BCRTA Wonders of Turkey : September 29th, 2025
$5299 $4999 per person
⭐⭐⭐⭐+
*Prices are CAD per person, based on Double Occupancy
*Single Supplement: $2000 CAD (If you’re a single traveler and looking to be matched up with a roommate (of the same gender), please reach out to us for details)
September 29th to October 16th, 2025
Join this second BCRTA Group Exclusive Departure to the “Cradle of Civilization”. This small group departure will be hosted by BCRTA.
Embark on an enchanting journey through Turkey, a land where East meets West, rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul, with its iconic Hagia Sophia and vibrant spice markets, to the surreal rock formations of Cappadocia, this tour offers a tapestry of experiences. Explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, wander through the picturesque streets of Pamukkale with its stunning thermal pools, and savor the delightful flavors of Turkish cuisine. Whether you’re marveling at the intricate mosaics of a Byzantine church or relaxing by the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, Turkey promises a captivating adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories!
Itinerary Routing:
• Momento Golden Horn Hotel (4 Nights – 3 Nights at beginning, 1 at end), Istanbul
• Colin Hotel (1 Night), Canakkale
• Charisma Deluxe Hotel (2 Nights), Kusadasi
• Pam Thermal Hotel (1 Night) Pamukkale
• Akra Hotel (3 Nights), Antalya
• El Puente Cave Hotel (3 Nights), Cappadocia
• Silkroad Museum Hotel (2 Nights), Tokat
• Hanedan Konak Hotel (1 night), Safranbolu
Highlights:
• Istanbul City Tour
• Gallipoli Tour
• Troy Tour
• Bergama Tour
• Ephesus and Sirince Village Tour
• Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour
• Antalya Old City Tour with Waterfalls
• Konya Tour
• Cappadocia South Tour
• Cappadocia North Tour
• Hattusa & Zile Castle Tour
• Tokat City & Ballıca Cave & Gaz Lake Tour
• Kastamonu Tour
• Safranbolu Tour
• Seven Lakes & Sapanca & Masukiye Tour
What’s Included:
Arrival and Departure Transfers, 40 Meals (17 open buffet breakfasts, 14 lunches, 17 Dinners) Transportation in a fully air – conditioned Motorcoach, Professional English speaking tour guides, All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary, All Gratuities, All taxes
Not Included:
Airfare, Insurance, Entry Visa, Any others expenses which are not mentioned at the included section
Terms and Conditions:
Deposit: $500 CAD per person due at time of booking (non-refundable)
If you cancel 10 months prior to departure, then $250 per person is refunded and the remaining $250 per person becomes a Future Travel Credit to be used on any TMJ group departure up to 2 years beyond original date of travel. Deposit becomes non-refundable and cannot be converted to a Future Travel Credit if within 10 months of departure.
Final Balance: Due 90 Days prior to the departure date (non-refundable)
Other Notes:
Roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers are included for all passengers who book a Trip Merchant Journeys or a Trip Merchant Long Stays group departure. These transfers are available on the regular arrival and departure dates of the trip and do not apply to pre and post night stays.
Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ex 506
Mention Group Booking Number: BCRTATURKEY92925
18 Days/17 Nights
40
Meals
-
Destination
-
Arrival City
Istanbul, Turkey -
Departure City
Istanbul, Turkey -
Activity Level
You must be in good physical condition to comfortably enjoy this tour. This may involve walking up stairs, cobblestones and/or on uneven ground, and combine some longer and shorter days. -
Passenger Limit
24 Guests
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September 29th, 2025: Istanbul - Arrival Day
Roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers are included for all passengers who book a "Trip Merchant Journeys" group departure. These transfers are available on the regular arrival and departure dates of the trip and do not apply to pre and post night stays.
