Unison Travel & Events
Tour Description
Gardens of Humanity: A 24-Day Cultural and Garden Tour Across Türkiye
Discover Türkiye through a unique blend of nature, history, and culture on this 24-day, three-part journey designed for lovers of garden tourism, cultural heritage, and culinary exploration.
Gardens of Humanity takes you from the ancient plains of Mesopotamia to the imperial city of Istanbul and the artisan-rich landscapes of the Aegean coast—showcasing Türkiye’s deep agricultural traditions, botanical diversity, and living history.
Join One, Two, or All Three Tours
Each part is designed as a unique, standalone experience, allowing you to join a single tour or combine two or all three for a more immersive journey through the gardens, cuisine, and historical landscapes of Türkiye.
Tour Pricing
Participants have the flexibility to join one, two, or all three parts of the Gardens of Humanity tour. Each segment is priced individually and includes all accommodations, transportation within Türkiye, meals as listed, expert guides, site entries, and cultural experiences.
Join the Full Journey – Special Rate
Guests who register for all three parts of the tour will receive a combined discounted rate of $14,900 USD, instead of the regular total of $15,600. This full experience offers the most comprehensive immersion into Türkiye’s botanical, cultural, and culinary heritage—at a preferred rate.
Part I: Eastern Türkiye – The Birthplace of Agriculture
April 23 – May 2, 2026
(Istanbul / Urfa / Diyarbakır / Gaziantep / Cappadocia / Konya)
Trace the origins of human settlement and agriculture through some of the most significant archaeological and cultural sites in the world.
Visit Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple
Discover Çatalhöyük, one of the earliest urban settlements
Wander through the lush Hevsel Gardens of Diyarbakır (UNESCO)
Explore the beehive houses of Harran
Cruise the Euphrates River past the sunken town of Halfeti
Admire Roman mosaics at Zeugma and experience the culinary capital Gaziantep
Witness the surreal beauty of Cappadocia and the spiritual serenity of Konya
Part II: Istanbul – Imperial Gardens & Urban Elegance
May 3 – 7, 2026
(Istanbul)
Step into the heart of Türkiye’s imperial capital and explore the hidden natural and cultural treasures of Istanbul.
Discover the historical and botanical richness of the Süleymaniye Mosque, Istanbul University Botanical Garden, and private estates in Bebek and Emirgan
Stroll through the Grand Bazaar and the Old City
Experience a Bosphorus cruise and visit the Princes’ Islands
Enjoy optional workshops such as Ebru marbling and Turkish cooking classes
Part III: Western Türkiye – Gardens, Crafts & Flavors of the Aegean
May 8 – 16, 2026
(Iznik / Bursa / Birgi-Ödemiş / Izmir / Urla)
This final leg takes you through the fertile lands and coastal gems of Western Türkiye, a region known for its crafts, agriculture, and culinary excellence.
Visit Iznik, famous for its tiles and lakeside charm
Explore Bursa’s historical gardens and the wild flora of Mount Uludağ
Meet local artisans in Birgi and Ödemiş
Discover ancient sites like Ephesus and the vibrant city of Izmir
Taste regional wines and olive oils in Urla
Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner at OD Urla, one of the country’s top farm-to-table restaurants
With over twenty years of experience in garden and cultural tourism, our tours are thoughtfully crafted to illuminate the rich tapestry of Türkiye’s landscapes and traditions.
As you journey through enchanting gardens, majestic highlands, serene parks, thriving vineyards, and historical greenhouses, you’ll experience not only the country’s natural beauty, but also its timeless culinary heritage and artisanal craftsmanship.
From Neolithic settlements to Ottoman estates, from spiritual centers to slow cities, this adventure offers an intimate and inspiring view of Türkiye—its past, its present, and its deep connection to the land.
Who Should Join This Tour?
This immersive experience is ideal for travelers passionate about:
Botanical gardens and landscapes
Ancient history and archaeology
Traditional arts and crafts
Local cuisine and wine culture
Whether you join one part or experience all three, Gardens of Humanity offers a rare opportunity to explore Türkiye through its plants, people, and places.
