Compare Legendary Turkey by Odysseys Unlimited vs Treasures of Turkey - Small Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 15 days | 16 days |
| Price From | $ 3,592 | $ 3,559 |
| Price Per Day | $ 239 | $ 222 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Premium |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Airfare included | Airfare included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included |
13 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches and 8 Dinners |
N/A |
| Description |
Exotic sights, scents, and sounds reign in this fascinating land where Europe and Asia meet. From Istanbul, magnificent “Empress of the World,” to ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and the dramatic Turquoise Coast where we board privately chartered “gulet” yachts for a distinctive four-day voyage, Turkey engages and beguiles, offering us an unparalleled small group experience. |
Travel Turkey on this 15-day guided tour. See Cappadocia, where golden landscapes give way to caverns below. You’ll descend into a local resident’s cave house for a tour and talk about their way of life. Later, see whirling dervishes — twirling dancers who will entertain you during a special dinner. In Göreme, explore rock-hewn churches decorated with ancient paintings before dining on the unique flavors served at a local restaurant that supports women from the village. Travel to Turkey’s third largest city, Izmir, and explore one of the world’s finest archaeological sites, Ephesus. Here, walk to its gargantuan amphitheater, which could seat as many as 24,000 people. In Istanbul, see the Blue Mosque’s tiled domes and the Hippodrome, where Roman chariot races were held. Try your hand at bargaining in the city’s Grand Bazaar, which includes more than 4,000 shops. |
Day 1: Depart U.S. for Istanbul, Turkey
Day 2: Arrive Istanbul
We arrive in Turkey’s cultural and spiritual heart today and transfer to our hotel located near Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul. As guests’ arrival times may vary greatly, we have no group activities or meals planned; on our own we can explore the area surrounding our hotel or simply relax.
Day 3: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
We get our first real taste of this city straddling two continents today as we set out on a walking tour along lively pedestrian Istiklal Street, lined with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and late Ottoman-era buildings. We see the acclaimed mosaics and frescoes at Chora Church (now Kariye Museum) then take a panoramic drive along Istanbul’s Old City walls. Then we visit intimate Rustem Pasha mosque, with its exquisite Iznik tiles, followed by the renowned Spice Market. After lunch on our own here, we take a private cruise on the Bosphorus, the waterway that separates Europe from Asia. This evening we take a short walk to a local restaurant for a welcome dinner of traditional Turkish fare.
Day 4: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Today we encounter Old Istanbul, beginning with the ancient Roman Hippodrome, the 3,500-year-old obelisk brought from Egypt in 390 CE. Next we visit the Blue Mosque, with its 20,000 blue Iznik tiles and signature six minarets. We then visit the renowned Museum of Turkish & Islamic Art, housing priceless artifacts from the 8th to 20th centuries. After lunch at a local restaurant we continue on to Hagia Sophia, the 6th-century church that was Christendom’s most important before becoming a mosque in the 15th century.
Day 5: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast
This morning we tour splendid Topkapi, for 400 years the palace of Ottoman sultans that today ranks among the world’s richest museums. We continue on to the Basilica Cistern, the marble-columned underground chamber that provided water to Istanbul in antiquity. Our next stop is the Grand Bazaar, the covered market housing some 5,000 shops along 60 “streets.” The remainder of the day and evening is free for independent exploration.
Day 6: Istanbul/Gallipoli/Troy/Assos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Leaving Istanbul this morning, we travel to the northern Aegean Coast for a brief visit to Gallipoli, haunting site of 31 Allied cemeteries from World War I. Then we ferry across the Dardanelles to Troy, once believed to exist only in Homer’s epic poem until the present site was discovered in the 1870s. After touring here we continue south to Behramkale, ancient Assos, where we spend the night.
Day 7: Assos/Pergamum/Izmir
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today we explore one of Turkey’s most spectacular ancient sites: windswept Pergamum, a major power in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE, with a wealth of Hellenistic ruins. Then we continue on to Izmir.
Day 8: Izmir/Ephesus
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Few ancient sites compare to Ephesus, the world’s best-preserved classical city which we explore today. Dating to at least 1300 BCE, Ephesus was Asia Minor’s largest metropolis and principal port. Our tour includes the Terrace Houses, the recently restored “houses of the rich,” with their outstanding mosaic floors and frescoed walls. Then we enjoy lunch in the rustic village of Sirince.
Day 9: Izmir/Göcek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today we journey south to coastal Göcek, stopping along the way at a carpet factory to watch a demonstration of this age-old craft. Late afternoon we board our gulets.
