Dubai, Istanbul and inland Turkey in 13 days

Upon your arrival in the vibrant city of Dubai, our dedicated assistant will warmly welcome you. They will provide detailed information about your itinerary, addressing any inquiries or special requests you may have and presenting an insightful overview of the city and its daily rhythm.

For your convenience, we have arranged a private air-conditioned vehicle to transfer you to your hotel. Our assistant will be on hand to guide you through the check-in process seamlessly.

Once you settle in, the remainder of the day is yours to unwind and fully enjoy the comfort and amenities of your hotel. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can venture out to explore Dubai and appreciate the wonders of this magnificent and modern city.

Greca Tip: Feel free to consult our knowledgeable tour guide for the best dining options in the city. They will gladly provide recommendations for exceptional lunch or dinner experiences that will further enrich your stay.

In the morning, as the light begins to cast a golden glow over the city, and after a delicious breakfast, you will feel that Dubai invites you to discover its duality: dazzling modernity and an ancestral soul. After your transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle, you will arrive at The Pointe, on Palm Jumeirah, where the silhouette of the Atlantis rises like a mirage. Later, a stop at the beach will offer you the perfect view of the Burj Al Arab, that “sailboat” many locals consider a beacon of luxury.

As the day progresses, the Al Farooq Mosque will welcome you with the serenity of its Istanbul-inspired tiles. Here, where up to two thousand worshippers gather, it is said that the gentle echo inside resembles the murmur of the sea something only those who pause to breathe truly notice.

Next, Old Dubai awaits you. The tour continues with a ride on an abra, the traditional water taxi that will take you to the Spice and Gold Souks, a universe of aromas, colors, and shimmering treasures. Afterwards, the visit to the Al Khayma Heritage House will allow you to experience authentic Emirati hospitality and journey from its nomadic origins to its space-age ambitions.

At the end of the excursion, you may choose to stay at the souk or return with our transfer.

On this day, you may optionally choose to enjoy our dinner cruise in Dubai Marina in the evening when completing your booking.

Greca Tip: Take advantage of this day to admire the interior of the Blue Mosque a unique opportunity in Dubai.

After a peaceful breakfast, your morning unfolds with the gentle anticipation of what awaits. You watch the city awaken at its own rhythm as you prepare for an afternoon that will reveal the very heart of the Arabian desert.

In the afternoon, the transfer from your hotel marks the beginning of your adventure. Aboard luxurious 4x4 vehicles, you venture into a golden horizon where every dune seems to breathe ancient tales. The route leads you past small camel farms, reminding you that these animals were, for centuries, the lifeblood and pride of Bedouin caravans. You may be intrigued to learn that some camels can recognize their caretakers’ voices even after long journeys.

Dusk greets you among endless sands, where you pause to contemplate the sunset and feel that unique silence that exists only in the desert. Then, a gentle glide over the dunes guides you to the traditional camp, where you may ride a camel, try aromatic shisha, enjoy a henna tattoo, and savor an Arabian buffet dinner under the moon, accompanied by a folkloric show.

At night, the return to Dubai wraps you in serene calm.

Greca Tip: Bring a light scarf; it will be your best ally against the desert wind.

After breakfast, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an optional excursion to Abu Dhabi, a city that combines monumental architecture, tradition, and modernity. At the scheduled time, we will depart by road for the capital of the United Arab Emirates, enjoying a comfortable transfer as the urban landscape gradually gives way to the vast horizons of the desert.

Upon arrival, we will visit the impressive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the country’s greatest architectural treasures, renowned for its gleaming white marble, elegant domes, and delicate ornamental details. We will continue to the Al Bateen area to admire the exteriors of the Royal Palaces, followed by a drive along the Corniche, the famous waterfront promenade offering beautiful views of the Persian Gulf.

In the afternoon, we will ascend to the observation deck of the Etihad Towers, where we can admire spectacular panoramic views of Abu Dhabi. The tour will continue with an exterior view of the luxurious Emirates Palace, followed by free time at Marina Mall, ideal for strolling around or enjoying a relaxing break.

The day will conclude with a visit to Qasr Al Watan, the magnificent presidential palace, where the architecture and interiors reflect the cultural richness and heritage of the Emirates. At the end of the visit, we will begin our return journey to Dubai.

Greca Tip: When visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, it is important to wear clothing that covers your arms and legs. Women must also cover their hair. Please respect the dress code and conduct guidelines provided at the mosque to ensure a pleasant and comfortable visit.

Indulge in a delightful and satisfying breakfast in the morning to fuel your day. Following that, at the designated time, you will be escorted to Dubai Airport for your flight to the city of Istanbul, Turkey.

