Savoring The Aegean Odyssey

Oct 1 – Oct 7, 2024

Day 1 ISTANBUL/IZMIR URLA

Arrive in Izmir.Transfer to Urla. Overnight Urla.

URLA

Urla is a haven for culinary enthusiasts, offering a delectable journey through Turkish flavors. The town boasts a vibrant food scene that celebrates fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in traditional Turkish dishes at charming restaurants, where you can savor the rich blend of spices and the succulence of grilled meats. Urla’s coastal location ensures an abundance of fresh seafood, enhancing the culinary experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore local markets, where you can discover an array of organic fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products. With a diverse range of culinary delights, Urla captivates visitors with its gastronomic treasures.

Day 2 URLA

Explore the town of Urla. Visit local attractions and enjoy the town’s charm.

Upon arrival with a short and leisurely stroll through the Arts Street featuring cafes and art studios, we will enjoy the 150 years old stone buildings and the narrow streets of central Urla.

We will then arrive at the 2600 year old ancient olive oil press of Klazomenai, one of the 12 ancient Ionic cities. After we learn about the history of olive oil we will take a leisurely walk to see and experience the ancient boat reconstruction workshop where we will see the way amphoras full of fresh olive oil and Urla wines were transported to the region.

Just across the street is the fruit and vegetable market where all produce is freshly picked in the early morning. Here we will choose our seasonal produce and fresh cheeses and arrive at the cooking workshop.

We will learn how to prepare Aegean style foods featuring the strong influence of the regional culinary heritage using the freshest ingredients and dishes cooked in local extra virgin olive oil.

We will end our day at an award winning local winery where we will tour the picturesque vineyards and sample their delicious wine selection.

Overnight Urla Pintura Hotel (B,L)

Day 3 URLA/SELCUK/KUSADASI

Drive from Urla to Selçuk.

Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most incredible archaeological wonders of the world, featuring the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of ancient world.

Proceed to lunch and taste delicious meze in Kusadasi.

Overnight in Kuşadası Ilayda Avangard Hotel (B,L)

Day 4 KUSADASI

Visit the ancient cities of Priene, Miletus, and Didyma.

Priene, an important trading port of the Ionian League of Greek settlements, was first established in the 11th century BC upon cliffs rising to almost 400 meters above the Aegean Sea. In those days the city overlooked the sea, which has since receded so that the ruins now sit somewhat inland. That remains of this ancient city is quite extensive and in relatively good condition. The ruins are scattered among the local species of evergreen tree and set upon a hillside offering an expansive view of the plains below.

Miletus was also a wealthy and successful port city in classical antiquity and during later Roman times as well. It is considered to have been the most powerful of what were the twelve Ionian cities and is known to have greatly influenced the intellectual and philosophical development of the Aegean region. It is believed that the apostle, Paul, visited Miletus on more than one occasion. In the Acts of the Apostles, Miletus is mentioned as the place where Paul met with the Ephesian elders in the year 57 (Acts 20:15-38).

We will stop for lunch, near the temple ruins at Didyma.

Didyma is most famous for its massive Temple of Apollo and its status as a place of pilgrimage. The oracle of Apollo, received at the temple, was highly credible to those who sought its counsel during the archaic period and greatly relied upon by distinguished kings such as Croesus and Alexander. The temple has been carefully rebuilt and what remains today is quite impressive.

Lunch near the archaeological site in Didyma.

Overnight in Kuşadası Ilayda Avangard Hotel (B,L)

Day 5 KUSADASI/AKYAKA

Leave Selçuk to visit Aphrodisias.

The ancient Greeks put great importance on the setting of a potential religious center, and Aphrodisias is in a great setting, with the temples framed by distant mountains. The city was built near a marble quarry, and the sculptors working in Aphrodisias were among the best. The style of the local carvers has been recognized in statues found throughout the Greek and Roman empires.

After lunch continue to Akyaka. Overnight in Akyaka Yucelen Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 6 AKYAKA

Akyaka is a picturesque coastal town nestled along the Aegean coast of Turkey, renowned for its natural beauty, charming architecture, and laid-back atmosphere.

As you approach this idyllic town, you’re greeted by the sight of traditional Ottoman-style houses adorned with wooden balconies, painted in shades of blue and white to complement the azure waters of the Aegean Sea.

The town is cradled between the lush greenery of pine-clad hills and the shimmering expanse of the sea, creating a breathtaking backdrop f

After a leisurely morning embark  on a river excursion on the Azmak River. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area.After lunch, the rest of the day will be at leisure.Dinner at a popular seafood and fish restaurant in Akyaka.

Overnight in Akyaka Yucelen Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 7 AKYAKA/DALYAN/KAUNOS

After  breakfast, proceed to Dalyan.Take a boat trip to visit the ancient city of Kaunos 

Kaunos was founded around the 9th century BC, and was an important city by 400 BC. It was on the border of the ancient kingdoms of Caria and Lycia.

After lunch, proceed to Dalaman Airport to take your flight to Istanbul.(B,L)

Price per person:      USD 3995.-

Single Supplement:  USD 700 .-

The tour will proceed with minimum 4 participants. Final price to be announced by number of participants.

If you would like to organize a private trip for you, your family or friends, please email us.