Attractions

Throughout your tour of the wonderful cities of Turkey, explore attractions that are enjoyed by tourists from all over the world:

Hagia Sophia Museum: This is a great masterpiece of Byzantine art. It was built by the Justinians in the 6th century AD and first served as a patriarchal basilica, then as a mosque and now as a museum. From the time it was built in 537 AD, it remained the largest church in existence for nearly 1,000 years.

Blue Mosque: It isn’t every day you get to see such a spectacular mosque. Make this a priority, as you probably won’t see one more beautiful in your lifetime. Blue tiles decorate the interior, hence the name. It was completed in 1616 by Mehmet Aga, an Imperial Architect.

Pamukkale: This unique white limestone “castle” was formed over a period of 14,000 years. It is believed that its thermal spring water has therapeutic qualities and can cure rheumatism, kidney and heart diseases.

Ephesus: Once a sacred center for the cult of Artemis, Ephesus provides a cultural touchstone for both the ancient Greeks and the early Christians. Your guided tour highlights all the major landmarks: the elaborate Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian and the Great Theatre, which is still in use today. Leaving Ephesus, you’ll then travel to the house where the Virgin Mary is said to have spent her final days.

Topkapi Palace Museum: This gorgeous palace was built by Mehmet II. The site is like its own town, with public and private buildings, gardens, courtyards, pavilions and kiosks. Be sure not to skip this.

Troy: Everyone has heard of this magnificent city. If you’ve read Homer’s The Iliad, or even if you haven’t, you’ll want to visit its famous remains.