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Southeastern Anatolia Religious & spiritual activities

Our most recommended Southeastern Anatolia Religious & spiritual activities

Istanbul: 8-Day Cappadocia, Ephesus, Konya, Pamukkale Tour

1. Istanbul: 8-Day Cappadocia, Ephesus, Konya, Pamukkale Tour

Discover the highlights of Turkey on a guided 8-day sightseeing tour. See the best of Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Konya. Visit the famous sites of Ephesus, Pammukale, and the Devrent Valley. Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul Arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST) or SAW airport where the tour representative will meet you with your name sign and private transfer to the hotel for your overnight stay in Istanbul. Day 2: Full-Day Istanbul Tour with Breakfast After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour of Istanbul. Visit the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome, where chariot races and the Byzantine riots took place. Visit the Grand Bazaar for shopping and spend the night in Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays so the Spice Market will be visited instead. Day 3: Istanbul – Izmir – Ephesus Tour – Kusadasi with Breakfast and Dinner Start day 3 with early morning pickup from the hotel and transfer to Istanbul IST or SAW airport for your flight to Izmir. Arrive at Izmir Airport and be met by your tour guide. Drive to Ephesus and see the Artemis Temple before continuing to Ephesus, one of the 12 cities of Ionia (an ancient Greek district on the western coast of Asia Minor). After Ephesus, visit the House of the Virgin Mary. This house is located in the Aladag Mountains 5 miles from Ephesus. Then drive to Kusadasi to stay overnight. Day 4: Kusadasi – Pamukkale Tour with Breakfast and Dinner Drive to Pamukkale to visit the Travertines, white terraces, and Hierapolis ancient city. Stay overnight in a Thermal Hotel. Day 5: Pamukkale – Cappadocia Cave Hotel with Breakfast Drive to Cappadocia which will be approximately 8 hours of driving. Visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana, the worldwide famous mystic, and Sultanhani Caravanserai, a roadside inn where travelers could rest Overnight in Cappadocia in a cave hotel. Day 6: Cappadocia Tour Cave Hotel with Breakfast See the Three Sisters Fairy Chimneys in Urgup. Then, visit Kaymakli Underground City. Visit the famous Goreme Open Air Museum Continue to Uchisar Rock Castle to have a panoramic view of the valleys of Cappadocia. Spend the night in a traditional Cappadocia cave hotel. This day includes an optional hot air ballooning experience during sunrise. Day 7: Full-Day Cappadocia Tour - Istanbul with Breakfast In the morning, admire the lunar landscape of the Devrent Valley. Stop at Avanos, the center of terra cotta works of art since 3000 BC, and enjoy a demonstration in a traditional pottery workshop. Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight from Kayseri to Istanbul and then head to your hotel for an overnight stay. Day 8: Home with Breakfast After breakfast check out from the hotel and relax with a private transfer to the airport. Depends upon flights/hotel availabilities, reverse (Istanbul-Capp.-Pamukkale-Ephesus-Izmir-Istanbul) can be organized.

From Trabzon: Soumela Monastery and Karaca Cave Day Trip

2. From Trabzon: Soumela Monastery and Karaca Cave Day Trip

Your first visit is the breathtaking Sumela Monastery, which is thought to be founded by two monks about 1500 years ago, located within the borders of Altındere National Park in Maçka district. After that ,Aya Varvara church right next to monastery which is on the world heritage list. Climbing Zigana Mountain ;visiting the Karaca Cave in Gümüşhane Torul district will make you away from your day routine . You will the chance to taste the pestil, one of the regional delight . After having lunch in the region, the turn will come to visit the Glass Terrace to watch the Torul district from a bird's eye view and to experience some excitement. Reaching the hometown of Sütlaç, Hamsiköy, by climbing the summit of Zigana mountain again and following the beauties of the ancient Silk Road, which was used as the transit trade route of Iran in the republic period and added to the photographs with the richness of nature. Here will be served famous rice pudding ' Sütlaç ' and tea from the traditional village coffee shop. After taking a walk in the village and portray the natural beauty of the village , tour will end back at your hotel .

