This is a  21 days Turkey tour starts with major sites of İstanbul, it continues to southwest coast through the top must-see spots. Seeing highlights of Cappadocia we follow north east towards Black Sea coast. It is a marvelous combination of the world famous historical sites and unique naturel wonders. The tour offers you a rich itinerary with several world heritage sites and it will definetly fulfill your holiday desires.

DAY 1 Arrival to İstanbul airport. Transfer to the hotel.

Meet our guide and driver at the airport. We drive to the hotel. Depending on the flight time we have an optional orientation walk around the historical peninsula. Stay at the hotel in İstanbul.

DAY 2 Visit Blue mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapı palace.

Today we discover major highlights around Sultan Ahmed Square.We start with Topkapı Palace.It was a residence and goverment quarter of Ottoman Sultans.Palace was built by Sultan Mehmet the Conquerer in 1478 and hosted 25 sultans in 400 years.With its functional simplicity and detailed tile decorations it represents Ottoman classic architecture.We see kitchens,council chamber,sultan's pavilions and treasury section there.Then we pass on to Blue mosque.Its official name is Sultan Ahmed Mosque as it was built during his reign but on account of more than 20.000 blue Iznik tiles, its known as Blue Mosque.Not only a mosque to pray but also it was a social complex of Ottomans consisting of Madrasah,hospice,kitchen and tomb of the founder.We have chance to visit the interior between praying times,it is an active mosque though.We have lunch in one of the Ottoman cusine restaurants in hostorical peninsula.We continue to Hagia Sophia.It was built in 537 AD by Emperor Justinianos and became a symbol of Byzantine Empire.As it was a great example of early Byzantine architecture,Hagia Sophia was taken as a model for many Ottoman mosques.It served as a Greek Ortodox church,Roman Catholic church and Mosque in 14 centuries.It remained as a largest church in the world until Giralda Cathedral was built in Seville.Historical peninsula of İstanbul was listed as a world heritage site in 1985.Then we have free time in the afternoon.Stay at the same hotel in İstanbul.

DAY 3 Vsit Spice Bazaar, Süleymaniye Mosque ,Grand Bazaar and Eminonü area,

Today we explore the local bazaars of İstanbul. We start with Grand bazaar.It was built shortly after conquest of İstanbul in 1455.Having 65 covered streets,mosques and more than 3000 authentic shops,it is considered as a largest covered market in the world.Vendors still follow traditions of 15 th century.No competition is allowed among shops.Valuations are done by the goverment and shops cant raise the prices. They used to pay rents in gold until recently.We walk through the bazaar to Süleymaniye Mosque.It was built in16th century by the great architect Sinan during Sultan Süleyman the magnicifant reign.It crowns one of the seven hills of İstanbul overlooking Golden Horn.Like other imperial mosques it was built as cultural and social complex including madrasah,caravanserai,kitchen and tombs.We continue to Spice Bazaar.On the way we sheer off to visit 17th century Han.We will enjoy the stunning view of Bosphorus from the roof top.Then we experience the atmosphere of Spice Bazaar and have some free time there.Then we return to the hotel.

DAY 4 Drive to Çanakkale,visit battle fields of Galipoli(4hrs)

Today we drive to Dardanel to see the battlefields of Galipoli War.It was one of the compelling fronts of the first world war and has a significant importance for both sides.The war was a turning point of Turkish nation as Atatürk's success during the war led him to establish modern Turkey.The Gallipoli national park was listed in the preserved areas of United Nations in 1973.We visit the strategic spots during the war such as Anzac cove,Lone pine and Chunk bair.Then we pass on to the War Museum.It was recently renovated for the commomerations of the 100th year of the war. We then cross the strait on a ferry to asian part of Çanakkale. Overnight stay in Çanakkale.

DAY 4 Drive to Selçuk, visit Troy and Pergamon(4.5 hrs)

We have a short drive to Troy.The world famous city of Troy was first mentioned in the Homer's Iliad.He tells the story of a war between Greeks and Trojans.Having been spotted first by Heinrich Schliemann in 1871, Troy attracted the world's attention with its foundings. There are 9 cultural layers of civilisations from 3000 BC to 1200 AD. As Homer described '' Great Walls'' can still be seen at the site.We visit the remnants and enjoy the view of the strait.Troy has been the world heritage site since 1998.Then we drive to Pergamon.It was one of the most splendid cities of the Helenistic era.Founded by one of the generals of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC,Pergamon Kingdom reached it's zenith during Attalid dynasty.Shortly it became the rival of Alexandria and Athens.Library in Pergamon was the 2nd largest after Alexandria in the ancient period.Ptolemaic kingdom of Egypt prohibited the export of papyrus so that Pergamese invented a new material called 'Parchment'.The site is situated at the top of a hill. Using a cable car we ascend to the acropolis to see the ruins such as temples, library and a theater. The Theatre of Pergamon is considered to be the steepest of the ancient period. Pergamon was listed as a world heritage site in 2014.We then drive to Selçuk for overnight stay.