Day 10: Cruising – Aga Limani/Cleopatra Baths
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Our route for the next few days is along the stunning coastline Antony is said to have given Cleopatra as a wedding gift. We begin our “Blue Voyage” this morning as we cruise to the hidden cove of Aga Limani. From here we have the option of taking a three-hour hike to the Greco-Roman ruins at Lydea, ending at the Sunken Baths of Cleopatra. Set in a breathtaking inlet, the Baths offer crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. Those who prefer a less strenuous day can stay aboard the gulets as we sail to the Sunken Baths.
Day 11: Cruising – Göcek/Dalyan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
This morning we disembark and coach to Dalyan, an environmentally protected area known for its loggerhead sea turtles. Here we board a small skiff for a trip through an intriguing maze of channels. At the Lake of Koycegiz we see well-preserved ancient Lycian rock tombs on the hills above us.
Day 12: Cruising – Gemiler Island/Kayakoy
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today we cruise to Gemiler Island to tour its 6th-century Byzantine monastery. Then we coach to the Greek “ghost town” of Kayakoy, abandoned after World War I and now preserved as a historical monument. We explore the town and its churches then return to our gulets for our last night on board.
Day 13: Fethiye/Antalya
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
We cruise this morning to Fethiye, where we disembark then set out by motorcoach through the Taurus Mountains for Antalya. We reach the seaside city in time for lunch and a visit to the acclaimed Archaeological Museum.
Day 14: Antalya/Perge
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
This morning we tour the ruins at Perge, an ancient Greek city once among the world’s prettiest and most prosperous. Then we return to Antalya for a walking tour of its charming Old Town, including Hadrian’s Gate and the lovely Yivli Minaret (Fluted Minaret). This afternoon is at leisure before tonight’s farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 15: Depart for U.S.
Meals: Breakfast
This morning we board an early flight for our return to the United States.
Day 1: Welcome to Istanbul
Welcome to Turkey. You’ll start in vibrant Istanbul, where a representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Located in the heart of the city, you’ll be close to Taksim Square, which is famous for its Republic Monument, dining and shopping options. Join your Travel Director at 18:30 for a Welcome Dinner, where you’ll get to know your fellow travellers.
Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Dinner with Wine
Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise and Bursa
In the morning embark on a cruise along Bosphorus Strait, one of the world’s busiest waterways. Leisurely cruise past the quaint fishing villages that line its shores. Travel towards the old city and see the beautiful Ottoman palaces and fortresses, on the waterfront. Later, leave Istanbul for Bursa. A large city in northwest Turkey, it was the first major capital of the Ottoman Empire. There will be time in the afternoon to explore the city’s bazaars, silk markets and historic monuments. This evening, venture to a local restaurant for a tasty meal.
Mövenpick Bursa Hotel and Thermal Spa.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 3: Cumalikizik and Gordion
Begin your day of culture in Bursa with a visit to the Green Mosque, the Grand Mosque and the Mausoleum complex. Continue to the charming village of Cumalikizik, with its traditional wooden houses and very narrow cobblestone streets. Later you’ll head to Gordion, which was once the capital city of ancient Phrygia, as you make your way to Turkey’s modern capital, Ankara. Enjoy a relaxed evening at your hotel, the Hilton SA. Perhaps take a dip in its indoor pool or unwind in its jacuzzi or hammam.
Ankara HiltonSA, Ankara.
Breakfast
Day 4: Sophisticated Ankara
A day for history enthusiasts, explore Turkey’s bustling cultural capital, Ankara. Sightseeing includes a visit to the Hittite Museum and Anit Kabir, the Mausoleum of Atatürk, Turkey's greatest modern leader and the first President of the Republic of Turkey. Later, head to Avanos in Cappadocia. Famed for its unique geological formation, Cappadocia is a scenic delight with golden hills and panoramic views.
DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 5: The Underground Cities of Cappadocia Experience
With its striking golden, volcanic landscapes, underground city and otherworldly buildings, Cappadocia could never be called ordinary. At every turn you’ll be delighted with yet another geographical or architectural surprise. Today you’ll travel to the striking town of Göreme. Explore its rock-hewn churches decorated with ancient wall paintings. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Uçhisar Kadineli Restaurant and get a taste of Anatolia’s regional flavours. This establishment provides employment for the women of the village and supports their financial freedom. Next, continue on to the Pasabag Valley and visit the underground city of Özkonak where you’ll have time to explore its tunnels and holes with your Travel Director. Later, join a Cappadocian local who has lived in the city for decades and take a tour of their cave house. Explore this unique way of living, learning about local traditions and family life. Dinner tonight will be at a local restaurant, later you’ll witness a performance of Whirling Dervishes.
DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with Wine
Day 6: Konya
Start your day by learning more about traditional pottery making in Avanos. It’s then time to take a journey along the famous Silk Road to visit a 13th century caravanserai, a historic roadside inn where travellers would rest and recover after a day’s journey, most notably along the iconic road itself. Later, you’ll head to Turkey’s most religious city, Konya, the old capital of the Anatolian Seljuk Empire. Once here, visit the Mevlana Museum, with its beautiful fluted turquoise dome, and see the Karatay Medrese and Ince Minaret.
Novotel Konya Hotel.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 7: Through the Taurus Mountains
You day begins with a scenic drive down the Taurus Mountains to Aspendos, an ancient city in Antalya. Known for having the best-preserved Roman theatre anywhere in the world, learn more as you explore it with your fellow travellers. Continue to your hotel for the next two nights and enjoy time to relax.
Akra Barut Antalya.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 8: Antalya's Old Town
Start your day with a visit to Antalya's pretty Old Town, with its souvenir markets and sweeping sea views. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the leisure facilities at your hotel. Alternatively, explore Antalya at your own pace. Ask your Travel Director for recommendations on places to explore in the city, take a stroll around the harbour or perhaps take a boat trip off the coast.
Akra Barut Antalya.
Breakfast
Day 9: The Pools of Pamukkale
Cross the soaring Taurus Mountains to see the remains of the ancient city of Hierapolis, a Roman spa city founded around 190 B.C. Next to the ruins, you can see the gleaming white travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Famous for its mineral-rich thermal waters and chalk-white limestone terraces, explore the area with your Travel Director. Later, head back to your hotel, the esteemed Doğa Thermal Health & Spa. Take full advantage of its indoor and outdoor thermal pools, steam room and its Turkish bath complex.
Doğa Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 10: Izmir
Start your morning with a trip to the Temple of Aphrodite, dedicated to the goddess of love, beauty and fertility, in Geyre. Based in the ruins of the ancient city of Aphrodisias, it was the focal point of the city in its heyday. You’ll see the towering, fourteen columns of the temple that have been re-erected. End your day in the quaint Aegan port of Izmir.
Swissotel Büyük Efes, Izmir.
Breakfast
Day 11: Ancient Ephesus
Today you’ll spend the day exploring pretty Izmir, Turkey’s third largest city. A vibrant destination on Turkey’s Aegean coast, it is was founded by the Greeks and has been an important port since ancient times. Explore one of the world's finest archaeological sites, Ephesus. Walk through the colonnaded Arcadian Way, see the Library of Celsus and the huge Amphitheatre, before visiting the House of the Virgin Mary, situated above the Ephesus ruins.
Swissotel Büyük Efes, Izmir.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 12: Pergamon, Troy and Çanakkale.
Begin your day of legends with a trip to Pergamon. Once a powerful ancient Greek city, you’ll find the Asklepion temple here. A famous shrine and healing centre, it was built in honour of Asklepios, the god of medicine. Next, head to Homer’s city of Troy, the focal point of the Trojan war and the backdrop to one of history’s most famous love stories, that of Paris and Helen of Troy, the face that launched 1000 ships. A replica of the mighty Trojan Horse, which helped the Greeks capture the city in 1200 B.C., can be found beside the city’s walls. After some time exploring, continue your journey to Çanakkale, a gateway to the Gallipoli WWI battlefields.
Kolin Hotel, Canakkale.
Breakfast
Day 13: Gallipoli and ANZAC Cove
This morning, cross the Dardanelles Strait by ferry to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Located in the southern part of East Thrace, it was here that, for nine months during the Great War, Anzac troops fought, in an attempt to gain control of the Dardanelles Strait. Learn more about these events as you visit Anzac Cove and pay your respects at the Lone Pine Cemetery. Later, return to Istanbul where you’ll spend the next two nights.
Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Breakfast
Day 14: Istanbul and the Ottoman Empire
Today you’ll take in the sites of Istanbul. In the morning, visit the historic Blue Mosque. Made up of domes and minarets, head inside and see its beautiful blue tiled interiors. See the Hippodrome, where Roman chariot races were held, before exploring Hagia Sophia. Built in A.D. 537, it has recently turned from a museum into a mosque and is famous for its domed roof. Visit the Topkapi Palace, perched above the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, the primary inlet of the waterway. Enjoy the excitement of bargaining in the bustling Grand Bazaar. In the evening, join your fellow travellers and toast to your trip over a Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant.
Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 15: Farewell Istanbul
It’s time to say goodbye to your new friends, as your trip comes to an end. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flights, or for those extending their stay in Istanbul, speak to your Travel Director for tips and tricks on where to head.
Breakfast
