Grand Turkey Tour – 23 Days

Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city at your own pace.
Accommodation: 5-Star Holiday Inn Istanbul City, https://www.hiistanbulcity.com.tr

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Today, you will explore the highlights of Istanbul’s historic peninsula. Your guided tour includes a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace, once the residence of the Ottoman sultans. You will also see the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture, followed by the elegant Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and stunning blue Iznik tiles. The tour continues through the Hippodrome, where chariot races and public events once took place during Roman and Byzantine times. Your day concludes at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, offering a vibrant array of shops and local craftsmanship.
Distance to travel: 5 km
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: 5-Star Holiday Inn Istanbul City, https://www.hiistanbulcity.com.tr

Highlights and visit sites of the day: After breakfast, the day begins with a visit to the vibrant Spice Market and the beautifully decorated Rustem Pasha Mosque. The journey continues to the Gallipoli Peninsula, where you will visit significant World War I sites including ANZAC Cove, Chunuk Bair, and Lone Pine Cemetery. Later, cross the Dardanelles Strait by ferry and arrive in the city of Canakkale for a brief visit before settling into your hotel for the evening.
Distance to travel: 320 km
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 4-Star Iris Hotel in Canakkale, https://irisotel.com/en/home/

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Today begins with a visit to the legendary city of Troy, where you’ll see the replica of the famous Trojan Horse and explore the archaeological remains of this ancient city. The journey continues south to Pergamon, home to the ancient medical center known as the Asklepion. In the afternoon, you will travel to the coastal town of Kuşadası, where you will enjoy dinner and relax at your hotel.
Distance to travel: 390 km
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Elite World Hotel in Kusadası, https://www.eliteworldhotels.com.tr/oteller/elite-world-kusadasi

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Today’s journey begins with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site nestled in the hills near Ephesus. You will then explore the extraordinary ancient city of Ephesus, home to the colossal Greek Theatre, the Marble Road, the beautifully preserved Celsus Library, and the remains of the Temple of Artemis (Diana), once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Your day will also include a visit to the Basilica of St. John, believed to be the burial site of the apostle. The day concludes in the coastal town of Kusadasi.
Distance to travel: 30 km
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Elite World Hotel in Kusadasi, https://www.eliteworldhotels.com.tr/oteller/elite-world-kusadasi

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Departing Kusadasi, the day begins with a visit to Aphrodisias, an ancient city of art and beauty dedicated to the Goddess Aphrodite. You will continue to Laodicea, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation mentioned in the New Testament. The journey continues to Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, world-renowned for its striking white calcium travertine terraces. Nearby, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis with its impressive necropolis (city of the dead), and visit Pluto’s Gate, also known as the Door to Hell. You’ll end the day relaxing in a spa hotel, with the opportunity to swim in mineral-rich, thermally heated pools.
Distance to travel: 280 km
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Hierapark Hotel, https://www.hieraparkhotel.com

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Departing Pamukkale, and driving to Konya. Today we step back in time to one of the earliest known urban settlements in human history – Catalhoyuk (Çatalhöyük), dating back to between 7400 BC and 6200 BC. This Neolithic site provides fascinating insights into early human social organization, featuring remarkably preserved wall paintings, reliefs, religious shrines, sculptures, and symbolic motifs that hint at a deep ritual and communal life.
After our visit to Catalhoyuk, we visit the renowned Mevlana Museum, dedicated to the 13th-century Sufi mystic Jalal ad-Din Rumi, also known as Mevlana. Inside, explore the exhibition of Whirling Dervish costumes, musical instruments, illuminated manuscripts, and ethnographic collections, all offering a glimpse into the mystical traditions of Sufism.
Distance to travel: 390 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Bayir Diamond Hotel in Konya, https://www.bayirhotels.com/Default.asp?Dil=1

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Departing Konya, and driving to Cappadocia. Today is dedicated to discovering the magical landscape of Cappadocia, known for its surreal volcanic rock formations, cave dwellings, and timeless beauty. Begin with a tour of one of the region’s fascinating underground cities, such as Derinkuyu or Ozkonak, where early Christians once sought refuge from invaders. These subterranean complexes feature ventilation shafts, storage rooms, kitchens, churches, and even wineries. In the afternoon, continue to panoramic viewpoints at Uchisar and Ortahisar, both dominated by spectacular rock-carved citadels that overlook the fairy chimney-filled valleys. Later in the day, enjoy a visit to a traditional carpet workshop, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness the intricate process of handmade carpet weaving—a centuries-old Anatolian craft.
Distance to travel: 220 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: MDC Cave Hotel in Cappadocia, https://mdchotel.com/en/