Upon our arrival at Istanbul International Airport, your guide will meet, assist and transfer you to your hotel. Istanbul was the capital city of Byzantium & Roman Empires and the Ottoman State. It is a most fascinating city, which actually crosses two continents Europe and Asia. It is a city of amalgamation of museums, bazaars, minarets, mosques, churches, palaces, and restaurants catering to every one’s taste, customs and fifteen million people. Dinner at Hotel.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Accommodation: Momento Golden Horn Hotel, Istanbul
Hotel Momento Golden Horn is located in Istanbul Golden Horn, right in the center of the chamber formed by historical and touristic places. You can visit Roman - Byzantine works of art, the wonderful palaces and mosques of the Ottoman Empire; you can go on a journey to the shopping world in the stores of Eminönü, Golden Horn and Covered Market.
Guests can enjoy easy access to all that the lively city has to offer. Momento Hotel is in the vicinity of popular city attractions such as Museum Of Turkish Calligraphic Art, Beyazit Mosque, Grand Bazaar. Guests may enjoy taking relaxing strolls at Gulhane Park or visit Sultan Ahmed Mosque.
Hotel Momento Golden Horn, consists of 35 Rooms with modern style, you will take the advantage of high speed free Wi-Fi service in all rooms and all over the Hotel. Rooms have air conditioning, direct dial telephone, private bath, hair dryer, satellite LCD TV, minibar, electronic combination safe, 24 hour room service.
Meals Provided: Dinner
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September 30th, 2025: Istanbul City Tour
After breakfast, we have Istanbul City Tour. Our first visit will be the HIPPODROME. The Ancient Hippodrome was the scene of chariot races, with the three monuments; the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine. Then we will visit the SULTANAHMET IMPERIAL MOSQUE. Across from Hagia Sophia is the Grand Mosque, it was built in the 16th century by the architect Mehmet, is known as the BLUE MOSQUE because of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. Our next visit will be the HAGIA SOPHIA GRAND MOSQUE. The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, previously known as the Church of Divine Wisdom, is simply the best of its kind! Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is the greatest surviving example of Byzantine Architecture. For 1000 years, it was once the largest church in the world, decorated with stunning 6th century golden mosaics. Today it is a mosque.
Lunch break at 1 pm.
After lunch, we will take you to the ALI PASAZADE, which has a unique atmosphere and reasonable prices for shopping. Here you will find; Exotic Spices and Herbs, Turkish Baklava, Turkish Delights, Turkish Coffee, nuts and fruits, small souvenirs such as Ceramic Handicrafts, Evil Eyes totems, all natural olive oil, soaps and many other goods in Souvenir Shops and stores. After the tour, transfer back to your hotel.
Dinner at Olimpiyat Minas 2 Restaurant at Kumkapi.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Please Note: Please do not forget to carry a headscarf with you for the visits to all the religious places such as Blue Mosque & the Haghia Sophia Mosque.
Accommodation: Momento Golden Horn Hotel, Istanbul
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
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October 1st, 2025: Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise & Tour
After breakfast enjoy a Cruise on the Bosphorus along the waterway separating Europe and Asia! The shore is lined with old wooden villas, palaces of marble, fortresses, and small fishing villages.
During the excursion, you will see the magnificent sights of the following attractions from your boat. See Dolmabahce Palace, and further along, the parks and imperial pavilions of Yildiz Palace. On the coastal edge of this park, is Ciragan Palace, 300 meters of its marble facade faces the shore. At Ortakoy a great variety of artists, gather every Sunday to display their work along the street. Ortakoy is a symbol of tolerance with a church, a mosque and a synagogue existing side by side for centuries. RUMELI FORTRESS, was built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452 prior to the conquest of Istanbul, and was completed in only four months to control and protect the infamous Bosporus passage. It is one of the most beautiful works of military architecture anywhere in the world. BEYLERBEYI PALACE, is the Summer residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring original antique furniture and magnificent gardens on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Enjoy a Lunch break at a Turkish restaurant.
