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ITINERARY
Arrive in Istanbul where you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel.
This evening, enjoy a cruise along the Bosphorus. Traditional excursion by boat along the waterway separating Europe and Asia. Explore the sights of the European side of the city for around 1 hour, passing historical monuments such as Galata Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, the Ortaköy Mosque and the fortress of Rumelihisarı, built by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II in the 15th century.
Continue to the second bridge to head to the Asian side of Istanbul. Visit Küçüksu Palace, built in the 19th century as a hunting lodge for the Ottoman sultans. Make your way back to the city center, following the Asian coast, and get a look at the Anatolian Fortress (Anadoluhisarı) and Turkey's oldest military school at Kuleli Military High School.
Admire the elaborate Beylerbeyi Palace, built as a summer residence for the Ottoman rulers in the 1860s, and see the Maiden’s Tower guarding the entrance to the Bosphorus Strait as you get ready to disembark.
Overnight in Istanbul.
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for guided city tour of Istanbul. Today you will visit Topkapi Palace. The great palace of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The palace houses an exquisite collection of crystal, silver, and Chinese porcelain. Robes worn by the sultans and their families, the famous jewels of the Imperial Treasury, miniatures, and the Holy Mantle; enshrining relics of the Prophet Mohammed. Next on the list is the Sultan Ahmet Imperial mosque. Across from St. Sophia built in the 16th century by the architect Mehmet, is known as the Blue Mosque because of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles, unique with its six minarets.
Outside the Blue Mosque we find the Hippodrome. The Ancient Hippodrome was the scene of chariot races and entertainment. The Hippodrome comprises of three monuments; the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine.
After a short enjoyable lunch break we head to the Grand Bazaar for shopping. After the shopping tour return to your hotel.
Overnight in Istanbul
After an early breakfast in your hotel transfer to Istanbul’s new airport to board a morning flight to Izmir (Flight must arrive Izmir by 09:05 am. Flight cost not included). Upon arrival at Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport meet our representative and proceed for a full-day tour of Ephesus.
Absorb yourself in history with a guided tour of the site of one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the world, the site of the Temple of Artemis and the ancient city of Ephesus.
Feel the mystical atmosphere of the city and stadium where chariot and horse races were once held. You will also have the chance to experience some Turkish handicrafts and to visit the pilgrimage point claimed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary. Your day ends with a visit to Sirince Village which is located on the top of a mountain and famous for its local wines which you can taste.
After the tour check into your hotel in Kusadasi and relax for the rest of the evening.
Overnight in Kusadasi
This morning, post breakfast, drive to Pamukkale for full-day tour.
Visit the Cotton Fortress and Hierapolis Ancient Site, including magnificently preserved Necropolis, the main street gates, the thermal baths, the Greco Roman theatre and the Basilica of St. Philippe. Swim in a therapeutic bath of hot spring mineral waters for relaxation.
Thereafter, return to your hotel.
Overnight in Kusadasi.
After breakfast at hotel check out and transfer to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to connect your flight to Istanbul and onwards home with wonderful memories of your Turkish Experience with Airtours Holidays India!!