Off-the-Beaten-Path Tour of Türkiye

Day 1-2: Kars and Ani

Day 1:

• Morning: Fly to Kars.

• 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.

• Evening: Sample local cheeses and honey at a traditional Kars restaurant.

Day 2:

• Morning: Travel to the ancient city of Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage site near the Armenia border.

• 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.

• Afternoon: Explore the Van Fortress and the ancient Urartian ruins. Taste the famous Van breakfast, known for its variety and richness.

• Evening: Walk along the shores of Lake Van and enjoy the scenic views.

Day 4:

• Morning: Take a boat to Akdamar Island to see the Armenian Church of the Holy Cross, with its exquisite stone carvings.

• 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.

• Afternoon: Visit the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, an important Syriac Orthodox site.

• Evening: Explore the narrow streets of Mardin, taking in the beautiful stone houses and historic buildings.

Day 6:

• Morning: Travel to Midyat and explore its ancient Syriac communities.

• Afternoon: Visit the Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the oldest surviving Syriac Orthodox monasteries in the world.

• 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.

• Afternoon: Visit the Pool of Sacred Fish and the cave where Abraham was born.

• Evening: Explore the vibrant bazaars and enjoy local cuisine.

Day 8:

• Morning: Explore Göbekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known temple.

• 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.