Arrive Istanbul and spend a full-day visiting the fabulous sights in this cosmopolitan city of blended cultures. See the Topkapi Palace, former home to Ottoman Sultans, with its remarkable treasury and fascinating Harem. Visit the great Byzantine basilica of St. Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome and browse through the Grand Covered Bazaar.
Day 3 Istanbul
Cruise along the Bosphorus and observe summer palaces of the Ottoman Sultans and Viziers, modern residences, and the Fortress of Rumeli Hisar. Visit Kadıköy Hemdat Israel and Kuzguncuk Beth-Yaakov Synagogues on the Asiatic side of Istanbul.
Day 4 Istanbul
Discover Jewish Heritage in Istanbul. The Jewish Community emigrated from Spain over 500 years ago and left a wealth of synagogues, hospitals, literature and music. Drive along the Golden Horn and see the ancient Ahrida Synagogue. Visit the modern Beth Israel Synagogue at Osmanbey in the center of modern Istanbul and explore areas where synagogues, mosques and churches are neighbors living in ecclesiastical harmony.
Day 5-6 Izmir and Ephesus
Fly to Izmir, located on the Aegean and transfer to your selected hotel. Visit the synagogues of Beyt Israel, Şaar Aşamayım, Berko-Holim, Etz Hayim, and Şalom.
Spend a full day exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus.
Walk through the marble streets lined with temples, theatres, gymnasiums and baths. Then see the Basilica of St. John, the last house of the Virgin Mary and the archaeological museum at Selçuk.
Days 7 & 8 Sardis and Izmir
Excursion to the recently excavated site of Sardis, city of Croesus and his untold wealth. See the great gymnasium and the ancient synagogue. Overnight in Izmir and transfer to the airport for your departure flight to your next destination.
