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SUGGESTED ITINERARIES

Istanbul, Turkey

Design your own itinerary - Or let us create a special tour just for you! You decide when and where you want to stop, what you want to see, and how long you want to tour. You are free to explore at your own pace.

Give us a list of the sights you wish to see. We will map out the best route to minimize your time getting from one location to the next. If there are any stops that are best left at the end of your day or for another day, we will let you know. You get the maximum benefit for your sightseeing budget.

To ensure that your travels are the most enjoyable, we send only our most experienced chauffeurs & guides to navigate the tours. They are knowlegable and happy to offer personal insights. We want your tour to be memorable.

If you are not sure of exactly what you want to see, just say "Create a tour for me" and we will help plan your itinerary.

Below please take a look at some suggested itineraries :

KUSADASI - No:1
Halfday (4hours) Tour of Ephesus - Ancient Ephesus- Meet with your guide in front of the Kusadasi port passenger Terminal. After a short walk and visit to Caravanserail. Drive to the country. See the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the ancient world. Then a visit to Ephesus is a visit to one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world. Ancient historians believed that Ephesus was founded by the Amazons, but now, it is believed to have been the Hittite city of Apasa. With your guide, you will see the Odeion, where the advisory council held its meetings and the Baths, as well as many other columns, monuments and ruins, including the Celsus Library. En-route to Kusadasi enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity.

KUSADASI - No:2
Fullday (8hours) Tour of Ephesus - Christian Ephesus- Meet with your guide in front of the Kusadasi port passenger Terminal. After a short walk and visit to Caravanserail. Drive to the country. Your first stop on this fascinating tour is at the House of the Virgin Mary. Then, you will continue on to visit ancient Ephesus, one of the most magnificent and best-preserved ancient sites in the world. See the Odeion, the Market Basilica, Curetes Street, Bath, Celsus Library, Marble Street and the Great Theatre with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. After lunch visit the Basilica of St John and see the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the ancient world. En-route to Kusadasi enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity.

KUSADASI - No:3
Fullday (8hours) Priene, Miletus and Didyma - Ancient Sites- Meet with your guide in front of the Kusadasi port passenger Terminal. Following the departure from the pier, the first stop will be Priene. The ancient harbor city of Priene probably changed its location when the silt of the Meander River threatened to bury it. Now it is nearly 16km away from the sea. The original place of the city has never been found but it was probably a peninsula with two harbors. Priene was laid out on a Hippodamian system of grid plan at the foot of a spectacular cliff on mount Mycale and contained many famous examples of Hellenistic art and architecture. All the streets intersect at right angles. Next visit Miletus, an ancient city located near the present Akköy at the mouth of the Buyuk Menderes (meander) River. Miletus owed its importance to its position on the trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the ancient philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Having a prominent position, Miletus became the most important port in this area and it was the most active member of the twelve cities of the Ionian Confederation. From the 7th century B.C. the city has been controlled in turn by the Persians, Roman and Seljuk Turks. The last visit in the tour will be Didyma. The world Didyma meant "twins" and it was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo, which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 12 mile sacred road.

KUSADASI - No:4
Fullday (8hours) Ephesus & Villages - Meet with your guide in front of the Kusadasi port passenger Terminal. Depart the pier for the 30 minute drive to the magnificent site of Ephesus. Ephesus is the best preserved of the Greek/Roman cities in Anatolia and while you are visiting the ancient ruins of this magnificent site and your guide will bring them alive. You will see the beautiful Celsus Library, restored and reconstructed according to its original form by the architect Friedmund Hueber in the 1970's. The most spectacular building of Ephesus is the Grand Theater, built during the Hellenistic age to hold 24,000 spectators. It is there that St. Paul preached. Opposite the Temple of Hadrian are the Hill Houses, homes of Ephesus' wealthy citizens. The city was also the hometown of great philosopher Heraclitus. After a visit to Ephesus Antique Site, you will arrive at Sirince Village. This old Orthodox Village, 30 km from Kusadasi, was once "Cirkince"(ugly). Indeed its inhabitants gave this name on the purpose as they did not want to be bothered by foreigners nor to share the beauty of their village. Still after years, visitors understood that the village was not ugly and called it "Sirince" (pretty). Today the village is a perfect synthesis of Turkish-Greek culture as of the 1920's; after the Turkish Independence War, people exchange between Greek and Turks has occurred and all those typical Greek houses, though they kept their original outside characteristics, have received the local layout inside. At Sirince Village you will have chance of seeing the local life at a village and purchasing some small local souvenirs and handicrafts. The village is also famous for its local grape and other fruit wines. During the lunch, mingle with the local people of the village as you will be a guest in their house for a simple lunch of local specialties. Have a cup of traditional Turkish coffee at the main coffee house of the village. Depending on the number of guests, a gypsy woman telling fortune by looking at the coffee grains remaining in the cup, may be available. Your last stop will be the visit to the Archaeological Museum of Ephesus established in 1929. It displays very interesting and valuable finds from Ephesus.

