Turkey- Family Style

Itinerary

• Turkey

  Turkey stretches across the Anatolian peninsula in western Asia and Thrace in southeastern Europe, making it a multi-continental country. The Mediterranean Sea is to the south; the Aegean Sea to the west; and the Black Sea to the north. The first major empire in the area was that of the Hittites, from the 18th through the 13th century BC. All of Anatolia was conquered by the Persian Achaemenid Empire during the 6th and 5th centuries and later fell to Alexander the Great. In 324 the Roman emperor Constantine I chose Byzantium to be the new capital of the Roman Empire, renaming it Constantinople (now Istanbul). After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, it became the capital of the Byzantine Empire. This empire was defeated by the Turks, who were subsequently defeated by the Mongols in 1243 giving rise to the mightly Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Empire interacted with both Eastern and Western cultures throughout its 623-year history. In the 16th and 17th centuries, it was among the world's most powerful political entities. Mustafa Kemal Pasha (Ataturk) led the independence movement in 1922 which produced the modern secular Turkish state. 

• Cappadocia

  Cappadocia is a region in central Turkey, largely in Nevsehir Province. The name was traditionally used in Christian sources throughout history and is still widely used as an international tourism concept to define a region of exceptional natural wonders, in particular characterized by fairy chimneys and a unique historical and cultural heritage. The term, as used in tourism, roughly corresponds to present-day Nevsehir Province. In the time of Herodotus, the Cappadocians were reported as occupying the whole region from Mount Taurus to the vicinity of the Euxine (Black Sea). Cappadocia, in this sense, was bounded in the south by the chain of the Taurus Mountains that separate it from Cilicia, to the east by the upper Euphrates and the Armenian Highland, to the north by Pontus, and to the west by Lycaonia and eastern Galatia.

• Istanbul

  Istanbul (Byzantium, and later Constantinople) is the world's 3rd largest city and Turkey's cultural and financial center. It is located on the Bosphorus Strait and encompasses the natural harbor known as the Golden Horn. It extends both on the European (Thrace) and on the Asian (Anatolia) side of the Bosphorus, and is therefore the only metropolis in the world which is situated on two continents. In its long history, Istanbul served as the capital city of the Roman Empire (330–395), the East Roman (Byzantine) Empire (395–1204 and 1261–1453), the Latin Empire (1204–1261), and the Ottoman Empire (1453–1922). The city was chosen as joint European Capital of Culture for 2010. The historic areas of Istanbul were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985.

• Izmir

  Izmir, historically Smyrna, is the third most populous city of Turkey and the country's largest port after Istanbul. It is located in the Gulf of Izmir, by the Aegean Sea. Izmir has almost 3,500 years of urban past, and possibly that much more of advanced human settlement. Modern Izmir also incorporates the nearby ancient cities of Ephesus, Pergamon, Sardis and Klazomenai.

• Kusadasi

  Kusadasi is a resort town in Turkey's Aegean coast and the center of the district of the same name in Aydin Province. Its main industry is tourism and is a port of call for cruise ships. The city stands on a bay in the Aegean with the peninsula of Guvercin Ada sticking out into the sea at one end, and the mountain of Kaz Dagi behind. It is 90 km (56 mi) south of Izmir, the region's largest metropolitan center. It is 71 km (44 mi) from the provincial seat of Aydin situated inland.

• • Istanbul
  • Yasmak Sultan

  Day 1: Istanbul

  Enjoy a private airport transfer today with a car/driver and airport assistant.

  A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, plane tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.

  Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan (4*)

  Situated in the heart of downtown Istanbul, Yasmak Sultan (4*) neighbours celebrated museums, mosques, palaces shopping areas. Just a short walking distance from St.Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Grand Covered Bazaar, the centre of old city Istanbul awaits discovery. Hotel Yasmak Sultan brings a refreshing alternative to the typical Istanbul Hotel, pairing boutique style with elegant guest service. Friendly, multilingual staff looks forward to welcoming you to the Yasmak Sultan Hotel.

• • St. Sophia Church

  Day 2: Istanbul

  Enjoy a privately guided full day tour of Istanbul and see the most important sights. Visit the St. Sophia Church, the pride and glory of the Byzantine architecture (excluding the Gallery floor); the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue tiles; Byzantine Hippodrome, where once chariot races were held; and the Grand Bazaar, world’s largest covered bazaar with 4000 shops. Visit Topkapi Palace, the famous residence of the Sultans (The Harem section is not included in the tour).

