Upon arrival in Trabzon, we begin our journey with a visit to the stunning Hagia Sophia Church, a 14th-century Byzantine masterpiece overlooking the Black Sea. Inside, admire its historic frescoes and unique architecture reflecting the region’s Christian heritage.
Next, we continue to Altindere National Park to explore the legendary Sumela Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside amid lush pine forests and waterfalls. After enjoying the scenic beauty, we follow the coastline towards Hopa, near the Georgian border, where we will spend the night.
Overnight in Trabzon or Hopa.
After breakfast, we leave Hopa and begin a breathtaking drive through Artvin and the spectacular Georgian Valleys. Along the way, we stop at Ishan to visit its historic stone church, a relic from the medieval Georgian Kingdom.
We continue along mountain roads surrounded by stunning river gorges and forested peaks before reaching Erzurum, known for its Seljuk architecture, historical mosques, and lively bazaars.
Overnight in Erzurum.
Following breakfast, we explore Erzurum, visiting highlights like the Grand Mosque, Çifte Minareli Medrese, and the colorful local bazaars famous for traditional Oltu stone crafts.
We then depart for Kars via the Aras River Valley, passing by the historic Sarıkamış Battlefield from World War I. Upon arrival in Kars, we continue to the ancient city of Ani, once the capital of the Bagratid Armenian Kingdom, where majestic cathedral and mosque ruins stand along the Arpaçay River.
Overnight in Kars.
Today we travel east to Doğubayazıt, passing the legendary Mount Ararat, believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark. Here we visit the magnificent Ishak Pasha Palace, an extraordinary architectural blend of Ottoman, Persian, and Seljuk styles.
We continue to Van, a city rich in history and famous for its beautiful lake views and vibrant local culture.
Overnight in Van.
After breakfast, we visit the imposing Hoşap Fortress, a 17th-century stronghold located along the ancient Silk Road. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic boat ride across Lake Van to Akdamar Island, where we explore the Church of the Holy Cross, a 10th-century Armenian masterpiece featuring stunning biblical stone carvings.
Overnight in Van.
Today we follow the southern shores of Lake Van towards Tatvan, a charming lakeside town. Our journey takes us to the remarkable Nemrut Crater, one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world, with its blue lakes, hot springs, and wildflowers.
We continue to Ahlat to see the UNESCO-recognized Seljuk Tombstones and Mausoleums, some of the most significant Islamic monuments in Anatolia.
Overnight in Tatvan.
After breakfast, we drive through the Bitlis Gorge to the ancient city of Hasankeyf, once a thriving Silk Road hub, now famous for its caves, bridges, and castle ruins along the Tigris River.
We continue to Midyat to explore the famous Silver Bazaar, where artisans craft exquisite jewelry by hand. By evening, we reach Mardin and visit the beautiful Kasimiye Medrese, a 15th-century theological school overlooking the Mesopotamian plains.
Overnight in Mardin.
This morning, we visit the historic Deir-Al-Zafaran Monastery (Saffron Monastery), once the spiritual center of the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate. Built on a 3,000-year-old sun temple, its “flat arch” stone roof is a true architectural marvel.
We then head to Diyarbakır, one of the oldest cities in Mesopotamia, and admire the famous Ten Arches Bridge across the Tigris River.
Overnight in Diyarbakır.
After breakfast, we explore Diyarbakır’s Old Town, visiting the Ulu Cami, the Church of St. Thomas, and the UNESCO-listed Diyarbakır City Walls.
In the afternoon, we cross the Euphrates River by ferry and head to Nemrut National Park. From Narlice Village, we hike to the summit of Mount Nemrut to witness the stunning Colossal Statues of the Commagene Kingdom and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime sunset experience.
Overnight near Mount Nemrut.
Today we travel to Göbekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex dating back 11,000–13,000 years. This extraordinary archaeological site predates Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza, reshaping our understanding of human history.
We also visit its sister site, Karahan Tepe, before exploring the Holy Pools of Abraham and the sacred cave where the Prophet Abraham is believed to have been born.
Overnight in Şanlıurfa.
After breakfast, we explore Şanlıurfa’s Ottoman Bazaar, known for its spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Next, we visit the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, home to priceless artifacts from Göbekli Tepe and the Mesopotamian era.
We then drive to Gaziantep and visit the famous Zeugma Mosaic Museum, housing some of the finest Roman mosaics ever discovered.
Overnight in Gaziantep.
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight. Your unforgettable journey through the Black Sea and Eastern Anatolia comes to an end, filled with breathtaking landscapes, ancient wonders, and cultural treasures.
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