Jewish Heritage

1st Day: You will arrive in Istanbul, the largest city in modern Turkey. We will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. You will have time to relax and rest.

2nd Day: This morning, we will begin with Neve Shalom Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Istanbul, which was attacked twice in the last 30 years. We will then visit Ahrida Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in Istanbul. After lunch, we will take the historic tram along famous Istiklal Street. Later, we will visit a fascinating Jewish cemetery in Ulus. Finally, we will visit the Jewish Museum of Turkey.

3rd Day: Today we will have an extensive tour of Istanbul. Istanbul is the only city in the world located on two continents and was the capital of three great empires. Our first visit will be to the legendary Hagia Sophia, built 1,500 years ago and one of the greatest monuments of the Roman Empire. We will then visit the famous Blue Mosque. After lunch, we will visit Topkapi Palace. Later, you will have free time to explore Istanbul’s historic shopping areas, including the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. Overnight in Istanbul.

4th Day: We will fly from Istanbul to Izmir Airport and then drive to Sardis, home to the oldest and largest ancient synagogue in Anatolia, dating back to the 2nd century B.C. After lunch, we will continue to Kusadasi for the night. Overnight in Kusadasi.

5th Day: Today we will drive south and visit the famous ancient city of Miletus, where important philosophers such as Thales, Anaximander, and Anaximenes lived. We will also learn about Isidore of Miletus, one of the architects of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. At the Theater of Miletus, we will read from ancient Jewish inscriptions before continuing to Ephesus. After lunch, we will explore the ruins of Ephesus, where we will see the Temples of Hadrian, Trajan, and Domitian, the ancient Roman baths, the Library of Celsus, and the impressive Great Theater. Overnight in Kusadasi.

6th Day: After breakfast, we will drive to Izmir, the third-largest city in Turkey. We will visit the Bet Israel Synagogue and then have free time to explore the historic Kemeraltı Bazaar. In the evening, we will enjoy a farewell dinner along the beautiful Kordon waterfront. Overnight in Izmir.

7th Day: Transfer to Izmir Airport for your flight home...