From Yerevan: 4.5-Hour Garni-Geghard Tour

3. From Yerevan: 4.5-Hour Garni-Geghard Tour

You will be picked up from your hotel where the tour will start at 10:00 am and last approximately 4 to 5-hours. The first stop is Garni, a Pagan Temple referred to as the well-known symbol of pre-Christian Armenia that was converted into a royal summer house. After exploring the grand structure, you will then stop at Ararat ARC where you'll have a fantastic view to mount Ararat, a snow capped dormant volcano situated in Turkey. From here, you will visit the UNESCO listed Geghard Monastery Complex. Some of the churches are situated in caves, whilst others are dug out of the surrounding rock surface. You will then be transferred back to Yerevan.

Antalya/Kemer: Kekova Sunken City, Demre & Lycia Day Tour

4. Antalya/Kemer: Kekova Sunken City, Demre & Lycia Day Tour

Explore ancient Lycia on a day trip and yacht cruise from Antalya. See a historic rock tomb from Lycian times, marvel at ancient Greco-Roman amphitheaters, and sail to the beautiful Kekova Island. Meet your driver outside your hotel and begin your adventure with a drive through the ancient state of Lycia. Marvel at an ancient rock tomb from the Lycian times and stop to visit the Greco - Roman amphitheater. Next, visit the church of St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker in Demre city. This ancient church sits above the 4th-century burial place of St. Nicholas, the original inspiration for Santa Claus. Enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to Kekova Island. Board a glass-bottomed yacht and sail through pristine waters to reach this fascinating island. Sail by the mysterious sunken city of Kekova, an ancient Lycia city, destroyed by an earthquake. Spot the ruins of the city and the Simena Castle from the side of the boat and under the water through the glass bottom. Before heading back, jump into the refreshing water for a swim. Finally, return to your hotel, having experienced Turkey's rich ancient history.

Konya: City Tour with Lunch

5. Konya: City Tour with Lunch

Learn about the life and times of the great Sufi mystic Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi on this guided tour of the sacred city of Konya. Immerse yourself in Rumi's teachings and learn more about many of his most trusted advisors and companions as you wander through the streets of his home town. After getting picked up from your hotel, pay a visit to one of Turkey's most hauntingly beautiful dervish lodges and prepare to be amazed at the Mosque of Aladdin, which contains one of the oldest Minbars/pulpits in the entire country. Later, wander through the charming streets of the village of Sille where Turks and Greeks lived side by side for over 800 years. Finally, travel back in time at the Byzantine Church of Agia Eleni before getting dropped off back at your hotel.

Trabzon: Sumela Monastery Day Tour with Lunch

6. Trabzon: Sumela Monastery Day Tour with Lunch

Begin your day with a visit to the mesmerizing Altindere National Park. Soak up the tranquility of the park as you listen to the sound of the waterfalls and snap photos. Follow your guide on a 15-minute walk to the Sumela Monastery observation point and marvel at the impressive architecture of the monastery, carved into the cliff face. After admiring the views, continue to Cosandere Valley and spend some free time exploring. Stop among the pine trees to enjoy a delcious lunch at Zigana Pass. After lunch, visit the ancient Tortul Castle and put your bravery to the test with a walk along a 240-meter-high glass observation platform. Later, enter the magnificent Karaca Caves. This natural wonder is filled with easy-to-navigate walkways and plenty of lighting to showcase its beauty. The final stop is in Hamsikoy, a peaceful region of 5 farming villages, where you’ll taste a local pudding known as sutlac before beginning the return journey to Trabzon.