About the Leaders
Gursan Ergil
Gursan Ergil spent six years living in the United States and studying landscape design, history, and preservation at Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum, where he later lectured on Islamic Gardens for two years. After moving United Kingdom from US, he continued studying at Cambridge Universtiy’s advanced garden history program. We celebrate two decades of collaboration with Unison Travel & Events through an inspiring tour titled “Gardens of Humanity.”
Gallery
Itinerary
Part I: Eastern Türkiye
Day 1 - Apr, 23
Arrival in Istanbul and welcome dinner. Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 2
Apr, 24
Journey to Şanlıurfa & Göbeklitepe Exploration
Early Morning:
Start your day early with a serene dawn moment and a light breakfast featuring local grains and cereals.
Flight to Şanlıurfa:
Board your flight to Şanlıurfa, the ancient city known as the “City of Prophets.”
Lunch in Şanlıurfa:
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, where your local guide will join the group and introduce the cultural richness of the region.
Guided Visit to Göbeklitepe:
Explore Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex, dating back over 12,000 years to the end of the Pleistocene Epoch. This extraordinary archaeological site consists of massive circular enclosures with T-shaped limestone pillars carved with animal motifs and anthropomorphic figures, believed to have served ritualistic purposes for early hunter-gatherer communities.
Led by the late Professor Dr. Klaus Schmidt, excavations at the site revealed early agricultural activity, including remnants of lentils, barley, chickpeas, and the world’s oldest wheat: single-grain red wheat from nearby Karacadağ. Evidence of fermentation practices in large stone vats suggests early brewing or food processing techniques.
Sanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museums:
Visit two of Türkiye’s most significant museums. The Archaeology Museum features Neolithic artifacts, including those from Göbeklitepe, while the Edessa Mosaic Museum showcases intricate Roman-era mosaics uncovered in the region.
Evening – Historical Walk in the Old City:
Stroll through the historical heart of Şanlıurfa, exploring the labyrinthine Hans (caravanserais), vibrant bazaars, and the sacred Balıklıgöl (Pool of Sacred Fish), a site deeply rooted in Abrahamic traditions.
Overnight – Babil Antique Hotel:
Stay at the charming Babil Antique Hotel in the city center, offering authentic atmosphere and comfort.
Day 3
Apr, 25
Water & Food: Hevsel Gardens and Diyarbakır Exploration
Morning – Departure from Urfa:
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Diyarbakır at 10:00 AM. Enjoy a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive through the Mesopotamian landscape.
Lunch at Ameditan Restaurant:
Upon arrival in Diyarbakır, stop for lunch at Ameditan, where you’ll enjoy regional flavors in a setting that blends tradition and taste.
Guided Tour of the Hevsel Gardens:
Meet your local guide and begin the day’s cultural journey with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Hevsel Gardens. These historic gardens, which date back to Sumerian times, span 7,000 decares of fertile alluvial soil. They have sustained local populations for millennia with orchards, vineyards, and vegetable plots. The area is also a haven for biodiversity, home to over 180 species, including otters, foxes, and a variety of birds and small mammals.
Next Stop – Diyarbakır Castle and Citadel Museum:
Explore Diyarbakır Castle, a massive fortification that has stood since Roman times and was used through the Sassanid, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras. The outer and inner castle structures boast 5,800 meters of city walls and 82 bastions. From one of these bastions, enjoy a sweeping view of the Hevsel Gardens stretching toward the Tigris River. Visit the Citadel Museum and learn about the city’s rich military and architectural heritage. Stop by the Dağ Kapı (also known as Harput Gate), now serving as the Tourism Office and the State Fine Arts Gallery.
Stroll through Diyarbakır’s Old City and Ulu Camii:
Wander the cobbled streets of the old town and visit the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Anatolia, blending Seljuk and local architectural styles.