After the lunch we will then take you to the SPICE BAZAAR, which is one of the largest bazaars in the city. Located in the Eminönü quarter of the faith district. It is the most famous covered shopping complex after the Grand Bazaar.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Accommodation: Momento Golden Horn Hotel, Istanbul
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 2nd, 2025: Istanbul – Gallipoli Tour
Early in the morning we depart for Gallipoli in order to visit the battle fields. We will arrive in Gallipoli around noon and we will have lunch break, prior to visiting the battle fields.
We will visit the Gabatepe Museum, the fields with Ariburnu Cemetery and Anzac Cove, as these are the places where the war had started. Then continuing on to the Beach Cemetery, Lone Pine and the location of the Battle of Chunuck Bair.
After the tour we will drive you to your hotel.
Overnight in Canakkale.
Accommodation: Kolin Hotel, Canakkale
Kolin Hotel offers top-notch services and amenities, ensuring guests experience utmost comfort. Embark on your holiday experience in the most ideal manner. Commence each morning of your visit with an on-site breakfast. Experience the delight of a fresh morning by savoring excellent coffee at the cafe situated within hotel. Should you prefer not to venture out for a meal, the enticing culinary choices at hotel are always available for your satisfaction. Kolin Hotel provides a superb assortment of leisure amenities for guests to enjoy. Make certain to allocate time for discovering the shoreline, easily reachable right from the hotel. Each day at hotel, immerse yourself in the invigorating waters of the pool, perfect for a rejuvenating plunge or a series of revitalizing laps. For individuals who don't want to skip their exercise routine, visiting the hotel fitness center ensures you maintain your vitality and wellness.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 3rd, 2025: Troy Tour - Pergamon – Kusadasi
This morning, we depart to visit the famous archeological and mythological site of Troy, home of the Trojan Horse and Helen of Troy. After your tour we will drive to Pergamon.
We will have a lunch break around 1 pm. After lunch we will depart for a tour of the magnificent Bergama Museum. It is an impressive Museum and you may see many important relics from Ancient Pergamon. Pergamon is a famous city for its jewelry, stones and silver. On the way we will make a brieft stop at a jewelry center. We will arrive in Kusadasi at around 6 pm.
Dinner and Overnight in Kusadasi.
Accommodation: Charisma Deluxe Hotel, Kusadasi
We invite you to Charisma De – Luxe Hotel to provide you with a peaceful and quality time away from the crowds of the city… You will feel pampered at Charisma De – Luxe Hotel, where the unique blue meets comfort and luxury. Located within walking distance of the city center, our facility provides a unique accommodation with its trained staff and quality service approach. Have a wonderful stay in stylish and comfortable new room.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 4th, 2025: Kusadasi - Ephesus Tour - Turkish Village Sirince
After our breakfast at 8:30 am we will depart for a fully guided tour of Ephesus.
Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the world. We will visit the Temple of Artemis, Curetes street, famous Roman baths, Celsus Library and Grand theatre.
We will have an included lunch around 1 pm.
After lunch, we will visit a place, which continues to perform one of the oldest arts in Turkey; a carpet-weaving centre.
Afterwards we will do a Turkish Village Tour. Sirince’s construction style today belongs to the Anatolian Greeks. The houses on the slope are all original with their white paint. Sirince Village also has a fantastic reputation for making some of the best wines in Turkey - especially fruit wines. There will be some free time to explore around of the village.
Dinner and Overnight in Kusadasi.
Accommodation: Charisma Deluxe Hotel, Kusadasi
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 5th, 2025 : Kusadasi - Pamukkale Tour
We depart for Pamukkale at 8:00 am.
Upon arrival at Pamukkale we will have a lunch break until 1:30 pm. Afterwards we shall visit the calcium terraces of Pamukkale (cotton castle) and the ruins of Hierapolis, then walk around this natural phenomenon and have the option of lying in the waters of the natural springs. Denizli/Pamukkale means seaside in Turkish and is located on the Buyuk Menderes River.
