HORIZONES OF TURKEY

After breakfast and checkout, we depart from Istanbul and drive towards the picturesque coastal town of Ayvalık, a region celebrated for its Greek architecture, serene bays, and expansive olive groves. Upon arrival lunch at restaurant. We then continue to the charming Cunda Island, where our first stop is the renowned Rahmi Koç Museum, housed in a beautifully restored Greek church. The museum features fascinating collections and artifacts, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and art. Following the visit, we embark on a guided city tour through the Old Greek Town, wandering past narrow cobbled streets, historic stone mansions, and beautifully preserved heritage sites. We explore significant landmarks including the Ayazma Church and the iconic Taksiarhis Church–Mosque, both remarkable for their architectural beauty and historical importance. In the evening, we drive to the stunning viewpoint of Şeytan Sofrası (Devil’s Table), one of Ayvalık’s most famous natural terraces. Here, we enjoy free time to witness a spectacular sunset, where the sky glows over the shimmering waters of Ayvalık Bay a truly unforgettable sight. After soaking in the breathtaking views, we proceed to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in Ayvalık.

After breakfast and checkout, we begin our day with a visit to Küçükköy (Mikrohorio), one of Ayvalık’s most charming and photogenic Greek villages. Its narrow stone streets, beautifully restored houses, and peaceful village squares offer a delightful glimpse into its Greek-Ottoman heritage. Here, we enjoy tasting freshly made Bosnian pastries, a specialty of the region, followed by a relaxing coffee break in the courtyard of the historic Athanasios Church Mosque. Surrounded by old stone walls and tranquil village scenery, this setting is perfect for capturing unique photographs. We then proceed to Bergama (ancient Pergamum), located about an hour away. Our exploration begins at the famous Asklepion, one of the oldest healing centers of the ancient world, renowned for its advanced medical practices and therapeutic structures. We continue to the majestic Acropolis, perched dramatically on a hilltop and home to ancient temples, theatres, monumental gates, and sweeping panoramas of the surrounding landscapes. After immersing ourselves in the region’s rich history, lunch is arranged at a local restaurant. Following lunch, we drive to Kuşadası, making an important stop at the House of the Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site believed to be the final home of Mother Mary. This peaceful stone sanctuary, surrounded by pine forests, offers a spiritual and serene atmosphere. Upon arrival in Kuşadası, we check in to our hotel. The evening is free to relax as we enjoy dinner and settle in for a comfortable night.

After breakfast and checkout, we begin our journey toward Izmir, with our first major stop at the Ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most spectacular and best-preserved classical cities of the Roman Empire. As we walk through its grand marble streets, we encounter remarkable historical landmarks including the Roman baths, the impressive Library of Celsus, and the towering Great Theatre, which once hosted thousands of spectators. The archaeological site offers a vivid window into life during the Roman era, making it a highlight of the trip. We then proceed to the charming town of Selçuk, where lunch is arranged at a local restaurant, giving us a taste of regional Turkish cuisine. After lunch, we continue our scenic drive to Pamukkale, world-famous for its surreal white travertine terraces, mineral-rich pools, and natural thermal waters. Upon arrival in Pamukkale, we check in at our hotel. The evening is free to enjoy dinner and relax, preparing for another day of exploration.

After breakfast, we check out and begin our long but beautiful journey towards Cappadocia, one of Turkey’s most enchanting regions. Along the way, we make an important stop in Konya, a city deeply rooted in spiritual heritage. Here, we visit the Mevlana Museum, a serene and historically rich complex dedicated to the great Sufi poet and mystic Rumi, as well as the traditions of the Whirling Dervishes. The museum’s turquoise-domed structure, peaceful courtyards, and spiritual atmosphere offer a meaningful glimpse into Turkey’s cultural and religious history. Following our visit, we enjoy lunch at a local Turkish restaurant, sampling authentic regional dishes. We then continue our scenic drive across the Anatolian plains toward Cappadocia, a region famed for its surreal landscapes, fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and ancient volcanic formations. Upon arrival in Cappadocia, we proceed to our hotel for check-in.