Return to Urfa:
Depart Diyarbakır and begin the journey back to Şanlıurfa.
Overnight Stay at Babil Antique Hotel:
Arrive back in Şanlıurfa and check in for your second night at the atmospheric Babil Antique Hotel.
Day 4
Apr, 26
Harran Plain & The Origins of Domestication
Departure for Harran Plain:
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the ancient plains of Harran, located just outside Şanlıurfa.
Lunch in Harran:
Enjoy a traditional lunch in the heart of Harran, surrounded by the region’s unique architectural and historical textures.
Exploration of Harran:
Step into one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Harran holds deep spiritual significance as the place where Abraham is believed to have lived before his journey to Canaan, drawing both historians and religious travelers alike.
The town is renowned for its beehive-shaped mudbrick houses, a rare architectural style dating back to ancient Mesopotamia. These cone-like dwellings, similar to Italy’s Trulli houses, are designed to withstand the region’s extreme heat—remaining cool in the scorching summers and warm in the cold winters.
The Harran Plain is also a cradle of early agriculture. This is where sheep are thought to have been first domesticated, with evidence of agricultural practices going back over 10,000 years. The area reflects humanity’s first transition from a nomadic to a settled lifestyle.
Return to Şanlıurfa:
After a day immersed in early civilization, we return to our hotel in Urfa.
Dinner & Traditional “Sıra Gecesi” Experience:
Conclude the day with an unforgettable Sıra Gecesi, a traditional Urfa-style evening featuring local music, food, and communal storytelling—a joyful celebration of Kurdish and Turkish culture.
Overnight – Babil Antique Hotel:
Enjoy your final night in Şanlıurfa at the charming Babil Antique Hotel.
Day 5
Apr, 27
Halfeti: The Sunken Town & Gaziantep: Türkiye’s Culinary Capital
Departure for Gaziantep (via Halfeti):
After breakfast, we pack our suitcases and begin our journey toward Gaziantep, with a scenic and cultural stop in the town of Halfeti along the way.
Lunch & Boat Tour in Halfeti:
Arrive in Halfeti, a charming riverside town partially submerged due to the construction of the Birecik Dam. Enjoy a leisurely lunch before boarding a private boat for a tour along the Euphrates River.
Sail past partially sunken stone houses, ancient caves, and the hauntingly beautiful minarets of flooded mosques. The route includes views of Çekem, Savaşan Village, and the historic Rumkale (Roman Castle). The surreal landscape and calm waters make Halfeti a dreamlike location—ideal for stunning photographs and quiet reflection.
In recognition of its tranquil atmosphere and cultural preservation efforts, Halfeti was officially designated a Cittaslow (Slow City) in 2013 by the Cittaslow International Coordination Committee.
Departure for Gaziantep:
Continue your journey to Gaziantep, a city where culinary tradition meets rich history.
Check-in at Divan Hotel:
Arrive in Gaziantep and check into the elegant Divan Hotel, your base for exploring the city’s vibrant food culture.
Visit to the Culinary Arts Center (Mutfak Sanatları Merkezi):
We’ll visit Gaziantep’s Culinary Arts Center, a hub of local food heritage and innovation. Learn about the city’s rich gastronomic traditions, recognized by UNESCO, and discover how classic recipes—from spice-rich kebabs to delicate baklavas—are preserved and reinterpreted in modern culinary arts.
Overnight – Divan Hotel, Gaziantep:
Rest in comfort at the centrally located Divan Hotel, rounding off a day filled with history, nature, and unforgettable flavors.
Day 6
Apr, 28
Zeugma & the Art of Mosaic
Visit to Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Gaziantep:
After breakfast, we will visit our final stop in Gaziantep: the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to one of the world’s most important mosaic collections.
The museum showcases extraordinary mosaics recovered from the Ancient City of Zeugma, whose name means “bridge” or “crossing” in Ancient Greek. Situated at a key point along the Euphrates River, Zeugma was once a vital hub for both commerce and military passage.