  Also, visit the Underground cistern, the largest of the underground water reservoirs from the Byzantine era. The pillars were brought from antique cities of Asia minor. The Basilica Cistern is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that still lie  near the south-west of Hagia Sophia, which was founded by Justinianus I, a Byzantine Empire (527-565) This cathedral-sized cistern is an underground chamber of 143 by 65 metres, capable of holding 80,000 cubic metres of water.

  Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan (4*)
• • Goreme
  • Yunak Houses, Cappadocia

  Day 3: Istanbul - Cappadocia

  Airport transfer with your private car and driver.

  Enjoy a direct flight from Istanbul to Capadoccia. The flight duration is about 1 hour.

  Airport transfer with your private car and driver.

  Enjoy a full day tour with your own private car and guide in Cappadocia. You will be driven to Devrent Valley and then to Pasabagi Valley, to see the amazing fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. From here you will be driven to Avanos, the famous pottery town, to have lunch. After lunch depart from Avanos to see the beautiful examples of Byzantine art in the churches of Goreme Open Air Museum. Then you will be driven to Uchisar Castle, the highest point of the region, where we have a fabulous panoramic view over Cappadocia. Conclude with a visit to the Pidgeon Valley.

  Accommodation: Yunak Evleri (5*)

  Yunak Evleri (5*) is a combination of six cave houses with a total of 30 private cave rooms dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries and crowned with a 19th century Greek Mansion. The name of the neighbourhood "Yunak" comes from the old days when women used to do all their washing and of course, socialising by the fountain located at the village square. Being by the fountain and at the Yunak was the centre of daily life before people had running water at home. These exceptional cave houses are renovated and decorated with care and in their own distinct style while strictly respecting the local character. The decor is elegant and personalized with beautiful hand-crafted furnishings and antiques. With 30 rooms, Yunak Evleri is small enough to be intimate, yet large enough to offer you privacy.

• • Cappadocia cave dwellings
  • Horse riding

  Day 4: Cappadocia

  As an optional activity you can choose to have a Hot Air Balloon and have a complete view of Cappadocia area

  Enjoy a full day tour in Capadoccia and visit the Ortahisar, a natural citadel carved in rocks. Then visit the subterrenean city of Kaymakli or Derinkuyu, established in the 7th century by Christians fleeing persecution, in which a visitor is able to descend several levels underground. You will be driven to Cavusin Valley to see the troglodyte dwellings where people lived until mid 20th century. After lunch a visit to the Red valley, finally a visit to a Winery, Cappadocia is famous for its fertile vineyards due to the mineral-laden volcanic soil of the area.

  Experience the spectacular beauty of Turkey's Cappadocia region on horseback. Traversing the countless valleys and mountains by horseback is a unique way to explore and brings riders in touch with the area's breathtaking beauty. Visit Byzantine cave churches and fascinating underground cities or simply take in the breathtaking scenery.

  Accommodation: Yunak Evleri (5*)
• • Izmir
  • Hilton, Izmir

  Day 5: Cappadocia - Izmir

  Airport transfer with your private car and driver.

  Enjoy your flight from Cappadoccia to Izmir. The flight has a stopover in Istanbul.

  Airport transfer with your private car and driver.

  Enjoy a full day tour to Ephesus with your own private car and guide. Drive to Selcuk, to visit the world-famous Antique City of Ephesus, including the Arcadian Way, the Antique Theater, the Roman Baths, and the Celcus Library. In the afternoon a visit to the Shrine of Virgin Mary, where she lived her last years and Basilica of St. John. Drive back to Izmir, where you will be dropped off at your hotel. Lunch is included.

  Accommodation: Hilton Izmir (4*)

  Hilton Izmir Hotel (5*) is located on the west coast of Turkey, overlooking Izmir Bay. The hotel is 20 minute`s drive from Adnan Menderes Airport and just a few minute`s walk away from the shopping district and the Ataturk Museum. Enjoy Izmir attractions like the Archeological Museum, Ephesus ruins and the Virgin Mary's House. Squeeze in Sardis, Pergamum and the Citadel of Kadifekale. All Hilton Izmir hotel rooms have great views and are equipped with modern amenities. Have breakfast in the Colonnade Restaurant or end the day by watching the sun set across Izmir Bay from the 31st-floor Windows of the Bay Restaurant or Bar. Admire city views from the Hilton Izmir hotel's Health Club while are you relaxing or pampering yourself.

• • Kusadasi
  • Korumar, Kusadasi

  Day 6: Izmir - Kusadasi

  Transfer to Kusadasi with private vehicle and driver.

