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CULTURAL RICHES OF THE EAST
Detail about the tour
CULTURAL RICHES OF THE EAST tour explanation
Starting From 150€/6pax
Embark on a 12-day journey through Türkiye’s vibrant history, captivating architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ani, explore iconic landmarks, local traditions, and unique culinary delights.
With expertly guided tours, immersive cultural experiences, and comfortable accommodations, this adventure promises unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to the rich heritage of the region.
CULTURAL RICHES OF THE EAST TOUR DAY BY DAY
Upon Arrival at Istanbul Airport, transfer to your hotel in Istanbul city which is the largest city of not only Türkiye but also in entire Europe and West Asia with almost 20 million population.
The sequence of the visits might change, depending on the weather, opening & closing times of the museums and mosques, your interest & will as the entrance fees are on own for all the sites.
On our days in Istanbul, you can decide to have your lunch on your own near the sites, not to lose time or you can just have a snack or skip the lunch if you plan to have a big rewarding dinner after full day tour.
- Dinner: On own
- Overnight stay at Istanbul City
Breakfast: At the hotel.
We begin our day with a welcome briefing, regarding the tour in general and afterwards depart the hotel for visiting the Sadberk Hanim Museum, by ferry in Eminönü neighborhood. This is a private mansion museum with artefacts from of Anatolian civilisations.
Lunch on own in Sariyer district. By boat we journey to the Naval Museum to appreciate its impressive collection of imperial caique (flamboyant royal rowing boat).
After the museum we return our hotel and meet at the lobby for going to a local restaurant to enjoy our welcome dinner which is included.
- Overnight stay at Istanbul City
Breakfast: At the hotel
In the morning we take the ferry up the Golden Horn to Eyup, among the holiest places in Islam and visit the shrine of the Prophet’s standard bearer Ebru Eyüp El Ensari who therefore was the namesake of the same neighborhood.
From there we move on to the fascinating Zeyrek Mosque which is a converted monastery church; and then we can have our lunch on own and then go to the Theodosius walls of the city to take a walk along the old Constantinople city walls. We end our day with a visit to Philoxenos Cistern from the 4th century A.D. adjacent to Hippodrome in the heart of Old town.
- Dinner: On own
- Overnight stay at Istanbul City
Breakfast: At the hotel
We take a flight to Van which is 2.15 hours long. Either at the airport you can have some snacks as lunch or enjoy sandwich treat on board the plane during flight
Upon arrival we take a city walking tour and check in to our hotel.
- Dinner: included at the hotel
- Overnight stay at Van City
Breakfast: At the Hotel
Lecture about Silverware handicrafts at a silverware studio. Visit Tuşpa Castle (from the Urartian civilization that existed in east Turkiye and northwest Iran in times between 9th.-7th Centuries B.C.)
- Lunch at the city center (on own)
- Free time on own
- Dinner: included
- Overnight stay at Van City
Breakfast: At the Hotel
Lecture about Silverware handicrafts at a silverware studio. Visit Tuşpa Castle (from the Urartian civilization that existed in east Turkiye and northwest Iran in times between 9th.-7th Centuries B.C.)
- Lunch at the city center (on own)
- Free time on own
- Dinner: included
- Overnight stay at Van City
Breakfast: At the hotel
Early Departure from hotel to the city of Kars (225 miles)
Visit to the Muradiye waterfall (sometimes in the summer the water is too weak, however we’ll take our chance). Visit to the Ishak Pasha Palace which was the residence of Ottoman Governor of the east provinces in 18th Century.
- Lunch: Included
- On the way you can take pictures of Mount Ararat as well which is the highest
mountain in Türkiye - Arrival at the city Kars
- Dinner: Included
- Overnight Stay at Kars City
Breakfast: At the hotel
Visit the Ancient Armenian city of Ani which was the capital city of a local Armenian Kingdom till its conquest by the Selçuk Turks in the 11th century A.D.
Return to Kars downtown for city walking tour and local Cheese&Honey tasting.
- Lunch: On own
- Visit to Kars Castle which was in use till the beginning of 20th century
- Dinner: Included
- Overnight Stay at Kars City
Breakfast: At the hotel
After our breakfast, departure from Kars for Erzurum city (130 miles).