When the Birecik Dam was constructed in 2000, much of the city was submerged. During this period, archaeologists managed to save 2,500 square meters of intricate Roman mosaic floors and wall panels from opulent villas. These works, now housed in the museum, depict mythological scenes, daily life, and stunning artistry that bring the Roman world vividly to life.
Overnight – Divan Hotel, Gaziantep
Day 7
Apr, 29
Uçhisar, Cappadocia:
Resume the journey through the Central Anatolian landscape toward Uçhisar, one of the highest points in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views of fairy chimneys and volcanic valleys.
Arrival in Cappadocia & Hotel Check-in:
Arrive at the beautiful La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, nestled among the region’s surreal rock formations and traditional stone architecture.
Overnight – La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, Cappadocia:
Enjoy your first night in Cappadocia, resting in the comfort of a unique boutique hotel that blends modern charm with regional authenticity.
Day 8
Apr, 30
Horses & Wines: A Taste of Ancient Cappadocia
Vineyard Tour Begins:
Following breakfast, we set off to explore Cappadocia’s vineyards and ancient winemaking culture.
The name Cappadocia originates from the Hittite word “Katpatuka”, meaning “Land of Beautiful Horses.” This region is not only known for its surreal landscapes but also for its millennia-old winemaking traditions. Thanks to its volcanic soil, high altitude, and natural cave storage, Cappadocia has cultivated a distinct microclimate ideal for wine production.
Visit to the Grape Church & Ancient Wine Presses:
Our first stop is the Grape Church, a historical site where you’ll discover ancient wine press caves, offering insight into how grapes were processed thousands of years ago. Archaeological findings here reveal winemaking tools and artifacts that date back over 5,000 years, rooted in the legacy of the Hittites.
Winery Lunch & Wine Tasting Experience:
Next, we visit a local Cappadocian winery to enjoy a delicious lunch paired with a wine degustation session. You’ll sample regional varieties, including the iconic Emir grape, a crisp and aromatic white grape cherished since Hittite times.
Visit to the “Rhythms of Life” Sculpture Park:
In the afternoon, we explore the visionary ‘Rhythms of Life’ sculpture park by artist Andrew Rogers. His monumental land art installations are scattered across the Cappadocian landscape, blending seamlessly into the natural terrain.
Rogers describes Cappadocia’s forms as “masterful symbols”—and his sculptures, visible from Google Earth, reflect this philosophy. Highlights include:
• Horse
• Cybele Statue
• Seten Stone
• Angel-Faced Bird
• Tree of Life
• Double-Bodied, Single-Headed Lion
• Stone Age
• The First Temple
Each work is constructed authentically using local materials, preserving the spirit of the land.
Overnight – La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, Cappadocia:
Spend your second night in Cappadocia at the beautifully designed La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, soaking in the charm of the volcanic valleys under the stars.
Day 9
May, 1
Up in the Air & Pigeon Valley: History, Nature & Optional Adventure
Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride:
Start the day with an optional sunrise hot air balloon tour, one of Cappadocia’s most iconic experiences. Float above fairy chimneys, volcanic valleys, and ancient cave dwellings as the morning light paints the surreal landscape in soft hues of orange and gold.
Visit to Göreme Open Air Museum:
After breakfast, we visit the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant monastic settlements in the region.
Predominantly used between the 4th and 13th centuries AD, the site features a network of churches, chapels, refectories, kitchens, and communal halls carved into the rock. The walls are adorned with well-preserved frescoes, offering insight into the spiritual and communal life of early Christian monks. Monastic activity continued here until the 19th century, making it a remarkable timeline of continuity and devotion.
Lunch & Midday Rest:
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant followed by a two-hour rest period, ideal for recharging before your afternoon adventure.
Hike through Pigeon Valley & Horseback Riding (Optional):
We begin a scenic walk through Pigeon Valley, a 4-kilometer trail that stretches from Uçhisar to Göreme. The valley is named after the pigeon nests carved into the soft volcanic rock. For centuries, locals nurtured pigeons here, using their manure to fertilize vineyards and their eggshells in the plaster of frescoes.
