Expedition Details

Poised at the crossroads between East and West, Turkey is graced with a stunning coastline; picturesque villages; and a unique cultural legacy shaped by the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Our journey begins in enchanting Istanbul. Experience the otherworldly moonscape of Cappadocia, stroll through ancient Ephesus, and then soak up the rhythms of everyday life as you explore the Aegean coast from Kusadası to Bodrum.

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Trip Highlights

• Explore Cappadocia's surreal "fairy chimneys" and the mazelike underground city of Kaymakli.
• Examine incredible archaeological finds, from the temples of Ephesus to the underwater treasures of the Aegean.
• Enjoy an insider's perspective on the historic sights and lively markets of Istanbul.
• Sail the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea aboard a private gulet, a traditional wooden yacht.

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Itinerary - 11 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Istanbul, Turkey

Depart on an overnight flight to Istanbul, the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. After time to get settled this afternoon, gather for a welcome dinner.
Crowne Plaza Istanbul--Old City or Ottoman Hotel Imperial (D)

Day 3 — Istanbul

Delve into this fabulous city today. Stroll to the iconic Hagia Sofia, built as a church by Emperor Justinian in the sixth century and converted to a mosque some 900 years later. Here, beneath the minarets and buttresses added by the Ottomans, discover the hidden mosaics of the original Byzantine structure. Continue to the Hippodrome, the site of coronations and chariot races. Visit the Mosque of Sultan Ahmet I, known as the Blue Mosque for the blue Iznik tiles that line its interior. After lunch at a local restaurant, examine a vast array of textiles and artifacts at the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art. Later, meander through the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered marketplaces in the world.
Crowne Plaza Istanbul--Old City or Ottoman Hotel Imperial (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Istanbul

Set out for the Topkapı Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for four centuries. Then venture into the ancient Underground Cistern, also known as the Sunken Palace, an important water source during the Byzantine era. Explore Rüstem Pasha Mosque, a treasure trove of exquisite Iznik tiles. Then enjoy an afternoon Bosporus cruise.
Crowne Plaza Istanbul--Old City or Ottoman Hotel Imperial (B,L)

Day 5 — Kayseri/Cappadocia

Fly to Kayseri this morning and continue overland to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cappadocia. This surreal volcanic moonscape, whittled into unique formations by wind and rain over millions of years, is characterized by clusters of natural stone pillars and cones known as fairy chimneys. In the third century, Christians fleeing Roman persecution carved churches and entire villages into niches in the soft tufa stone. Visit the eight-story-deep underground city of Kaymakli, dating back to the era of the Hittites. Then settle into our hotel near Ürgüp.
Gamirasu Cave Hotel (B,L)

Day 6 — Cappadocia

Rise before dawn for an optional hot-air balloon ride over this unique landscape. Then spend the day exploring Cappadocia. Later, take in a performance of whirling dervishes—mystical Sufi dancers who spin themselves into a spiritual trance.
Gamirasu Cave Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Cappadocia/Izmir/Kusadası

Set out on an easy morning hike through Cappadocia’s Red Valley. Transfer back to Kayseri for a flight to Izmir on the Aegean coast. Continue to Kusadası and settle into our hilltop hotel.
Kismet Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Ephesus/Sirince/Bodrum

Spend the day in Ephesus, once home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Explore Ephesus, one of the best preserved Greco-Roman cities, from its Grand Theater to its elaborate water systems and beautiful mosaics. Visit the house where the Virgin Mary is believed to have lived during her final years. Later, continue to Sirince, a lovely hillside village where Ottoman houses are nestled against a backdrop of vineyards and olive groves. Wander the cobblestoned lanes, stopping in at wineries to sample local vintages. Travel to the charming port town of Bodrum and settle into our hotel.
The Marmara Bodrum (B,L)

Day 9 — Bodrum

Enjoy a day on the water gliding along the spectacular Aegean coast in a privately chartered gulet, a traditional wooden sailing vessel. Swim and snorkel in the crystal clear water or simply relax on deck, taking in the stunning views. Sail back to Bodrum in the late afternoon. Enjoy dinner on your own along the waterfront promenade.
The Marmara Bodrum (B,L)

Day 10 — Bodrum/Istanbul

Discover Saint Peter's Castle, a 15th-century crusader fortress that now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Here, peruse an impressive collection of items excavated from ancient shipwrecks found along the Turkish coast. Transfer to the airport for an afternoon flight back to Istanbul. Tonight, gather for a festive farewell dinner at one of Istanbul's fine restaurants.
Crowne Plaza Istanbul--Old City or Ottoman Hotel Imperial (B,D)

Day 11 — Istanbul/U.S.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
(B)

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Optional Extensions

• Petra, Jordan - Pre-Trip Extension, 6 Days
• Turquoise Coast - Post-Trip Extension, 6 Days

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