NORTH EAST TURKEY 5 NIGHTS 6 DAYS

Visit the 13th-century Church of St. Sophia, currently serving as a museum, which is fascinating for its distinct architecture and delicate interior frescoes. As you stroll through Trabzon’s bustling avenues, take a look at the Trabzon Museum’s boutique collection, housed in a gorgeous historic mansion. Later, ascend the mountains rising behind Trabzon to reach Sumela. Hike up through a cool pine forest to arrive at the breathtaking Monastery of Sumela. Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Drive along the Black Sea coast, famously nicknamed the “hospitable sea” by ancient Greeks who were attempting to soothe her fierce waters. Hazelnut orchards and lush tea plantations create a vibrant, jungle-like landscape as you turn off the coastal route and head up into the Kackar Mountains toward Artvin. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Follow the Coruh River to Ishan, where a medieval Georgian church featuring fantastic outer reliefs stands majestically on the mountain slope, then continue across scenic mountain passes to Kars. Here, a stop will be made at the Church of the Holy Apostles, a historic structure now converted into a mosque, located just below a prominent Ottoman castle. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Explore the medieval city of Ani, now preserved as an archaeological site, where most of the ancient structures lie poignantly in ruins within the mighty standing defensive walls. Drive through the historic Sarikamis Mountain pass that leads into the high steppes surrounding Erzurum, a city boasting a rich medieval heritage and monumental landmarks. Walk through the grand Cifte Minare Medrese (Double Minaret Madrassa) and the architectural complex of the Yakutiye Mosque. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast at hotel, transfer to Erzurum Airport. End of the services.