6 Days / 5 Nights

Tour overview:
Istanbul is the only city in the world built on two continents and its vast cultural diversity reflects the dual personality of East meets West. Bazaars and ultra-modern shopping centers, street vendors and stockbrokers, old crumbling buildings and skyscrapers coexist like an intricately woven carpet. Izmir brings a vast collection of historical sites including Ephesus, a jewel of the ancient world and a glimpse of an exceptionally well preserved Roman city.

Day 1 - Istanbul
Arrive to Istanbul, Turkey, where you are met and escorted to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 2 - Istanbul – City Sightseeing
Start a leisurely day, visiting the historical Spice Market, and continue by boat for an excursion along the Bosphorus. After lunch, drive to the Asian side via Bosphorus Bridge and visit Beylerbeyi Palace and Camlica Hill. (BL)

Day 3 – Istanbul – City Sightseeing
Today take a full day classical tour of Istanbul, including the ancient Roman Hippodrome (center of the chariot races) and the Blue Mosque. We continue on to Topkapi Palace, St. Sophia Museum, and the historical Grand Bazaar. (BL)

Day 4 - Istanbul / Izmir
Transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Izmir. Arrive and transfer to your hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure. (B)

Day 5 – Izmir - Ephesus
Full day tour of the Greco-Roman ruins at Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John. (BL)

Day 6 - Izmir / Depart Istanbul
Morning transfer to the airport. Return flight to Istanbul. Connect with your departure flight. (B)