Mysterious Anatolia

The day will commence with a delightful breakfast, followed by a full-day city tour of Istanbul. Our first destination will be the iconic Hagia Sophia, a true architectural wonder that has long captivated visitors. This majestic building is widely regarded as one of the world's largest and most imposing churches, having been recently converted into a mosque. Next, we will visit the Topkapi Palace, which was the residence of the sultans from 1478 to 1856. This grand structure is not merely a single building, but rather an expansive and organic complex composed of numerous pavilions, gardens, and areas located in the historic center of Istanbul's Horn region. Our tour will continue with a visit to the Blue Mosque, an awe-inspiring monument known for its six minarets, stunning terraces, and magnificent domes. The architect's impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident in every aspect of this magnificent structure. In the afternoon, we will proceed to the Roman Hippodrome, a historical site where chariot races and circuses were held for over a thousand years, providing entertainment for the citizens of Constantinople. The day will culminate at the famed Grand Bazaar, a covered market where you will have some free time to explore and indulge in the local shopping scene. Upon completion of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay. Meal: Breakfast

The day will commence with a delightful breakfast before an early departure to the airport for a flight to Kayseri, followed by our arrival in Cappadocia. En route, we will visit the Saruhan Caravanserai, a historic 12th-century inn built to accommodate commercial caravans. In the afternoon, we will proceed with a visit to the Zelve Valley, where Muslims and Christians coexisted until 1924. Continuing through the Devrent Valley, we will marvel at the fascinating geological formations known as the "Chimneys of the Fairies". Finally, we will arrive at the ancient city of Ortahisar, where we will check into our hotel for comfortable accommodation in Cappadocia. Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we will embark on a full-day excursion to discover the wonders of Cappadocia. Our first stop will be at the Göreme Open Air Museum, where we will explore churches carved into rocks and adorned with stunning frescoes. Next, we will visit the ancient city of Uchisar, followed by a visit to the Valley of the Pigeons and the Pasabag or Valley of the Monks, where we will witness the incredible natural rock formations known as the "Chimneys of the Fairies". Our next destination will be the city of Avanos, renowned for its pottery. In the afternoon, we will venture to an underground city, either Serhatlı or Özkonak, renowned for its impressive depth and numerous levels. These subterranean cities served as a refuge for early Christians during the 6th and 7th centuries. Finally, we will visit a carpet factory to witness the weaving of traditional Turkish rugs, known worldwide for their exceptional quality and beauty. We will also make a stop at a local jewelry store. Upon completion of the tour, we will return to the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay in Cappadocia. Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we will depart for Konya, the former capital of the Seljuk Empire, which was visited by Saint Paul and Saint Barnabas during their first missionary journey. From there, we will begin our journey to the lakes region, first arriving at Lake Beyşehir where we will see the Eşrefoglu Mosque, an intriguing medieval mosque in Türkiye. Next, we will visit the Hittite monument located next to the Eflatun Pinari water source. After an hour's drive, we will arrive at the ruins of Antioch of Pisidia, which was the ancient Roman capital of this region and among the largest ruins in central Anatolia. This city had a significant population and an important Jewish colony, and we will visit several monuments including the ruins of the famous Jewish synagogue where Saint Paul and Saint Barnabas spoke with the Jews, explaining that the expected Messiah had arrived. Among the various ruins of Antioch, we will visit important monuments such as the Temple of Augustus, which features beautiful mosaics, and the famous synagogue, which was transformed into a basilica by the Byzantines. We will travel past Lake Eğirdir and traverse the mountains as we make our way towards the town of Afyonkarahisar (meaning "black opium fortress"). Following a walk around the city center, we will spend the night in Afyonkarahisar. Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

Following breakfast, we will embark on a tour of a fascinating region, replete with unique monuments and temples characterized by the distinct style of the Phrygian civilization. This was the land of the goddess Cybele, as well as King Midas, who reputedly had the power to turn anything he touched into gold. It is also the birthplace of Marsyas, the inventor of the flute. We will visit several sites, including Midas City, Yazılıkaya Temple, Aslan Kaya Mausoleums, Kumbet Churches, and Ayzini Rocks. Following lunch, we will proceed to Pamukkale, where we will explore the ancient city of Hierapolis and Pamukkale itself, which translates to "Cotton Castle" in Turkish. This is one of Türkiye's most captivating sites, having been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The travertine pools are fascinating formations created by hot springs with a temperature of 35 degrees Celsius. These waters contain high concentrations of calcium bicarbonate, gypsum, and limestone, which cascade down the hill like a frozen waterfall. We will spend the night in Pamukkale. Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

