Asia Minor – home of the mighty Hittites, Ionian Greeks, Eastern Roman and Ottoman Empires. It is the confluence of ancient empires and cultures where “Wonders of the World” were erected, markets enriched Kings Midas whose touch turned everything into gold, and Croesus first minted coins. Great shrines of ancient gods and goddesses lay hand in hand with those of Christ and his Apostles. These sites and wonderful experiences are waiting for us on a journey through Turkey.
This Turkey in a Teacup itinerary is a starter pack for Turkey with some major “Silk Road” cities, regional food experiences, interactions with local people, and shopping in underground caves. Istanbul will get us warmed up to the history of civilizations with mosques and markets. Next, Cappadocia will fascinate us with a unique landscape, and finally, Ephesus will make us feel like a Roman as we walk down its marble streets.
Day One
Overnight: Istanbul
Welcome to Istanbul
After arriving in Istanbul, explore the Istiklal/ Beyoglu area (where our hotel is located) with your guide and try to get rid of jet lag. Welcome dinner in a nearby neighborhood.
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Day Two
Overnight: Istanbul
Istanbul Greatest Hits
Your guide will meet you at the hotel for an Istanbul Highlights tour. We head to the Old Town to see the Hagia Sophia Mosque which used to be one of the greatest Christian Orthodox cathedrals, then visit Topkapı Palace (the earliest and most oriental Ottoman family residence) followed by a visit to the recently renovated Underground Cistern dating back to the Roman period.
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Day Three
Overnight: Istanbul
Market Day
Following a morning at your leisure, explore the Grand Bazaar and surrounding markets marveling at the many historical and contemporary experiences in the area. From here we visit and taste our way through the Spice Market. Then we catch the ferry across the Bosphorus to the Asian side of Istanbul where we hang out with students, artists, and ex-pats and have dinner at one of the city’s most celebrated restaurants.
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Day Four
Overnight: Cappadocia
Travel to Cappadocia
Easy morning to enjoy your last hours in Istanbul. Then it’s time to get going for our flight to Cappadocia. Dinner at Old Greek House after the orientation walk in our village.
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Day Five
Overnight: Cappadocia
Explore Cappadocia
This morning is a great time to visit the early Christian Monastery of Goreme. Many places to stop and examine the unique geography, such as the town of Uchisar / Pigeons Valley. Optional hot air balloon ride (very early morning launch)
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Day Six
Overnight: Cappadocia
Journey Underground
Today we go underground. This morning we will drive to one of the underground cities of Kaymaklı. Followed by a scenic drive with viewpoint stops along the way to Avanos. Lunch in Avanos. Walk along the Red River and visit local craft production such as pottery or carpet weaving.
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Day Seven
Overnight: Sirince
Izmir
Morning flight to Izmir. Enjoy lunch at a local winery on our way to the hill town village of Sirince. Stop at Ephesus Museum on the way to prepare for our full-day exploration of Ephesus tomorrow. Check into our lodgings in Sirince and have a short orientation walk.
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Day Eight
Overnight: Sirince
Ephesus
Full-day tour of Ancient Ephesus, home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, where she spent the last days of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, located by the Castle of Selcuk, a famous pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages. Enjoy authentic local Turkish cuisine for our last meal together.
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Day Nine
Tour Ends
Turkey in a Teacup tour ends after breakfast. Morning transfer to the Izmir Airport if needed. Your guide will be available to assist with your departure to wherever your travels take you next.
Taylan is a history enthusiast with a particular passion for the Middle East and Mediterranean region. He holds a bachelor’s degree in History of Art and Archaeology, which has only fueled his interest in the rich and diverse histories of these regions. He spends leisure time in outdoor activities such as sailing the Aegean, motorcycle riding, and hiking the ancient routes that allows him to not only engage with nature, but also learn about different cultures and histories through firsthand experiences.
Taylan is always eager to learn more about the region around him and excited to continue exploring and discovering new things and carefully adding them to his list of tailored and improvised services.
Price: $3995 (air not included) per person for a double occupancy room. Single Occupancy room is $4595. We welcome singles and if you do not have a travel partner, please sign up for a single spot. In the event that a roommate is found, your booking can be changed to a double before final payment is due.
You can reserve with a nonrefundable deposit of $600.
What’s Included: all breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners, transportation during the tour, entrance fees, local guides, tips, and 8 nights lodging in comfortable, clean, and centrally located hotels.
Turkey in a Teacup tour begins in Istanbul (IST), Turkey and tour ends near Izmir (ADB), Turkey.
Please email with questions info@adventureswithsarah.net
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