Day 1 Istanbul
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Kars
Fly to Kars and visit the pinkish stone ruins of Armenian cathedrals, homes, fortresses and palaces at nearby Ani, the former capital of the Armenian Empire. Opt to visit the Kars Castle for panoramic views of the city. (1B)

Day 3 Van
Visit Ishak Pasha Palace and see Mount Ararat en route to Van, the cultural centre of the area's Kurdish majority. Option to visit the ruins of the Fortress of Van. (1B)

Day 4-5 Mardin
Enjoy an Akdamar Island boat trip and church visit before exploring Hasankeyf. Orientation walk of Mardin including Ulu Mosque and a visit to Deyrul Zaferan Monastery. Option to visit a local hammam. (2B)

Day 6 Mount Nemrut/Kahta
Visit the Karakus Tumulus (Women's Monument), Severan Roman bridge, and the site of ancient Arsameia at the giant burial monuments atop Mount Nemrut. (1B)

Day 7 Sanli Urfa
Visit beehive houses at Harran and enjoy a guided walk to Golbasi Park and the covered bazaar of Sanli Urfa, the supposed birthplace of Abraham and an important Islamic place of pilgrimage. (1B)

Day 8 Istanbul
Return flight to Istanbul where our tour finishes on arrival. (1B)

Spectacular mosques, rustic Armenian churches and towering stone castles reward those willing to get off the beaten path. From ancient mud brick cities to exotic bazaars and the mysterious fallen stone heads at Nemrut Dagi, this 8-day trip is Turkey at its most fascinating. Travel to the land beneath the snow-capped peak of Mt Ararat, the legendary resting place of Noah's Ark, and immerse yourself in the magnificent sights and legendary hospitality of the people in this lesser known, and lesser travelled, region of Turkey.

• Exploring ancient mud brick cities
• Bargaining in bazaars
• Tasting regional specialities
• Visiting the mysterious stone heads of Mount Nemrut

• Small group experience; Max 15, avg 10.
• Please ask your Vacations To Go travel counselor for more information.

* The prices shown are U.S. dollars per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. Prices quoted for land/cruise arrangements are subject to increase without notice. Once we have received your deposit, land/cruise prices are guaranteed. Air prices quoted via phone or email are subject to increase and are guaranteed only from the time that full payment is received. Also, air prices or air promotions mentioned on this site or on the phone do not include baggage fees imposed by airlines.