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Off-the-Beaten-Path Tour of Türkiye

Explore the rich history and diverse cultures of Eastern Turkey on this eight-day tour, visiting ancient cities, stunning landscapes, and historical landmarks.

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Day 1-2: Kars and Ani

Day 1:

  • Morning: Fly to Kars.
Kars Turkey
Kars Turkey
  • Afternoon: Explore Kars, known for its mixture of Russian and Turkish architecture. Visit sites such as the Kars Castle and the Church of the Apostles.
Kars Castle
Kars Castle
  • Evening: Sample local cheeses and honey at a traditional Kars restaurant.
Kars Church of the Apostles
Kars Church of the Apostles

Day 2:

  • Morning: Travel to the ancient city of Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage site near the Armenia border.
Ani Ruins Turkey
Ani Ruins Turkey
  • Afternoon: Explore the ruins of churches, mosques, and caravanserais in this once-thriving Silk Road city.
  • Evening: Return to Kars for an overnight stay.

Day 3-4: Van

Day 3:

  • Morning: Travel to Van.
Van Turkey
Van Turkey
  • Afternoon: Explore the Van Fortress and the ancient Urartian ruins. Taste the famous Van breakfast, known for its variety and richness.
Van Fortress Turkey
Van Fortress Turkey
  • Evening: Walk along the shores of Lake Van and enjoy the scenic views.
Van Lake Sunset
Van Lake Sunset

Day 4:

  • Morning: Take a boat to Akdamar Island to see the Armenian Church of the Holy Cross, with its exquisite stone carvings.
Akdamar island, church
Akdamar island, church
  • Afternoon: Spend some time exploring the island and enjoying the tranquility of Lake Van.
  • Evening: Return to Van for an overnight stay.

Day 5-6: Mardin and Midyat

Day 5:

  • Morning: Head to Mardin, known for its unique architecture and stunning position overlooking the Mesopotamian plains.
Mardin Turkey
Mardin Turkey
  • Afternoon: Visit the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, an important Syriac Orthodox site.
Mardin Deyrulzafaran Monastery
Mardin Deyrulzafaran Monastery
  • Evening: Explore the narrow streets of Mardin, taking in the beautiful stone houses and historic buildings.
The old city of Mardin
The old city of Mardin

Day 6:

  • Morning: Travel to Midyat and explore its ancient Syriac communities.
Midyat Turkey
Midyat Turkey
  • Afternoon: Visit the Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the oldest surviving Syriac Orthodox monasteries in the world.
Midyat Mor Gabriel Monastery
Midyat Mor Gabriel Monastery
  • Evening: Return to Mardin for an overnight stay.

Day 7-8: Sanliurfa and Göbekli Tepe

Day 7:

  • Morning: Travel to Sanliurfa, believed to be the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham.
Sanliurfa
Sanliurfa
  • Afternoon: Visit the Pool of Sacred Fish and the cave where Abraham was born.
Pool of Sacred Fish in Urfa
The Pool of Sacred Fish in Urfa
  • Evening: Explore the vibrant bazaars and enjoy local cuisine.

Day 8:

  • Morning: Explore Göbekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known temple.
Göbekli Tepe
Göbekli Tepe
  • Afternoon: Return to Sanliurfa for final sightseeing or relaxation.
  • Evening: Prepare for departure.

Tour Highlights:

  • Kars and Ani: Russian and Turkish architecture in Kars, ancient ruins of Ani.
  • Van: Van Fortress, Urartian ruins, Akdamar Island, and the Armenian Church of the Holy Cross.
  • Mardin and Midyat: Deyrulzafaran Monastery, Mor Gabriel Monastery, unique architecture.
  • Sanliurfa and Göbekli Tepe: Pool of Sacred Fish, cave of Abraham, Göbekli Tepe.

Join us on this Historical and Cultural Tour of Eastern Turkey to explore the rich tapestry of ancient civilizations, religious landmarks, and diverse cultures that define this fascinating region.

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