Treasures of Turkiye Istanbul, Ancient Ephesus & Cappadocia

You’re on your way to Turkiye, a country straddling two continents (Europe and Asia) and brimming with rich culture, diverse people, and sublime landscapes. From the vast Greek and Roman archeological sites dotting the countryside to the modern cultural hub and historic city of Istanbul, Turkiye is a confluence of past, present, and future and its customs, traditions, and values. Born out of the Silk Road trade and its nomadic path, Turkiye’s heritage is layered like an intricately woven carpet.

Welcome to Istanbul, the bridge between east and west, and a hub of intermingling cultures, complex history, and legendary architecture. Settle into your hotel for the next three nights, and then meet your fellow travelers at a welcome briefing before taking the rest of the evening to relax as you please.

Today, sample some of Istanbul’s most iconic sites, which connect Greek-Roman heritage with Ottoman-Islamic Art. First is the 17th-century Blue Mosque with its impressive domes and minarets, followed by Hippodrome, the former sporting and social center of the Roman Empire. Visit Hagia Sophia (UNESCO), a church-turned-mosque and a true embodiment of Byzantine Architecture, and then Topkapi Palace and Harem, former home to the Ottoman Sultans. While exploring the city’s legendary history and architecture, please know that Istanbul is also known for its legendary traffic, which is also an iconic experience — one that requires great patience! This evening, gather at a local restaurant where the chef will delight you with Ottoman-inspired cuisine.

Explore Turkiye’s culinary heritage as you taste your way around Istanbul’s Golden Horn district during a walking tour that includes a visit to the city’s famous Spice Market and multiple tastings of Turkish specialties sampled from local street vendors. This afternoon, take in Istanbul’s majestic skyline as you sail between two continents during a cruise of the Bosphorus Strait, which divides Europe from Asia. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore. Perhaps you’ll visit the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, home to rare artifacts, sculptures, and one of the most important collections of woven carpets in the world, some dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Or, choose to go on an optional excursion to an historic Hammam, where you’ll enjoy an authentic Turkish scrub and foam bath.