Join us on onboard our custom-built deluxe Emerald 'Star Ship' and experience the romance of Europe's waterways.
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/488581
124 124 Day 1 Arrive Istanbul (D) Welcome to Turkey. You will be met at Ataturk International Airport by your Evergreen Tours representative and transferred^ to your centrally located hotel. Meet up with your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner tonight. Two Night Stay: And Hotel or similar Day 2 Istanbul sightseeing HD (FB,HD) Enjoy a full city tour including Hagia Sofi a, The Blue Mosque, The Topkapi Palace and the Underground Cisterne. There is then free time to explore the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, with over 4000 shops this is the largest covered market in the world. Later we transfer to the waterfront to join our afternoon cruise on the Bosphorus, one of the world's busiest and most important waterways, linking the Mediterranean with the Black Sea. Tonight enjoy a highlight dinner with traditional Turkish dancing from different regions of the country. Day 3 Istanbul to Ankara (FB,L) An early start today as we drive out through the surrounding mountains and onto the Turkish capital, Ankara. Here we visit the mausoleum of the great Turkish leader, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who led Turkish forces against the Anzacs at Gallipoli, and later founded modern Turkey. Overnight: Ankara Hotel Day 4 Ankara to Cappadocia (FB,D) This morning we visit the Hittite Museum and Anit Kabir, before departing across the Anatolian plain viewing the Salt Lake on the fabled Silk Road. Later we arrive in the surreal lunar landscapes of Cappadocia, where fairy chimneys reach up from rock formations and whole towns are carved out of the sandstone mountains. We reach the town of Urgup where we stay in the unique Alfi na Cave Hotel. Three Night Stay: Alfi na Cave Hotel 15 Day Wonders of Turkey Day 5 Cappadocia (FB) Touring this unique area is an unforgettable experience. From the rocky crags of Goreme, the unique carved caves of Uchisar Castle to the surrounding extraordinary landscapes, you will be amazed. We return to Urgup where you have time to stroll the shops or just enjoy the distinctive surroundings. Day 6 Cappadocia (FB,D) Today we explore the incredible underground cities of Cappadocia, hundreds of deep caverns, passages and pathways carved out by Christians hiding from Muslim invaders. Tonight we enjoy dinner in a local restaurant. Discover More: Balloon fl ight over Cappadocia (see pages 134–137) Day 7 Cappadocia to Konya (FB,D) This morning we leave Cappadocia and re–join the Anatolian plains across to Konya, a traditional caravan stop on the old routes, and home to the Whirling Dervishes, an unusual Muslim group best known for their ritual dances and haunting music. Tonight enjoy an included dinner at your hotel. Overnight Stay: Konya Hotel Day 8 Konya to Antalya (FB) After breakfast we travel south to the seaside town of Antalya where there is time to relax and take a stroll on the beach, or you can visit the local archaeological museum which includes 'God's Gallery' – a collection of classical god statues. Tonight is free for you to enjoy the town. Two Night Stay: Antalya Hotel Day 9 Antalya surrounds (FB,D) Today we visit the largely intact Roman theatre of Aspendos dating back to 155 AD. Then to Side, an archaeological wonderland surrounded by the deep waters of the Mediterranean. Tonight enjoy the local seafood at a seaside restaurant. Day 10 Antalya to Pamukkale (FB,D) Heading north away from the coast we arrive at Pamukkale (Hierapolis) famous for its white cliffs carved by thermal springs containing chalk. There are thick white layers of limestone and travertine Grand Bazaar, Istanbul Capadocia, Turkey