ISTANBUL - No:1
Halfday(4hours) Tour of Istanbul - Highlights- Meet with your guide in front of the Istanbul port passenger Terminal. Drive along the old city walls and under the ancient Roman aqueduct on the way to St Sophia, the splendid Church of Divine Wisdom built in the 4th century BC. St Sophia's dome was then the largest in the world. After several conquests and pillages, the building was converted into a mosque, but fell into disrepair as the centuries passed. The mosaics were uncovered in the 1900s and the church was dedicated as a Byzantine-Ottoman museum. Your next stop is at the Hipodrome. Nearby is the Blue Mosque, named for its richly adorned interior of magnificent Iznik tiles. Enjoy some time at the Grand Bazaar for some shopping.

ISTANBUL - No:2
Fullday(8hours) Tour of Istanbul- Bosphorus Cruise & Asian Side - After meeting with your guide, proceed through the commercial area passing Ottoman monuments to the famous Egyptian Spice Bazaar (closed on Sunday) for a short visit. Then take the local ferry to start an unforgetable excursion between two continents, Europe & Asia. The cruise takes you along the latest palaces of Ottomans, The Dolmabahce Palace and Beylerbeyi, as well as 19th and 20th century, beautiful wooden Kiosks. Mansions and modern villas which form the elegant section of the city. Enjoy the scenery. After lunch, a pleasant drive to the Asian part of Istanbul through suspension Bosphorus Bridge. Visit Beylerbeyi Palace. The palace was the famous summer residence of the Ottoman Sultans with its magnificent gardens and breathtaking richness. The Beylerbeyi Palace lying on the beautiful shores of the Bosphorus is fully furnished and it is a perfect example of the late Ottoman architecture. Continue to the highest hill of Istanbul called Camlica where you will enjoy a very impressive panoramic view of Istanbul.

ISTANBUL - No:3
Halfday(4hours) Tour of Istanbul- Bosphorus Cruise - Experience a delightful, relaxing sightseeing on this sightseeing tour. After meeting with your guide, proceed through the commercial area passing Ottoman monuments to the famous Egyptian Spice Bazaar (closed on Sunday) for a short visit. Board the local ferry to start an unforgetable excursion between two continents, Europe & Asia. Take the opportunity to be acquainted with Istanbul`s past Ottoman palaces, wooden 19th century waterfront mansions, modern pleasure palaces and fortresses. Enjoy the spectacular scenery and the perfect opportunity for taking photographs along both shores of this fabled waterway. Cruise will end in Sariyer, a charming fishing village located on the Bosphorus near the Black Sea.

ISTANBUL - No:4
Fullday(8hours) Tour of Istanbul - Meet with your guide in front of the Istanbul port passenger Terminal at 8.30am. Drive along the old city walls and under the ancient Roman aqueduct on the way to view the best of Istanbul's stunning architecture and attractions. The impressive Hippodrome is your first stop. Then visit the Blue Mosque named for the vivid Iznik tiles which line its interior. Browse the amazing Topkapi Palace-official residence of the Ottoman Sultans-with courts, pavilions, mosques, fountains and a treasury. Finally, you will stop at the jewel in Turkey's Byzantine crown-the Museum of St Sophia. This splendid Church of Divine Wisdom was originally built in the 4th century AD and was lovingly restored in the 1900s, reflecting the true history of the glorious city of Istanbul. Enjoy some time at the Grand Bazaar for some shopping.