Upon arrival in Istanbul, formerly known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, our team will provide a seamless transfer to your hotel in one of our private vehicles. Check in at the hotel and take some time to settle in and appreciate the beauty of this remarkable city.

The remainder of the day is yours to unwind and fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Istanbul. Feel free to explore, relax, and begin discovering the captivating attractions it has to offer.

Greca Tip: Make sure to capture a cherished memory before leaving Dubai by posing for a photo framed within the Dubai Frame, the world's largest frame. This iconic structure offers a unique glimpse into the past, present, and future of this extraordinary destination.

After a delicious breakfast, at the scheduled time, we will be picked up from our hotel or the nearest meeting point to begin our visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the masterpieces of Ottoman architecture. Located on Istanbul’s Third Hill, it offers magnificent panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn. Commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, it was designed by the renowned imperial architect Mimar Sinan. Its elegant architecture, spacious courtyards, and harmonious proportions reflect the splendor of the Ottoman Empire during one of its most remarkable periods.

At the end of the visit, we will have free time to continue exploring Istanbul at our own pace or, if we wish to delve deeper into its fascinating history, we can optionally join a full-day tour of the historic city.

Accompanied by an official English-speaking guide, we will venture into the heart of ancient Constantinople to discover some of the most representative monuments of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations. We will begin by admiring the impressive Hagia Sophia from the outside, an architectural gem whose history reflects the city’s religious and cultural transformations over the centuries. We will then continue to the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once a major center for public celebrations, chariot races, and political events during the Byzantine period, where important historical monuments can still be seen today.

Our next stop will be the iconic Blue Mosque, famous for its elegant domes, six minarets, and delicate İznik tiles that decorate parts of its interior. We will then visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans and the empire’s administrative center for centuries. Its courtyards, pavilions, and collections offer a glimpse into imperial court life and help us understand the influence of the Ottoman Empire on the region’s history.

During the day, we will also enjoy lunch at a centrally located restaurant, providing the perfect opportunity to take a break and sample local cuisine before continuing our tour. The excursion will conclude at the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with thousands of shops spread throughout its galleries. Among Turkish carpets, jewelry, handicrafts, ceramics, and traditional products, we will discover a vibrant atmosphere that has preserved the city’s commercial spirit for centuries.

At the end of the excursion, each traveler will make their own way back to the hotel. Those who wish may take the opportunity to continue strolling through the charming Sultanahmet district, enjoy its traditional cafés, or admire its monuments as the afternoon draws to a close.

Greca Tip: Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Turkish apple tea, served hot or cold. While exploring the Grand Bazaar, take time to discover local handicrafts and enjoy the unique atmosphere of its winding alleyways.

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we can enjoy this beautiful city at our own pace or take the optional excursion to the Egyptian Bazaar, a Bosphorus cruise, and the famous Çamlıca Hill.

We will start with a visit to the Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Bazaar, a building constructed in the 17th century after the Ottoman conquest of Egypt. After exploring the bazaar, we will board a boat for a cruise along the Bosphorus, from which we can admire both shores: the Asian and European sides. Along the way, we will be amazed by the stunning structures of Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, and Rumeli Hisarı Fortress, among many other monuments.

Next, we will visit Beylerbeyi Palace, one of the most beautiful palaces in the city, built in white marble by Sultan Abdulaziz in the 19th century. This palace served as the summer residence of the Sultans and as a guesthouse for the Sultan’s distinguished visitors.

To conclude our tour, we will head to Çamlıca Hill, also known as the Hill of Lovers, from where we will enjoy the most spectacular panoramic views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus. Here, we will have free time to relax and enjoy a drink while admiring the breathtaking sunset.

At the end of the day, we will return to our hotel for an overnight stay.

Greca Tip: Take this opportunity to try some delicious local dishes, such as Köfte (meatballs made with lamb or beef), Pide (Turkish-style pizza), Şiş Kebab (grilled meat skewers), and for dessert, Lokum (Turkish delight) or Baklava for a sweet treat!

Early in the morning, we will depart in our air-conditioned bus towards the Bolu Mountains, heading to Ankara, the current capital of Turkey. Here, we will enjoy a panoramic tour to explore this city—the second most populous in the country—a modern and cosmopolitan metropolis rich in history and ancient culture.

We will then continue our journey to Cappadocia, making stops along the way to admire Lake Tuz (Salt Lake), the second-largest lake in Turkey, and a 13th-century caravanserai, which served as a "roadside inn" for travelers during the late Middle Ages.

Upon arrival in Cappadocia, we will check into our hotel, enjoy dinner, and settle in for the night.

(On certain departures, for operational or weather-related reasons, the Istanbul-Ankara segment may be completed via high-speed train or domestic flight.)

