10 DAYS MOSAICS OF TURKEY
Istanbul, Pamukkale, Aphrodisias, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Bergama, Cappadocia
History & Culture
Once home to the glorious Ottoman and Byzantine empires, Turkey’s richly layered history give way to some of the world’s finest ancient monuments, including the famed Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Wander through the atmospheric streets of Istanbul, uncover stories of the country’s finest archaeological masterpieces, and soar above the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.
Arriving into Istanbul, we drive 44km or about 1 hour into the city centre.
Long renowned as the meeting point between Europe and Asia, marvel at gorgeous palaces, castles and villas on a 2-hour private Bosphorus cruise. You will visit one of the largest palaces in Turkey, Dolmabahçe Palace (closed Mon), with its eclectic influences of Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical and Ottoman architectures.
We dedicate the entire day to explore the Sultanahmet historic district, dotted with UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern. Finally, we conclude at the Spice Bazaar to learn about various ingredients stacked in colourful mounds.
Today, we will visit the Topkapi Palace (closed Tue) before the full crowd arrives, once the centre of power of the Ottoman and now a fantastic museum showcasing weapons, jewelleries, miniatures and relics from the Ottoman times. Practice your bargaining skills at the Grand Bazaar (closed Sun). Boasting more than 3,000 shops, it is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered bazaar!
We will discover the lesser-known gems of Istanbul. Step into the Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora with some of the oldest-surviving Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. Continue to the atmospheric Suleymaniye Mosque, located at the highest end of the city.
Afterwards, we drive 43km or about 1 hour to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport.
Take your flight from Istanbul to Denizli.
Arriving in Denizli, we drive 76km or about 1 hour to your accommodation in Pamukkale.
Rise early this morning and beat the crowd into the glistening Pamukkale calcium terraces, before visiting the nearby archaeological sites of Hierapolis and Laodicea.
En route 78km or about 1.5 hours to Aphrodisias, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to the Greek goddess of love surprisingly not overrun by tourists.
After a further 145km or about 2 hours, we retreat into your vineyard accommodation.
Let us whisk you into Ephesus, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. As you wander through monumental UNESCO-listed ruins such as the Temple of Artemis, Library of Celsus, House of the Virgin Mary and the Ephesus Museum, one can imagine how life must have been like at the commercial centre of the ancient world.
Bergama is located 186km or about 2.5 hours per way from Sirince. Once the capital of the East Roman Empire, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bergama is equally impressive, boasting the ancient world’s second largest library, the steepest Theatre of Anatolia, the epic Altar of Zeus, as well as the Roman Medical Center ruins of Asclepion. Take a cable car up to the Acropolis before exploring the lower Agora terraces. Bergama is located 186km or about 2.5 hours per way from Sirince.
Today we will drive 86km or about 1 hour to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport.
You will take a 1.5 hours domestic flight to Kayseri (no direct flights on Wednesday).
From Kayseri, we will drive 74km or about 1 hour to Cappadocia. Enjoy a hike through Rose & Red Valley with its fairy chimneys and colourful sediments, best seen during early morning or late afternoon.
Rise early for a rewarding hot air balloon ride as you soar above the magical landscapes of Cappadocia.
Continue to Goreme Open Air Museum with its unique cave frescoes. Discover the surreal pinnacles and bizarre shapes of Love Valley, Monk’s Valley (Pasabagi), Zelve Valley, Imagination Valley (Devrent), Urgup, Pigeon Valley and Uchisar Castle.
At the end of the day, we transfer 38km or about 45mins to Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport, where you will board your flight home.
Pera Palace Hotel • Doga Thermal Health & Spa Pammukale • DoubleTree by Hilton Kusadasi • Argos in Cappadocia
Istanbul
Built in 1892, this grand hotel has been a symbol of sophistication and charm, hosting illustrious guests throughout the decades. Among its most famous visitors is Agatha Christie, who is said to have written parts of her novel Murder on the Orient Express.
Pamukkale
Providing easy access to the Pamukkale terraces, this 4-star hotel offers modern rooms, spacious garden, pools, relaxing spa and on-site physiotherapy. (Refurbished: 2014; Rooms: 120)
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Kusadasi
We’re located in the heart of Kusadasi, across from the marina on the amazing Aegean coast. Multiple bazaars and the historical City Walls are within two kilometers. Steps from the beach and stunning sunsets with easy access to the Efes Convention Center. Featuring rooms, suites and cottages, an outdoor pool, a spa and fitness center as well as on-site dining.
Cappadocia
The hotel is designed to blend in with the landscape and historical texture of the region and meticulously built in 24 years. Overlooking the Pigeon Valley, Mount Erciyes and fairy chimneys, the 51 rooms on graded terraces offer a unique pastoral feast for the eye. Rooms offering fireplace, terrace or cave alternatives, each room with a different aura and personality, share the same gusto.
The Peninsula Istanbul
Istanbul
Set along the Bosphorus waterfront in the historic district of Karaköy, The Peninsula Istanbul provides a showcase for both vibrant Turkish culture and superlative hospitality within Galataport, a new waterfront revitalisation project. The hotel is comprised of four exquisite buildings – three of them historic and beautifully restored – and welcomes guests arriving by land or sea.
View MorePlease note that all prices provided are indicative and may be adjusted based on your travel dates, party size, and any specific requirements you may have.
Kindly call us at (65) 6219 1359 if you require any immediate assistance.
Personal Particulars
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Call us at +65 6219 1359 or email us at enquiry@intriqjourney.com to start planning for a holiday that is completely tailored to your preferences.
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