ISTANBUL - No:5
Fullday(8hours)- Cross over Galata Bridge. First visit the Hippodrome where once the Chariots thundered the skies. See Egyptian Obelisk of Theodosius brought from Karnak, the Serpentine Column and the German Fountain of Wilhelm II. Then walk into famous Blue Mosque which is the symbol of Istanbul with its six minarets. See the grandeur of the 16th Century old masterpiece. In the afternoon visit the largest sanctuary of the 6th Century which is known as St.Sophia (Holly Wisdom). See the largest dome which was covering a church, then a mosque and the caleidoscope of colors. Afterwards drive to the outskirts of the Old Town. See the old city walls and the ancient Roman aqueduct. On the way, view the best of Istanbul's stunning architecture and attractions: the shores of the Marmara Sea, the Theodosian land walls where people work in their small gardens and horsecart is still being used for transportation, Tekfur Palace, one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture existing in Turkey and possibly the remains of Blachernae Palace and dungeon.

ISTANBUL - No:6
Fullday(8hours) - Drive to the Old Town. Cross over Galata Bridge to the heart of the town. Arrive to Topkapý Palace Museum. The Palace was the seat of the Ottoman Empire for almost four centuries. Walk thru the courtyards of the Palace, view the Chimneys of the Royal kitchens, the Harem Tower, the Ceremonial Halls, Throne Room, see the Costumes of the Sultans, the Treasury of the Ottoman Empire, the Library and the Pavillions. After lunch proceed to the Grand Bazaar, where handicraft from all over Turkey is displayed in 3.000 shops and stores . Enjoy shopping within this bustling maze of glittering jewels, the sweet scent of incences, radiant Turkish carpets and the vivid sheen of brass and copper. Afterwards drive to Taksim. Walk on the main road of Istiklal Street. See the 19th century buildings, consulates, shops, restaurants, small snack bars, cinemas, etc...End your tour at Pera Palas Hotel, a late 19th century hotel which was built for the use of Orient Express passengers. Pera Palas had been frequented by well-known and highly-placed figures in the world such as: Agatha Christie, Edward V111 of England, Ataturk, Yehudi Menuhin, Marie Bell, Jacqueline Kennedy, Mata Hari Cicero....

ISTANBUL - No:7
Fullday(8hours)- Cross over Galata Bridge, to visit the Mosque of Suleyman, the masterpiece of Turkey’s greatest architect, Mimar Sinan. His patron was Sultan Suleyman, for whom the mosque was named. This magnificent landmark crowns one of Istanbul’s many hills and dominates the Golden Horn. The building is breathtaking in size and pleasing in its simplicity. It features some very fine Iznik tiles and exceptional stained-glass windows. Drive through Fener and Balat, neighborhoods midway up the Golden Horn, whole streets full of old wooden houses, churches, and synagogues date from Byzantine and Ottoman times. The Orthodox Patriarchy resides here at Fener. Eyup, a little further up, reflects Ottoman architecture. Continue to the famed Spice Market which is also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, sample spices and witness the local life. After lunch proceed to the Military Museum where you may see armor, weapons, and displays of Turkish military uniforms from the ages, At 3pm enjoy the concert performed by the colorful military `Mehter` band.....

ISTANBUL - No:8
Fullday(8hours)- discover the riches of Istanbul on the Asian side. Boarding your coach drive over Bosphorus Bridge from European to the Asian side. First visit the Beylerbeyi Palace on the banks of Bosphorus. The Palace was built during the reign of Sultan Abdulaziz and was elaborately decorated. Walk thru the beautifully designed rooms and halls, see the wonderful art of East and West in this Palace. Drive to Üsküdar, see the local market and witness to the Turkish lifestyle. View the Old Town and the European side from Asia. Enjoy llunch in Uskudar. Continue to the highest hill of Istanbul called Camlica where you will enjoy a very impressive panoramic view of Istanbul. Afterwards continue to explore Asian side of Istanbul.See the famous Bagdat Boulevard, Haydarpasa Train Station with Prussia architectural style.

