Jewel's Turkey Tour

Welcome to Europamundo! Upon arriving at the airport, we will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Check the information boards in the hotel reception area for details of the welcome meeting with your guide and fellow travelers.

On today's itinerary, we will be exploring Istanbul and transferring to Taksim. Our tour will take us through the city, which is built on two continents, and we will visit several places including the Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, the walls, the golden horn, and the fishing district. We will also admire the exterior of Hagia Sophia. Later in the day, we will provide transportation to Taksim, the bustling commercial and local neighborhood of the city. You will have the opportunity to dine at one of the many restaurants, ride the old tram or visit the nearby Galata Tower.

The itinerary for the day includes a visit to the Topkapi Palace, a boat ride on the Bosporus strait, and dinner in Ankara. The Topkapi Palace served as the administrative hub of the Ottoman Empire, boasting stunning courtyards and pavilions. A private boat ride for Europamundo travelers will take us on a two-hour trip on the Bosporus, which is the strait linking the Black Sea and Sea of Marmara, dividing Istanbul into Asian and European parts. We will witness the bustling activity of the strait, pass under two bridges, and marvel at the sultan palaces, Ottoman villas, and traditional wooden houses. The boat will dock on the Asian side, where we can explore the Uskudar neighborhood, featuring large mosques, the maiden's tower, and serene streets. The day's itinerary also includes lunch.

Today's itinerary includes a trip to Ankara, followed by a visit to the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia and dinner. After breakfast, we will explore Ankara, the bustling capital of Turkey with a population of over 5 million. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including the State Ballet and Opera, Presidential Symphony Orchestra, and various national theatre companies. We will visit the breathtaking Mausoleum of Ataturk and the ancient castle of Ankara, built eight centuries before Christ. Additionally, we will tour the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which provides insight into the diverse cultures that have influenced Turkey. Later in the morning, we will take a break at a large shopping mall, where numerous food options are available in its food court. After lunch, our journey will continue towards Cappadocia, stopping by the magnificent Salt Lake en route and visiting Hacibektas, where pilgrims can dress appropriately and pay their respects.

During the day, the plan is to go to the striking Cappadocia area, famous for its peculiarly shaped landscapes, delightful towns, and supper. The day will be dedicated to exploring the Goreme Valley and its open-air museum that consists of churches carved into rocks. Additionally, Uchisar, a natural stronghold, will also be explored. Before returning to Avanos, the tour will also take in the underground city of Kaimacil, which had a capacity for around 30,000 people. The tour will also halt at Pasabag, also known as the valley of the fairies, which is a stunning natural area. At the end of the day, there will be some free time and dinner.

Today's itinerary includes a visit to Ihlara Valley, Caravanserai, and Konya. The Ihlara Valley is renowned for its water freshness, churches, and rock-excavated villages. Moving forward, we will make a stop at a 13th-century Caravanserai before reaching Konya. In Konya, we will visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana, also known as Rumi, and get to learn about the Dervishes sect (entrance included). Dinner is also included in the itinerary. In the evening, we recommend attending the cultural center's whirling dervishes dance performance.

Our journey takes us through a picturesque route alongside two lakes, and we have the opportunity to explore EGRIDIR, a stunning town situated near a vast lake, featuring its historic walls and mosques. We have a break for lunch before heading towards PAMUKKALE-Hierapolis, well-known for its unique Cotton Castle formed by its mineral-rich waters. The entrance fee is included, and dinner will also be provided.

The itinerary for today includes a visit to Ephesus, which is considered the most well-preserved ancient city in Asia Minor. With a population of 250,000 inhabitants around 2000 years ago, we will explore the ruins and notable landmarks such as the house of the Virgin Mary, Saint John's Basilica, and the entrance to Ephesus, which are all included. Later, we will head towards Kusadasi, a charming coastal town known for its lively atmosphere, commercial activity, and tiny castle. The package includes dinner.

Today's travel itinerary includes a visit to the interior of Anatolia, where we will see hanging bridges spanning the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus Strait. Our destination is the city of Izmir, which boasts the fourth-largest population in Turkey and is renowned for its Westernized values, ideology, and lifestyle. After a brief visit, we will continue on to Bursa, the country's fourth largest city, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its historic center featuring traditional commercial areas, mosques, religious schools, and public baths - with the Green Mosque being a notable highlight. We will arrive in Istanbul at the end of the day, and guests are advised to check their flight times in case an additional night is needed. Our team is committed to providing exceptional service throughout your journey.