Greca Tip: Agzikarahan Caravanserai is one of the best-preserved caravanserais in the world—a must-see for history lovers!

Very early at sunrise, we will have the option to join a hot air balloon excursion, a unique experience, over the marvelous rock formations, fairy chimneys, natural formations, and lunar landscapes of the splendid and magnificent Cappadocia.

After a refreshing breakfast, we will dedicate the day to exploring this fantastic region, with its spectacular fairy chimneys, unique in the world, starting with the Goreme Valley, with its cave churches and paintings from the 10th and 11th centuries.

We will visit the Avcilar Valley, which has a spectacular landscape, Pasabag Valley, also known as the Monks' Valley, and Gόvercinlik Valley, or the Pigeon Valley, where we can better admire the volcanic formations called "Fairy Chimneys."

To finish, we will visit a typical workshop of carpets and Onyx and Turquoise stones, where we can take home some souvenirs.

Optionally, you can add a visit to the Saratlı Underground City, with 7 underground levels, one of the most important attractions in the region, or enjoy a Turkish night, a typical dance show in a cave restaurant.

At the end of the day, we will return to our hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Greca Tip: Remember that inside the caves, if allowed, photos should be taken without flash as it can damage the images.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart early for Pamukkale, one of Türkiye’s most remarkable destinations, renowned for its spectacular white terraces and thermal waters.

Upon arrival, we will visit Hierapolis, an ancient city of Hellenistic origin whose ruins preserve traces of a rich historical past. During our visit, we will discover the remains of this once-thriving city, which flourished thanks to its thermal springs and became an important cultural and wellness center in ancient times.

Next, we will explore the famous Cotton Castle, a natural wonder formed over centuries by mineral-rich thermal waters. Its impressive white terraces, petrified waterfalls, and natural pools create a unique landscape that appears to cascade down the mountainside.

After the visits, we will transfer to the hotel to enjoy dinner and relax.

Greca Tip: Wear comfortable shoes to explore Hierapolis, and check the local guidelines before walking on Pamukkale’s terraces, as some areas must be visited barefoot to protect these natural formations.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities of antiquity and the former capital of Asia Minor. During our visit, we will explore this extraordinary archaeological site, where the ruins allow us to imagine the grandeur of a city that once served as an important political, commercial, and cultural center of the ancient world.

Among its main landmarks, we will discover the Temple of Hadrian, the Temple of Trajan, the impressive ancient theatre, and the renowned Library of Celsus, one of Ephesus’s most iconic structures, celebrated for its magnificent façade and historical significance.

Next, we will visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a site of deep religious significance where, according to Christian tradition, Mary spent the final years of her life. Surrounded by nature and tranquility, this sanctuary offers a peaceful moment of reflection during our journey.

Later, we will visit a leather goods showroom, where we will learn about the region’s renowned tradition of producing lambskin garments and other handcrafted leather products.

In the late afternoon, we will continue our journey to Kuşadası or İzmir, where we will enjoy dinner at the hotel and stay overnight.

During the summer season, from May to October, accommodation may be arranged in İzmir and its surrounding areas instead of Kuşadası.

Greca Tip: Take time to admire the façade of the Library of Celsus and the architectural details throughout Ephesus. They are among the most fascinating reminders of the splendor of Greco-Roman civilization.

After breakfast, we will depart for Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and a city of great historical and cultural significance. During our visit, we will discover some of its most remarkable landmarks, reflecting the splendor of the empire’s early centuries.

We will visit the Grand Mosque of Bursa (Ulu Cami), one of the city’s most iconic mosques, renowned for its architecture and religious significance. We will then continue to Koza Han Silk Bazaar, a historic market that preserves Bursa’s silk-trading traditions and offers an ideal setting to discover local handicrafts and specialties.

Our visit will also include the Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe), one of Bursa’s most notable monuments, famous for its elegant architecture and distinctive decorative tiles.

After this journey through Ottoman history, we will continue our trip to Istanbul. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel to relax and stay overnight.

Operational note: On some departures, due to operational reasons, the journey from İzmir to Istanbul may be made by domestic flight, without passing through Bursa.

Greca Tip: At Koza Han, take a moment to explore its traditional galleries and courtyards, where the history of Bursa as one of the major centers of silk production and trade still comes to life.

After savoring a delightful breakfast, we will arrange a seamless transfer for you to Istanbul Airport, ensuring you arrive in good time for your international flight.

The entire team at Greca extends their warmest wishes for a safe and pleasant journey. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back soon, creating more unforgettable moments that will stay with you forever.

Have a wonderful trip! Or, as the locals say, "Iyi yolculuklar!"

Greca Tip: If you feel that your time in Istanbul was too brief, you can easily add extra nights to your booking. Simply let us know your preferences, and we'll be happy to assist you.