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16 Days 15 Nights
Daily Tour
Unlimited
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The next stop on the itinerary is Istanbul, a city in Turkey that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning architecture. In contrast, ancient traditions and modern-day living coexist in Istanbul. The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. The mosque, with its six minarets and stunning blue tiles, is a must-visit. The Hagia Sophia, a former church turned mosque turned museum, is another must-visit. The building is a testament to the city’s rich history and has been a Christian church, a mosque, and now a museum.
The Grand Bazaar is another highlight of Istanbul. It is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from jewelry to spices to textiles. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs or soak up the bustling atmosphere. If you’re interested in Turkish cuisine, a food tour of Istanbul is a must. Try traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. The city is also known for its street food scene, with vendors selling everything from roasted chestnuts to simit (a circular bread covered in sesame seeds).
Ankara is the capital city of Turkey and the second-largest city in the country after Istanbul. It is located in central Anatolia and has a long history dating back to the Bronze Age. The town is a great place to explore Turkish culture and history. Ankara Castle, also known as the Ankara Citadel, is a must-visit. The castle dates back to the 2nd century BC and has been a strategic location throughout history. Today, the court is home to several museums, after spending a few days exploring Turkey’s vibrant cities and historical sites; the itinerary takes us to our final destination, the ancient city of Ephesus. Located near the western coast of Turkey, Ephesus is a well-preserved archaeological site once one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire. Visitors to Ephesus can wander the streets of the ancient city, marvel at the well-preserved ruins, and learn about the city’s fascinating history.
The city of Ephesus dates back to the 10th century BC when the Greeks founded it. However, it wasn’t until the Roman era that the town became one of the most important cities in the world. During this time, the town was a bustling center of trade and commerce, and it was known for its impressive architecture, including the famous Library of Celsus, which still stands today. One of the most popular sites to visit in Ephesus is the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although the temple no longer exists, visitors can still see the remains of the massive foundation and columns that once supported the structure. Another must-see site in Ephesus is the Grand Theatre, which could seat up to 25,000 spectators and was used for various events, including gladiator games, plays, and concerts.
Other notable sites in Ephesus include the Temple of Hadrian, the Terrace Houses, and the House of the Virgin Mary. The Temple of Hadrian is an impressive structure with intricate carvings and decorations. At the same time, the Terrace Houses provide a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy residents of Ephesus during the Roman era. The House of the Virgin Mary is a holy site for Christians and is believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary. Aside from the historical sites, Ephesus also allows visitors to explore the city’s many markets and bazaars. The streets are lined with shops selling traditional Turkish goods such as rugs, ceramics, and spices. The city’s food scene is also worth exploring, with traditional Turkish dishes such as kebabs, meze, and baklava being some of the most popular items on the menu.
In addition to exploring the city of Ephesus, visitors can also participate in various outdoor activities in the surrounding area. The nearby Dilek Peninsula National Park offers hiking, swimming, and wildlife-watching opportunities. At the same time, the Kusadasi Marina is the perfect place to try water sports such as windsurfing and sailing. Overall, the itinerary of Colombia, Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring vibrant cities and learning about the rich history of Turkey to relaxing in natural hot springs and taking in the unique landscape of Cappadocia. Each destination offers something special and memorable, making this itinerary an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the best of South America and Turkey in one unforgettable trip.
~Arrive in Istanbul and complete immigration procedures
~Meet and greet by the team and transfer to your hotel
~Rest of the day, free to explore the city
~Accommodation provided
~Breakfast at the hotel
~Visit Topkapi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman dynasty for over 400 years.
~Enjoy the architectural ensemble of mansions, courtyards, pavilions, mosques, and gardens.
~Have lunch
~Enter the famous Basilica of Saint Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine religious architecture.
~Visit the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, which dates back to the 17th century.
~Continue your tour with a visit to the Roman Hippodrome
~Rest of the afternoon free to visit the Grand Bazaar
~Accommodation provided
~Breakfast at the hotel
~Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, known for its panoramic views of the city
~Head to the Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Market
~Enjoy lunch
~Free afternoon to explore the Dolmabahce Palace, the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire
~Accommodation provided
~Breakfast.
