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İstanbul, Türkiye
Things to do:
- Hagia Sophia: Marvel at the architectural grandeur of this former cathedral and mosque, now a museum showcasing Byzantine and Islamic art.
- Blue Mosque: Visit one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, known for its six minarets and stunning blue tilework interior.
- Grand Bazaar: Get lost in one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, home to over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices to jewelry.
Topkapi Palace: Explore the opulent courtyards and rooms of the former palace of Ottoman sultans, set against views of the Bosphorus.
- Bosphorus Cruise: Take a ferry ride on the Bosphorus to enjoy the city's skyline from the water, connecting Europe and Asia.
- Taksim Square (Taksim Meydanı)
- Üsküdar Sahili
- Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)
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Ankara, Türkiye
Istanbul to Ankara
High-speed train: About 4.5 hours.
Things to do:
- Anıtkabir: Visit the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, which also houses a museum.
- Museum of Anatolian Civilisations: Explore artifacts from Anatolia's ancient past, including Hittite and Phrygian treasures.
- Ankara Castle: Climb to this hilltop castle for panoramic views of the city and to explore its ancient walls and surroundings.
- Kocatepe Mosque: Admire the modern architecture and spiritual ambiance of one of Ankara's largest mosques.
- Atatürk Forest Farm: Enjoy a day out at this large recreational farming area with a zoo, restaurants, and beer garden.
- Ankara: Private Tour with a Local
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Eskişehir, Türkiye
Ankara to Eskişehir
High-speed train: About 1.5 hours.
Things to do:
- Odunpazarı Modern Museum: A contemporary art museum set in a vibrant district, showcasing modern Turkish and international art.
- Sazova Park: Explore this fairy-tale park with a science centre, pirate ship, and a castle.
- Porsuk River: Enjoy a leisurely boat tour along the river that runs through the city or dine in one of the riverside cafes.
- Historic Odunpazarı District: Wander the streets of this old district, known for its Ottoman-era houses and artisan shops.
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Konya, Türkiye
Eskişehir to Konya
High-speed train: Direct high-speed trains take about 2 hours.
Things to do:
- Mevlana Museum: Visit the mausoleum of Rumi, the Sufi mystic and poet, and learn about the Whirling Dervishes.
- Alaeddin Hill: Take a stroll or have a picnic on this hill that houses the remains of the Seljuk Sultan's palace.
- Karatay Madrasah: Explore this historical Islamic school, now a museum displaying Seljuk era ceramics and tiles.
- Ince Minare Museum: A former madrasah now housing a collection of Seljuk woodwork and stone carving artifacts.
- Meram Vineyards: Take a trip to the outskirts to visit Konya's vineyards and taste the local wines.
- Konya: City Tour with Lunch
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Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye
Konya to Afyonkarahisar
Estimated train travel time: About 3 to 4 hours.
Things to do in Afyonkarahisar:
- Afyonkarahisar Castle: Climb to the castle for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
- Phrygian Valley: Explore ancient Phrygian ruins scattered across a landscape that's also great for hiking.
- Thermal Springs: Relax in one of the many thermal spas for which Afyon is famous.
- Opium Museum: Learn about the history of opium production in the region and its global impacts.
- Afyonkarahisar Archaeology Museum: Discover artifacts from the area's rich history, from the Phrygians to the Ottomans.
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İzmir, Türkiye
Afyonkarahisar to Izmir
Estimated train travel time: About 4 to 6 hours, depending on the service.
Things to do:
- Konak Square: Visit the heart of Izmir, featuring the iconic Clock Tower and close to the Kemeraltı Market.
- Kadifekale: Explore the ancient castle on the hill offering panoramic views of Izmir.
- Agora Open Air Museum: Discover the remains of an ancient Roman market place, showcasing the city's historical depth.
- Alsancak: Stroll through this vibrant district, known for its lively cafes, bars, and shops.
- Ephesus: Take a day trip to one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, just a short journey from Izmir.
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Pamukkale, Türkiye
Things to do:
- Travertines: Bathe in the thermal waters that flow over white terraces of mineral deposits, creating a surreal landscape.
- Hierapolis Archaeological Site: Explore the ruins of this ancient Greco-Roman city, including a well-preserved theatre and necropolis.
- Cleopatra's Pool: Swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters among ancient Roman ruins.
- Pamukkale: Hot Air Balloon Flight with Flight Certificate
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İstanbul, Türkiye
Izmir to Istanbul
Train: This journey can take between 5 to 9 hours, depending on the service chosen. There are high-speed services to a point followed by a connection to a standard train, or direct slower trains.
Finish your journey where you started, in Istanbul, to catch anything you might have missed the first time around or to simply relax and reflect on your adventure through Turkey.