ISTANBUL - No:9
Fullday Tour(8hours)- Horhor & Pera Palas & Turkish Bath Experience - Arrive at a hidden place within the old city center called the Horhor Flea Market. Actually, Horhor is not really a flea market; it is a collection of antique shops that sell collectibles and furniture of varying age and value and a very good place for making interesting finds. After completing your exploration at Horhor, you will move on to the opposite side of Golden Horn, passing the Sirkeci train station, the last stop of the original Orient Express. Leave your vehicle at Karaköy, the old commercial harbor of the Ottoman Empire, and get on the underground train which connects the shores of Golden Horn to the Pera district on the hill. Opened for service in 1880, this is the second oldest underground train in Europe. You will leave the train in the Pera district which houses a wealth of fascinating buildings including churches, historical buildings, picturesque arcades, old Ottoman Hans, consulate buildings, and fine cafés. It is the best example of Istanbul's rich cultural and ethnic mosaic. After a short walk on Istiklal Street, "Grand Rue de Pera," visit the Pera Palas Hotel. The hotel was opened in 1896 in Istanbul next to the old American Consulate building, built in order to host the passengers of the Orient Express train. The train was designed by the French architect Valloury and was renovated keeping all the valuable and unique furniture in the original form. The original Orient Express started its service 120 years ago in 1883. Agatha Christie authored her famous book "Murder on the Orient Express" in one of the rooms at Pera Palas Hotel. From there, drive to Cemberlitas Hamami to experience the centuries old tradition of the Turkish bath. Although the date of the construction and the name of the Hamam are not known, it is said to have been built in the beginning of the 18th century. It is also said that this construction is one of Sinan's works of art. These double baths where only the changing-rooms have been changed, now consist of two parts, one for women and the other for men in a 2,834 square meter area. The Sultans, important people of the palace, and the high class of the society used this magnificent monument. It is a temple for bathing that has also provided service to important and famous statesmen who have visited or lived in Istanbul. Besides King Edward VIII, Kaiser Wilhelm, Franz Liszt, and Florence Nightingale there are also many of today's well-known personalities including King Fahd, Rockefeller, Tony Curtis, and Richard Harrison who came to Cagaloglu Hamami during their visits to Istanbul. Rudolf Nureyev, the famous ballet dancer, visits this historical monument every time he comes to Istanbul. Here you will sample the traditional bath experience with Ottoman service including scrubbing, bathing, massage. Please note: This is not recommended for children due to the steam and nature of the experience.

ISTANBUL - No:10
Halfday Tour(4hours) Dolmabahce Palace & Military Museum - Drive to the Dolmabahçe Palace, a blend of many European architectural styles. See the famous silk and wool carpets of Hereke, some of the finest examples of the Turkish art of carpet weaving, cover the floors. Rare handmade object d'art from Europe and the Far East decorate every room in the palace. Brilliant crystal chandeliers, candelabras, and fireplaces add to the lavish décor. After a visit to the palace, you will continue to the Military Museum established in 1826 to house the large collection of armor, weapons, tents, paintings, photographs, and a piece of the chain used by the Byzantines in order to protect the Golden Horn. Pieces date from the era of the Conquest of Istanbul to the era of Sultan Ahmet III. After a brief visit inside the museum, you will watch the Performance of the Ottoman Military Band (the performance lasts approximately 20 minutes). During the battles the Mehter (the name given to Ottoman Military Band) would create a tremendous din with mounted timpani, horns, and bagpipes adding to the blunderbuss and cannon as the Ottomans marched through the Balkans into Central Europe. When retreating from the battles, they left many of their instruments behind, and these eventually found their way into the orchestrations of such illustrious composers as Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven, and even John Phillip Sousa.

ISTANBUL - No:11
Halfday Tour(4hours) JEWISH HERITAGE TOUR - Start tour in centuries-old Jewish neighborhood, Galata, with its tower built by the Genoese. From the panorama balcony. See the stunning views of old constantinopla, Bosphorus, Golden Horn.and the Jewish quarters. Enjoy refrehments in this historical atmosphere. Afterwards see Neve Shalom Synagogue & Ashkenaz Synagogue, drive to Balat along the Golden Horn where the Star of David appears on the facades of some buildings. See Ahrida Synagogue, built in the 15th century. See the Jewish Cemetery, where the martyrs of Neve Shalom are buried. Last stop at Ortaköy, first disembark point of Sepharads, welcomed by the Ottoman Sultan, and visit to Etz-Ahayim Synagogue.