  Accommodation: Korumar (5*)

  Korumar (5*) located on a cliff protruding the Aegean Sea. Located off Kusadasi, a getaway to explore nearby Kirazli, a traditional Koy village and the Hellenistic remains of Pygale, both within a 20-minute drive. The hotel is constructed on its own private bay which overlooks the nearby Pigeon Island. Rooms open out onto private furnished balconies with sea views. Each room is fitted with satellite TV channels, an intimate seating area and includes en suite bathrooms with either shower or bathtub. Guests can choose among Turkish cuisine and international classic dishes. Food can be enjoyed overlooking the sea on the terrace, or indoor in a more elegant ambiance, both complemented by a varied wine selection. Facilities of the hotel include tennis courts, gym, a traditional hammam, a jacuzzi pool and massage treatments.

• • Kusadasi Aqua Park

  Day 7: Kusadasi

  Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

  Enjoy a day at Europe's biggest aqua park! The entire family will love this park along the Aegean coast. From 80km/hr rides to a kiddie pool with a pirate ship - to a lazy river, there is something for everyone. Not just water, there is a dryland with 11 bars, 7 restaurants, and rooms with Wi-Fi and television.

  Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

  Accommodation: Korumar (5*)
• • Jeep Safari

  Day 8: Kusadasi

  Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

  Enjoy a jeep safari through Kusadasi today. This is for those who like adventure, and don't mind a little mud and dust. You will see nature at its best!

  Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

  Accommodation: Korumar (5*)

• Day 9: Kusadasi - Istanbul

  Airport transfer with your private car and driver.

  Enjoy a short flight to Istanbul today.

  Airport transfer with your private car and driver.

  Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan (4*)

• Day 10: Istanbul

  Airport transfer with your private car and driver.

  Accommodation: Depart

  Depart from Istanbul airport - end of itinerary.

Accommodation

• • Yasmak Sultan

  Yasmak Sultan (4*)

  Situated in the heart of downtown Istanbul, Yasmak Sultan (4*) neighbours celebrated museums, mosques, palaces shopping areas. Just a short walking distance from St.Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Grand Covered Bazaar, the centre of old city Istanbul awaits discovery. Hotel Yasmak Sultan brings a refreshing alternative to the typical Istanbul Hotel, pairing boutique style with elegant guest service. Friendly, multilingual staff looks forward to welcoming you to the Yasmak Sultan Hotel.

  • More information
• • Yunak Houses, Cappadocia
  • Exterior view

  Yunak Evleri (5*)

  Yunak Evleri (5*) is a combination of six cave houses with a total of 30 private cave rooms dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries and crowned with a 19th century Greek Mansion. The name of the neighbourhood "Yunak" comes from the old days when women used to do all their washing and of course, socialising by the fountain located at the village square. Being by the fountain and at the Yunak was the centre of daily life before people had running water at home. These exceptional cave houses are renovated and decorated with care and in their own distinct style while strictly respecting the local character. The decor is elegant and personalized with beautiful hand-crafted furnishings and antiques. With 30 rooms, Yunak Evleri is small enough to be intimate, yet large enough to offer you privacy.

  • More information
• • Hilton, Izmir

  Hilton Izmir (4*)

  Hilton Izmir Hotel (5*) is located on the west coast of Turkey, overlooking Izmir Bay. The hotel is 20 minute`s drive from Adnan Menderes Airport and just a few minute`s walk away from the shopping district and the Ataturk Museum. Enjoy Izmir attractions like the Archeological Museum, Ephesus ruins and the Virgin Mary's House. Squeeze in Sardis, Pergamum and the Citadel of Kadifekale. All Hilton Izmir hotel rooms have great views and are equipped with modern amenities. Have breakfast in the Colonnade Restaurant or end the day by watching the sun set across Izmir Bay from the 31st-floor Windows of the Bay Restaurant or Bar. Admire city views from the Hilton Izmir hotel's Health Club while are you relaxing or pampering yourself.

  • More information
• • Korumar (5*)
  • Korumar (5*) Room

  Korumar (5*)

  Korumar (5*) located on a cliff protruding the Aegean Sea. Located off Kusadasi, a getaway to explore nearby Kirazli, a traditional Koy village and the Hellenistic remains of Pygale, both within a 20-minute drive. The hotel is constructed on its own private bay which overlooks the nearby Pigeon Island. Rooms open out onto private furnished balconies with sea views. Each room is fitted with satellite TV channels, an intimate seating area and includes en suite bathrooms with either shower or bathtub. Guests can choose among Turkish cuisine and international classic dishes. Food can be enjoyed overlooking the sea on the terrace, or indoor in a more elegant ambiance, both complemented by a varied wine selection. Facilities of the hotel include tennis courts, gym, a traditional hammam, a jacuzzi pool and massage treatments.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

• Request a Quote