The heart of the Holy Roman Empire before the fall of Constantinople (now Istanbul), Turkey is still considered by many to be a cradle of civilization and at the crossroads of the world.  Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Seljuk, Russia, Jewish and Armenian influences are seen today in the architecture, art, and artifacts of this diverse land.

 The Turks consider their country to be a necessary addition to the European Union and welcome visitors from the West with open arms. Although the Turkish people are mostly of the Muslim faith,localities and sites in Turkey are repeatedly mentioned in the Holy Books of both Judaism and Christianity. For example, St. Paul preached here in what was referred to as Asia Minor in the early days of Christianity and several sites referenced in his letters are included in this tour.

 For decades, Turkey has been one of the most popular vacation destinations for Western Europeans, who consider Turkey to be less expensive and as beautiful and intriguing as the Greek Isles, and easily accessible. Although Europeans flock here for the idyllic Mediterranean and Aegean beaches, the beaches are only a hint of the treasures to be found in this ancient land.  Our “Turkey: Treasures and Landscapes” Group Tour gives you the geographical, cultural and historical highlights of a truly magnificent country.

 ISTANBUL

• Three nights at the boutique Galata Anemon Hotel
• Tour of the Blue Mosque, HippodIstanbul, St. Sophia Church, and Grand Covered Bazaar
• Ferry across the Dardanelles Strait to Troy and view its walls and wooden horse
• Visit Topkapi Palace
• Festive welcome and farewell dinners at local restaurants

 CANAKKALE

• One night at the superior first-class Canakkale Kolin Hotel
• Visit Pergamum’s archaeological sites, Asclepion, the Red Basilica, and the Acropolis

 IZMIR

• Two nights at the superior first-class Izmir Anemon Hotel
• Explore the Greco-Roman site of Ephesus: Odeon, Arcadian Way, Gate of Magneisa, Temples of Hadrian and Serapis, Marble Street, Great Theatre, Temple of Diana, and Agora
• Visit Sardis and view the Temple of Cybele and Diana

 PAMUKKALE

• One night at the superior first-class Colossae Hotel
• Visit the city with its white petrified cascade, thermal spring waters, and ancient cemetery of Hierapolis
• Tour Aphrodisias and its extensive archaeological site

 ANTALYA

• Two nights at the superior first class Dedeman Hotel Antalya
• Visit Perge, and Aspendos
• Explore the Antalya Museum, housing Turkey’s finest archeological collections
• Tour Konya and the Mevlana Museum

 CAPPADOCIA

• Two nights at the first-class Lodge Hotel Cappadocia
• Visit Goreme Petrified Valley and its Christian churches
• Explore the potter’s town of Avanos, Citadel of Uchisar, and the underground city of Kaymakli
• Observe carpet weaving and learn about Turkish carpet styles
• Visit the Agzikarahan Kervansaray

 ANKARA

• One night at the superior first-class Dedeman Hotel Ankara
• Visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
• Explore the Citadel, offering a splendid view of Ankara

 BURSA

• One night at the superior first-class Bursa Thermal Hotel
• Visit the Green Mosque, the Green Tomb, and Bursa’s colorful Bazaar

• English-speaking professional guide/tour director throughout
• Daily breakfast, nine lunches, and eight dinners on table d’hote basis, with water, coffee, and tea; wine at welcome and farewell dinners
• Transportation by best available air-conditioned motorcoach or van (depending on size of group)
• All entrance fees for excursions and sites listed in itinerary
• Local taxes and service charges
• Transfers and handling of two medium pieces of baggage
• Gratuities to drivers, porters, waiters, site guides, and guide/tour director for group functions
• Passport wallet, name badge, packing list, luggage tags, travel documents, and maps

• Round-trip, international economy-class air transportation from New York (listed separately)
• Comprehensive insurance coverage at special group rates for trip cancellation or interruption, baggage, illness, and accident