09 Oct, Sat

Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to the hotel (B)

 

10 Oct, Sun

A full day tour with St. Sophia, one of the greatest marvels of architecture constructed as a basilica in 536 by Emperor Justinian; Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its more than 20.000 blue Iznik tiles and unique with its 6 minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet in the 17th century, one of the best examples of classical Turkish art; Hippodrome, the scene of Byzantine chariot races, athletic events, victory celebrations, and political activities of the old city where one can also see today the “Obelisk of Theodosius” from Egypt, “Serpentine Column” from Delphi, the “German Fountain of Wilhelm II” and the “Colossus”. In the afternoon visit to the Museum of Islamic Arts that displays exhibits of the carpets, woodwork, copper and gold of Muslim culture. The ethnographical section displays are of particular interest to the followers of textile arts. After visiting Yerebatan Underground Cistern return to the hotel (B, L).

 

11 Oct, Mon

Departure by ferry to Yalova and drive to Bursa, the 4^th largest city of Turkey, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century, and a major spa and silk industry center. Visit the Ottoman complex to see the Grand Mosque, the Green Mosque, considered to be one of the finest examples of early Ottoman architecture, and the Green Mausoleum (If closed, see from outside), the tomb of Sultan Mehmet I. Wander through the covered market with its local cotton goods, and Koza Han, the silk cocoon caravanserai, with shops selling beautiful silks and brocades. After visiting a textile outlet store check-in to the hotel. Overnight Bursa (B, L, D).

 

12 Oct, Tue

Drive to Kusadasi via Pergamum, well-known with its quality woven rugs. After visiting the hauntingly beautiful Pergamum, once one of the richest and most powerful small kingdoms in the Middle East, visit Asklepion - a famous health centre - and the Acropol with the Altar of Zeus, Temple of Dionysus, the library, the remarkable theatre. Drive to Kusadasi for overnight (B, L, D).

 

13 Oct, Wed

After a short visit to Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, proceed to Ephesus Antique City, one of the most popular ancient sites of Turkey with many acres of carefully excavated ruins. Continue to Aphrodisias, the city of Aphrodite; visit the Museum, the Temple of Aphrodite, the Theatre, the Stadium, the Agora, the Hadrian Baths, the Odeon, and the Bishop's Palace. Thereafter, drive on to a weaving house near Denizli. Overnight Pamukkale (B, L, D)

 

14 Oct, Thu

Tour the ruins of Hierapolis including the magnificently preserved cemetery "Necropolis", the Main Street and Gates, the Thermal Baths, the Roman Theatre and the Museum. In the afternoon, visit cotton textile manufacturing plants in Denizli, as being the largest and most important textile center. See raw cotton to finished fabric. Transfer to the Denizli Airport for the evening flight to Istanbul. On arrival to Istanbul transfer to the hotel (B, L).

 

15 Oct, Fri

A full day tour to visit the aromatic Spice Bazaar from 1663 with its domed and vaulted shops selling spices and herbs along with a wide variety of commodities, also known as Egyptian Bazaar as it was once endowed with the Cairo imposts. Then proceed to the pier so as to embark the public ferry. Sailing through the waterway separating the two continents - Asia and Europe - with a possibility to take pictures of the marble palaces, ancient wooden villas of Ottoman architecture besides modern residentials. During this trip Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges as well as Rumelian Fortress, historical armament built by the Conqueror in 1452 to control and protect Bosphorus, will be visible from the sea. Leaving the boat and getting into the coach. In the afternoon proceed to Topkapi Palace - Harem section is excluded - built in 1468 by Mehmet the Conqueror, the imperial residence of Ottoman sultans housing the souvenirs of 600 years and exhibiting imperial treasury, Chinese porcelains, weapons, calligraphy section, etc. Grand Covered Bazaar, which is one of the most attractive shopping centers in the world with nearly 4000 shops. Return to the hotel (You may also prefer returning to the hotel on your own if you like to spend longer time in the Bazaar) (B, L).

 

16 Oct , Sat

Day at leisure in Istanbul (B).

 

17 Oct, Sun

Departure for the flight home (B)

 

B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner

 

Per Person Price (In a Double Room): $1.195

Single Supplement: $295

($250 p.p. deposit at the time of sign-up and the balance payment until Aug 5th, 2010)

 

Rates (in American dollar) are inclusive of accommodation at 4-star (5-star in Cappadocia) hotels on basis as specified on the above given itinerary, guidance in English, air-conditioned transportation, admission fees, meal courses as specified on the itinerary above, parking and taxes. International airfares are exclusive.