ISTANBUL - No:12
Halfday Tour(4hours) WALKING TOUR - WALKING THROUGH BAZAARs & MARKETS - Meet with your guide in front of Istanbul Port Passenger Terminal. After a short walk board the tram for a 10 minutes ride to the old city. Cross the Galata Bridge and leave tram in front of Egyptian Bazaar (Misir Çarsisi, also called the Spice Market). Inside, enjoy lots of shops selling dried fruits, nuts, teas, spices and natural remedies. Outside, in the surrounding streets, it's still a great food market for the locals. Over by the New Mosque (Yeni Cami) are shops selling seeds, gardening supplies, caged birds, etc., and there's always a lively street market. Afterwards proceed to the exquisite Rüstem Pasha Mosque, one of Istanbul's finest architectural gems, which few tourists visit. Continue to Mahmutpasa Markets through the Tahtakale market district which is 99% Turkish, and all the more interesting for those who want to get away from the tourist crowds. Finally reach the famous Grand Bazaar with over 5,000 shops located in a maze of lanes and alleys. It is filled with thousands of curios, including carpets, fabrics, clothing, furniture and gold jewelry. A short walk along one of the main alleys will provide you with a glimpse of this amazing place. Afterwards walk to Çemberlitas. See a tall, obviously very old and dismal-looking porphyry column. It was erected on May 11, 330 by Constantine the Great to celebrate the designation of Constantinople as the new capital of the Roman Empire. Board the tram and return to the ship.

ISTANBUL - No:13
Halfday Tour(4hours) WALKING TOUR OF TAKSIM, PERA & GALATA - Meet with your guide in front of Istanbul Port Passenger Terminal. After a short walk to Kabatas board the funicular for a 2 minutes ride to the Taksim square, the hub of modern Istanbul. From Taksim square walk to Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue), the heart of Beyoglu, the more modern district of Istanbul built during the 19th century. The city's most popular strolling, shopping and snacking street, now reserved for pedestrians, is lined with boutiques, cafes, consulates, restaurants, galleries, cinemas and banks, with residential apartments above. When 19th-century travelers spoke of Constantinople (Istanbul) as the Paris of the East, they were thinking of the Grande Rue de Péra (Istiklal Caddesi) and its half-European, half-Asian culture. Halfway along the avenue toward the southwest is Galatasaray Square, easily recognizable by the grand gates to Galatasaray Lisesi, the first European-style lycée (high school) erected by the Ottoman government. See The Church of St Anthony, established in 1725 to serve transient foreigners and the many families who stayed on in the sultan's dominions. Afterwards walk to the historic Pera Palas Hotel, Built to accommodate the pampered travellers arriving aboard the Orient Express. Next is Galat Mevlevihane (monastry of Whirling Dervishes, founded by a descendant of Rumi in the 1490s. Afterwards walk to Galata district and see the Galata Tower which has dominated Beyoglu's skyline since 1348 and still offers the best panoramic views of the city. From the 1500s onward, Galata was mostly Jewish. As recently as the late 20th century, Galata rang with the songs and street-games of Jewish children speaking Ladino (Judeo-Spanish). Today most of Istanbul's Jews live in more desirable residential quarters, though Galata's synagogues are still in use. Sites in Galata include the Chief Rabbinate, the Neve Shalom and Italian synagogues, the Schneider Synagogue (Terziler Havrasi, now used as an art gallery), the Zulfaris Synagogue Museum, a Jewish elementary school, and the Kamondo staircase. Walk back to port of Istanbul.

ISTANBUL - No:14
Fullday Tour(8hours) WALKING TOUR OF HIGHLIGHTS OF ISTANBUL - Meet with your guide in front of Istanbul Port Passenger Terminal. After a short walk board the tram for a 10 minutes ride to the old city. Cross the Galata Bridge and pass in front of Egyptian Bazaar (spica Market) Leave the tram in Sultanahmet square. Explore Hippodrome which was the heart of Constantinople's political and sporting life, and the scene of games and riots through 500 years of Ottoman history as well. Next is Blue Mosque, with its six minarets and a great cascade of domes, the mosque is a worthy sibling to Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia) just a few minutes' stroll to the north. Called Hagia Sophia in Greek, Sancta Sophia in Latin, Ayasofya in Turkish, it was built on the site of Byzantium's acropolis by Emperor Justinian (527-65 AD) in 537 AD. Ayasofya was the greatest church in Christendom until St Peter's Basilica was built in Rome a thousand years later. Continue to Topkapi Palace and enjoy a delightful lunch at the courtyards. Home of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, Topkapi ("Palace of the Cannon Gate") was the seraglio, the heart of the vast Ottoman Empire, ruled by the monarch who lived in Topkapi's hundreds of rooms with hundreds of concubines, children, and white and black servants. Depart Palace and finally reach the famous Grand Bazaar with over 5,000 shops located in a maze of lanes and alleys. It is filled with thousands of curios, including carpets, fabrics, clothing, furniture and gold jewelry. A short walk along one of the main alleys will provide you with a glimpse of this amazing place. Afterwards walk to Çemberlitas. See a tall, obviously very old and dismal-looking porphyry column. It was erected on May 11, 330 by Constantine the Great to celebrate the designation of Constantinople as the new capital of the Roman Empire. Board the tram and return to the ship.

