Welcome to Turkey! Upon landing at Istanbul International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your tour representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel. After check-in, enjoy free time to unwind or stroll the lively streets of Sultanahmet or Taksim.

Hotel Avicenna Hotel 4*
Meals N/A

Your adventure begins with a deep dive into the cultural and culinary heritage of Istanbul:

• Spice Bazaar: Experience the rich aromas of saffron, Turkish delight, coffees, and herbal blends in a bustling 17th-century market.

• Dolmabahçe Palace: Explore the grand residence of the Ottoman sultans featuring crystal staircases, opulent ballrooms, and a massive chandelier gifted by Queen Victoria.

• Bosphorus Cruise: Sail between Europe and Asia, passing Ottoman palaces, seaside mansions, fortresses, and contemporary waterfront homes—one of the most scenic experiences in Istanbul.

Begin your day in the heart of historic Constantinople—where empires rose and legends were born.

• Topkapi Palace: The seat of Ottoman power for 400 years, filled with royal treasures and sacred Islamic relics.

• Hagia Sophia: Admire the exterior of this architectural wonder (interior visit optional), once the largest church in the world.

• Blue Mosque: Famous for its exquisite blue tiles and six elegant minarets.

• Hippodrome Square: See the obelisks and columns that marked the Byzantine arena of chariot races.

• Grand Bazaar: Wander through one of the world’s largest covered markets with over 4,000 shops.

Smart Tips: Comfortable shoes recommended; ladies should bring a scarf for mosque visits.

Transfer to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Izmir, gateway to the Seven Churches of Revelation.

Smyrna (Izmir):

• Tour the Agora of Smyrna, a beautifully preserved Roman marketplace.

• Visit Konak Square, home to the iconic Clock Tower.

• Explore the vibrant alleys of Kemeraltı Bazaar, rich with artisan shops and local culture.

Pergamon:
Continue north to Pergamon, one of the most dramatic ancient cities in Asia Minor.

• Visit the Church of Pergamon, addressed in Revelation as “where Satan’s throne is.”

• Stop at the Church of St. Polycarp, one of the earliest Christian communities.

Today is a deep journey through three of the Seven Churches:

• Thyatira: Known for Lydia, the seller of purple, and its ancient trade guilds.

• Sardis: Once a wealthy Lydian capital; see the Temple of Artemis, the Synagogue, and the impressive Gymnasium.

• Philadelphia: Praised in Revelation for its unwavering faith; visit basilica remains and early Christian ruins.

Visit Laodicea, addressed by John for its “lukewarm faith.” Continue to Hierapolis to see:

• Martyrium of St. Philip

• Roman Theater

• White Travertine Terraces (Pamukkale)
  Enjoy free time on the stunning “Cotton Castle” terraces before driving to Kusadasi.
  

Walk through one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world:

• Ephesus Ancient City: Marvel at the Grand Theatre, Library of Celsus, Marble Road, and ancient temples.

• Temple of Artemis: One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

• House of the Virgin Mary: A peaceful shrine believed to be Mary’s final residence.

After the tour, transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Cappadocia.

Begin exploring Cappadocia’s southern highlights:

• Uchisar Castle: Highest natural viewpoint in the region.

• Rose Valley (Kızılçukur): Famous for pink rock formations and cave churches.

• Çavuşin Village: One of the earliest Christian settlements, housing ancient cave dwellings.

• Love Valley: Known for its unique, whimsical fairy chimneys.

• Underground City (Kaymaklı or Özkonak): Explore tunnels used by early Christians during times of persecution.

• Pigeon Valley: Scenic viewpoint known for its dovecotes carved into the cliffs.

Discover the best of northern Cappadocia:

• Göreme Panorama: Stunning views over cave houses and fairy chimneys.

• Göreme Open-Air Museum: Monastic cave churches featuring centuries-old Byzantine frescoes.

• Avanos Pottery Workshops: Watch traditional pottery-making with red clay from the Kızılırmak River.

• Devrent Valley: Home to imaginative rock formations shaped by nature.

• Paşabağ (Monks Valley): Known for its triple-headed fairy chimneys.

• Three Beauties: A postcard-perfect Cappadocia viewpoint.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Antalya.

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before we transfer you to the airport for your international flight.