Treasures of Turkey and Dubai 2×1

Arrival in Istanbul. Transfer to hotel and accommodation.  

After breakfast, we set off toward Ankara, passing through the scenic Bolu mountains. In Ankara, we'll visit the impressive Atatürk Mausoleum, inaugurated in 1953 and dedicated to the founder of modern Turkey. This monumental marble structure features towering 40-ton columns and is reached via a lion-lined avenue that opens onto a vast ceremonial plaza. We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then continue our journey to magical Cappadocia. On the way, we’ll make a stop at the fascinating Salt Lake. Upon arrival, we’ll have dinner and check in at our hotel for the night. 

After breakfast, we’ll explore the fascinating region of Cappadocia, shaped by volcanic eruptions from Mount Erciyes and Hasan over 3 million years ago. We’ll visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a stunning Byzantine monastic complex carved into the rock and filled with beautiful frescoes. Discover the incredible valleys of Avcilar and Güvercinlik, known for their spectacular “Fairy Chimneys.” Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Paşabağı or Çavuşin Valley and stop by artisan workshops for carpets, onyx, and more. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.  (Optional: Enjoy a lively folkloric dance show in a cave with unlimited local drinks or take a breathtaking hot air balloon ride at sunrise!) 

After breakfast, we’ll head to Pamukkale, crossing the vast Konya plains. Along the way, we’ll visit a historic caravanserai—a traditional roadside inn that once hosted traders, pilgrims, and travelers on long journeys. We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before arriving in Pamukkale, famous for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by rich mineral waters. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. If time permits, relax and unwind in the hotel’s thermal pools. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure toward Hierapolis, an ancient Hellenistic city now in ruins. Visit to the famous Cotton Castle, a natural wonder of gigantic white waterfalls, stalactites, and natural pools formed over the centuries by the flow of calcified waters from thermal springs. Transfer by bus to Selçuk, center of Ephesus. Excursion to the best-preserved ancient city of Asia Minor, which during the 1st and 2nd centuries had a population of 250,000 and held a monopoly on the wealth of the Middle East. Lunch at a local restaurant. We’ll visit the Temple of Hadrian, the Roman Baths, the Library of Celsus, the Odeon, the Theater, and more. The tour continues with a visit to the HOUSE OF THE VIRGIN MARY, followed in the afternoon by a stop at a leather workshop, where we’ll see the region’s famous Aegean leather products. Transfer by bus to the Izmir area. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in the Izmir area. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer by bus to Bursa. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Green Mosque (Yesil Camii), built in 1419 by Mehmet I Çelebi. Next to the mosque is the Green Mausoleum, considered by many to be the most beautiful building in all of Bursa. Then, we continue by bus to Istanbul. Overnight stay at a hotel in Istanbul. 

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, we’ll enjoy one of Istanbul’s most iconic experiences: a boat ride along the Bosphorus, the strait that separates Europe and Asia. Along the way, you'll see the majestic palaces of the Sultans, traditional wooden Ottoman houses, and experience the city’s rich history from a whole new perspective. We’ll end the day with a visit to one of Istanbul’s highlights—the Spice Bazaar. Established by the Ottomans five centuries ago, it has been in continuous use ever since. Enjoy some free time to explore. The tour ends at the Egyptian Bazaar. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a free day to explore the city at your own pace or join an optional full-day tour: The Jewels of Constantinople, including lunch. This excursion includes the ancient Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine civil life and site of horse races, gladiator battles, and imperial ceremonies. You’ll see the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain. Visit the stunning Blue Mosque, built in 1609 with six minarets to rival Hagia Sophia. Then, explore Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman sultans and their treasures, followed by a visit to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. End the tour at the Grand Bazaar, a covered market dating back to 1660 with over 4,000 shops under hundreds of domes. 

Breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Dubai.  Upon arrival, meet and greet, followed by transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay. 

Breakfast at the hotel. This tour will take you to the stunning views of Dubai Creek, passing through the heritage area of Bastakiya with its fascinating old houses and traditional wind towers built by wealthy merchants. We’ll then visit the 225-year-old Al Fahidi Fort. Next, you'll hop aboard a traditional abra boat to cross the creek and explore the vibrant Spice Souk and the famous Gold Souk.  Driving along Jumeirah Road, you'll see the Jumeirah Mosque and stop for a photo at the iconic Burj Al Arab, the world’s only 7-star hotel. We’ll also pass by the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, as well as the World Trade Center and the International Financial Center, before returning to the hotel. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Free morning. In the afternoon, get ready for our most popular excursion! Hop into a Land Cruiser (max. 6 guests per vehicle) for an exhilarating ride over the stunning high dunes. Capture unforgettable shots of the Arabian sunset before arriving at our desert camp.  Enjoy the aroma of grilled kebabs and lamb, cozy bonfires, traditional water pipes, and relaxing Arabic music—all creating a magical desert atmosphere. After a delicious BBQ dinner, watch an enchanting belly dance performance and try henna painting. Water, soft drinks, tea, and coffee are included. Return to the hotel for overnight stay. 

Breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return flight.