The Silk Road in Türkiye

The Old City of Istanbul, also known as Sultanahmet, stands as a living testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Encompassing a mesmerizing blend of Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman influences, this historic district is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks and architectural marvels. Dominated by the majestic Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral turned mosque turned museum, and the stunning Blue Mosque with its intricate tile work and grand domes, the Old City is a canvas painted with centuries of civilization. Wandering through its labyrinthine streets, one encounters the Hippodrome, an ancient chariot racing arena, the sprawling Topkapi Palace that once housed Ottoman sultans, where Visitors can explore the intricate design of the Imperial Council Chamber, and witness the opulence of the Treasury showcasing priceless treasures. Every corner holds tales of conquests, empires, and the fusion of cultures, making the Old City of Istanbul a captivating destination that preserves the soul of the city's illustrious past. After completing the visits and lunch, the last stop will be the Grand Bazaar. Dating back to the 15th century, this iconic bazaar features over 4,000 shops spread across a maze-like network of alleys and courtyards. It's a vibrant hub where artisans and merchants sell a diverse array of goods. Finally, transfer to the hotel.

After breakfast, departure for Bursa. Bursa, which was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, is a renowned city for its mosques, fountains, Turkish baths, and silk production. There, we will make an important visit to Koza Han, the silk market. This market is adorned with intricate turquoise-colored tiles and opens to a central garden courtyard. It features nearly 100 rooms, along with old horse stables and storage rooms. Today, Koza Han still functions as a modern bazaar, continuing to sell a wide variety of silk and other products. We will then proceed to visit the Ulu Mosque, the Green Mosque, and the Green Tomb. Accommodation in Bursa.

After breakfast, departure for Pamukkale. Visit Pamukkale, which translates to "Cotton Castle" in Turkish, named for its white cascades. Here, you'll find the natural travertine pools, formations created by thermal springs. We then proceed with the visit to the ancient city of Hierapolis, which was a Phrygian city that became an episcopal center during the Byzantine period. We transfer to our hotel, have dinner, and stay overnight.

Breakfast and departure towards Cappadocia. We continue on the Silk Road and will visit the caravanserais of Akhan, Çardak Han, and Sultanhan, inns where camel caravans used to stop. Arrival in Cappadocia. We transfer to our hotel for dinner and accommodation.

OPTIONAL | Hot Air Balloon Flight: Early in the morning, typically before dawn, you will be taken to the launch site. Passengers will then be briefed on basic rules and safety measures for the balloon flight. The ascent is gentle, and soon you'll be capturing hundreds of photos over the valleys of Cappadocia. After landing, there will be a small champagne celebration, and you will receive your flight certificate. You will be driven back to your hotel around 9:00 am, just in time for breakfast. After breakfast, we set out for a full-day excursion. We visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, where we'll admire some rock-carved churches with intricate frescoes. Next, we explore the troglodyte village of Uçhisar. We then continue to the Valley of the Pigeon Lofts. We'll see the outside of Pasabag Valley (Monks Valley), also known for its fairy chimneys in the shape of mushrooms. Our journey continues to the pottery village of Avanos. In the afternoon, we visit the underground city of Serhatlı (or Özkonak), which has multiple levels of depth and was used by early Christians as a refuge against enemies during the 6th and 7th centuries. Finally, we visit a carpet workshop to observe the weaving of Turkish carpets and an onyx and jewelry workshop. Return to the hotel, dinner, and accommodation.

After breakfast, we depart for Malatya. Beforehand, we will take a panoramic tour of the Cappadocia region and the city of Kayseri, where we will see the Karatay Inn along the way. We then continue towards Malatya. Accommodation in Malatya.

Breakfast and departure for Diyarbakır, with a visit to the Silahtar Mustafa Paça Inn. We proceed to Diyarbakır, a significant point on the Silk Road, making a panoramic visit to the city where several inns are well-preserved, including Deliler Han (17 sgl). Accommodation in Diyarbakır.

After breakfast, we set out for the city of Van. Panoramic tour of the city. Accommodation in Van.

After breakfast, we depart for Doğubeyazıt. Visit the İshak Pasha Palace, a semi-ruined palace and administrative complex located in the Doğubeyazıt district of the Ağrı province. We then proceed to the Ağrı airport for the transfer to Istanbul. Arrival in Istanbul. Assistance and transfer to the hotel, with free time for your activities. Accommodation in Istanbul.

Breakfast. Visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the magnificent works of the notable architect Sinan. Visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. Explore the Bulgarian Church; St. Stephen Church, also known as the Iron Church, is affiliated with the Bulgarian Exarchate and is located on the shores of the Golden Horn between the Balat and Fener districts in Fatih, Istanbul. The church, built on behalf of Stefanaki Bey on October 25, 1859, returned to service in 2018 after seven years of restoration. Next, a visit to the pedestrian street of İstiklal and the opportunity to attend mass at St. Anthony of Padua Church. Return to the hotel for accommodation.

Breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return flight.