~Boat ride through the Bosphorus, a 36 km strait connecting the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara.
~Lunch.
~Visit the Museum of the Civilizations of Anatolia, featuring a rich collection of art from the Paleolithic to the Ottoman period.
~Visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the founding leader of the Republic.
~Dinner and accommodation.
~Departure to the region of Cappadocia, known for its unique lunar landscape.
~Breakfast. Lunch.
~Visit the underground city, which served as a shelter for inhabitants in case of invasions.
~Dinner and accommodation.
~Early morning balloon ride (optional).
~Breakfast.
~Full-day tour of Cappadocia, including the Goreme Valley and the Open Air Museum of Goreme, a national park with several religious venues excavated in the rock.
~Lunch.
~Visit to Uchisar, Pasabag, and Avcilar valleys.
~Shopping at craft centers for carpets, onyx, and semiprecious stones.
~Dinner and accommodation.
~Breakfast.
~Visit a Seljuk inn on the legendary Silk Road.
~Lunch.
~Arrival at Pamukkale.
~Dinner and accommodation with access to hot springs and swimming pools.
~Breakfast
~Visit the Field of Hierapolis, famous for its great necropolis, Roman baths, and theater
~Visit Pamukkale, "The Cotton Castle", a marvel of calcareous hot springs that have formed a kind of waterfall that looks like cotton
~Lunch
~Continue to Izmir (or Kusadasi)
~Dinner and accommodation
~Breakfast
~In the morning, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, where according to tradition, Saint John the Evangelist took the Virgin after the crucifixion of Christ fleeing from Jerusalem
~Visit Ephesus, the ancient capital of Asia Minor
~See the site of the Odeon, the Gate of Hercules, the Temple of Hadrian, the magnificent library of Ephesus, the Agora, and the fabulous Greco-Roman theater
Have the opportunity to visit a fur factory
~Lunch
~Free afternoon to enjoy the area
~Dinner and accommodation
~Breakfast
~Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Dubai
~Afternoon/night on board
~Arrival early morning and transfer to the hotel
~Breakfast and free morning
~In the afternoon, experience the famous "Desert Safari."
~Land cruisers or 4x4 trucks will pick you up for an exciting journey through the fantastic dunes of the desert
~Take some unique photos of the Arabian sunset
~Continue to the desert camp, where you'll smell fresh grilled skewer and lamb, bonfires, the smell of traditional water pipes, and the relaxant sounds of Arabic
music, inviting you to an unforgettable night
~After a sumptuous dinner, a dancer will show you the ancient art of belly dance
~Descent through sand and painting with Henna is also included
`Accommodation
~Breakfast
~Panoramic city tour:
~Deira
~Spice Souk
~Dubai Museum
~Jumeirah Mosque
~Burj Al Arab (photo stop)
~Medinat Jumeirah
~Palm Island Jumeirah
~Burj Dubai (tallest building in the world)
~World Trade Center
~Dubai International Financial Center
~Dubai Mall (unique shopping experience)
~Return to hotel at approximately 6:00 p.m.
~Accommodation
~Breakfast
~Departure to Abu Dhabi for a full-day visit with lunch in the capital of the United Arab Emirates
~Jazirra (former residence of Shaikh Zayed)
~Sheikh Zayed Mosque (the third largest in the world)
~Maqta Aly Bridge
~The residential area of the Sheikhs and Abu Dhabi millionaires
~Corniche Road
~Emirates Palace Hotel
~Bateen area (palaces of the Royal Family)
~The Mall Marina (shopping center)
~Return to Dubai
~Accommodation
~Breakfast
~Free day with optional activities such as:
~The water park at the Atlantis Hotel
~Dubai Frame
~Snow skiing at Mall Emirates
~Helicopter ride
~Shopping
~Transfer to the airport at night
~Flight to Istanbul and subsequent connection to Colombia
~Accommodation on flight
Heading Back Home With Lots of Memories.