From Istanbul: Cappadocia, Ephesus, & Pamukkale Private Tour

7. From Istanbul: Cappadocia, Ephesus, & Pamukkale Private Tour

See Istanbul, Cappadocia, Izmir, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Hierapolis. Enjoy pre-selected hotels, with breakfast and lunch included. Choose your own spot for supper and explore a bit on your own. Day 1: Istanbul To Cappadocia by Plane; Full-Day Tour of Southern CappadociaEnjoy pick-up from your hotel to the airport for a one-hour flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival at Cappadocia, meet your guide at the airport who will have your name on a sign. Relax while your guide transfers you to the tour office in Goreme. Next, depart for a full-day tour of Southern Cappadocia. See Pidgeon Valley, the Underground City of Kaymakli, the continue along the countryside to the Kızılcukur Valley. Visit Selime Monastery before returning to your hotel.  Day 2: Cappadocia To Izmir; North TourBe picked up from your hotel after breakfast and depart for a full-day exploration of North Cappadocia. Visit Goreme Open Air Museum, Cavusin Vallage, Monsk Valley, Devrent, and the towns of Urgup, Ortahisar and Avanos. Return to your hotel in Cappadocia before leaving for your transfer to the airport for the flight to Izmir. Upon arrival in Izmir, you will be met at the airport once again with your name and you will be delivered to the next hotel in Kusadası. Day 3: Full-day Ephesus TourLeave your hotel after breakfast and depart for Ephesus. See the Temple of Artemis, one of the 7 Ancient Wonders of the World. Visit the biggest amphitheater and the Celsius Library. Tour around ruins left from the ancient city, and see the House of the Virgin Mary, thought to be her last dwelling. At the end of the tour enjoy a transfer back to the hotel. Relax and explore Kusadasi at your own pace with free time in the evening. Day 4: Tour of Pamukkale and The Ancient City of Hierapolis; Flight Back To IstanbulBe picked up from your hotel after breakfast and depart for a full-day Pamukkale and Hierapolis tour. Visit the Old Gates, the cemetery, and the theatre of Hierapolis (part of the James Bond film shoot).  Take in the waterfall known as Travertines, and swim in the calcified pools made famous by Cleopatra. At the end of the tour sit back as you are delivered to the airport for a short flight back to Istanbul.

From Istanbul: Ephesus and Pamukkale 2-Day Trip

8. From Istanbul: Ephesus and Pamukkale 2-Day Trip

Discover the wonders of Ephesus and Pamukkale on a 2-day trip from Istanbul. Take guided tours and learn interesting facts about Turkey's ancient sites. Stay over night in Kusadasi or Selcuk. Day 1: Flight to Izmir and Ephesus Tour Your trip begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Istanbul to catch the flight to Izmır. When you land at Izmir Airport, your driver will take you to Selcuk. Meet your guide and to start exploring Ephesus at the House of Virgin Mary. Tour the shrine and learn about its religious significance before heading to lunch. After lunch visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of antiquity. Have the chance to take pictures of the Church of St. John and TheIsa Bey Mosque. Then head to Sirince, situated on the hills of Selcuk, and have free time to explore its traditional homes and check out local wine production. Take the opportunity to taste the fruit flavored wines. The first day of your trip concludes in the late afternoon when you will be taken to Selcuk or Kusadasi near the seaside. Day 2: Pamukkale and Flight to Istanbul The second day of your trip starts with breakfast at your hotel. Your driver will then pick you up to take you to Pamukkale. Arrive in Pamukkale and see why it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as both a Natural Site and an Ancient City. Famous for hot springs believed to have healing powers and its travertines, tour Pamukkale and learn what created this impressive sight. From Pamukkale head into the ancient city of Hierapolis, a settlement of different cults and cultures throughout history. Learn about the city's long and interesting history where its name comes from. After your tour, you will be taken to Denizli Airport for your flight back to Istanbul. From the airpot you will be taken back to your hotel.

From Belek: Demre, Myra and Kekova Day Tour

9. From Belek: Demre, Myra and Kekova Day Tour

Enjoy a full-day tour of the beautiful Demre province in Turkey and visit some of its most beautiful locations. Following pick up from your hotel or accommodation in Belek, transfer to the ancient town of Myra on the banks of the River Myros. Visit the ancient Greek amphitheater and see the tombs of the Lycian necropolis. Stop for a complimentary lunch before sailing through turquoise waters to the picturesque Kekova Island. Explore the extraordinary underwater ruins of the sunken city of Simena and visit the noteworthy Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa. Swim in the crystal clear waters surrounding the island. End your day trip at the small town of Kale in Demre and visit the stunning church of St. Nicholas before being transfered back to your hotel.

