MESMERISING TURKEY
Mesmerising TURKEY
- Information
- Tour Plan
- Location
- Gallery
- Additional Info
- Similar Tours
- Choice of Hotels / Camps / Cottages
What's included
- A guided tour of important places
- Accommodation in single twin share room
- All meals included
- Beautifully illustrated souvenir map
- Current Hotel Taxes and Service Charges
- Departure Taxes or Visa handling fees
- First class or best available hotels in the area
- Entrance tickets to monuments and museums
- First Entrance fees
- Increases in airfares or Government imposed taxes
- Meals, unless expressly states
- Medical insurance and emergency insurance
- Observation and participation in allowed activities
- Personal expenses
- Professionally guided tour
- Services not specifically stated in the itinerary
- Tips to guide and driver
- Unlimited bottled water
- Visa arrangements
The Culture
The culture of Istanbul and Kusadasi, both in Turkey, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and contemporary vibrancy. Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, showcases a diverse cultural heritage with its Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Its iconic landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, highlight its historical significance. Kusadasi, a coastal town, embraces a laid-back atmosphere with a strong focus on tourism. Both destinations offer delectable Turkish cuisine, vibrant markets, and traditional music and dance performances, creating an immersive experience into Turkey’s captivating culture and warm hospitality.
Rivers & Adventure Tourism
Istanbul and Kusadasi offer exciting river and adventure tourism experiences amidst their captivating landscapes. While Istanbul’s Bosphorus Strait allows for delightful boat cruises with iconic views, Kusadasi’s coastal location offers water sports like windsurfing and diving. Nearby ancient ruins, such as Ephesus, add a historical touch to the adventurous spirit of these Turkish destinations.
Tapping into History
The history of Istanbul and Kusadasi is a captivating journey through time. Istanbul, once known as Byzantium and Constantinople, has witnessed the rise and fall of great empires, including the Byzantines, Romans, and Ottomans. Its iconic landmarks, like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, reflect this rich past. Kusadasi, located near the ancient city of Ephesus, bears witness to its ancient Greek and Roman heritage, with well-preserved ruins and impressive theaters. Both destinations offer a remarkable glimpse into Turkey’s historical legacy.
Natural Resources & Great Views
Istanbul and Kusadasi are endowed with natural resources and breathtaking views that make them captivating destinations in Turkey. Istanbul’s strategic location on the Bosphorus Strait offers stunning waterfront panoramas and historic landmarks like the Galata Tower and the Golden Horn. Kusadasi’s coastal charm includes picturesque beaches, azure waters, and the nearby Dilek Peninsula National Park, providing a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. The Pigeon Valley and fairy chimneys in Cappadocia near Kusadasi form a surreal and unique landscape. Both cities are blessed with natural beauty, offering a delightful escape for travelers seeking diverse and stunning views.
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
- Day 6
ISTANBUL
Arrival to Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW). Transfer to your hotel & Rest of the day will be free at leisure for relax and freshen up. (Standard check in time is 14:00 pm)
Overnight in Istanbul.
ISTANBUL
Breakfast at hotel. Tour of "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled. Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet. Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments decorating the Hippodrome. Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir.
Lunch at Local Restaurant.
Topkapı Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Mohammed, kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy section etc. Live guide commentary is not allowed in special sections. (Harem is not included in the program) Sultan Tombs, there are five tombs of Ottoman Sultans within the graveyard at Hagia Sophia. The ceramic panels are the most beautiful examples of the 16th century with purple, red, green and blue flower motives. Prince robes and a small piece from the Kaaba covers are displayed on the sarcophaguses.
Overnight in Istanbul.
ISTANBUL / KUSADASI
After breakfast at the hotel, check out process and transfer to Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) for your flight back to Kusadasi. Upon arrival to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), transfer to your hotel for check in process. Rest of the day will be free at leisure for relax.
Overnight in Kusadasi.
KUSADASI
After breakfast at the hotel, first we will visit Virgin Mary House. This place is discovered by Lazarist priests after a German nun described the house and the mountain as the last residence of Virgin Mary after she had some visions about the place. Today this place is a Muslim and Catholic, being cared by Lazarist Fathers and they are still celebrating the mass every day. Then we will drive to Ephesus, which was one of the most important harbor cities in antique world and also it is mentioned in the book of Revelations as one of the seven churches. In Ephesus we will see, Celcus Library, Temple of Hadrian, the fountain of Trajan and the Theater. We will have lunch at local restaurant. and visit Isa Bey Mosque which is built in 1375 by Anatolian Seljuks. The last stop of the tour will be the Artemis Temple, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, standing today next to Ephesus antique city. End of the tour, drive back to your hotel.
Overnight in Kusadasi.
KUSADASI / PAMUKKALE / KUSADASI
After breakfast, pick up from your hotel and full day Pamukkale Tour starts. First destination is Karahayit to see Red Spring Water. We will drive to Pamukkale and visit Hierapolis after Karahayit. The highlights of Hierapolis are Necropolis, Roman Baths, Domitian Gate, Latrina, Oil Factory, Frontinus Street, Agora, Byzantium Gate, Triton Fountain, Cathedral, Apollon Temple, Plutonium, Theater. Later we will take some photos from the nicest corners of Pamukkale. Free time for about 60 minutes to explore the natural beauties of Pamukkale. Then meet with the guide, start walking in the middle of travertines from up to down without shoes and socks. We will have lunch in a local restaurant. End of the tour, drive back to your hotel.
Overnight in Kusadasi.
KUSADASI / ISTANBUL / HOME
After breakfast at the hotel, check out process and transfer to Kayseri Airport (ASR) or Nevsehir Airport (NAV) for your flight back to home via Istanbul.
More about Asia
More about Istanbul
More about Kusadasi
More about Turkey
More about this tour
The culture of Istanbul and Kusadasi, both in Turkey, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and contemporary vibrancy. Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, showcases a diverse cultural heritage with its Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Its iconic landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, highlight its historical significance. Kusadasi, a coastal town, embraces a laid-back atmosphere with a strong focus on tourism. Both destinations offer delectable Turkish cuisine, vibrant markets, and traditional music and dance performances, creating an immersive experience into Turkey's captivating culture and warm hospitality.
| Destination | Accommodation or similar+ |
| Istanbul | The Marmara Taksim/ The Elysium Taksim or similar |
| Kusadasi | Ayma Beach Resort / Suhan 360 Hotel or similar |
