PREMIUM TURKEY TRIP

Day 1: Istanbul

Welcome to Turkey Trip! We will be waiting you at the airport with the Majesty Uk Travel sign for your transfer to the hotel.

Istanbul is a city steeped in history and culture, with a wealth of breathtaking sights to see and experiences to enjoy. From the stunning Blue Mosque to the bustling Grand Bazaar, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Istanbul is one of the great cities of the world with a history spanning thousands of years. It has been through several incarnations, firstly as Byzantium, then Constantinople and finally Istanbul. The city straddles between Europe and Asia and because of this, it was an important stop on the old Silk Road, exploring its rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious food. Turkish food is a hearty mix of Middle Eastern, Asian and Balkan style dishes.

For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 7pm for the welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Istanbul Airport (IST), which is about one hour and 30 minutes' drive or Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), which is around two hours' drive from the city centre, depending on traffic, which can be heavy at times.There are no other activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Istanbul at any time.  

Accommodation
Hotel – 5 - 4 Star or Similar

Included Activities
Group Meeting

Optional Activities
Group Dinner

It is essential
It is a top priority, please make sure that you have your insurance with you and it is important that you attend the welcome meeting (between 6 – 7 pm) as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

DAY 2 : Istanbul City Tour

As the sun rises, we set out to uncover the hidden gems of Istanbul's charming old town. Meander through its ancient alleys and cobblestone streets, stopping at iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and the Hagia Sophia. Later in the day, you have the option to take a cruise down the Bosphorus river and witness the breathtaking skyline of Istanbul.

Sail along the winding strait that divides Europe and Asia, taking in the sights of the historic wooden mansions, Ottoman palaces, and ancient fortresses that adorn the riverbanks. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to soak up the beauty and culture of this vibrant city. Enjoy dinner and a comfortable night's rest in Istanbul.

Accommodation
Hotel 5 – 4 Star or similar (1 night)

Meals Included
Breakfast

Included Activities
Sightseeing of Blue Mosque
Sightseeing of Hagia Sophia
Sightseeing of Topkapi Palace Museum

Optional Activities
Bosphorus Boat Cruise – EUR 15

Entrance Fees
Blue Mosque – Free
Hagia Sophia – Free
Topkapi Palace Museum – 200 TL

Day 3 : Istanbul / Canakkale

Rise and shine for an early breakfast, then begin the drive to Çanakkale through rich farmlands and along the southern shore of the Sea of Marmara. Reaching the Dardanelles, the strait which connects the Sea of Marmara with the Aegean Sea.

Canakkale is a port city located on the shores of the Dardanelles. Arrive in time to buy yourself some lunch, then head to the Gallipoli Peninsula, the site of the ANZAC landings one of the most disastrous Allied campaigns of WWI. Thousands from across the world make the journey here each year to pay respect to those who lost their lives in the battles of 1915. Tour the former battlefields and find remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers. Head up to the memorials of Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair while your leader explains the significance of the events that took place across the landscape. Look down upon the rough hills and gullies that became the graveyard for so many thousands of young men on both sides. Dinner and overnight in Canakkale.

Accommodation
Hotel 5 – 4 Star or similar (1 night)

Meals Included
Breakfast , Dinner

Included Activities
Gallipoli - Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair

Day 4: Canakkale - Kusadasi - Selcuk

After breakfast we drive to Selcuk with a stop en route in Troy, where history and mythology sit side by side. Troy was made famous by Homer’s Iliad, the epic account of the Trojan War. Your leader will take you around the ancient city walls, and there will be time for a photo op with a replica Trojan horse.

We will then depart to the traditional farming village of Selcuk. Your tour guide will take you around the town and the slopes of Ayasoluk Hill in the afternoon. See the 14th-century Isa Bey Mosque, the imposing the Grand Fortress and the ruins of the Basilica of St John. According to Christian lore, St John came to Ephesus with the Virgin Mary from Jerusalem and lived here until his death sometime around AD 100. The basilica stands over his alleged burial site. Your evening is free. / Check out our epic “ Seven Churches Tour “. 

Accommodation
Hotel 5 – 4 Star or similar (1 night)

Meals Included            
Breakfast, Dinner

Included Activities
Troy - Archaeological site visit Selcuk
Isa Bey Mosque
Basilica of St John

Admission Fee: (per person)
Troy - Archaeological site visit - TRY 75
Selcuk - Basilica of St John - TRY30

Day 5 : Selcuk (KUSADASI) - EPHESUS

After the breakfast, we will drive to one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world – Ephesus. Located in the modern town of Selcuk, ancient Ephesus is one of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in Turkey.

