Departure Dates: 18 – 20 Feb, 2025 

Day 1; 18 Feb; 

After arrival to Izmir, (formerly Smyrna), is now Turkey's 3rd-largest city, the "capital" of the Aegean region

Our tour of the city starts with the visit of Agora Museum in the center of the old town. The word Agora traditionally refers to a public square and shopping district. The Izmir Agora dates back to the roman period and was constructed in the 2nd century AD. The agoras of the period were three story stone and marble structures and the ruins here are some of the best in Turkey.

Continue to visit the Archaeological Museum and its impressive collection of ancient and Roman artifacts recovered from area excavations and Izmir's Agora. The Museum also holds an exhibit of pottery, ceramics and glass, as well as the fascinating reconstructed 3rd-millennium-B.C. tomb.

Tour ends with the visit of Kemeraltı, the historical market (bazaar) district of Izmir. It was originally formed around the street surrounding the shallow inner bay of the city, which was filled in due course during the 17th century, availing the bazaar to be extended to a wider area. It remains one of the liveliest parts of İzmir.

Day 2; 19 Feb;

This day guests have full day excursion to Ephesus including the ruins of the ancient city and House of Virgin Mary.

Ephesus, an ancient city located near present-day Selçuk in Turkey, is renowned for its historical and archaeological significance. Once a prominent center of trade, culture, and spirituality in the ancient world, Ephesus boasts remarkable ruins such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Additionally, near Ephesus lies the House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site revered by Christians as the believed final residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus. 

The last visit is to the House of Virgin Mary where she spent her last days. St. John brought Virgin Mary to Ephesus after the death of Jesus Christ and she lived until the age of 101 in a small house built for her on Mt. Koressos. Now, popular place of pilgrimage for Catholics and Muslims, the house has received the official sanction of the Vatican and a commemoration ceremony is held every year on August 15th. The third church council in 431 was held in the Basilica of Virgin Mary in Ephesus.

Day 3; 20 Feb;

Departure to airport for flight to Istanbul 

Above rates include; 

• 2-night accommodation at Izmir Movenpick Hotel
• All tours and transfers mentioned above by recent model private vehicle and English speaking guide
• Entrance fees of indicated places (includes 2 transfers in Istanbul as well)
• Meal plan: 2 breakfasts (no lunch – no dinner)
• Tax charges which is 10% on sleeping room rates and 20% on all other services (Should there be any change in tax amounts officially announced by the government, this will be reflected on given rates.  

Above rates do NOT include; 

• Istanbul/Izmir/Istanbul domestic flight tickets. This is approximately 150-200 Euro which can be definite during the time of the booking
• Lunches and dinners are not included. 
• Any expense of personal nature such as hotel extras, medical expenses, insurance…
• Gratuities to local guide and driver – this is not compulsory but expected if the guests are satisfied by their services