Early in the morning, we have the optional opportunity to experience the world-famous Hot air balloon ride, offering breathtaking views of Cappadocia’s fairy-tale landscape (subject to weather conditions). After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our full-day exploration of this fascinating region. Our first stops are Pigeon Valley and Lovers Valley, where we admire sweeping panoramas of volcanic rock formations, ancient cave dwellings, and dramatic cliffs. We then proceed to the Ozkonak Underground City, an extraordinary multi-level settlement carved deep beneath the earth, showcasing the remarkable engineering of ancient civilizations. Next, we visit the pottery workshops of Avanos, a town renowned for its traditional clay art crafted from red river mud. Here, we observe skilled artisans at work and even try our hand at pottery making. Lunch is served at a local Turkish restaurant, offering delicious regional delicacies. After lunch, we continue to Paşabağ (Monks Valley), famous for its iconic fairy chimneys, followed by a visit to the Zelve Open-Air Museum, a stunning monastic complex featuring rock-cut churches and centuries-old frescoes. In the evening, we return to our hotel to freshen up and enjoy dinner. Later, we experience the lively and colorful Turkish Night Show, featuring traditional folk dances, music, and unlimited local drinks. It is a perfect way to immerse ourselves in Cappadocia’s vibrant culture before heading back to the hotel.

After breakfast, we check out from our hotel and transfer to the airport for our domestic flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, we are welcomed and proceed directly for a panoramic city tour of Istanbul aboard luxury AC coaches. Our sightseeing begins at the Hippodrome, the historic center of Byzantine public life, where we see the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the German Fountain. We then visit the magnificent Blue Mosque, famous for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and grand architecture. Next, we continue to the Topkapi Palace, once the imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans. Here, we explore its courtyards, pavilions, and the rich collections that showcase centuries of royal heritage. We then make a Visit at the Hagia Sophia, capturing its iconic structure from the outside. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, we proceed to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. With thousands of shops offering jewelry, leather goods, spices, carpets, and souvenirs, it is a delightful place to explore and shop. Later, we transfer to our hotel for check-in.

After breakfast, we begin our day with a visit to the picturesque Pierre Loti Hill, where we ascend by a scenic cable car ride. At the top, we enjoy a relaxing coffee break while taking in panoramic views of the Golden Horn, a perfect opportunity to capture beautiful photographs of Istanbul’s historic skyline. We then continue to the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture designed by the great architect Mimar Sinan. Its grand courtyards, elegant domes, and serene interior offer a peaceful and inspiring experience. Lunch is served at a local Turkish restaurant, after which we proceed to the colorful and aromatic Spice Market. Here, we explore stalls filled with Turkish delights, herbs, traditional teas, dried fruits, saffron, and perfumes—an ideal place for shopping and soaking in the lively atmosphere. In the evening, we embark on a Private Bosphorus Cruise, gliding between the continents of Asia and Europe. As we sail past palaces, bridges, and waterfront mansions, the beauty of Istanbul comes alive from the water. The night concludes with a festive Gala Turkish Night, featuring dinner, live folkloric performances, traditional music, and unlimited local drinks. It is an unforgettable celebration of Turkish culture and entertainment.

After breakfast and completing our checkout, we set out to explore the beautiful Asian side of Istanbul. Our first stop is the iconic Çamlıca Hill, where we enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city spread across both continents. We take some time here for a relaxing coffee break and to capture memorable photos. We then proceed for a brief photo stop near the famous Leander’s Tower (Maiden’s Tower), an elegant structure standing off the coast with a rich history and charm. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, we transfer to the airport to board our Oman Air flight to Muscat, bringing our delightful Turkish journey to a close as we fly home with wonderful memories.

We board our connecting flight to Cochin, arriving with wonderful memories of Turkey’s history, culture, landscapes, and warm hospitality.