Originally an ancient Greek iconic city built in the 11th century B.C., Ephesus grew to become the largest metropolis and capital of the Roman province of Asia Minor. This political influence and the city’s large Jewish community attracted the attention of the apostles, including Paul. Join your knowledgeable tour guide and transport yourself back in time as you walk the same paths that ancient rulers Cleopatra and Mark Antony once strolled. 

This afternoon there is an opportunity to visit Meryemana (Mary's House) the site where the mother of Jesus is believed to have spent the last days of her life with the Apostle John.

Late afternoon head to the small village of Sirince to taste the local fruit wine and enjoy sunset. This small village is dedicated to carpet weaving, and here you can discover all about this traditional art form, from dying the wool to traditional weaving on wooden looms. Regardless if you are in the market for a new rug or not this is an opportunity to support local weavers enjoy some Turkish hospitality, over a cup of tea of course, and discover the beauty of Turkish Rug Making. We will end our day in Sirince, Dinner and Overnight in Kusadasi. 

Accommodation
Hotel 5 – 4 Star or similar (1 night)
          
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner

Included Activities
Ephesus Ancient city - St. John's Basilica – Archaeological Site
Meryemana (Mary's House)
Visiting Sirince - Fruit wine tasting

Admission Fee: (per person)
Ephesus and Terrace Houses entry – TRY 45 In Total 165 TRY
Meryemana (Mary's House) – 10 TRY

Day 6 : Selcuk - Dalyan – Gocek – Fethiye 

Travel Destinations of the Day, Dalyan, Kaunos King Tombs, Caretta Caretta, Iztuzu Beach,Gocek and Fethiye. After breakfast at the hotel in the morning, we head to Dalyan. Dalyan is a charming town with a rich history and plenty of must-see highlights. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of the city, take a boat tour to see the stunning Iztuzu Beach, or visit the Dalyan Mud Baths for a unique and relaxing experience. We see the rock-carved KING TOMBS by listening to the story of Byblis and Kaunos, the legends of which are told by word of mouth, on the canal boat that we will board from here.

Afterwards, we go to İZTUZU beach, the most famous spawning area in Turkey for the Caretta Caretta sea turtles, which are in danger of extinction. After our swimming break here, we follow the canal with our boat again and reach our bus.

It is time to drive to Göcek, one of the world's leading yacht centers. Gocek is a beautiful, peaceful town with a rich history and plenty of natural beauty to explore. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore ancient ruins, or enjoy the yachting scene, Gocek is a destination that has something for everyone. After the free time given in the bazaar of thisdecent coastal settlement, we reach Fethiye. Leaving Dalyan with the smell of the sea on us, overnight at our Hotel in Fethiye.

Accommodation
Hotel – 5 - 4 Star or Similar 

Meals Included
Breakfast,Dinner 
Dinner: It is served as an open buffet or set menu at the hotel, included in the tour fee.
Breakfast: Open buffet or set menu at the hotel, included in the tour fee. 

Included Activities 
Sightseeing of Gocek town
Dalyan town

Optional Activities
Dalyan canal Boat Trip – 50 EUR ( Included Lunch " Open Bufet " , Kaunos King Tombs, Caretta Caretta, Iztuzu Beach, Ancient Mud Bath)

Day 7 : Fethiye – Pamukkale - Antalya

Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Pamukkale, also known as the "Cotton Castle," where you can witness the unique white terraces made of travertine and dip your feet in the thermal waters that flow down from the hilltop. Explore the archeological remains of Hierapolis, a significant site for early Christianity, as Paul's missionary efforts here are well documented in Colossians 4:13. The thermal pools in Hierapolis were used to treat various ailments, making it a healing center. Stroll among the well-preserved Roman structures like the town theatre and Temple of Apollo before continuing your journey to the ancient city of Laodicea. Though the city is now in obscurity, you can still see traces of the theatre and the church Laodicea. Explore the site's well-preserved stadium, gymnasium, and theatres, and gain insight into the city's former prominence. After a day full of exploration, enjoy a delicious dinner and a comfortable overnight stay in Antalya.

Accommodation
Hotel 5 – 4 Star or similar (1 night)

Meals Included
Breakfast , Dinner

Included Activities 
Sightseeing of Pamukkale “Cotton Castle
Sightseeing of Hierapolis and Eskihisar ( Laodicea ) ancient cities

Admission Fee: (per person)
Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park TRY - 110
Eskihisar ( Laodicea ) – 37 TRY

Day 8 : Antalya

After breakfast your Guided Coach will take you to a nature fix, Duden Waterfalls is a lovely spot to relax,visit to Antalya Archaeology Museum,Aspendos,Side. There are two sets of waterfalls, the Upper Duden Waterfall and the Lower Duden Waterfall. The Lower Duden Waterfall is particularly impressive as it falls directly into the Mediterranean Sea.

