TÜRKİYE

Day 1–3: Istanbul – The Crossroads of Empires

Formerly Byzantium and Constantinople, Istanbul was the capital of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. It connects Europe and Asia through rich history and diverse neighborhoods.

• Hagia Sophia – A 6th-century monument that served as church, mosque, museum, and now again a mosque.
• Blue Mosque – Famous for its İznik tiles and grand Ottoman architecture.
• Topkapı Palace – Former Ottoman headquarters with relics, gardens, and museum collections.
• Basilica Cistern – Underground marvel with Medusa-head columns from the 6th century.
• Galata Tower – A panoramic view from this 14th-century Genoese-built watchtower.
• Istiklal Avenue & Kadıköy – Bustling areas reflecting modern Turkish life.

Day 4–6: Izmir – From Smyrna to a Modern Republic

Izmir, once ancient Smyrna, has evolved from Greek roots to a key Ottoman and now modern Turkish city. A hub of independence, it’s vibrant and full of charm.

• Konak Square & Clock Tower – A symbol of Izmir with a clock gifted by Kaiser Wilhelm II.
• Kemeralti Bazaar – A lively historic market area from the 17th century.
• Ephesus – Roman capital of Asia Minor. Accessible via train and minibus or organized tour.
• Alaçatı & Urla – Quaint Aegean towns known for vineyards and arts.

Day 7–8: Pamukkale/Denizli – Sacred Waters of Hierapolis

• Hierapolis – An ancient Roman spa city and UNESCO site with temples and one of Anatolia’s largest necropolises.
• Pamukkale Travertines – Terraced white formations from calcium-rich thermal springs.
• Antique Pool – Thermal pool with Roman column ruins, rumored to have been visited by Cleopatra.
• Kaklık Cave – An underground version of Pamukkale, shaped by similar geology.

Day 9–11: Cappadocia – The Land of Volcanic Faith

Cappadocia is a surreal landscape shaped by volcanic activity and inhabited for millennia. Early Christians carved monasteries and homes into soft rock.

• Hot Air Balloon Ride – See fairy chimneys and valleys at sunrise.
• Göreme Open-Air Museum – Byzantine cave churches and frescoes.
• Red & Rose Valleys – Colored rock formations with hidden chapels.
• Avanos – Historic pottery town on the Kızılırmak River.
• Derinkuyu Underground City – 8 levels of tunnels once sheltering Christians.
• Ihlara Valley – A gorge with hiking paths and cave churches.

Day 12: Ankara – The Modern Heart of a New Nation

Ankara became Türkiye’s capital in 1923, representing a shift toward secular republicanism under Atatürk.

• Anıtkabir – Mausoleum of Atatürk with a ceremonial plaza and museum.
• Museum of Anatolian Civilizations – Showcasing 10,000+ years of Anatolian history.
• Hamamönü – Restored Ottoman neighborhood with crafts and tea gardens.

Day 13: Trabzon – Byzantium in the Mist

Trabzon was once the capital of the Empire of Trebizond and an important Silk Road port. It blends Black Sea traditions with Byzantine heritage.

• Sumela Monastery – Built into a cliff in the 4th century with vivid frescoes.
• Boztepe Hill – Sunset viewpoint with ancient legends and local tea spots.