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Continue your exploration of Cappadocia’s mesmerizing landscapes, sculpted by ancient volcanic eruptions and centuries of human habitation. Journey beyond the usual tourist paths to uncover remote rock-cut monasteries, reflecting the deep spiritual roots of early Christianity in the region. Visit Magic Valley, the ancient cave dwellings and churches of Zelve Valley, the striking fairy chimneys of Pasabag Valley (Monks Valley), and the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open Air Museum, renowned for its beautifully preserved frescoed cave churches. We will also visit Avanos, a town by the Red River, historically known as Cappadocia’s pottery center. Experience its rich ceramic heritage, where traditional techniques have been passed down through generations of artisans.
Optional activity: At sunrise, experience the otherworldly terrain of Cappadocia from above with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride.
Distance to travel: 40 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: MDC Cave Hotel in Cappadocia, https://mdchotel.com/en/

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Departing Cappadocia, and driving to Gaziantep. Today we explore Gaziantep, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world and a gastronomic capital of Turkey. Begin with a visit to the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, the largest mosaic museum in the world, showcasing stunning Roman-era mosaics excavated from the ancient city of Zeugma—currently on the UNESCO Tentative List. Admire the world-famous “Gypsy Girl” mosaic, a masterpiece that has become the symbol of the region.
Continue to the impressive Gaziantep Castle, a Roman fortress expanded during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Afterwards, stroll through the historic bazaars, where copper artisans, spice merchants, and sweet-makers keep centuries-old traditions alive. Experience the vibrant Turkish lifestyle and perhaps enjoy a tasting of Gaziantep’s renowned baklava, recognized by UNESCO as part of Turkey’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Distance to travel: 390 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Ramada By Wyndham Hotel in Gaziantep, https://ramada-gaziantep.com

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Departing Gaziantep, and driving to Mount Nemrut. Visit the monumental statues and tumulus of Mount Nemrut, one of Turkey’s most fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore the best-preserved Roman bridge of Cendere, built in honor of Emperor Septimius Severus. Continue to the ancient city of Arsemia, which served as the royal seat of the Commagene Kingdom, and discover its inscriptions and underground passageways. End the day with a visit to the royal mausoleum of King Antiochus, perched high above the Euphrates Valley. In the afternoon, we drive to Sanliurfa, the ancient city known as the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham.
Distance to travel: 290 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Elruha Hotel in Urfa, https://www.hotelelruha.com/en/mainpage/

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Begin the day with a visit to Gobekli Tepe, the oldest known temple complex in the world, dating back over 11,000 years. Then explore Karahan Tepe, a sister site revealing additional layers of Neolithic life in the region. Continue to the ancient city of Harran, home to the famous beehive-shaped houses and believed to be where the Prophet Abraham once lived. Visit the Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum to admire beautifully preserved Roman-era floor mosaics, and the Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum, which houses exceptional prehistoric and Mesopotamian artifacts. Finish the day at the sacred Balikligol (Pool of Sacred Fish), associated with the story of Abraham, and see the nearby Roman-era fortress overlooking the city.
Distance to travel: 180 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Elruha Hotel in Urfa, https://www.hotelelruha.com/en/mainpage/

Highlights and sites of the day: Departing Urfa, and driving to Mardin. Explore the ancient city of Mardin, beginning with a visit to the 5th-century Orthodox Dayrul Zafran (Saffron) Monastery, an important spiritual center for the Syriac community. Continue to the elegant Kasimiye Madrasa with its serene courtyard and symbolic water feature. Wander through the atmospheric historical bazaar, where traditional crafts are still practiced. Admire the impressive 12th-century Great Mosque of Mardin, a masterpiece of Artuqid architecture. Conclude the day with a visit to the beautifully preserved historic Mardin Post Office, an excellent example of traditional stone masonry.
Distance to travel: 190 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Ramada Plaza by Wyndham in Mardin, https://ramadaplazamardin.com/

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Drive eastward toward Van, stopping en route to explore the incredibly well-preserved Zerzavan Castle, a former Roman legion fortress marking the eastern edge of the Roman world. Visit the Temple of Mithras, an underground sanctuary hidden within the fortress, and see the remains of the ancient church, watchtowers, and garrison structures. Continue to Van for overnight stay.
Distance to travel: 420 km.
Meal: Breakfast and dinner.
Accommodation: 5-Star Ramada by Wyndham Vanin Van, https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/van-turkiye/ramada-van/overview

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Begin the day with a scenic drive to Gevas, followed by a short ferry ride across the turquoise waters of Lake Van to the picturesque Akdamar Island. Explore the Church of the Holy Cross, a 10th-century Armenian masterpiece renowned for its exquisite exterior stone reliefs depicting scenes from the Bible and Armenian folklore. Set against the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains and shimmering lake views, the island offers a serene and unforgettable experience. In the afternoon, continue to Cavustepe, one of the most impressive and well-preserved Urartian fortress complexes dating back to the 8th century BCE. Built by King Sarduri II, the site offers valuable insights into the advanced engineering and administrative capabilities of the Urartian civilization. Walk among the remains of temples, royal halls, storage rooms, and city walls.
Distance to travel: 90 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Ramada by Wyndham Vanin Van, https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/van-turkiye/ramada-van/overview