Izmir # 1 - Ephesus + Lunch in Camlik Village (6 hours)

Boarding your vehichle at port of Izmir, drive southword to Selcuk Town.. En-route see the cotton fields, vineyards and pine woods while driving along the blue Aegean shores. Continue to Ephesus where you start at the Magnesia Gate and walk downhill through the city.Your guide will point out the sights, bringing the history of Ephesus to life as you pause at the Odeon, Upper Agora, Town Hall, Fountain of Trajan, Temple of Hadrian and Domitianus, Memmius Memorial, Roman Baths, Terrace Houses and the extarordinary Library of Celsus. At the end of a marble street leading from the library, gaze up at the impressive amphitheater, built to seat 24.000 people. Here St.Paul preached to Ephesians. Enjoy a lunch in the grounds of a country house in the quaint village of Çaml?k. Here you will see a private demonstration of the traditional carpet making process from dying to spinning to weawing at a scholl where yound girls are trained in the craft. In the afternoon visist the Ephesus Museum. See the statues of Goddess Artemis ( Diana ) and the artifacts discovered in Ephesus more than 100 years of time. See the marble reliefs and frescoes discovered at the Terrace Houses.Drive back to ?zmir.

IZMIR No.2

Half Day Tour of Ephesus from Izmir (4 hours)

Your journey through time begins with a pleasant drive along the Aegean Coast. Soon, the hills broaden into a wide plain and Ephesus can be seen in the distance. At one time, the city was the gateway to Asia Minor and boasted a population of 250,000. Formerly a seaport, it now lies several miles inland due to deposits of river silt that have collected over the centuries. The region is steeped in history, and you will have the opportunity to view the Basilica of St. John and the 12th-century Isa Bey Mosque. The Virgin Mary reputedly spent her last days at nearby Mt. Pagus. Leaving your motor coach at the parking area, pass the poignant Grotto of Seven Sleepers before entering ancient Ephesus through the Magnesia Gate. As you walk along the old marble streets, you will pass the Odeon and Upper Agora. You will also see the ornate Hadrian Temple, the remains of some Byzantine houses, the beautifully restored façade of the Celsus Library, the Thermal Baths of Scholastica, the Commercial Agora and the Amphitheatre, which accommodates 15,000 spectators and is still used for occasional performances. Continue along the colonnaded harbor boulevard, past the gymnasium and the remains of the stadium, as you head toward the exit gate and the lower parking area. Return to Izmir.

IZMIR No.3

Half Day Tour of Basilica of St. John & Mary's House from Izmir (4 hours)

Depart Izmir and drive to the town of Selcuk. As you reach the silted valley, time seems to come to a halt and then reverse. After a steep drive up Mt. Pagus, you will arrive at a stone chapel. This converted house probably dates from the 1st century and was envisioned by a German nun as the site where the Virgin Mary spent her last days.  Afterwards visit the Basilica of St. John, one of the seven churches of Asia Minor, is your final stop before your return to Izmir by motor coach.

