Over the past two decades, Turkey has become one of the world's best vacation destinations. It's progressive, commercial and fashionable – all while somehow being ancient, religious and exotic. It has impressive Neolithic structures, vibrant street bazaars, gorgeous beaches, quaint villages & spicy, roasted kebabs. Its many layers contain Greco-Roman influences as well as Islamic ones. It is home to ancient cities, Hittite artifacts, underground cities, spectacular rock formations and lively spice markets.
Turkey has also played host to some of history's most exciting characters & moments. Allow our Groups Department Team at Europe Express to collaborate with you to customize your group's ideal trip. Perhaps the below itineraries are exactly what you're looking for – or perhaps your group has a special interest in Turkey such as early Christianity, the Trojan War, Alexander the Great, St. Paul the Apostle, the Byzantine Empire, the Crusades, Suleiman the Magnificent, the Ottoman Empire or World War I's Gallipoli Campaign. Europe Express regularly handles groups of all sizes and works directly with deluxe hotels as well as budget-conscious properties. Let our team create a truly memorable vacation experience in Turkey that meets your group's interests, expectations and budget.
Best of Turkey – 15 Days
Historically, Turkey has always served as a gateway between eastern and western cultures, and even today one can still see the interesting blend of Islamic and Greco-Roman influences. Turkey is home to some of the most famous locations of the ancient world. Over two weeks, this comprehensive tour will expose you to a remarkable amount of Turkish history and culture. You will visit the ancient ruins of some of the world's earliest civilized cultures including Roman amphitheaters, early-Christian churches, Greek archeological sites and underground cities. You will gain an understanding of the Ottoman Empire through the nation's mosques, which are spiritual houses as well as places of great artistry. You will sample modern-day Turkish culture in its bazaars and village life. You will enjoy the beautiful Aegean coastline and stunning natural wonders.
Highlights and Inclusions
Tour the Blue Mosque, a landmark of the Byzantine and Ottoman cultures
See the site where Alexander the Great cut the Gordion Knot
Explore the fairy chimneys and rock-carved churches of Cappadocia
Visit the pottery center of Avanos
Visit the Temple of Artemis
Explore Ephesus one of the world's finest archaeological sites
See the library containing 200,000 writings given to Cleopatra
Visit the legendary city of Troy
Accommodations: Istanbul 2 nights, Kusadasi 2 nights, Canakkale 2 nights, Bursa 1 night, Ankara 1 night, Pamukkale 1 night, Seljuk 1 night, Bergama 1 night, Cappadocia 3 nights
Meals: Continental breakfast daily. Lunch and dinner as noted in itinerary
Ground transportation via air conditioned luxury coach
English speaking assistants and guides
Admission tickets as outlined in itinerary
Treasures of the Ancient World: Greek Islands and Turkey Cruise – 8 Days
This itinerary is absolutely ideal for travelers who are eager to experience the world's greatest attractions from the ancient world – from the comfort of a relaxing cruise ship. The histories of Greece and Turkey have been overlapping since the time of Antiquity. Both nations are connected to some of history's (and mythology's) best characters and moments. Combine the capital city of Athens with truly fascinating, ancient sightseeing in both Greece & Turkey. Then stir in gorgeous views and the blue waters of the Aegean – what vacation recipe could be better?
Highlights and Inclusions
Guided walking tour of Hora
Visit ancient Ephesus, home to Turkey's version of Pompeii and believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary
Explore Patmos, home to the Monastery of St. John
Visit Crete, home of the ancient Minoan Civilization
Explore the dramatically beautiful, volcanic island of Santorini
Traditional Greek dinner with Bouzouki music and folk dancers in Athens
Accommodations: Athens 1 night, cruise ship to Greek and Turkish islands 4 nights, Athens 2 nights
Meals: Continental breakfast daily. Lunch and dinner as noted in itinerary
Ground transportation via air conditioned luxury coach
English speaking assistants and guides
Admission tickets as outlined in itinerary
Istanbul & Cappadocia – 10 Days
Explore the land where east meets west on this 10-day journey through Istanbul and the unusual landscape of the fascinating Cappadocia region. In Istanbul you will discover colorful bazaars and mosques decorated with exquisite mosaic designs, Oriental carpets and other treasures. In Cappadocia, you will explore underground cave cities and ancient churches carved from natural rocks. This itinerary features island cruises, remarkable ancient ruins and lovely countryside views. It is an excellent way to explore two very different sides of Turkey's East-meets-West personality.
Highlights and Inclusions
Tour the magnificent Blue Mosque
Shop the fabulous Grand Bazaar
Visit the Egyptian Spice Market
Boat cruise between Europe and Asia viewing palaces, mansions & villas
Turkish Night experience of traditional food, music and folk groups
Explore Derinkuyu, the underground city of Cappadocia
Visit the town of Avanos, famous for its earthenware pottery
Accommodations: Istanbul 6 nights, Cappadocia 3 nights
Meals: Continental breakfast daily. Lunch and dinner as noted in itinerary
Ground transportation via air conditioned luxury coach
English speaking assistants and guides
Admission tickets as outlined in itinerary
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If you have less than 10 people traveling together, please submit an FIT quote. With more than 10 people traveling together, request a custom quote from our Groups Department.