For those seeking an added experience, horseback riding is available at Uçhisar Horse Farm, offering a unique way to explore the valley’s natural beauty.
Overnight – La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, Cappadocia:
Enjoy your final night in Cappadocia at the serene and charming La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, reflecting on a day filled with both stillness and discovery.
Day 10
May, 2
Çatalhöyük & the Roots of Civilization | Rumi’s Legacy in Konya
Departure from Uçhisar:
After an early breakfast, we leave Cappadocia and begin our journey westward to Konya, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a cradle of early civilization.
Journey to Çatalhöyük:
En route to Konya, we head directly to the archaeological site of Çatalhöyük, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers profound insight into the earliest stages of urban development.
Visit to Çatalhöyük:
Dating back to between 7400 BC and 6200 BC, Çatalhöyük marks a monumental shift in human history—from nomadic life to permanent settlement. This Neolithic site features densely packed homes with roof-level entryways, no streets, and shared walls, highlighting a complex urban layout.
The archaeological findings—grain storage containers, wooden bowls, clay pots, food processing tools, woven baskets, and mats—reflect an advanced understanding of agriculture, food storage, and community organization. Crops such as barley, wheat, millet, lentils, chickpeas, peas, almonds, and various herbs and fruits were cultivated or foraged.
Çatalhöyük also shines as a center of early artistic and symbolic expression. Its walls were adorned with murals, reliefs, and sculptures, indicating a society rich in ritual and creativity.
Visit to the Mevlana Museum, Konya:
In the late afternoon, we visit the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to Jalal ad-Din Rumi, the 13th-century Persian poet and Sufi mystic known simply as Rumi.
A central figure in Turkish culture and spiritual thought, Rumi founded the Mevlevi Order, known for the Whirling Dervishes and their meditative dance. His philosophy of love, unity, and transcendence continues to inspire people around the world. The museum, once a dervish lodge, houses his tomb, manuscripts, musical instruments, and personal items.
Farewell Dinner at Hacı Şükrü Lokantası:
Enjoy a final dinner together at Hacı Şükrü Lokantası, a renowned Konya restaurant famous for its traditional Anatolian cuisine. It’s a warm and flavorful farewell to a journey through history, culture, and connection.
Overnight – Grand Hotel, Konya:
Spend the night at the centrally located Grand Hotel, reflecting on the final day of this transformative journey.
Part II: Istanbul
Day 11 - May, 3
Departure from Konya / Arrival in Istanbul
End of the First Leg – Journey to Istanbul for Continuing Participants
This marks the conclusion of the first part of the tour in Konya. Participants who are continuing on to the next stage of the journey will travel to Istanbul.
Arrival in Istanbul & Welcome Dinner
Travelers continuing the tour will arrive in Istanbul and be joined by new participants beginning their journey here.
For those continuing, this is Day 11; for those joining in Istanbul, this is Day 1.
In the evening, we’ll all gather for a welcome dinner, a perfect opportunity for introductions and a shared sense of excitement as we begin the Istanbul leg of the tour.
Day 12
May, 4
Süleymaniye & Botanical Exploration
Morning visit to the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque (by vehicle). Lunch nearby, possibly featuring traditional kuru fasulye. If open, visit the historic Istanbul University Botanical Garden. Explore the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market with free time for shopping. Return to the hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 13
May, 5
Bosphorus Cruise & Private Gardens
Start the day with a Bosphorus cruise. Then visit a selection of formal and private gardens, including locations in Bebek and Emirgan. Optional stop at Sabancı Museum garden. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 14
May, 6
Princes’ Islands Day Trip
Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands for a day of nature, history, and calm. Explore gardens and enjoy local gastronomy. Return to the mainland in the evening. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 15
May, 7
Free Day / Optional Experiences
Enjoy a free day in Istanbul, or take part in optional activities such as a guided Old City tour or a cultural workshop—including a Turkish cooking class or Ebru marbling experience on the Asian side. In the evening, we come together for a special dinner.
