Central Turkey & the Black Sea
This spectacular journey showcases the hidden treasures well away from the popular highlights of the west. Scenically and historically captivating, the north western Black Sea coast is home to historic Safranbolu, where fascinating remnants from Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman civilizations await. In Amasya, some of Turkey’s most impressive forms of Ottoman house lie in snug repose along the meandering Yesilirmak River. An insight into Seljuk history can be gained in Sivas with a visit to the city’s impressive architectural gems, the Gok Medrese and the Cifte Minareli Medrese. Further east, the immense statues devoted to Apollo, Fortuna, Zeus, Herakles and King Antiochus can be found on the slopes of Mt Nemrut -simply awe-inspiring, as their craftsman no doubt intended. Moving on to the City of Prophets at Urfa, we visit the wonderful ancient bazaar and, in Harran, witness rural village life little changed since biblical times. Back in central Anatolia, we discover the astounding, mythic landscapes of Cappadocia, which have inspired writers and travellers for years. We end the fortnight in the city where east meets west, rewarded with a final look through one of the world’s great historic capitals.
Itinerary
| Day Number(s) | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | (Sun) Arrive in Istanbul. |
| 2 | Guided tour of the main sites of Istanbul including the Blue Mosque. Afternoon free. |
| 3 | Travel to Amasra and explore the old town, including the mosque and bazaar. |
| 4 | Drive to Safranbolu and explore the cobblestone lanes and traditional buildings. Drive to Kastamonu. |
| 5 | Drive to Amasya and discover traditional Ottoman houses and ancient tombs carved into sheer rock. |
| 6 | Drive to Sivas and explore the impressive Seljuk sites of Çifte Minare Medressa and Gök Medressa. |
| 7 | Visit the village of Darende and walk to the waterfalls at Günpinar. |
| 8 | Visit Mount Nemrut National Park and discover the colossal statues dedicated to King Antiochus and the Greek and Armenian gods. |
| 9 | Visit the mud-brick beehive houses of the biblical town of Harran. Drive to Sanliurfa and explore the ancient bazaar. |
| 10 | Explore the Hittite city of Gaziantep. |
| 11-13 | Explore the surreal lunar-like landscapes of Cappadocia. Walk through the valleys and discover cave dwellings, rock-cut churches and an elaborate underground city. |
| 14 | Fly from Cappadocia back to Istanbul. Tour ends on arrival at Istanbul Airport at approximately 12pm (Sat). |
Trip Highlights
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At A Glance
Trip Length |
14 days |
Trip Code |
PECE |
Activities |
|
| Culture (Easy), Walking (Easy) | |
Maximum Passengers |
|
| 15 people | |
Countries Visited |
|
| Turkey | |
Start City |
|
| Istanbul | |
End City |
|
| Istanbul | |
