Overnight Flight - Istanbul, Turkey

We will take a flight from our various U.S.A. homes, arriving into Turkey the following evening at the Istanbul Airport. 

Istanbul, Turkey

Upon arrival in Istanbul we will be met and transferred to the hotel. Dinner and overnight in Istanbul.

Istanbul, Turkey

Today, we will begin our exploration of Istanbul. Our first stops will be the Hippodrome, the stunning Blue Mosque, the historic Topkapi Palace, and the magnificent Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a beautiful sunset boat ride on the Bosporus, taking in the sights of elegant palaces, charming mansions, and traditional houses along the waterfront. The day will conclude with dinner featuring local cuisine, and we’ll spend the night in the heart of Istanbul.

Istanbul - Ankara

We will transfer to the airport for a short flight to Ankara, the capital city of Turkey. Once we arrive, our first destination will be the mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, where we will gain insight into the transition from the Ottoman Empire to modern Turkey. Following this visit, we will explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. We’ll conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Ankara.

Ankara – Cappadocia 

Today, we will take a scenic drive through the beautiful countryside of inner Anatolia, arriving in Cappadocia. Upon our arrival, we will marvel at the unique fairy chimneys formed by nature. We will explore Kızılcukur Valley, where we can enjoy breathtaking sunset views. In the evening, there will be an optional Whirling Dervishes ceremony (price to be announced). We will end the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Cappadocia.

Cappadocia

This morning, we have the option to take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia (price to be announced). After some time to relax at our hotel, we’ll gather for a deeper exploration of the region. Our first stop will be the Kaymaklı underground city, which features its own storage areas, ventilation systems, and living spaces where Christians sought refuge in times of danger. Next, we’ll visit the Göreme Open Air Museum to see more of the enchanting fairy chimneys, which have been carved into storage areas, homes, churches, and kitchens. Later, we will enjoy a lecture on Turkish rugs, along with an opportunity to shop for these exquisite pieces. We will conclude our day with dinner and an overnight stay in Cappadocia.

Cappadocia

Today, we will delve further into the wonders of Cappadocia, starting with visits to Zelve and Pasabag. At lunchtime, we will participate in a cooking class and enjoy a delicious meal in a local home. In the afternoon, we'll explore the charming village of Uchisar. We will also visit a pottery workshop in Avanos, where you can see skilled artisans at work. For those interested, there will be an optional ATV ride available (price to be announced). We will wrap up the day with dinner and an overnight stay in 

Cappadocia - Konya

Today, we will bid farewell to Cappadocia with a drive to Konya, known in antiquity as Iconium and famous for its whirling dervishes. Upon arrival, we will visit Rumi’s tomb and museum, where we will learn about the significance of the whirling dervishes in the region. Following this, we will explore the Roman and Seljuk remnants scattered throughout the city. We will conclude our day with dinner and an overnight stay in Konya.

Konya - Pamukkale

Today, we will travel from Konya to Pamukkale, which translates to “cotton castle” in Turkish, a nod to the stunning white travertines that resemble a castle made of cotton. Upon our arrival in Pamukkale, we will explore the ancient city of Laodicea, famously referenced in the Bible by John as the "lukewarm" church. Afterwards, we'll visit Pamukkale National Park and the fascinating ruins of Hierapolis. Finally, we will enjoy dinner and spend the night in Pamukkale.

Pamukkale - Yalvac

In the morning, there will be an optional hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale (price to be announced). Afterward, you'll have some free time to relax and enjoy the thermal pool at our hotel. We will depart from Pamukkale around noon and drive to Yalvaç, known as Pisidia Antioch. Upon arrival, we'll explore the ancient site, which features a synagogue, Roman roads, and a Roman temple. We will conclude our day with dinner and an overnight stay in Yalvaç.

Yalvac - Antalya

In the morning, we will visit the museum in Yalvaç before heading to the Mediterranean coast and the city of Antalya (Attaleia). Our itinerary in Antalya will take us to the picturesque harbor, as well as the ancient sites of Aspendos and Perge, where Paul and Barnabas preached to the world.

Antalya - Kas

In the morning, we will drive to Demre, the hometown of Santa Claus, before continuing on to Kekova for a day of boating. During our time on the boat, we’ll explore the sunken city and have leisure time for swimming. At the end of the day, we will arrive at our hotel in Kaş, where we will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.

Kas - Marmaris

We will check out from our hotel in Kaş and take a short drive to Marmaris. Known for its stunning local beaches along the coastline, Marmaris offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation. After checking into our hotel, you’ll have a free afternoon to enjoy the beach or explore the town at your own pace. We will then gather for dinner and spend the night in Marmaris.

Marmaris – Kusadasi 

After bidding farewell to Marmaris, we will drive to Kuşadası. Upon arriving in the Ephesus region, our first stop will be Mary’s House, a serene and tranquil site. Next, we will visit the Basilica of John before checking into our hotel in Kuşadası to prepare for our exciting day exploring Ephesus.

Kusadasi – Ephesus 

Today promises to be a highlight of our journey as we visit Ephesus, a significant location that was home to Paul, John, and possibly Mary. We will explore this remarkably well-preserved ancient site, renowned as one of the finest in the world. Our tour will also include a visit to the terrace houses, a relatively recent excavation that offers fascinating insights into ancient life. We will continue our day filled with exploration and discovery. 

Izmir – Istanbul 

We will transfer to Izmir Airport for our flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, we’ll be taken to the historic old city, where you’ll have free time to explore the vibrant Spice Market and the bustling Grand Bazaar. In the evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner before spending the night in Istanbul.

Istanbul Airport – Flights Home 

Today, we will say goodbye to the beautiful country of Turkey as we transfer to the airport for your flight home, taking with you memories that will last a lifetime.