ANCIENT TURKEY

Welcome to Istanbul. You will transferred to your hotel and the remainder of the day is yours, free to explore Istanbul. Overnight Istanbul

Tour the exotic city that spans both Europe and Asia visiting the Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. Overnight Istanbul (B)

After breakfast we drive towards the nation's capital, Ankara to visit Anitkabir, the Mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Ataturk before continuing on to the surreal landscape of Cappadocia.Overnight Cappadocia (B, D)

Today we tour the Goreme open-air museum, Pasabag and Uchisar castle and Kaymakli underground city. Photo opportunities are everywhere so have your cameras ready! Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and at the carpet village we learn how the carpets are made by hand what determines their value. Tonight, don't miss the optional Turkish folklore evening featuring folklore and belly dancers... a night you won't forget! Overnight Cappadocia (B, D)

Leaving Cappadocia we head south along the ancient Silk Road just as the ancient traders did. Along the way we visit Sultanhani Caravansary, before stopping at Konya to tour the Mevlana Museum. Overnight Pamukkale (B, D)

Visit the ruins of Hierapolis, the Temple of Apollo, Necropolis, and stroll over the magnificent white calcium terraces of Pamukkale. We then drive to Aphrodisias, the famous city of Aphrodit. before heading onto the resort town of Kusadasi. Overnight Kuşadası (B,D)

Absorb yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the Temple of Artemis. Feel the mystical atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre. This afternoon we will enjoy a display of locally handcrafted leather goods. Overnight Kusadasi (B, D)

After breakfast, our tour concludes and we say goodbye to our new friends. (B)