Istanbul to Aegean

Tour

We will start the tour with The Blue Mosque which is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. It is renowned for its stunning architecture that blends both Ottoman and Byzantine elements. The mosque is called the “Blue Mosque” because of its interior, which is adorned with over 20,000 handmade ceramic blue tiles. Then we will continue to The Hippodrome of Constantinople which was the social and sporting center of ancient Constantinople. It was primarily used for chariot races, political gatherings, and public events. Later we will visit  St. Sophia, known as Hagia Sophia that is one of Istanbul’s most remarkable and historically significant buildings. Originally constructed as a cathedral by Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD, it served as the world’s largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years and is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Istanbul’s most visited landmarks. Then we will continue to The Basilica Cistern which is an ancient underground water reservoir, known for its impressive size and captivating architecture. The dim lighting, the sound of dripping water, and the reflection of columns on the water create an almost ethereal, haunting atmosphere, making it a popular site for tourists and photographers. It has also appeared in popular culture, including movies like “From Russia with Love” from the James Bond series. After lunch break, our last stop of the tour will be The Grand Bazaar that is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Established in 1461, the bazaar has grown over centuries into a labyrinthine network of shops and alleyways, making it a major center for trade and commerce. It contains over 4,000 shops and 61 streets, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors daily. Overnight in Istanbul.

Today we will start the tour with Topkapi Palace which is one of Istanbul’s most historically significant sites, serving as the primary residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Our visit also includes Harem section, one of the most famous parts of Topkapi Palace that was the private living quarters of the sultan and his family. Other important sections are The Imperial Treasury that holds a rich collection of treasures,

The Chamber of the Sacred Relics houses a collection of religious artifacts, Gardens and Terraces offering breathtaking views of Istanbul’s waterways. The museum complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and stands as a testament to the grandeur and legacy of the Ottoman Empire. After lunch break, we will take a boat ride through the Bosphorus that is a popular and scenic way to experience the beauty and history of the city from the water. The Bosphorus Strait is a narrow waterway that separates the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. Cruising along the Bosphorus provides breathtaking views of Istanbul’s iconic skyline, historic landmarks, and luxurious waterfront homes. After our cruise, we will continue our visit with Rustem Pasha Mosque which is a hidden gem in Istanbul, renowned for its exquisite Iznik tilework and intricate architecture. The mosque was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, who is regarded as one of the greatest architects in history. Our last stop of the tour will be The Spice Market, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and historical markets. It served as a major center for the trade of spices and other goods coming from the East. The market is renowned for its wide variety of spices, herbs and natural remedies. Overnight in Istanbul.

Transfer to the airport. Flight from Istanbul to Izmir. Arrival and transfer. We will head to visit ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus dating back to 10^th century BC, is one of the most significant and well-preserved ancient cities, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Walking through its ancient streets feels like stepping back in time to the height of Roman and early Christian influence in the region. The city was known for its impressive architecture, large population, and its status as a religious center, particularly due to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although only a few columns and fragments remain today, the Temple of Artemis was once a magnificent structure that drew pilgrims from all over the ancient world. Ephesus was a major center of early Christianity. The Apostle Paul is said to have spent time preaching in the city, and the Book of Ephesians in the New Testament is directed to the people of Ephesus. The city is also associated with John the Apostle and the Virgin Mary, who is believed to have spent her final years in a house nearby, now a pilgrimage site called the House of the Virgin Mary. We will visit The House of the Virgin Mary that is located a short drive from Ephesus, this serene site is believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final years. It is considered sacred by both Christians and Muslims. After lunch, we will visit Sirince which is a charming, picturesque village known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, vineyards, and stunning hillside views. It offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a more peaceful and authentic slice of Turkish rural life. The narrow, cobblestone streets lined with traditional homes, small shops, and cafes create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great spot for strolling and exploring. Sirince is known for its fruit wines. Overnight in Kusadasi.

We will drive to Pamukkale which is a stunning natural wonder. It is renowned for its striking white terraces of mineral-rich thermal waters, which cascade down the hillside like frozen waterfalls. Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, is a unique geological formation that has captivated travelers for centuries. Travertine Terraces contain natural pools where visitors can dip their feet in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Pamukkale is also home to the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded as a thermal spa in the 2nd century BC by the Attalid kings of Pergamon which flourished as a center for healing and religious worship. Its Necropolis is one of the largest ancient cemeteries in Turkey, containing a variety of tombs and sarcophagi. Cleopatra’s Pool, also known as the Antique Pool, is a popular attraction where visitors can swim among submerged ancient columns and ruins. Pamukkale and Hierapolis offer an unforgettable combination of natural beauty and historical significance. The sight of the white terraces gleaming in the sunlight and the chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans make it a truly unique experience. Overnight in Pamukkale.

Transfer to Denizli Airport. Flight back to Istanbul. Departure and End of our services.