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Begin the day with a visit to the Van Castle (Van Kalesi), an impressive Urartian fortress dating back to the 9th century BCE, offering panoramic views over Lake Van and the modern city. Continue to the Van Museum, where you will see a remarkable collection of Urartian artifacts, ancient cuneiform inscriptions, and exhibits on the region’s long history. In the afternoon, explore the Ayanis Castle, another spectacular Urartian site overlooking the lake, known for its intricate stonework and the remains of a temple dedicated to the god Haldi. Later, enjoy an enriching cultural experience at a traditional kilim workshop, where local artisans demonstrate the ancient techniques of hand-weaving Van’s famous carpets and kilims.
Distance to travel: 80 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner Accommodation: 4 star or special class hotel in Van.
Accommodation: 5-Star Ramada by Wyndham Van in Van, https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/van-turkiye/ramada-van/overview

Highlights and visit sites of the day: After breakfast, depart for Dogubayazit, a frontier town near the Iranian border. The highlight of the day is a visit to the spectacular Ishak Pasha Palace, a unique 18th-century Ottoman palace complex blending Seljuk, Persian, and Armenian architectural styles. From the palace, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Ararat (Agri Dagi), Turkey’s highest peak at 5,165 meters and the legendary resting place of Noah’s Ark. Afterwards, continue driving through scenic landscapes to reach Kars, a city rich in cultural and historical heritage.
Distance to travel: Approximately 360 km
Meal: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Special class Katerina Palace hotel in Kars, https://www.boutiquesmallhotels.com/katerina-sarayi-hotel-kars

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Visit the ruined Armenian city of Ani, once a thriving medieval metropolis and now a hauntingly beautiful archaeological site. The city is encircled by impressive, fortified walls and contains the remains of numerous churches, mosques, and caravanserais. Continue to Erzurum to visit its magnificent Seljukian monuments including the Cifte Minareli Medrese (Twin Minaret Madrasa), Ulu Camii (Grand Mosque), Uc Kumbetler (Three Domed Tombs), and the spectacular Yakutiye Madrasa built in 1310 by the Mongol Ilkhanids, noted for its striking turquoise tiled minaret.
Distance to travel: 200 km.
Meal: Breakfast and dinner.
Accommodation: 5-Star Ramada by Wyndham in Erzurum, https://ramadaerzurum.com

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Drive along the scenic Pontic Mountains to the lush Black Sea region. Visit the spectacular Sumela Monastery, dramatically built into a cliff and also known as the Monastery of the Virgin Mary. Continue to Trabzon to see the city’s best-known Byzantine monument, the Church of St. Sophia. Explore the remains of the Byzantine citadel and stroll through Trabzon’s lively city center.
Distance to travel: 300 km.
Meal: Breakfast and dinner.
Accommodation: 5-Star Ramada Plaza by Wyndham in Trabzon, https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/tr-tr/ramada/trabzon-turkiye/ramada-plaza-trabzon/overview

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Departing Trabzon, and driving to Amasya. Explore the charming old city of Amasya, nestled in a narrow valley along the Yesilirmak River. Visit the impressive Pontic rock tombs carved into the cliffs, the fascinating Bimarhane Medrese (an Ottoman-era mental health institution), and admire the beautifully preserved traditional Ottoman houses along the river.
Distance to travel: 260 km.
Meal: Breakfast and dinner.
Accommodation: 4-Star Büyük Amasya Oteli in Amasya, https://www.buyukamasyaoteli.com

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Drive to Boğazkale to explore Hattusha, the ancient capital of the Hittite Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the massive six-kilometer-long city walls and monumental gates including the Lion Gate, Sphinx Gate, and King’s Gate. Visit the Great Temple, dedicated to the storm god and sun goddess, and explore the sacred Yazılıkaya, an open-air rock sanctuary adorned with reliefs of Hittite gods and kings.
Distance to travel: 260 km.
Meal: Breakfast and dinner.
Accommodation: 5-Star Radisson Blu Hotel Ankara in Ankara, https://www.radissonhotels.com

Highlights and visit sites of the day: Visit the award-winning Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, showcasing remarkable artifacts from Neolithic, Hittite, Phrygian, and Urartian periods. Then, visit the Anitkabir, the monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Turkish Republic. In the afternoon, drive to Istanbul.
Distance to travel: 460 km.
Meal: Breakfast and dinner.
Accommodation: 5-Star Holiday Inn Istanbul City, https://www.hiistanbulcity.com.tr

After breakfast, transfer to Istanbul International Airport for your onward journey.
Meal: Breakfast.