14 Day Eastern Turkey Explorer - Tuesday Departure
Dates & Prices
Start Date | End Date | Offers | Brochure Land Price | Quote |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tuesday, Sep 17, 2024 | Monday, Sep 30, 2024 | Get Lower Price | Get Quote | |
Tuesday, Oct 08, 2024 | Monday, Oct 21, 2024 | Get Lower Price | Get Quote |
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Tour Itinerary
DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Turkey
Depart for Turkey
DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Istanbul
Arrive in Istanbul, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 7 PM, followed by dinner at your hotel. We recommend you select flights which arrive no later than 5 PM
Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Dinner
DAY 3, Thursday - Basilica Cistern, St. Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar
Today, explore the city of Istanbul. Begin at the Basilica Cistern, an extensive underground cistern commissioned by Emperor Justinian and built in 532. Continue to the Hippodrome, where chariot races and competitive athletic events took place during the Roman period. Next, view the Blue Mosque, an Ottoman-era mosque constructed in the early 17th century. Afterward, visit the 6th century Byzantine Basilica of St. Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was later converted to a mosque. After lunch, tour Topkapi Palace, residence of the Ottoman Sultans and the famous Grand Bazaar
Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 4, Friday - Flight to Gaziantep, Zeugma Museum, Bazaars
Early this morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Gaziantep, a city in southeast Turkey. Upon arrival, there will be time for lunch on your own in the city's center. After, visit the Zeugma Museum, known for its remarkable mosaic collection. Then, traverse the narrow streets of the historical Bey district and enjoy Turkish coffee, or tea at a populer coffee house. Take a guided walk through the historic bazaars of Gaziantep and watch craftsmen practice their traditional trade at the Coppersmith Bazaar. Later check into your room. Time to freshen up before dinner at the hotel
Overnight: Gaziantep
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5, Saturday - Baklava Tasting, Halfeti Boat Excursion, Zeugma Antique City
This morning, visit one of the many baklava shops to savor the sweet Middle Eastern confection made of phyllo pastry and nuts. Afterward, travel to the town of Halfeti, situated on the east bank of the Euphrates River. Upon arrival, have lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on a boat excursion along the Euphrates River. The cruise provides a close-up view of partially submerged buildings, remnants of a town affected by the construction of the dam in the 1990s. Next, head to the Zeugma Antique City, founded in the Hellenistic period and later flourishing under the Roman rule. Wander through the ancient streets and admire the well-preserved statues and structures
Overnight: Gaziantep
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 6, Sunday - Gobeklitepe en route to Mardin, Kasimiye Medresesi
Begin the day with a visit to Gobeklitepe, a Neolithic archaeological site and region where ancient farming communities emerged. Here, you'll find massive carved stones, dating back 11,000 years, which were crafted and arranged by prehistoric people. Following lunch head to the city of Mardin. On arrival, explore Kasimiye Medresesi, an old medrese (seminary) complex and ascend to the upper section to view Mardin's great panoramas. Later, check into your hotel with time to settle in before dinner at a local restaurant
Overnight: Mardin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7, Monday - Deyrulzafaran Monastery, Dara Ancient City, Home Hosted Lunch, Old Mardin
Your day of exploration begins with a visit to the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, dating back to the 5th century. The monastery has served as a spiritual center for the Syriac Orthodox Church. Then, explore Dara Ancient City, an important settlement along the Silk Road. Established in the 5th century, it served as a military and administrative center. Visit the well-preserved ruins of Dara, including its city walls, gates and various structures. After a home-cooked lunch with a local family, tour the Old Town of Mardin. Wander along the narrow streets, and admire its unique architecture. Discover Kirklar Church, also known as Forty Martyrs Church, before returning to the hotel
Overnight: Mardin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 8, Tuesday - Mor Gabriel Monastery, Ezidi Village, Midyat
Explore the ancient Mor Gabriel Monastery, an important Syriac Orthodox monastery. Next, embark on a scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes to Ezidi Village, home to the indigenous Yazidis. Continue to Midyat for lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Anitli Virgin Mary's Monastery and its church. Opportunity to interact with the locals, gaining a deeper understanding for the local way of life. Free time to explore the village, before returning to Mardin for dinner
Overnight: Mardin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9, Wednesday - Hasankeyf Museum, Travel to Van
Depart Mardin this morning, and travel to Hasankeyf, an ancient town located along the Tigris River in the Batman province of southeastern Turkey. Visit the Hasankeyf Museum, showcasing artifacts, and exhibits that provide a glimpse into the diverse civilizations that have left their mark in Hasankeyf. After lunch at a local restaurant, travel to Van. Arrive at your hotel in time for dinner
Overnight: Van
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10, Thursday - Cavustepe, Carpet Atelier, Akdamar Island
Embark on a captivating tour to Cavustepe, a historic site that unveils the remains of an ancient Urartian fortress perched atop a hill. The site is also known as the Fortress of Hayk. After, stop at the Urartu Hali carpet atelier. Here, admire the exquisite handmade Anatolian carpets, distinguished by their colors, patterns, and techniques. Following lunch at a local restaurant, cruise to Akdamar Island in Lake Van, home to the 10th century Armenian Holy Cross Cathedral. Later, return by boat back to Van for dinner at the hotel
Overnight: Van
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11, Friday - Savat Atelier, Muradiye Waterfalls, Ishak Pasha Palace, Travel to Kars
Begin the day with a visit to a Savat (silversmith) atelier, where new artists train in the important handcraft of the Urartians. Later, make a stop at Muradiye Waterfalls. Take in the sight of the crystal-clear water tumbling down the rocks amidst lush greenery. Then, head to the town of Dogubeyazit for lunch. Admire panoramic views of Mount Ararat, considered the resting place of Noah's Ark. Afterward, tour Ishak Pasha Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the 17th century, this architectural masterpiece is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture. Following the visit, travel to Kars for dinner and overnight
Overnight: Kars
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12, Saturday - Ani Ruins, Kars Castle, Kumbet Mosque
This morning, drive to the ancient city of Ani, former capital of the Bagratid Kingdom of Armenia. This medieval city is located on a secluded hilltop along the Turkish and Armenian border. Visit the ruins and view the Ani Cathedral, the medieval walls, and the Citadel. Later, enjoy a tasting of Reyhan Serbeti, a special non-alcoholic drink, with a sampling of local Kars gruyere cheese. Afterward, visit Kumbet Mosque and drive by Kars Castle, whose imposing walls crown the ridge that dominates the city's northern edge. On the drive back to the hotel, view Russian style buildings, dating from the 19th century Russian occupation. Tonight, dinner is at a regional restaurant
Overnight: Kars
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 13, Sunday - Old City Kars, Fethiye Mosque, Flight to Istanbul
Today, take a tour of the Old City of Kars and visit the iconic Fethiye Mosque, characterized by its distinctive dome and intricate details. Explore the Kars Museum, featuring exhibits from the early Bronze Age, Urartu and Roman periods. Free time to stroll through the local market. Transfer to Kars airport in the afternoon for your flight back to Istanbul. Upon arrival, check into to your hotel. Tonight, celebrate your last night in Turkey with dinner and bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 14, Monday - Depart Turkey
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Package Includes
Tour Highlights
Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals.