From Istanbul: 2-Day Ephesus, Pamukkale, & Hierapolis Tour

10. From Istanbul: 2-Day Ephesus, Pamukkale, & Hierapolis Tour

Discover the ancient cities of Ephesus and Hierapolis on this two-day trip from Istanbul. Explore the ancient city of Ephesus where you can see the Temple of Artemis. Experience the beauty of the natural white terraces created by mineral deposits at the hot springs in Pamukkale. Stay overnight in the town of Selcuk or Kusadasi. Treat yourself to breakfast at the hotel. Try authentic Turkish food with lunch at two local restaurants during your tours. Day 1: Be picked from your accommodation in Istanbul and relax on the drive to the airport. Enjoy a comfortable flight to the city of Izmir. Meet your guide at the airport and drive to the tour provider's office in the town of Selcuk. Take a break with lunch in a local restaurant. Continue to the archeological site at Ephesus to start your guided tour. Walk through the ancient streets and see one of the wonders of the ancient world at the Temple of Artemis. View the façade of one of the largest libraries from Roman times at the Library of Celsus. Stop at the House of the Virgin Mary where the religious figure is said to have spend her last days. See the remains of an old Roman Amphitheater. Learn about these ruins from your local guide. Drive to your hotel in Selcuk or Kusadasi where you can rest for the evening. Day 2: In the morning, be picked up by your guide from your hotel. Enjoy the scenic Turkish countryside on the drive to Pamukkale. Hear about area and culture from your guide. Have a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before starting your tour of the ruins of Hierapolis. Stroll to the remains of a massive Roman amphitheater that once held an audience of 15,000. Admire the marble staircase at the Greek Temple of Apollo. Watch as your guide points out all the significant structures in the archeological site of Hierapolis. Take off your shoes and walk along the white terraces of Pamukkale. Dip your feet in the natural hot springs. Swim amid the ruins of a temple in Cleopatra's Pool. Have some free time in the afternoon to explore on your own. Take it easy on the ride back to the airport where you can catch your flight back to Istanbul. Once you arrive in Istanbul, your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your accommodation in Istanbul.

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What people are saying about Southeastern Anatolia

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 45 reviews

The trip was one of the best planned trips I have ever been on, in the 12+ countries I've visited. Excellent planning, time management, hotels, professional service and food across cities. I'd especially like to say special thanks to our professional tour guides, Gurkan Nakipoglu and Layla Yasar who made the experience extremely memorable. In particular, Gurkan was with us from Izmir through Cappadocia and really provided most valuable information about the history, culture, and curated the type of places we visited. It opened our minds beyond the basic info we had about Turkiye. Similarly Layla's insights on Istanbul and the history of the country was quite enriching. A trip to a country with such great history and culture, is incomplete without gaining such insight and knowledge. Thank you again!! Cheers, Neeraja

Chose the perfect day for this tour. It was good sunny weather. The Monastery is beautiful and the drive up the mountains to reach it is pretty as well. We had lunch at a restaurant with a good view of the mountains and delicious food. The glass lookout was a fun stop and the cave was cool. I didn't like the rice pudding but loved the small homey restaurant with the warm stove. I enjoyed this tour and recommend it.

The Alp guide was great! Full of interesting information, whether on the culture, the history of the sites or the daily life. Highly recommended outing. Perfect timing. The meal is simple but very good value for money. Driver at the top.

I had a great guide in Volga who spoke both English and Spanish. Everything was timely and it’s really good to be in a small group. Lunch was bearable.

This was an excellent tour. Everything was own time and efficient. Paragliding was amazing! Josh was an excellent tour guide. Highly recommend!