DAY 5 Visit Ephesus and Temple of Artemis and Ephesus Museum.

Today we spend half of the day in Ephesus.It is one of the most visited sites of Turkey and listed as a world heritage site in 2015.Ephesus was the largest Greco-roman city of asia minor.Being one of the cities of Ionian League it bacame a cultural and trade center of Asia.It's fame spread out with the largest marble temple of Artemis which was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.Artemis of Ephesus was a Greek form of the mother goddess which symbolize fertility in Anatolia.Ephesus was also a popular destination amongst the first christians. St Paul visited Ephesus in 52 AD but his speech in the grand theatre didn't attract much attention.One of the seven churches of Revelation was in Ephesus.It is thought that the gospel of John might have been written in Ephesus.The site has been under excavation for over 100 years.Only 15 percent of the city has been uncovered.We walk around the beautifully restored ruins,visit spectacular library,grand theatre,monumental fountains and well preserved roman houses.After lunch we visit the Temple of Artemis and Ephesus museum.Stay at the same pension in Selçuk.

DAY 6 Visit Afrodisias, drive to Pamukkale (3hrs)

We set off to Pamukkale.Today we visit an outstanding city of Afrodisias.Being one of the most important cities of Caria,Afrodisias surprises visitors with its well preserved ruins of antiquity.The earliest known settlements date back to Bronze Age.The cult of Ishtar(Mesopotamian goddess of fertility and love) was adobted here and it was transformed to Greek Aphrodite in Helenistic era.Afrodisias had a most efficent sclupture school in Mediterranean.The statues of god and goddess were carved in details with dominant facial expressions.Sclupture competitions were held in the stadium every year.Excavations were started in 1904 by Kenan Erim who devoted his life to the city and passed away just after he erected the Tetrapylon and was buried next to it.Grand stadium,tetrapylon,temple of Aphrodite and sebastion are the top highlights of the city.We stroll around the site then drive to Pamukkale.Overnight stay at the hotel in Pamukkale.

DAY 7 Visit Pamukkale and Hierapolis, Drive to Kaş (4 hrs)

After breakfast we have a short transfer to the white terraces of Pamukkale. Meaning 'Cotton Castle' in Turkish, Pamukkale is a magical wonder of the mother nature. It has been formed by hot springs which contain high amount of calcium bicarbonate.Leaving it's deposits behind,springs cascade down sclupting unique terraces. It seems like a frozen waterfall from distance.We take our shoes off and feel this therapeutic white mud.Then we visit Hierapolis.It is an extensive Greco-Roman city situated just above the white slopes.The Helenistic city was founded in the 2.century BC.After devastating earthquakes city lost its Greek character and rebuilt by Romans.On account of hot springs,the city became an healing center of Romans.After apostle Philip was martyred here,Hierapolis was converted to a pilgrimage spot by early christians.We visit major remnants of the city.Well preserved roman streets,largest necropolis and remarkable theatre,remind us glorious days of Hierapolis.Then drive to Kaş. We follow the spectacular mountain road through the fields and pastoral landscapes. Stay in Kaş.

DAY 8 Visit Xantos and Saklıkent Gorge,

Today we drive to Saklıkent Gorge.It is a 18km long canyon stretches to the slopes of Mt Akdağ.It is the best spot to cool off from the heat.As the water level decrease in summer we have chance to walk through the gigantic side walls.After a short walk we have lunch at one of the authentic restaurants by the river.Then we continue on to Xantos.Xantos was the first capital of Lycians and one of the leading cities of Lycian league.Lycians were one of the earliest civilizations of mediterranean who were fond of their independence.Thus they founded the first democratic union in the history called ''Lycian League''.Ancient writers such as Homer and Heredotus tell the stories of brave Lycian warriors.Xantians commited massive suicides in the history during Persian period in 545 BC and against Roman general Burutus in 42 BC.They set a fire to everything and throw themselves into.Today some remarkable remains of that glorious civilisation are situated on the east bank of Eşen river.Xantos was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1988.Drive to Kaş. Stay at the hotel in Kaş.

DAY 9 Free day in Kaş, Optional excurisons.

Today we have a free day in Kaş.It is a popular but unspoiled,charming old fishing town.White washed houses and narrow streets surrounded by bougainvillea create its unique authenticity.Kaş is a perfect base for all sorts of excursions and it offers you a variety of activities.You can join daily boat trip around sunken city,kayak along the turquoise bays or take a ferry to Greek island 'Kasterolizo' which is just 5 miles away.Kaş is considered as the best diving spot of the country.By joining one of scuba diving tours you can swim with shoal of ornate wrasse or sea turtles.Or you can have a relaxing day and enjoy your cocktail overlooking idylic mediterranean.Stay at the same hotel in Kaş.