Dinner and Overnight in Pamukkale.
Accommodation: Pam Thermal Hotel, Pamukkale
Located in Karahayıt province of Pamukkale that is on the foothills of the mountains covered by forests Pam Termal Hotel is a five star thermal facility. The guests of our hotel can not only make use of the thermal water that formed Pamukkale travertines and the antic pool of Cleopatra but also can benefit from the pools of red thermal water, which formed the famous red travertines of Karahayıt, that is available in the hotel. The red travertines that are created by the red thermal water sprung in the hotel have also exquisite beauty. Being the first and only medical center of Pamukkale-Karahayıt province, Nobel Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Center is located in the yard of Pam Thermal Hote
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 6th, 2025 : Pamukkale to Antalya
After a leisurely breakfast, we depart at 10:00 am for Antalya on the Turkish Riviera. The trip is going to take roughly 3 to 4 hours. Once you reach Antalya, check in to your hotel and rest of time is yours at leisure.
Antayla, located on the Turkish Riviera, will be your home for the next 3 nights.
Dinner and Overnight in Antalya.
Accommodation: Akra Hotel, Antalya
Discover all the beauties of Antalya with the Urban Social concept, which offers a unique experience that appeals to all senses. Inspired by the Mediterranean and offering a concept beyond standards, Akra awaits you with an unforgettable accommodation experience intertwined with the city. You are always pleasant and always special in the world of privileges based on quality, comfort and taste.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
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October 7th, 2025 : Antalya Old City Tour and Waterfalls
After breakfast drive to Antalya Old City ( Kaleiçi ) Marina, Clock Tower, Hadrian's Gate, Broken Minaret, Hıdırlık Tower: Kaleici is a small historic part of Antalya's modern city. In history it was once the sprawling modern Roman town, then the Byzantine Empire, the Seljuks, and finally the Ottoman Turkish town.
The Hadrian's Gate (or Hadrianus Gate or The Three Gates is a triumphal arch which was built in the name of the Roman emperor Hadrian. Antalya's broken wonder is the Broken Minaret of the Korkut Mosque, which itself was built originally as a Roman temple in the 2nd century AD, and thus did not have a minaret at all. Hıdırlık Tower is a landmark tower of tawny stone in Antalya, Turkey, where Kaleiçi meets Karaalioglu Park. It is believed to be built in Hellenistic era on a square plan and later turned into circular tower in 2nd century AD and was used as either a fortification or a lighthouse in the past.
We will have lunch at the hotel and then depart for Duden Waterfalls. The Duden Waterfalls, are a beautiful natural wonder and a popular tourist attraction. These waterfalls are fed by the Duden River and have a long and fascinating history dating back to ancient times. They were formed over thousands of years involving the dissolution of limestone rocks by the rain. Over time, this had led to the creation of stunning caves and underground streams that eventually resurface into the stunning waterfalls that are visible.
Dinner and Overnight in Antalya.
Accommodation: Akra Hotel, Antalya
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 8th, 2025 : Antalya – Free Day
The day is yours free to explore the city. Overnight in Antalya.
Accommodation: Akra Hotel, Antalya
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
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October 9th, 2025 : Antalya – Konya – Cappadocia
We will have an early breakfast so we can commence our drive at 8:00 am to Konya.
Enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch visit the imposing green - tiled Mausoleum of Mevlana, the mystic founder of the Sufi sect (Whirling Dervishes). After the Konya Mevlana tour drive to Cappadocia. We will arrive in Cappadocia around 7 pm.
Dinner and Overnight in Cappadocia.