IZMIR No.4

Fullday tour of Ephesus, House of Mary & Basilica of St. John (8 hours)

Biblical sites, including Mary’s last-known dwelling place, the ancient city of Ephesus and a relaxing luncheon are featured in this fascinating, full-day excursion.  As your air-conditioned motor coach makes its way along the Aegean Coast, you will pass some of the region’s fertile lands.  As you reach the silted valley, time seems to come to a halt and then reverse. After a steep drive up Mt. Pagus, you will arrive at a stone chapel. This converted house probably dates from the 1st century and was envisioned by a German nun as the site where the Virgin Mary spent her last days. Continuing to Ephesus, leave your coach at the parking area and proceed on foot through Magnesia Gate. As you stroll along the old marble streets, you will pass the Odeon and Upper Agora. You will also see the ornate Hadrian Temple, the remains of some Byzantine houses, the beautifully restored façade of the Celsus Library, the Thermal Baths of Scholastica, the Commercial Agora and the Amphitheatre, which accommodates 15,000 spectators and is still used for occasional performances. After your visit to Ephesus, re-board your coach for the short drive to picturesque Çamlik Village. Here you may relax and enjoy a tasty barbecue lunch amid a pristine pine forest. Afterwards enjoy a lecture about Turkish weavings , see the girls at the looms knotting carpets and kilims. Learn about the natural dyes and learn the differences between Silk , flosh , wool and cotton weavings for handmade rugs. The proprietors will give a fascinating demonstration of the local traditional crafts. See how the items are being produced and enjoy shooping opportunity. Next is the Basilica of St. John, one of the seven churches of Asia Minor, is your final stop before your return to Izmir by motor coach. This excursion is a truly enriching day in one of the world’s most isolated and distinctive areas.

IZMIR No. 5

Fullday Excursion to Pergamum (8 hours)

Boarding your air conditioned vehicle in ?zmir port drive to the north of Izmir, pass fertile fields and olive trees, to the present day, modern town of Bergama, once known as Pergamon, a great center of culture. The ancient city was a capital of the Pergamon Kingdom, and it was here that parchment paper was invented. Today, Pergamon is one of Turkey's finest archeological sites. Drive up to the Acropolis, to see the remains of the citadel and the city walls, the foundations of the Zeus Altar, and the Royal Palace. The famous Pergamon Library once contained 200.000 scrolls which were a gift to Cleopatra from Mark Anthony. Walk through the Agora and see the restored Trajan Temple and the remains of the Demeter, Athena and Dionysus Temples. On the steep slopes of the Acropolis you will visit the Theatre, which once held as many 15.000 spectators, view the town and its surroundings from this site. Continue into the town of Bergama and visit the Archaelogical Museum, which houses relics discovered during the excavations of Pergamon. En route, see the Basilica which was one of the earliest of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor. Enjoy lunch in local Restaurant of Bergama and have a taste of Turkish food. In the afternoon, visit the Asclepion, a healing center from the 4th century BC and one of the most important sites of Pergamon. Here patients had herbalistic, aquatic and psychological treatment. Visit the Temple of Asclepios, the amphitheatre, and walk through the sacred corridor and down the ancient,arcaded, marble-paved boulevard. Afterwards browse in town of Bergama and view the Red Basilica Church where one of the earliest Seven Churches of Asia Minor took place. Enjoy the souvenirs and shops in town and re-boarding your coach return to ?zmir.

IZMIR No. 6

Fullday Excursion to Sardes – (8 hours)

This tour is for those passangers who have previously visited Ephesus. ,The air conditioned vehicle will depart in the morning for an hour and a half drive inland to the ancient city of Sardes, one time capitol of the Lydian Kingdom, and the home of the fabled King Creosus and his riches. The army of Alexander the Great camped on the site; and later on, with the arrival of Christianity, one of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor was built here. In Sardes, you will visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, the remains of the Byzantine Church, and the site of ancient marketplace or Agora. Extensive archaelogical exploration and some restoration of certain structures has been accomplished by teams working under the aegis of the University of Harvard and Stanford. As you stroll along the kingsway, you will see the remains one of the oldest Synagogues in Asia Minor and the wonderfully restored fecade of the Gymnasium where both scholars and atlethes were trained. Enjoy your lunch at a local Restaurant in Alasehir (ancient Philadelphia ). Enjoy a sample of one of the regional Turkish wines vinted in this part of Anatolia. Drive back to ?zmir Upon return visit Kemeralti Market area, here see Kizlaragasi Han– The Ottoman Inn from 18^th Century which is a fine example of the architecture. Browse thru the narrow streets and enjoy shopping before return to the ship.