The Antalya Archaeology Museum is one of the largest and most important museums in Turkey. The museum features exhibits that showcase the rich history of the region, including artifacts from ancient civilizations such as the Hittites, Greeks, and Romans. Aspendos city is known for its impressive Roman theater, which is one of the best-preserved theaters from the ancient world. Side town is known for its beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and charming old town.

Accommodation
Hotel 5 – 4 Star or similar (1 night)                     

Meals Included
Breakfast

Included Activities
Duden Waterfalls
Antalya Archaeology Museum

Optional Activities
Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City – EUR 15

Admission Fee: (per person)
Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City - TRY60
Duden Waterfalls – TRY 10
Antalya Archaeology Museum – TRY 90

Day 9: Antalya – Konya

This morning our coach take you to the Konya and meet the diverse Turkish culture and its various facades today. Konya Mevlana, also known as Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, is a prominent figure in Islamic history and culture. He was a Persian poet, scholar, and Sufi mystic who lived in Konya, Turkey, during the 13th century.

Mevlana's teachings are centered around the concept of love, and he believed that love was the key to achieving spiritual enlightenment and connecting with God. He is perhaps best known for his poetry, including his most famous work, the Masnavi, which is considered a masterpiece of Persian literature.

Get your bearings on an orientation walk with your leader and enjoy a refreshing drink in one of the many tea gardens. After a long day of cultural discovery, relax at your hotel and join your group over dinner at the hotel.   

Accommodation
Hotel 5 – 4 Star or Similar (1 night)

Meals Included
Breakfast , Dinner

Included Activities
Konya Sightseeing & Mevlana Museum

Day 10: Konya - Cappadocia

This morning after breakfast,we set off on our journey to Cappadocia,your Guide will take you to Goreme, Cappadocia, a city made from the soft volcanic rock of the region. The region is characterized by its unusual geological formations, including fairy chimneys, tall spires of rock created by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. These formations have been shaped over time by wind and erosion to create a landscape that is both striking and surreal.

The area has been inhabited since ancient times, and its underground cities and cave dwellings were once used as shelter by early Christians. Many of these cave dwellings and underground cities have been preserved and are open to visitors. On arrival stretch your legs with an orientation walk with your leader. This area is famed for its unique geological formations and a history that stretches back to before the Hittites (2000 BC). We will explore the lunar landscape of Cappadocia. Overnight in Cappadocia.

Accommodation
Hotel 5 – 4 Star or Similar (1 night)

Meals Included
Breakfast

Included Activities
Cappadocia - Valley walk

Optional Activies
Turkish Bath - Hammam EUR 35

Day 11 : Cappadocia

Arfter breakfast we will explore Goreme and surrounds,with our Tour Guide,including the World Heritage-listed UNESCO Goreme Open Air Museum,site featuring a complex of churches, chapels, and monasteries carved into the rock, and the Uchisar Castle, a fortress built into a towering rock formation. Here you will discover the complex network of underground tunnels, storerooms, burial chambers and chapels dating back to various eras.

Together with the unique geology, each civilization and culture have shaped this marvellous heritage over thousands of years into a one-of-a-kind experience for all travellers.   If you’re a hiker, you may like to walk the valleys of Red, Rose, or Love.

Accommodation
Hotel 5 – 4 Star or Similar (1 night)

Meals Included
Breakfast

Included Activities
Goreme Open Air Museum Visit
Sightseeing of Cavusin
Sightseeing of Pigeon Valley
Sightseeing of Uchisar
Sightseeing of Avanos
Sightseeing of Pasabagi
Sightseeing of Devrent Valley           
Cappadocia - Goreme - Open Air Museum - TRY45 / Admission Fee
Cappadocia - Derinkuyu Underground City - TRY60 / Admission Fee
Cappadocia -Kaymakli Underground City - TRY60  / Admission Fee

Optional Activities
Turkish Night Show ( Dinner Included ) – 45 EUR
Goreme - Hot Air Balloon, Cappadocia Regular Flight – EUR160
Goreme - Hot Air Balloon, Cappadocia Deluxe Flight - EUR250

If you are interested in an optional hot air balloon ride, please speak to your trip leader on Day 1. The cost of this activity varies depending on what type of flight you choose. This activity can only be booked locally (please bear in mind that this optional experience is dependent on weather conditions).

Day 12 : Cappadocia - Istanbul

Your Majesty Uk Travel Premium trip comes to an end after your flight to Istanbul.  Check-out time is 11 am. If you wish to spend some more time in Istanbul or Cappadocia we would be happy to organize additional accommodation(s) for you (subject to availability). Transfer to Airport.
Dear Majesty Uk Travel guests, thank you for choosing us, see you next Majesty Uk Travel organization.

Meals Included
Breakfast