DAY 10 Visit Olympos and Chimera, Drive to Antalya.

We drive to Çıralı today.Here,we have an optional hike up to eternal flames of Chimera.Having been in existence for 3 thousand years,its thought to be the first torch of Olympic games.Then we spend afternoon at Olympos.It was one of the six leading cities of Lycian League which is considered as the first democratic union.Owing to its location Olympos becomes a stronghold of pirates and is dismissed from the league.City is divided by Akçay river which was navigable for trade ships, remains are scattered both sides of the river.Olympos beach is one of the nesting spots of Caretta Caretta loggerhead sea turtles.After city exploration,we have a chance to dip into turquoise water then drive to Antalya.Overnight stay in Antalya.

DAY 11 City tour of Antalya. Stay in Antalya

We drive to lower Düden falls. This is the spot where Düden falls into Mediterranean. We enjoy spectacular scenery from the park. Then we carry on to actual springs. We walk around the springs and have coffee break there. We continue to Tünektepe cable car. We ascend to 650 m to the top of Tünektepe hilltop. We enjoy stunning view of Konyaltı Beach and Antalya city. We then head on to Old Town. Antalya Old Town known as Kaleiçi is one of the most visited part of Antalya. From Greeks to Ottomans Kaleiçi has been inhabited constantly. Surrounded by high city walls Old town witnessed earthquakes, fires and wars several times in the history. Today Kaleiçi host a big number of boutiqe hotels, restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. Here, we walk on ancient Roman Streets, visit Hadrian Gate, Hıdırlık Tower and Ottoman Houses. Calling it a day we finish our tour here. Return to hotel

DAY 12 Drive to Konya via Aspendos. (4-5 hrs)

We head off to Konya today.We visit Aspendos en route.Aspendos was a prosperous trade city.Exporting salt,timber and wool and world famous horses.Aspendos reaches it's zenith in the Roman period.World's best preserved Roman theater is a prove of those glorious days.It was built by architect Zeno in 2.century A.D.Due to it's constant use it has been well maintained throughout the history.It hosts annual Opera festivals in the summer.Then we see the aquaducts and drive to Konya.Having been Anatolian Seljuk's capital Konya is full of interesting works from early Turkish-Islamic architecture.It is the birth place of Whriling Dervishes.Mevlevi order was founded by sufi mystic Mevlana Jelal ad-Din Rumi in 13.century.The followers of the order practise a formal ritual called 'Sema'.It represents a mystical journey of man's spiritual ascent through mind and love to the ''Perfect''.This ritual is combined with music and dance.It spread around the world during Ottoman era.It was listed as a Intengible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2008.We visit the Mevlana museum then check in our hotel.Stay at the hotel in Konya.

DAY 13 Visit Kaymaklı underground city and Sultanhanı Caravanserai, Drive to Cappadocia.

Today we drive to Sultanhanı Caravanserai first.Caravanserais were the resting shelters for the traders on the trade routes.They had facilities such as baths,accommodation lodges,shops and veterinaries.They were always built like castles to protect traders and their goods from bandits.Sultanhanı was built by Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat 1 in 1229 AD.With open and enclosed courtyards it is the largest Caravanserai in Turkey.We then continue to Kaymaklı underground city.Underground cities are one of the top highlights of Cappadocia.They were the living quarters and shelters of the locals during war times throughout the history.Although the first inhabitants are thought to be Hittites,most of them were reformed and enlarged by early christian communities against pagan Romans and Arab-Sasanids raids.With long passages,labyrinth tunnels,chapels,vineries and a big number of storages,they are more like subterranean villages with the capacity of thousands.Kaymaklı underground city is one of the largest in the region consisting of 4 floors open to public.It was listed as a World Heritage site in 1985.Then we drive to Urgüp for 2 nights stay.

DAY 14 Visit Göreme Open Air museum, Uchisar castle,Avanos and Paşabağları.

Optional hot air balloon ride in the morning.C appadocia is one of the best hot air balloon ride spots in the world.Early in the morning dozens of balloons take off and form a stunning skyline in the region.As it is the best way to witness the picturesque formations entirely,it has become the most popular activity and highlight of the region.