IZMIR No. 7

Fullday (8hours) Ephesus & Villages

Meet with your guide in front of the Izmir port passenger Terminal. Depart the pier for the an hour drive to the magnificent site of Ephesus. Ephesus is the best preserved of the Greek/Roman cities in Anatolia and while you are visiting the ancient ruins of this magnificent site and your guide will bring them alive. You will see the beautiful Celsus Library, restored and reconstructed according to its original form by the architect Friedmund Hueber in the 1970's. The most spectacular building of Ephesus is the Grand Theater, built during the Hellenistic age to hold 24,000 spectators. It is there that St. Paul preached. Opposite the Temple of Hadrian are the Hill Houses, homes of Ephesus' wealthy citizens. The city was also the hometown of great philosopher Heraclitus. After a visit to Ephesus Antique Site, you will arrive at Sirince Village. This old Orthodox Village, 30 km from Kusadasi, was once "Cirkince"(ugly). Indeed its inhabitants gave this name on the purpose as they did not want to be bothered by foreigners nor to share the beauty of their village. Still after years, visitors understood that the village was not ugly and called it "Sirince" (pretty). Today the village is a perfect synthesis of Turkish-Greek culture as of the 1920's; after the Turkish Independence War, people exchange between Greek and Turks has occurred and all those typical Greek houses, though they kept their original outside characteristics, have received the local layout inside. At Sirince Village you will have chance of seeing the local life at a village and purchasing some small local souvenirs and handicrafts. The village is also famous for its local grape and other fruit wines. During the lunch, mingle with the local people of the village. Have a cup of traditional Turkish coffee at the main coffee house of the village. Your last stop will be the visit to the Archaeological Museum of Ephesus established in 1929. It displays very interesting and valuable finds from Ephesus.

Antalya No.1

THE ANCIENT CITY OF PERGE AND ASPENDOS – FULLDAY TOUR 8HRS

Board your motorcoach to journey back in time to the ancient city of Perge, founded by Greek settlers following the Trojan Wars. Alexander the Great briefly used Perge as a base of operations, and St. Paul visited the city during his missionary journeys. The site was abandoned during the Arab invasions of the 7th century.

As you approach Perge, the 2nd century Roman amphitheater comes into view. Visit the stadium, one of the best preserved in all of Eastern Mediterranean, on this site you can see the city ramparts and the Roman city gate complex, the most fascinating part of the city. Also see the Nymphaion, the Propylaion, the baths and the agora.

Continue by coach to Aspendos, which boasts a complete aqueduct system, parts of which are still standing, also the most well-preserved ancient Roman Theater in the world is here. As many as 20,000 people can be seated here and the acoustics is so good that a whisper or even a pin drop can be heard from the very top gallery. The theater is still used today for concerts and theatrical presentations.

Enjoy lunch at the Belek country club, set in beautiful landscape gardens and specializing in modern innovative Turkish cuisine.

In the afternoon continue to Antalya, the ancient Attalia. Drive thru the modern day town and the old town, before returning back to your ship.

Antalya No. 2

SIDE & ASPENDOS – FULLDAY TOUR 8HRS

After meeting your guide, depart port and drive through the fertile lands to the Ancient City of Side.  In the language of Anatolia "Side" means Pomegranate. From inscriptions it appears that Side dates back to the Hittite Period. The city was constructed on a peninsula and was a Hellenistic and Roman town, protected by city and sea walls. One's attention is particularly drawn to the city gates and walls, as well as many remains of aqueducts which brought water from the foothills of the Taurus Mountains and the surrounding country. Explore the beatifully preserved 15,000 spectator amphitheater, colonnaded streets, old city walls, roman baths, fountains, cisterns, aquaducts, temples and agora. 

Continue by coach to Aspendos, which boasts a complete aqueduct system, parts of which are still standing, also the most well-preserved ancient Roman Theater in the world is here. As many as 20,000 people can be seated here and the acoustics is so good that a whisper or even a pin drop can be heard from the very top gallery. The theater is still used today for concerts and theatrical presentations.

Enjoy lunch at the Belek country club, set in beautiful landscape gardens and specializing in modern innovative Turkish cuisine.

In the afternoon continue to Antalya, the ancient Attalia. Drive thru the modern day town and the old town, before returning back to your ship.

"SHOREX TURKEY TAKES PRIDE IN PERSONAL SERVICE AND OVERALL SATISFACTION."

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