Breakfast. We will leave for Aphrodisias, a place dedicated to the goddess of love Aphrodite. Here we will visit the temple of the goddess Aphrodite, the Tetrapylon and the Sebasteion. We'll leave for the Virgin Mary's house, supposedly the last home of the mother of Jesus Christ. During the trip, we will watch a local fashion show that represents the beautiful leather products that Türkiye is famous for. Depart for Ephesus, the best-preserved ancient city in Asia Minor, which during the first and second centuries had a population of 250,000 and monopolized the wealth of the Middle East. We will visit the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world), the Temple of Hadrian, the Roman Baths, the Celsus Library - whose facade is still standing - and the Odeon, an impressive theater with capacity for 24,500 spectators. We will continue towards Izmir, which is the third largest city in Türkiye, as well as enjoying a panoramic view of Kadifekale fortress on the way. Overnight in Izmir. Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

We start our day with breakfast, then visit one of the most monumental and best-preserved Agoras in the entire Mediterranean. After taking a walk through the center, we will stop in Sardis, which was one of the largest and richest cities in the world at its time and the capital of the Lydian kingdom.This place is known in the world as ‘’the place where the currency was invented’’ minted with the gold taken from the Pactolus Rivers, which passed through the middle of the city. Therefore, Crezus was the richest king in the world in his time. Here we will visit gigantic monuments such as the temple of Artemis, the gymnasium, the main street and the Hebrew synagogue (the largest and richest in the world) from the Roman era. We will continue our journey inland through Bin Tepeler (Thousand Tombs), a magical site of the tombs of the kings of Lydia. We will pass through Katakekaumene with its volcanic "burnt" lands and we will arrive at the ruins of another great city from Roman times: Aezanoi or the current Çavdarhisar. It's always surprising to see a place like this, with so many imposing ruins. Here the climate is more favorable in the region. Then, we will see the magnificent temple of Zeus, a well-preserved stadium and theater. Remains of a spa building with mosaics, an interesting agora and a bridge with reliefs can also be seen. After traveling 55 km, we will reach the city of Kütahya. This town is famous for its pottery/tile production and in Ottoman times was the province ruled by the Crown Prince. Finally, we will visit the city center of Kütahya. Accommodation in Kütahya. Meal: Breakfast, Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, we will embark on a journey towards Bursa - the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Bursa is renowned for its exquisite mosques, beautiful fountains, traditional Turkish baths, and thriving silk production industry. During our visit, we will have the opportunity to explore the 14th century Great Mosque, the Green Mosque and Mausoleum, and the vibrant local silk bazaar. Following a delightful lunch, we will continue our journey to Iznik (Nicea), where the First Ecumenical Council of Christianity was organized in 325 AD on the picturesque shores of the lake. We will also take time to visit the Museum/Mosque of Santa Sofia, the site of the Seventh Ecumenical Council. After marveling at the magnificent Roman gates, we will return to Istanbul for our overnight accommodation. Meal: Breakfast

Indulge in a delicious breakfast to fuel up for a full day of adventure, starting with a visit to the Egyptian Bazaar or Spice Bazaar. This 17th-century architectural marvel is located in the old district of Eminönü, Istanbul, and is sure to mesmerize you with its rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere. Next, we will embark on a boat for the Bosphorus tour (regular boat) that will take us on a scenic journey along the Sea of Marmara, showcasing the mesmerizing views of the Asian and European sides of the city. During this tour, we will have the opportunity to witness the grandeur of monuments such as the Dolmabahce Palace, Çiragan, the fortress of Rumeli Hisarı, among others. After the boat tour, we will visit the magnificent Beylerbeyi Palace, which was built in the 19th century by Sultan Abdulaziz using white marble. The palace served as a summer residence for subsequent sultans and a guest house for foreign dignitaries. We will then ascend the Çamlica Hill, also known as the Hill of Lovers, where a panoramic view of the Bosphorus awaits us.As the day comes to a close, we will transfer back to the hotel for our overnight accommodation. Meal: Breakfast

After a delicious breakfast, you will be transferred to Istanbul International Airport for your final departures. Meal: Breakfast