This dinner will serve as a farewell for those concluding their journey here, and as a welcome dinner for new participants joining the third leg of the tour.
This is the 15th and final night for participants continuing the full journey, and the last night for those concluding their tour in Istanbul.
Overnight – Istanbul
Part III: Western Türkiye
Day 16 - May, 8
Iznik: Glass Art & Lakeside Stay
After breakfast, we depart from Istanbul by private transportation toward Iznik. En route, we visit the studio and sculpture garden of renowned Turkish sculptor Mehmet Aksoy, where art, nature, and architectural imagination blend.
We then enjoy a traditional lunch before arriving in Iznik, a UNESCO-nominated town known for its historical significance and beautiful natural setting by the lake. We explore a local glass workshop and visit the Iznik Foundation Workshops and Gardens, where traditional hand-crafted Iznik tiles are produced using 16th-century techniques and modern innovation. The foundation’s gardens are a serene highlight of the day.
Later, we enjoy a brief walking tour of Iznik’s historic core, including ancient city walls and Byzantine-Roman-Ottoman-era landmarks, before checking in to a peaceful guesthouse surrounded by nursery gardens.
Overnight in Iznik
Day 17
May, 9
Foundations & Tiles in Iznik – Transfer to Bursa
Following breakfast, we delve deeper into Iznik’s heritage with a visit to a charitable foundation supporting the preservation of traditional tile-making. Here, we take part in a hands-on tile painting workshop (çini), learning firsthand about this UNESCO-recognized art form.
After lunch, we enjoy a final look at Iznik’s significant monuments, including remnants of early Christian councils and Ottoman-era structures, before heading toward Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Along the way, enjoy views of Lake Iznik, olive groves, and fruit plantations.
Dinner is on your own this evening.
Overnight in Bursa
Day 18
May, 10
Bursa Heritage & Botanical Delights
After a relaxing morning at your leisure—perhaps enjoying the thermal facilities at your hotel—we gather for a guided tour of Bursa’s architectural gems. Highlights include:
• The Grand Mosque, built in 1399 and topped with 20 domes
• The Green Mosque and Green Tomb, known for their turquoise-tiled interiors
• The historic Koza Han, once the center of silk trade and still a vibrant bazaar
• The Covered Bazaar, known for traditional bath accessories and textiles
We end the day with a visit to the Bursa Botanical Park, home to themed gardens including Japanese, French, English, Rose, and Topiary sections.
Dinner on your own.
Overnight in Bursa
Day 19
May, 11
Mount Uludağ & Wild Flora
Today we head up to Mount Uludağ, known in antiquity as Mount Olympos. This is a rich site for viewing wild flora and endemic plant species. We’ll enjoy a scenic BBQ lunch in nature, and there’s an optional visit to a dervish lodge nestled in the mountains.
Uludağ’s diverse landscapes and cool highland air offer a peaceful contrast to the city.
Overnight in Bursa
Day 20
May, 12
Scenic Drive to Birgi via Mountains
We depart early for a scenic drive through the mountains toward Birgi, a well-preserved village nestled in the Ödemiş district. On the way, enjoy views of the Aegean hinterland.
Upon arrival, we’ll explore Birgi’s rich heritage:
• Stroll through its Cittaslow-certified town center
• Visit Çakırağa Konağı, a grand Ottoman mansion
• See ancient cypress trees and local gardens
• Engage in a silk demonstration with a local artisan
Lunch is included, followed by a relaxed village walk and workshop experience.
Overnight in Birgi
Day 21
May, 13
Nurseries, Weaving & Ancient Ephesus
This morning we visit horticultural nurseries in Ödemiş, a town with deep roots in agriculture and plant production. We then visit the Can Carpet Center, where we explore the natural dye and carpet weaving processes.
