Traditions of Antiquity and Relics of Religion in Türkiye's Easternmost Corners
Experience eastern Türkiye’s heart, heritage, and history on this 12-day cultural voyage through Istanbul, Trabzon, Kars, Mardin, Sanliurfa, and more.
Turkey
12 days / 11 nights
$2,898 /person
$2,898 /person
Your trip at a glance
Top Activities
Visiting Çamlıhemşin’s lush tea plantations to learn about the art of Turkish çay
Uncovering Ani’s medieval remnants during a guided archaeological tour
Feasting on Van’s breakfast spread of dozens of dishes, from molasses tahini to garlicky yogurt
Visiting religious landmarks and biblical sites in the City of Prophets
Summiting Mount Nemrut at sunrise, when larger-than-life sculptures glow with the day's wake
Hosgeldiniz to Turkey!
Trabzon’s Mountain Monastery and Çamlıhemşin’s Cliffside Charm
Çay of Çamlıhemşin and Turkish Tea Traditions
Road Tripping East: Şavşat, Çıldır, and Kars
Ani Ruins and Architectural Remnants
Show All 12 days
Heading South: Doğubeyazıt's Palace and Van's Vibrant Vistas
Versatile Van: The Best Breakfast, Çavuştepe Castle, and Akdamar Island
Journey to Mardin’s Magnificent Monastery and Fascinating Fortress
Ancient and Cultural Wonders of Midyat and Anıtlı
The City of Prophets and Sunset Scenes of Şanlıurfa
Beehive Houses, the Atatürk Dam, and the Kurdish Communities of Adıyaman
Mount Nemrut and a Fond, Final Farewell to Eastern Türkiye
Çay of Çamlıhemşin and Turkish Tea Traditions
Overview
Today is yours to explore Çamlıhemşin to the max. After breakfast at your hotel this morning, you’ll meet your expert local guide for a one-of-a-kind walk through nearby tea plantations. During this interactive yet informational tour, you’ll learn about the region’s prevalence of tea cultivation, the processes behind modern tea production, and Türkiye’s rise as the world’s largest — yes, largest — tea consumer. Oh, and you may have the chance to try some Turkish tea for yourself. When your cup is empty, you’ll switch from sips to bites, with the option to stop for lunch at a charming local cafe. From here, the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure, so you can bask in your serene surroundings. Come evening, sit down for another delicious dinner at your hotel and let the evening unfold in a relaxing and satiating manner. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Highlights
Çamlıhemşin Tea Tour
Nestled along the fast-flowing Fırtına River, Çamlıhemşin boasts a rich history as part of the Silk Road trading region. Since then, the village has maintained its ties to tea, and Çamlıhemşin’s Rize Province has emerged as the country’s signature tea producing region. A huge portion of Turkish tea grows in the lush, hilly areas you’ll visit during today’s guided tour. Alongside local tea producers, you’ll uncover the art of one of Türkiye’s major exports and agricultural products, beginning with the source itself.
Turkish Tea
Turkish tea — known as "çay" in Turkish — is not your average cuppa. Across the country, tea comes served in small, transparent cups shaped like tulips. You’ll notice people drinking çay from Rize at all times of the day, though fair warning: Traditional Turkish teas are black, and therefore heavily caffeinated.
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What's included
Included in the final price
- Roadbook with local tips and expert recommendations
- 24/7 on-the-ground support
- On-trip concierge service
- Personalized trip crafting
- COVID entry and exit information and assistance
Not included in the final price
- International flights tickets
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and gratuities