Turkish Sampler

8 days from Istanbul to Istanbul
Treasured. Timeless. Tradition. Just a few words to describe the sampling of stunning history to be found on the tour of Turkey. Founded more than 2,500 years ago, the sights of the once Byzantine empire give new meaning to timeless traditions in the capital of Istanbul on the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. Moving sites of battle and heroism remain where stories of bravery and bold characters still echo in legendary style. From the legendary Trojan Horse to the longstanding temples of healing powers in Pergamum, this tour of Turkey’s treasures brings the past to light in shining examples of turbulent history. Peruse the power of the Roman Empire in Ephesus’ massive archaeological sites and ponder the natural wonders of travertine terraces and thermal pools found in Pamukkale. Awaken your curiosity for ancient traditions along the Silk Road amid Bursa’s centuries-old city center and bazaar in the shadow of Mount Olympus—just a few of the revelations to be discovered on this tour of Turkey!
All This. Included
Special Features Included in this Tour:
• Guided sightseeing of Istanbul’s highlights featuring visits to the Roman Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace
• Visit to the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul with traditional Turkish coffee experience at a historical coffee roaster
• Visit to the WWI battlefields on the Gallipoli peninsula, the Anzac Cemetery, and the Lone Pine Memorial
• Guided sightseeing of the Troy archaeological site and see the symbolic wooden Trojan Horse
• Guided visit to the Asklepion at Pergamon
• Visit to Izmir
• Guided walk through the ancient ruins of Ephesus; see St. John’s Basilica.
• Visit to the ancient city of Hieropolis at Pamukkale featuring views of the travertine terraces and thermal pools.
• Visit to the Great Ottoman Mosque (Ulu Camii) of Bursa, plus the Historical Covered Bazaar, and the Silk Market with Kestane Sekeri tasting
• Dardanelles crossing by ferry