DAY 1: En Route

Depart the U.S.A. on your flight to Turkey.

DAY 2: Arrive Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul on the Bosporus Sea and transfer to the hotel for three nights. Formerly known as Constantinople, Istanbul reflects both the splendors of Byzantium and the spectacular wealth, power, grace, and elegance of the Ottoman Empire.

DAY 3 - 4: Istanbul

Spend two days touring the major landmarks of this historic city. Visit Hagia Sophia, once the world's largest enclosed space for over a millennia. Built in the sixth century, its walls are covered with precious marbles and mosaics. Other sites include the Archaeological Museum, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Roman Hippodrome, and the Egyptian Obelisk.

DAY 5: Cappadocia

Fly to Cappadocia, an extraordinary area of soft volcanic hills that form a phenomenal landscape. Trade wealth passing through the region encouraged the settlement of many communities, particularly early Christians. Their rock-cut churches dating back to Byzantine times survive to this day.

DAY 6: Cappadocia

Visit the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, subterranean complexes that were enlarged to incorporate churches, schools, and wine cellars by later Christians. The churches are painted with elaborate murals that are well preserved in this arid region. Visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, a wonderland of churches, ethereal landscapes, and rock-hewn dwellings, and the village of Uchisar.

DAY 7- 8: Izmir - Ephesus

Travel to Izmir, the departure point for visiting one of the most popular destinations in Turkey: Ephesus. Tour this magnificently restored ancient Ionian city, featuring the Library of Celcus and the Temple of Serapis. Surrounding attractions include the town of Selcuk, St. John’s Basilica, the Ephesus Museum, and the Temple of Artemis, which illustrate the many cultures that have thrived in the region.

DAY 9- 10: Antalya

Continue on to the southern Mediterranean city of Antalya. The city has a charming old quarter, one of the finest archaeological museums in the Mediterranean, and wonderful beaches on which to relax and soak up the sun.

DAY 10 - 11: Istanbul

Return to Istanbul. Spend the next two days exploring independently, revisiting favorite sites, and shopping in Istanbul’s great bazaars. The world-famous Covered Bazaar, or Kapali Carsi, dates back to Ottoman times and houses over 4,000 shops. Sip strong tea from tulip shaped glasses while politely haggling over leather, silver, gold, and, of course, carpets.

DAY 12: Istanbul

Transfer to the airport for departure. End of our services.

* Rates and availability subject to change without notice.