In the afternoon, we drive to the world-famous site of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities. Highlights include:
• The Library of Celsus
• The Great Theater
• The Temple of Hadrian and many more
On the way back to İzmir, we stop at Lucien Arkas Vineyards for a wine tasting and vineyard dinner amid olive trees and aromatic gardens.
Overnight in İzmir
Day 22
May, 14
İzmir Gardens & City Life
Today we explore İzmir’s cultural life, beginning with a visit to the Mattheys Mansion, home to a collection of Anatolian rugs and elegant landscaped gardens. Stroll through Bornova, a leafy historical district.
Then explore İzmir’s lively street food scene, and take time to enjoy the local culture.
Overnight in İzmir
Day 23
May, 15
Urla Day: Gardens, Arboretum & Farewell
Today we head to Urla, a charming coastal town with deep culinary and botanical roots. Stops include:
• The Köstem Olive Oil Museum, with exhibitions on traditional olive production, soap making, and regional plant varieties
• A private garden visit and some free time in Urla’s town center
• Late afternoon visit to Uzbaş Arboretum, home to hundreds of native plant species
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at OD Urla, a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its open-fire cooking and locally sourced ingredients.
Overnight in İzmir
Day 24
May, 16
Departure from İzmir
The Gardens of Humanity tour officially concludes. Departures from İzmir.
Gursan Ergil
Price Details
Popular
Price Includes:
Accommodation
– 23 nights at carefully selected boutique and heritage hotels across Türkiye, including Istanbul, Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep, Cappadocia, Konya, İznik, Bursa, Birgi, and İzmir
Meals
– Daily breakfast throughout the tour
– Selected lunches and dinners as specified in the itinerary, including:
• Welcome dinners in Istanbul (Part I & II)
• BBQ lunch on Mount Uludağ
• Wine tasting and dinner at Lucien Arkas Vineyard
• Farewell dinner at OD Urla
• Sıra Gecesi cultural dinner in Şanlıurfa
• Lunches at local restaurants, nurseries, and vineyards
• Box lunch during intercity transfers (where noted)
Transportation
– All private ground transportation throughout the tour by air-conditioned coach
– Domestic flight from Istanbul to Şanlıurfa
– Ferry transportation to and from the Princes’ Islands
– All airport transfers (arrival and departure) when arriving/departing with the group
Guided Tours & Site Entry
– All scheduled guided tours with expert local guides
– Entry fees to all museums, archaeological sites, historical landmarks, gardens, and cultural centers mentioned in the itinerary, including:
• Göbeklitepe
• Hevsel Gardens
• Diyarbakır Citadel and Museums
• Ephesus
• Çatalhöyük
• Mevlana Museum
• Zeugma Mosaic Museum
• Göreme Open Air Museum
• Sabancı Museum Garden (if applicable)
• Iznik Foundation & tile workshop
• Carpet & weaving center in Ödemiş
• Botanical gardens in Bursa and İzmir
• Uzbaş Arboretum and Köstem Olive Oil Museum
Cultural Experiences
– Hands-on tile-painting (çini) workshop
– Carpet dyeing demonstration
– Private winery visits and tastings
– Sculpture garden visit at Mehmet Aksoy’s studio
– Boat tour in Halfeti
– Optional hot air balloon and horseback riding activities in Cappadocia (fees may apply)
– Farewell and welcome dinners to connect with fellow participants
Tour Coordination & Support
– English-speaking tour coordinator throughout the journey
– Daily briefings and cultural insights from knowledgeable guides
– Gratuities for all local guides and drivers
– All applicable taxes and service charges
Price does not Include:
International flights to and from Türkiye
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Visa fees, if applicable
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional activities not explicitly listed as included (e.g., hot air balloon ride, spa treatments)
Personal expenses such as laundry, minibar, beverages, room service, and souvenirs
Gratuities for hotel staff and restaurant servers (at your discretion)
Early check-in or late check-out unless otherwise arranged
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