Classic Turkey

Turkey, 9 Nights

Highlights:
- Magnificent Hagia Sophia
- Rock -carved churches of Cappadocia
- Azure blue Turkish coastline
 
Days 1 to 3 - Istanbul
Explore the masterpieces of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture: the sixth-century Basilica Cistern and the timeless Hagia Sophia, one of the greatest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture. Visit Topkapi Palace, a resplendent complex that is the former seat of the Ottoman government. Explore the Pera District, the present-day heart of Istanbul, and go atop the ancient Galata Tower for 360-degree views of this beautiful city. View the City Walls; then visit Dolmabahçe Palace, the largest and finest example of Ottoman Baroque architecture in the city. Continue with a private afternoon cruise on the Bosphorus. Explore the Suleymaniye Mosque, a symbol of the Golden Age created by the great architect Sinan. Visit the 3,500-stall Grand Covered Bazaar. Stay at the Four Seasons Sultanahmet or Bosphorus, Park Hyatt Macka Palas or W Istanbul.

Day 4 - Cappadocia
Fly to Cappadocia to see the rock-carved churches at Göreme. The unique landscape of this area was created by volcanic, geological and erosive activity. Here, amid the soft type of rock called tuff, one of the most ancient and influential monastic movements took root in the fourth century. Retire to your boutique hotel, renovated from authentic Cappadocian housing. Stay at the Anatolian Houses.

Day 5 - Cappadocia
This morning you may choose to take an optional hot air balloon excursion over Cappadocia. Then explore the underground village of Kaymakli. After lunch, visit the potters of Avanos, who have practiced their craft for more than 4,000 years.

Day 6: Cappadocia/Izmir/Ephesus
Fly to Izmir and view the remains of the great Ionian city of Ephesus, the best-preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean. Overnight in Kusadasi at the Kusadasi KoruMar Hotel.

Day 7 - Bodrum
Explore the ruins of Priene, the massive Temple of Apollo at Didyma and the temple at Euromos en route to Bodrum. Stay at the Kempinski Barbaros Bay.
 
Days 8 to 9 - Bodrum
Discover Bodrum's fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housed in a former castle and containing many artefacts salvaged from the surrounding waters, or just spend your relax few days relaxing at your hotel and enjoying this beautiful coastline.

Day 10 Bodrum - Istanbul - London
Fly to Istanbul for your connection back to the UK.