Accommodation: El Puente Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
Our hotel takes place in the Ürgüp region in İbrahimpaşa village. The village stretches along the volcanic tuff slope and through the centuries villagers built their homes into this layer. The area is still maintaining its unique architectural features. Our hotel was carved inside the volcanic tuff and Karakilise stone caves as a residence first, almost 200 years old. Today we brand the traditional architectural features with the modern inside teak tree decoration with 13 rooms. Our place is composed of three stone buildings and has a restaurant, terraces, and a beautiful garden, the cuisine is full of Aegean appetizers, vegetable dishes, and kebabs. The location of the hotel is convenient to reach the most visited places of the regions; Uçhisar Castle, Göreme Open-Air Museum, fairy chimneys, and Ürgüp by 10 minutes away. Our guests can have authentic and quate accommodation, having breakfast with listening to Philomel melodies coming from Babayan Bridge on the Balkan Valley. The picturesque covered village may fall you in love.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 10th, 2025 : North Cappadocia Tour
Tour starts the visit to Uçhisar Castle from outside, the highest point of Cappadocia. Next you visit Goreme Open Air Museum, the heart of Cappadocia. Göreme Open Air Museum is famous for frescoes dating back to 10th century describing the life of Jesus Christ and monks. Next stop is Çavuşin, which is an abandoned village with old cave Greek houses. After Çavuşin you go to the restaurant in Avanos to have lunch.
After lunch, you visit a pottery workshop, to see how to make potteries Then you go to Love Valley. Love Valley is a hidden valley with scenic formations to say the least. Despite the resemblance to man hood, these amazing rock formations are far from man-made. After Love Valley you visit another workshop to see Cappadocian handwoven carpets and kilims.
Next stop is Devrent Valley, which is also called İmagination Valley, where you can see natural rock formations looking like animals. Last stop is Three Beauties, three beautiful fairy chimneys with their hats, which is the symbol of Cappadocia. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Accommodation: El Puente Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 11th, 2025 : South Cappadocia Tour
Meet your guide and driver in the hotel lobby at 09:00am for your full day tour of the Ihlara Valley. We visit the churches which are covered by frescoes, the walking distance is around 4km. We have our lunch next to the river bank of Melendiz River. After our lunch break, we visit Selime Cathedral and Ozkonak Underground City, one of the best preserved Underground cities in Cappadocia. We also pass though the Nar Crater Lake during our journey. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Accommodation: El Puente Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 12th, 2025 : Cappadocia to Hattusa & Zile Castle Tour – Tokat
After breakfast, we will check out and depart from Cappadocia to Tokat. We will visit the Hattusa Ancient City on the way. Hattusha is one of the country’s biggest archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the second millennium BC, Hattusa was the capital of the Hittite Empire, wielding power across Anatolia and beyond. Its ruins coat a large hillside and include temples, fortifications, gates, and statues. After the Hattusa tour, we will drive to Zile Castle for visit. Zile Castle, located in the town of Zile in Tokat Province, Turkey, stands as a testament to the region's rich history. Built during the Byzantine era and later expanded by the Seljuks and Ottomans, the castle offers a glimpse into centuries of architectural evolution and cultural exchange. Its strategic location atop a hill provides commanding views of the surrounding landscape, making it not only a historical landmark but also a picturesque site for visitors. Today, Zile Castle serves as a museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that narrate the story of its past and the civilizations that once thrived within its walls. One of the most intriguing aspects of Zile Castle is its association with Julius Caesar, who famously declared "Veni, vidi, vici" after the Battle of Zela in 47 BC. This phrase, meaning "I came, I saw, I conquered" in Latin, encapsulates Caesar's swift victory and has become synonymous with triumph and achievement. Afterward, we will continue on our way to the hotel in Tokat!
Dinner and Overnight in Tokat at Silk Road Museum Hotel.
