tuz from Our Experts
a. The allure of Lake Tuz lies in its reflective magic, so adjust your lens to find a perfect vantage point and capture a sky realm;
b. Paying attention to intricate details of the salty lake could add depth to your photos. Imagine your lens as a microscope to find natural artistry of crystallization of salt particles and ripples on the water surface;
c. Enhance photo’s texture by framing a crystal clear foreground with salt crystals, or sprinkle them into the air to capture the dynamic beauty of that moment.

Ankara is the capital and the political and economic center of Turkey. There, the guide will firstly lead you to visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which is converted from an ancient caravan station, showcasing invaluable cultural relics of Paleolithic, Neolithic, Rome, and other ages. A 5750 BC clay statue called “Mother Earth” is the greatest treasure of the museum. Her huge breasts and broad hips symbolize fertility, and sitting between two leopards implies a powerful social role, which are all the earliest evidences of goddess worship in ancient Anatolia. Next we are going to visit the Anitkabir (Ataturk’s Mausoleum), which was built in honor of Ataturk Kemal, the founder of modern Turkey. Its symmetrical layout, especially the avenue lined with lion statues in front of the main hall and the corridor formed by the ten castles around it, will give you a magnificent visual effect. An overlook view and unforgettable pictures of Ankara can be obtained by climbing the hill of Mausoleum. Finally, check into the hotel after visiting all today’s spots.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Wyndham Ankara (5 stars) or similar

After breakfast, our guide and driver will pick you up and accompany you back to Istanbul. It will take about 5 hours on the way. After check-in, the afternoon time will be left for your own arrangement.

► Free Time Suggestion: Bosphorus Strait Sunset Cruise
As your Turkey trip comes to an end, we strongly recommend you to have a last look of Istanbul’s sunset on the Bosphorus Strait. Choosing a luxury yacht will enable you savor the fruit plate, snacks and drinks provided on board while enjoying the scenery on both Asian and European sides of the strait. You will pass by iconic landscapes such as the Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Bridge, and the Golden Horn to unveil Istanbul’s profound historical and cultural heritage. Give priority to seats on the left side to face the sunset for a better visual effect.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan Hotel, Istanbul (4 stars) or similar

Today, based on the departure time of your leaving flight, the driver will escort you to the airport on time. We hope you enjoy the Turkey family packages with us and we will be very glad to serve you again in the near future!

► For Your Information: 
If your flight departs in the late afternoon, consider visiting the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, a 15-minute walk southwest of the hotel. This is the only remaining museum of the Ottoman Empire, where you can explore the rich Islamic heritage. Place your emphasis on the exhibition areas of the carpets, calligraphy and ceramic crafts. If you prefer the embrace of nature, take a 10-minute walk northeast of your hotel to Gulhane Park. Admire the more than 300-year-old “stone sycamore tree” in the park through the winding cobblestone roads. The northeast corner of the park is adjacent to the Bosphorus Strait, and you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by sitting on a bench. If you plan to visit other destinations in Asia and Europe, please contact us to tailor an itinerary.

Meal: Breakfast