Upon arrival at the city we have our lunch (Included) Visit Medieval Age Turkish artifacts such as: Three monumental tombs of Turkish Feudal Lords, a Bedesten (Shopping Mall) from the Ottoman 16th century, Yakutiye Medrese (a religious academy for Primary-Secondary Education from 14th Century).
- Arrival at the hotel
- Dinner: Included
- Overnight stay at Erzurum
Breakfast: At the hotel
Departure from Erzurum to Trabzon (192 miles).
On the way we will visit Sumela Monastery which has enjoyed its hay day in 13th century as the most important monastery of Trebizond Roman Empire.
- Lunch: included
- Arrival at the hotel
- Dinner: On own
- Overnight Stay Trabzon City
Breakfast: At the hotel
As the city Trabzon was the capital of Trebizond Roman Empire for more than a quarter of millennium and capital of North East Anatolia of Ottoman Empire we have edifices to see during our City WalkingTour such as Hagia Sophia of Trabzon.
- Lunch: on own
- Visit Trabzon City Museum
- Farewell Dinner (Included)
- Overnight Stay at Trabzon City
Journey back home !
See you in another adventure :))
TouR info
The minimum number for the tour to be run is 6 and the maximum number is 10.
However; for the groups of more than 10 travelers we need to be noticed till 3
months before beginning of the tour latest.
- Tour Guide
- All entrance fees to the sites
- Four small bottles of water per person per day.
- 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 8 dinners
- Tips for the service staff at the included lunches and dinners
- 2 local alcoholic / non alcoholic drinks at the Welcome dinner and Farewell
Dinner - Water at all lunches and dinners
- Tips for receptionists, and bellboys at the hotels.
- Transfer to the Trabzon Airport.
* We have:
- 3 nights stay in İstanbul
- 3 nights stay in Van
- 2 nights stay in Kars
- 1 night stay at Erzurum
- 2 nights stay in Trabzon
- Flight tickets from the U.S. to the beginning of the tour (Istanbul) and the Flight
tickets from the end of the tour (Trabzon) to the U.S. via Istanbul. - Your personal spending during the tour and at the hotels (minibars, spa etc…)
- Travel&Health insurance during the entire tour in Turkey.
- Tips for the bus drivers and the housekeeper room services at hotels.
** Unexpected occurrences along the way, though rare, could result in a change in
the order in which scheduled stops are visited. We will always have Plan B and C.
need to know
Rules & Tours
Türkiye is a vibrant country rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. To make the most of your visit while respecting local customs and traditions, it’s essential to follow some basic guidelines. This guide will help you navigate the country with confidence and courtesy.
- Explore Historical Sites: Türkiye is home to stunning landmarks like Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia. Always respect these sites by following the rules and refraining from touching or climbing on ancient structures.
- Taste the Cuisine: Enjoy local delicacies like kebabs, baklava, and Turkish tea. Visiting authentic restaurants and trying street food is highly recommended.
- Use Public Transport: Türkiye’s public transport, including buses, metros, and trams, is efficient and affordable. Treat vehicles and fellow passengers with care and politeness.
- Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few Turkish words like “Merhaba” (Hello) and “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you) can go a long way in showing respect.
- Avoid Loud Behavior: Respect local customs by keeping noise levels low in public places, especially around mosques and residential areas.
- Do Not Litter: Littering is frowned upon. Dispose of trash responsibly, particularly in natural and historical areas.
- Don’t Bargain Aggressively: While bargaining is common in markets, always do so politely without being too forceful.
- Avoid Political Discussions: Steer clear of controversial topics, especially regarding local politics or sensitive historical events.
- Plan Ahead: Book tours to architectural landmarks, popular restaurants, and hotels in advance to avoid last-minute hassle.
- Respect Dress Codes: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Carry a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders and head if required.
- Stay Hydrated: Türkiye can get quite hot, especially in summer. Drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.
- Ask for Help: Locals are generally friendly and willing to assist tourists. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.
- Transport Etiquette: Whether using taxis or public transport, respect the vehicles and keep them clean. Give up your seat to the elderly or disabled as a sign of courtesy.
- Dining Out: When dining in restaurants, tipping is customary. Around 10-15% of the bill is standard.
- Photography: Seek permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or during cultural ceremonies.
- Shopping: Visit local bazaars for unique souvenirs, but always remain respectful in your interactions with vendors.
