TREASURES OF TURKEY

Day 1 : Antalya

   Your representative awaits to greet you as you land in Antalya. After transferring to your hotel, the remainder of the day is free. Tonight meet your tour companions at dinner.

Day 2 : Perge & Aspendos

   A full day touring begins with the Antalya Archaeological Museum and its numerous artifacts and statues from nearby ancient sites. Then we tour the unspoiled ruins of Perge with its colonnade street, and Aspendos with its huge theater, the best preserved Mediterranean theater with a capacity of 15.000 spectators still used for special events. (B,L,D)

Day 3 : Antalya – Pamukkale

   A drive through the Taurus mountains brings you to Pamukkale, the name refers to the “Cotton Castle” appearance of the spectacular white lime cascades formed by hot mineral springs. Then visit the vast ruins of the Roman health spa of Hierapolis. Enjoy a leisurely bath in the pool of your hotel’s hotmineral spring water. (B,L,D)

Day 4 : Ephesus & St. Mary`s House – Izmir

   This morning we head across fertile countyside to the ruins of glorious Ephesus , capital of Roman Asia Minor, to see extensive ruins which include 2.000 year old marble streets, a huge theater, the library of Celsius, a gymnasium and the temple of Hadrian. In the afternoon, visit to nearby Virgin Mary`s stone cottage. Overnight in Izmir, Homer`s birth-palace on the Aegean Coast. (B,L,D)

Day 5 : Pergamum–Troy–Canakkale (Dardanelles)

   The first stop on your northbound journey is the acropolis of ancient Pergamum, famous for work done by the great Roman physician, Galen. Sights include the Altar of Zeus, and the Asklepion, a famous Roman Medical Center. Continuing north, we visit the ruins of Troy where Greek and Trojan heroes fought the Trojan War for the honor of beautiful Helen. Also, visit its legendary walls, buildings and a replica of the famous wooden horse. Overnight in Canakkale. (B,L,D)

Day 6 : Dardanelles – Gallipoli – Istanbul

   After breakfast we cross the Dardanelles waterway to, see Anzac cove, and visit Lone Pine cemetery before driving, along the Sea of Marmara to Istanbul. Upon arrival, we visit the Blue Mosque of Sultan Ahmet I built in 1616, famous for unequaled ceramis tiles.Then Byzantine Hippodrome once used for chariot races. For the taste of Turkish night life,join optional dinner and enjoy an evening of Turkish belly dancing entertainment. (B)

Day 7 : Istanbul

   Optinal: A guided tour explores ancient city highlights including Topkapi Palace (main residence of Ottoman sultans) and the Old City`s unusual and large underground cistern. Visit to Saint Sophia Basilica, built in 537 AD as the Byzantine Church`s seat, now a museum whose mosaics, stained glass windows and decorated domes are breath – taking: finally the Grand Bazaar with 3.000 exotic shops along covered lanes and alleyways. Tonight enjoy a farewell dinner with your companions. (B,D)

Day 8 : Istanbul
   Your representative escorts you to the airport for the flight home. (B)