Best of Istanbul and Southeast of Turkey
5 Days
Discover the hidden gems of Istanbul and Southeast Turkey! Immerse yourself in rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant cultures. Book now and make your dream trip! Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience. Explore the Itnerary to know more!
- Meet and greet service by our representatives upon your airport arrival
- All transfers by air-conditioned coach
- Lunch during the tours in Istanbul
- Domestic flight ticket from Istanbul to Gaziantep (15 kg luggage + 8 kg handbag)
- Accommodation for 2 nights in Istanbul, including bed and breakfast
- Accommodation for 1 night in Gaziantep based on half board
- Accommodation for 1 night in Kahta based on half board
- Accommodation for 1 night in Şanlıurfa based on half board
- All sightseeing tours, as mentioned above
- Entrance fees to all sites, as indicated on the itinerary
- A local English-speaking tour guide during the tour
- All service charges and taxes
- International Airfare
- Turkey entry visa.
- Any optional tours.
- Personal Spending.
- Domestic flight from Şanlıurfa to Istanbul
Day 1: Welcome to Istanbul
Upon your arrival at Istanbul Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel. This will be your base for an incredible Turkey tour. Take some time to unwind and prepare yourself for the exciting adventures that await you. Remember to meet our representative at Gate Number 8. Discover the wonders of Istanbul with our expertly crafted tours.
Day 2: Full-day tour of Istanbul
Begin your Turkey tour with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before embarking on an exhilarating day of exploring the iconic sights of Istanbul. Your guide will meet you and lead you through an unforgettable journey, starting with a visit to the historic Hagia Sophia structure. Originally built during the reign of Emperor Constantine in the fourth century, this architectural marvel was later transformed into a mosque by the Ottomans in the fifteenth century.
Next, you will be transferred to the breathtaking Blue Mosque. Admire its six minarets and step inside to witness its awe-inspiring interior, adorned with exquisite blue Iznik tiles.
Visit the ancient Hippodrome, where thrilling chariot races once took place. Afterward, delve into the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman Sultans from the fifteenth to the nineteenth centuries. Marvel at its remarkable treasury, serene courtyards, and captivating Harem section. Additionally, explore the pavilions that house a vast collection of antiquities. To top it all off, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar before returning to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Day 3: Bosphorus Day Tour / Fly to Gaziantep
Experience the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere as the locals engage in buying and selling their goods. Don't miss out on the thrilling cruise along the breathtaking Bosphorus River, which serves as a vital link between Europe and the Asian Peninsular. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Camlica Hill's summit for unparalleled panoramic views of Istanbul while crossing over the iconic Bosphorus Bridge.
After exploring Istanbul, you will continue your journey to the Sea of Marmara and the Prince's Islands. A short trip will then take you to Beylerbey Palace, which is located on the shores of the Bosphorus. Considered one of the most elegant late Ottoman palaces, it boasts six lavishly furnished reception halls that add to its grandeur.
During this incredible Istanbul tour, you will have the opportunity to witness remarkable monuments like Dolmabahce Palace, Çiragan Palace, Rumeli Hisarı Castle, and others.
Finally, it's time to transfer to the airport for your flight to Gaziantep. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a delightful dinner and spend a restful night in Gaziantep. This Istanbul tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with architectural marvels and cultural wonders.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 4: Gaziantep - Nemrut - Adiyaman - Kahta
During our Istanbul tours in the morning, we will have the opportunity to explore the renowned Mosaic Museum of Zeugma. This remarkable museum, considered one of the most stunning in the world, showcases the rich history of the Anglo-Hellenic/Roman city of Zeugma. Positioned strategically as a control point over the Euphrates River, this city thrived due to its pivotal role in facilitating commerce between the east and west.
After immersing ourselves in this fascinating museum, we will venture towards Adıyaman. Our journey will transport us to the mystical realms of the ancient kingdom of Commagene. This kingdom was situated "between east and west, between earth and sky," presenting an awe-inspiring blend of cultures and influences.
After that, you will visit the Karakuş Tumulus, an impressive and monumental tomb dedicated to the women of the reigning dynasty. Afterward, we'll continue our journey and pass by the well-preserved Roman bridge (Cendere), constructed by legionaries. Our next destination is the magnificent Nemrut Mountain, where we will navigate through towering rocks to reach both the summit and the base of King Antiochus Epiphanes' grand tomb.
In the mesmerizing "Eastern Terrace", you will have the opportunity to witness a remarkable depiction of the king, seated majestically amidst towering statues of gods that stand an impressive 9 meters tall. Next, we will explore the captivating "Western Terrace" adorned with fascinating statues known as "Belas". After this unforgettable experience, we will descend the mountain and make our way to a comfortable hotel in Kahta for a delightful dinner and overnight stay. Join us on this incredible Istanbul tour and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 5: Kahta - Göbeklitepe - Şanliurfa
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, our next destination will be Şanliurfa. Also known as Edessa in the Hellenistic/Roman era, this vibrant city emerged around a magnificent spring amidst rugged terrain. It is worth noting that Abraham, the revered figure who founded Jewish monotheism, resided here with his clan between Urfa and Harran. Islamic tradition holds that Abraham was born in one of the caves on this rocky formation. Dominating the landscape is a majestic citadel that has stood tall since the time of the Crusades. Every year, thousands of visitors from various Middle Eastern countries, particularly Iran, flock to this remarkable site in pursuit of Abraham's fascinating story.
During your tour Istanbul, you'll have the opportunity to explore the rich history of this fascinating city. As you venture nearby, you'll come across a remarkable 9,000-year-old statue, considered one of the world's oldest. This ancient artifact is closely linked to the discovery of Göbeklitepe and provides compelling evidence that the earliest "civilization" in human history thrived in this very region.
As we journey through the area known as the "sacred fish ponds," we'll eventually arrive at eastern Turkey's largest and most vibrant market. Urfa, once the capital of the kingdom of Osroene, holds a significant place in history as it was the first Christian state ever established. Here, we'll explore the remnants of King Abgar Ukkama's palace, adorned with magnificent mosaics. It is worth noting that King Abgar Ukkama holds his place in history as the world's first Christian king.
Afterword explore the renowned Göbeklitepe site, which is undoubtedly one of the most astounding archaeological discoveries in recent history. This extraordinary site has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of ancient civilizations. At Göbeklitepe, you will encounter a complex of awe-inspiring "temples" adorned with colossal monoliths weighing up to 40 tons. It is truly remarkable when you consider that these structures were erected during a time when metalworking techniques were supposedly unknown. The monuments at this site are estimated to be around 12,000 years old, making them significantly older than any other known historical relics. Moreover, the intricate relief carvings found throughout Göbeklitepe predominantly depict various animal species, adding an additional layer of fascination to this remarkable place.
Continuing our journey, we now venture to Harran, one of the oldest cities in the world and the former capital of planet worshipers. It also held great significance as the capital for both the Assyrians and the Umayyads, who were inhabitants of this mystical region. During our visit, we will explore the medieval citadel, marvel at the magnificent Umayyad Mosque, and admire the iconic conical houses. As we make our way back to Şanliurfa, there will be ample time to immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul's largest and most prosperous market in the entire Eastern region. Our day concludes with a delightful dinner and comfortable accommodation in Şanliurfa.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 6: Final Departure from Şanlıurfa
Once you have finished your breakfast, it's time to check out from your hotel and make your way to the Şanlıurfa airport. This marks the end of our services for now. If you're interested in exploring more, we offer exciting tour Istanbul tours that are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Meals: Breakfast
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