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include intra-flights Istanbul-Gaziantep & Kars-Istanbul.
Arrival and departure transfers are only included for flights to/from Istanbul Airport (IST).
Passengers arriving on Day 2 should select flights that arrive no later than 4 PM.
During Ramadan (Mar 10 - Apr 9, 2024), historic and cultural sites may close early and operate with minimal staff. The order of sightseeing may be changed to accommodate the holiday observance. Traffic congestion is common during Ramadan. Some hotels and restaurants may not serve alcoholic beverages. Entertainment may be limited to be respectful of the holiday observance. Modest dress is suggested during Ramadan (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset.
Health and Safety Protocols for Discovery By Gate1 Tours
At Gate 1 we take your safety and security very seriously. We have a strong network of tour managers, local offices, ground operators and colleagues which help us stay informed in all the destinations that we operate. We closely monitor local situations which enable us to make the operational decisions necessary to keep our tours running safely. Millions of people travel the world each year and experience enjoyable and safe trips but crimes against people and property are sadly a fact of life. It is very important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Please remember that you have the same responsibility for your personal safety and possessions as you do at home. It is essential to prepare for a safe and healthy travel abroad. Therefore before you travel, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the US Department of State at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for up-to-date travel advice on the countries that you are visiting. The website provides useful information on subjects such as safety and security information, health precautions and medications, health insurance and additional tips for traveling abroad. If you do not reside in the United States, we recommend you check your government's travel advisory website for any country you will be visiting. We recommend that you review the safety guidance that may be provided by us, our agents or suppliers, either before you go or when you arrive in your destination. You can also find helpful tips on our website in the "Trip Preparation" tab of each of our tour packages. We do know that in-spite of careful planning, things can sometimes still go wrong, so rest assured, we will be there to help and support you.
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The Artisan Istanbul MGallery
This superior first class hotel is located a ten minute walk from Taksim Square.
Sirehan Hotel
This first class hotel is located within the city center of Gaziantep.
Izala Boutique Hotel
This first class hotel is located in the city center and offers guests easy access to several sights.
DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel Van
This first class hotel overlooks the picturesque Lake Van, giving guests a lovely lakeside break in Eastern Turkey.
Kars 1924 Hotel
This superior tourist class hotel is located in Kars.
Renaissance Polat Istanbul Hotel
This deluxe hotel overlooks the Marmara Sea.
OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620
Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?
Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?
Superb experience and guides were great.
The trip to Jordan was fabulous. The accommodations were lovely. Our guide was excellent. His knowledge was superb. He had good humor & was kind & patient. I have been on every continent & have traveled with different companies. This is in my top 3 trips of all the places I have been. I loved this country. The people & sites were wonderful. Please let Gate 1 know this guide deserves recognition. He was the best.
This was a fantastic trip with varied activities and a superb tour guide.
Exalent trip we are so pleased with the service we will call you to plan the next trip
Well thought and executed trip
The Gate1 tour guide/managers were very knowledgeable, courteous, professional and entertaining.
Great trip great value
Gate 1's tour operators are very good. It is organized and follows the published itinerary. The hotels are nice and as described.
Trip was great experience. Enjoyed the itinerary and tour manager.
Great experience. Our personal guide very experienced and personal. First class hotels and great excursions.
Our accommodations were excellent. The tour was fabulous. The logistics for booking and traveling were clear and easy.
Everyone from our agent (Trena) to our our guide (Fred) were awesome. Would highly recommend gate 1 to any and all. Went above and beyond our expectations..JOB WELL DONE!!! Thanks for a great vacation..
This was a great tour. All the places we visited were worth seeing, and the combination of activities was very good.
The rooms, the meals, the bus, and the tour guide were superior. The tour was more than expected. All our questions and needs were met. The whole operation was well managed and smooth.
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This was an amazing trip. It exceeded my expectations. I loved it. My tour guide did an excellent job. She made sure to assist us even late in the evening with tickets as we are still in Japan and not leaving until two after the tour. She surprised us with unexpected, unplanned experiences for all to enjoy. I loved her. We really had so much fun even though there older tourists with different personalities she went beyond the call of duty to understand and have patience with them. I will definitely book a future tour with Gate1.