This
tour features the highlights of Turkey:
the
romantic city of Istanbul, the caves of Cappadocia, the
impressive ruins of Ephesus and Aphrodisias, and the white
mineral pools of Pamukkale. Begin in Istanbul. Stay at
the Hotel, a historic building steps from the city's main
attractions. During flexible touring with guide, visit
sights such as the Aya Sofia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi
Palace and the beautiful tiles
in its Harem, ancient underground cisterns, and Istanbul's
Spice Market. Take a cruise on the Bosphorus, the waterway
separating old Istanbul from new, Europe from Asia. During
free time, shop for carpets and kilim, jewelry, glass,
textiles and antiques at the Grand Bazaar.
Next, fly inland
to Cappadocia to view ancient frescoes 
and
cave dwellings, and climb through the narrow corridors
of vast subterranean cities. In Turkey's capital, Ankara,
see the colorful homes in the old quarter, visit the
Ataturk Mausoleum and the acclaimed Museum of Anatolian
Civilizations. Continue to
Izmir to explore nearby Greek and Roman ruins in Aphrodisias
and Ephesus, the former terminus of the Royal Road to
Babylon. Spend another day visiting the mineral pools
and ruins in the ancient thermal spa of Pamukkale. The
tour concludes with two more nights in Istanbul in a
room with a view of the Bosphorus.
