Highlights of Turkey
16-day Private
Journey
September 24 to October 9, 2010
Visiting Istanbul, Troy, Yesilyurt Village, Pergamum, Kusadasi,
Ephesus, Bodrum, Antalya and Cappadocia
including
three current UNESCO
World Heritage sites & one nominated site
An Ancient
Land
Forming a bridge between Europe and Asia, Turkey is one of the
great cradles of civilization. Though visitors may initially be drawn
to Turkey because of its beaches and resorts, they
are ultimately more inspired and delighted by its cultural and
historic treasures and its beautiful landscapes.
Turkey's European
side, called Thrace, forms only a small part of the overall
country and is home to the city of Istanbul. The larger section
known as Anatolia contains the bulk of Turkey's magnificent
archaeological sites, beaches, national parks and the enchanting
area of Cappadocia. Unforgettable experiences, ancient wonders,
diverse
cultures, fine food and wine and new friends
combine to make this an exceptional journey. |
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click for a large map |
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Brief Day-to-Day Itinerary
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Day 1 |
Arrive in Istanbul |
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Day 2-3 |
Explore Istanbul including a Bosphorus cruise,
Dolmabahce Palace, Spice
Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome,
Basilica of St. Sophia and the Grand Bazaar and some free time to explore the nooks and crannies of this
amazing city. |
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Days 4-10 |
Cross into Asia and travel down the Western coast of the
Mediterranean. Visit the ancient city of Troy, enjoy optional walking or hiking in the
hills, visit Yesilyurt village, Kusadasi and the ancient
sites
of Pergamum and Ephesus, attend a carpet lecture, stop at the house of the
Virgin Mary, explore the amazing Mediterranean town of Bodrum,
spend an afternoon on a Turkish yacht and an overnight in
Antalya. |
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Day 11-13 |
Travel to Cappadocia for a three-night stay. Visit the
fascinating Goreme Valley with its lunar-like landscape
and fairy chimneys.
Visit the incredible 6th century underground city of
Derinkuyu and the unique rock churches of the Red Valley.
Walk through the Güllüdere and Pigeon Valleys, visit
Çavuşin Village, famous for the houses and churches of the
Christian clergymen and enjoy a hot air balloon ride over
the spectacular scenery. |
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Day 14-16 |
Final days in
Istanbul for sightseeing, shopping or exploring. |
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