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The Aegean region of Turkey's east coast is a rich cultural blend of Greek and Turkish history, where ancient civilisations rose and fell many times across millennia. What we are left with is a treasure trove of archaeological sites unmatched almost anywhere else in the classical world, with the likes of Ephesus, Hierapolis and Didyma just waiting to be explored. For this week long, centre-based tour you will stay in the beautiful village of Sirince, famed for its attractive Ottoman Christian architecture. As well as in-depth tours of the region's main sites, you will enjoy wine tasting, and a traditional Turkish bath experience.
Take a morning flight from London (regional connections available) to Izmir. Transfer to the historic Nisanyan Evleri Hotel (or similar) for the duration of the tour. (N)
Day 2: Tour of EphesusEmbark on a full-day tour of Turkey’s most impressive archaeological site – Ephesus. Walk the street of the ancient city, taking in ruins of the Temple of Artemis and the fabled Library of Celsus. New virtual reality glasses bring the site to life and will help you understand what life was like in Roman Asia Minor. An outdoor lunch with cookery demonstration is also included. (B, L)
Day 3: Wine tasting at the Yedi Bilgeler WineryFollowing a morning at leisure, meet your local guide and drive to the nearby town of Selcuk for a wine tasting at Yedi Bilgeler (‘Seven Sages’), one of the first such wineries in Turkey. Sample merlot, malbec and shiraz and learn about the history of viticulture in the region. (B)
Day 4: Aphrodesias, Hierapolis & Pamukkale tourEnjoy a full-day excursion to the ancient ruins of Aphrodesias and Hierapolis as well as the spectacular calcium travertines of nearby Pamukkale. Visit the Temple of Aphrodite and stadium before continuing to Hierapolis, famous as a Roman thermal centre and one of the richest towns in the empire. Pamukkale is truly one the world’s most unique natural phenomenons, where calcium-white terrace pools hug the hillside. Round off the day back at Hierapolis, with a glass of wine to toast the sunset. (B)
Day 5: Day at leisureSpend your day at leisure, exploring the village of Sirince or simply relaxing in the hotel’s pretty gardens. (B)
Day 6: Priene, Miletus & Didyma tourEmbark on a full-day tour of the ancient Greek town of Priene, home to the remains of temples, a theatre, a bouleuterion and more. Next visit Miletus, once one of the largest cities in Anatolia. In the afternoon, head to Didyma, a sanctuary built in honour of various Ancient Greek deities. (B)
Day 7: Turkish bath experienceSpend your morning at leisure, before indulging in a late-afternoon pampering experience at a Turkish bathhouse. Unwind in the marble steam room, feel soothed by a soap massage, then enjoy an invigorating body scrub. (B)
Day 8: Fly to LondonTransfer to Izmir and fly to London. (B)
Meals basis:As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch. D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information Private & tailor-made travelThis itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please call to speak with a Cox & Kings consultant or enquire online.
Nisanyan Evleri is a collection of 20 traditional cottages, inns and stone buildings tastefully transformed into one of Sirince's most inviting hotels. Inside and out, the property showcases the rustic charm and history of its village setting. Its idyllic hillside location affords guests leafy views over Sirince's terracotta-topped rooftops and the surrounding valley.
TEG2021
Flexible Prices & Itineraries
For a quote based on alternative accommodation standards or flight options, or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7873 5000
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Please call 020 7873 5000 for more information or to make a booking.
Prices above are per person in pounds sterling (£), based on two people sharing a twin-room. The prices which were valid at the time of publication, may be subject to change, particularly as a result of variable flight costs. You will be informed of any such changes prior to booking.
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