Jewish Heritage of Turkey

Day 01:  Istanbul – Arrival
Upon arrival to Istanbul you will be transferred to your hotel. Free afternoon at leisure.

Day 02:  Istanbul – F/Day
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken on a tour of Jewish Istanbul. You will see the old Jewish Quarter of Balat where the Star of David appears on the facades of some buildings. A visit to the Etz Ahayim Synagogue, built over 500 years ago. Afternoon visit the Archaeological Museum, Topkapi Palace Museum and the Grand Bazaar. B 

Day 03: Istanbul – F/Day
After breakfast, visit the St. Sophia, once the greatest church of the Byzantine Empire, the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome. After lunch drive to Pera hill visit Jewish Synagogues of Ashganazi and Neve Shalom.

Day 04: Istanbul – Izmir – Sardis
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Izmir, ancient Smyrna. Upon arrival private transfer to your city center hotel. In Izmir visit Beth Israel Shar Ashmain Synagogue and then drive to Sardis, the ancient capital of Lydia to visit the synagogue from the Roman. Return to Izmir for overnight. B L

Day 05: Izmir – Ephesus – Izmir
Full day tour to visit the archaeological site of ancient Ephesus with its marble streets,theater, baths and gymnasia. Among the ruins are Hebrew signs and symbols, reminders of the Jewish past of Ephesus.  B L 

Day 06: Izmir
After breakfast, transfer to airport. B

Included Services

• 5 nights hotel accommodation
• Round trip transfer
• Meals are indicated on itineraries by B breakfast, L lunch, D dinner
• Entrance fees
• English speaking guide on the tours

Excluded Services

• Personal expenses
• Customary tips
• Drinks
• Airfares