Accommodation: Silkroad Museum Hotel, Tokat
Tokat’s Heart, a Journey Through Time: Silk Road Museum Hotel Adorned with artwork and captivating with its ornate architectural details, the historic Tokat Silk Road Museum Hotel, formerly known as Devecilerhanı, will transport you far away from the present with its 500-year history and historical texture. Located in the heart of Tokat with its 500-year history, our hotel bears the traces of the ancient Silk Road. Experience the atmosphere of a restored historic caravanserai in our hotel, where a different historical story awaits you at every corner. Our rooms are decorated with carefully selected works of art and handcrafted furniture. Each room is designed to immerse you in Tokat’s cultural heritage and historical atmosphere. During your stay at our hotel, you will experience an unforgettable experience by blending the historical texture with modern comfort. You can relax in our spacious courtyard, taste local dishes at our hotel’s delicious restaurant, and enjoy traditional Turkish coffee.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 13th, 2025 : Tokat City – Ballica Cave – Gaz Lake Tour
Today, we will have the opportunity to tour 900 years of history in Tokat. After we will depart for Tokat City, and will have a City Tour, visiting the historical places of Tokat such as historical lodging and dwelling points, forums and religious educational centers, Tokat Museum, Ethnography Museum, world renowned Turkish Baths as well as the Clock Tower in downtown. We will have an included lunch, afterwards we will we will be visiting the famous Ballica Caves. These caves are known to have healing powers for Asthma patients. Following this we we will visit the Magnificent Gaz Lake, which is intertwined with nature.
Dinner and Overnight in Tokat at Silk Road Museum Hotel.
Accommodation: Silkroad Museum Hotel, Tokat
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 14th, 2025 : Tokat to Kastamonu City Tour – Safranbolu City Tour
After breakfast, we will depart for Safranbolu (approx. a 5 to 6 Hour drive).
On the way we will give a break to visit Kastamonu City. We will visit the Nasrullah Mosque, Clock Tower and the Kastamonu Castle.
After here we depart for Safranbolu. Safranbolu was an important caravan station on the main East-West trade route. The old mosque, the old bath house and Suleyman Pasha Medrese were built in 1322. During the 17th century, Safranbolu's architecture influenced urban development throughout much of the Ottoman Empire). We will walk through the historical Safranbolu Bazaar, continuing on to Cinci Hodja Caravanserai, Cinci Hodja Bath House, Kaymakamlar House (Museum), Crystal Terrace and more. After this tour of Safranbolu, you will check into your hotel.
Overnight in Safranbolu.
Accommodation: Hanedan Konak Hotel, Safranbolu
Serving in the authentic atmosphere of historical Safranbolu, our mansion welcomes its guests in its historical mansion that is compatible with the texture of the region. Located in the heart of the historical bazaar, our facility offers an accommodation experience that brings the magic of the past to life with its nostalgic decorated rooms.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 15th, 2025 : Safranbolu to Seven Lakes National Park | Maşukiye | Sapanca Tour to Istanbul
After breakfast, we will depart for Seven Lakes National Park. You find seven small lakes in a valley formed as the result of a landslide: Buyukgol (Big Lake), Seringol (Cool Lake), Deringol (Deep Lake), Nazligol (Elegant Lake), Kucukgol (Small Lake), Incegol (Thin Lake) and Sazligol (Reedy Lake). The lakes cover an area of 550 hectares. The area is among the best-known trekking places in Turkey. After here we will depart for Masukiye, which has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. It is a picturesque settlement famed for its natural wonders like Ormanya Natural Life Park, waterfalls, and canyons. Then, we'll visit Sapanca Lake, which covers 42 km2 and is popular among weekend travelers. The lake is surrounded by wooded areas and scenic walking paths, providing plenty of opportunities to relax and spend time in nature. After an enjoyable lunch break, we will commence our drive back to Istanbul.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Accommodation: Momento Golden Horn Hotel, Istanbul
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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October 16th, 2025 : Istanbul - End of Tour
After a leisurely breakfast you will have free time until your flight back home. You may choose to depart home today or continue on the optional post extension to Cyprus! Full Details on this extension will come soon.
Meals Provided: Breakfast
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