Today we see the major highlights of Cappadocia.We start with Uçhisar Castle.It is a naturally formed rock structure with full of caves used as dwellings,storages and stalls.As it is the highest spot of central Cappadocia,It was always a strategic point during war times.We walk up to the top of the castle.Then we carry on to Göreme Open Air Museum.Here, we see the best preserved churches of the region.Cappadocia was inhabited by early christians in the 4th century from Caesera(Kayseri).They formed a Monastic life which was flourished and expanded in the 7th century.Monasteries,chapels and cathedrals were carved in to the rocks.Göreme open air museum hosts the best of them that dates back to 11.-12. century AD.It was listed as the World Heritage in 1985.Then we drive to pottery makers town Avanos.It is divided by Red River which is the longest river of the country.With the old Greek houses and charming river side,it is one of the most characteristic town of Cappadocia. Beside tourism and agriculture,pottery making has been dominating the economy of the town for 4000 years.We cross the river on a wobbly bridge and have lunch in the town.Then visit one of the atelier to see the process of the pottery making.Afternoon we drive to Paşabağı.It is also called monks valley as the fairy chimneys(monolith rock formations) were inhabited by hermits,St Simeon's life style was adopted here.We stroll around unique three headed fairy chimneys then pass on to Dervent Valley.It is widely known as imagination valley.Here,valley slopes and hilltops have been formed distinctively as a result of the strong erosion by the wind and floods.Then we return to Hotel.Stay at the same hotel.

DAY 15 Drive to Erzincan via Divriği Ulu Mosque and Medresah. (7 hrs ) Stay in Erzincan.

Today we have a long ride to Erzincan. We stop at Dviriği Mosque en route. It is an a unseco site. This region of Anatolia was conquered by the Turks at the beginning of the 11th century. In 1228–29 Emir Ahmet Shah founded a mosque, with its adjoining hospital, at Divrigi. The mosque has a single prayer room and is crowned by two cupolas. The highly sophisticated technique of vault construction, and a creative, exuberant type of decorative sculpture – particularly on the three doorways, in contrast to the unadorned walls of the interior – are the unique features of this masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Drive to ERzincan. Stay overnight in Erzincan.

DAY 17 Drive to Erzurum visit Yakutiye and Çifte Minareli Medresah. (3 hrs)

Today we drive to Erzurum. The city has always been a point of collision of forces coming from various directions and served as a base of operation. In the 19th century it became the main Ottoman fortress against the Russians who occupied it three times. The resistance against the supreme in powers of the west was initiated with the War of Independence. Atatürk gathered a Congress of National Delegates here on July 23, 1919 where the foundation of national unity and independence were laid down. The Seljuk buildings in the town are remarkable. The Ulu (Grand) Mosque built in 1179 is interesting, with its many columns and seven wide naves. Next door to Ulu Mosque is the Cifte Minareli (Double Minaret) Medrese (theological school), which is the most famous feature of the city. It is a perfect example of Seljuk architecture, the carved portal being particularly fine.Walking south we will see the Three Tombs (Üç Kümbetler). Another interesting tomb is the elegant 13th century Hatuniye Tomb. The Yakutiye Medrese of the 13th century is one of the most important historical monuments of Erzurum with its beautiful portal and richly tiled minaret. Here is an elaborate mosque built by the great architect Sinan in the 16th century, the Lala Mustafa Pasa Mosque. The Aziziye monument commemorating the Turkish - Russian War. We then return to hotel. Stay in Erzurum.

DAY 18 Drive to Borçka via Tortum falls and Georgian churches. ( 4 hrs)

We have a spectacular ride today. We follow beautiful mountain route along villages. We have a chance to see Osvank and Haho Georgian churches. (from outside). Then have a refreshing break at Tortum falls. We have lunch the drive to Borcka where we stay overnight. Stay in Borçka.

DAY 19 Visit Karagöl Lake drive to Rize via Zilkale and Palovit falls.(3.5hrs )

We take one of the local transfer vehicles to drive up to Karagö Lake. Its 1500 metres up on the hill, a beautiful lake with 25 metres deepness. İt is surrounded by forest and national park. We have a short walk around the lake. Then we carry on to Hopa for Lunch. Then we visit spectacular castle, Zilkale. It is believed that the castle was built between the 14th and 15th centuries. The castle consists of the outer walls, middle walls and the inner castle.^[2] There are garrison quarters, and a possible chapel and head tower. Then we pass on to Palovit falls.We ll have a short hike here. Then we drive to Rize for overnight stay.

DAY 20 Drive to Trabzon, Visit Sumela monastery and HagiaSophia Mosque. (2hrs)

We drive to our last destination to Trabzon. First we see Sumela Monastery. Nestled in a steep cliff at an altitude of about 1,200 metres (3,900 ft) facing the Altındere valley, it is a site of great historical and cultural significance within Altındere National Park. During its long history, the monastery fell into ruin several times and was restored by various emperors. During the 6th century, it was restored and enlarged by the Byzantine general Belisarius at the behest of emperor Justinian. Then we visit Hagia Sophia msoque in center of Trabzon and check in our hotel.

DAY 21 Drive to Trabzon airport. Fly to İstanbul.

Fly tto İstanbul airport. Tour ends.