"Beyond Istanbul, where the Black Sea’s mist-cloaked mountains meet timeless villages, a journey into Northern Turkey unfolds..."
Step into an 11-day odyssey through Istanbul and Northern Turkey, where imperial grandeur meets untouched natural beauty. From the bustling bazaars and shimmering Bosphorus of Istanbul to the emerald valleys and coastal splendor of the Black Sea, this adventure will lead you through Ottoman heritage, lush landscapes, and hidden wonders.
Wander through Safranbolu’s timeworn mansions, gaze upon the endless shores of Samsun, and breathe in the crisp mountain air of Uzungöl. With every turn, discover a world where history whispers from stone walls and nature unveils its most secret wonders, stay in optional luxury bungalows to feel the peace!
This is more than a tour!..
it is a verdant quest beyond Istanbul, deep into the heart of Northern Turkey.
11 Days Istanbul & Black Sea
Secrets of the Black Sea:
A Verdant Quest from Istanbul to the Unknown!
VIP Road Trip Lovers!
Tour Type: Private Basis Escorted (Minimum 2P)
Start City: Istanbul
End City: Istanbul
Domestic Flights: 1 (max 1hr35m)
VIP Road Trips: Yes
Transportation: Luxury Private Vans
Accommodation: 10 nights
TOUR SUMMARY
(We Only Offer Private Tours – NO Mixed Groups!)
✔ Up to 60% discount for children
✔Especial discount for (6+ people) private groups
City overnights / Hotels
Accommodations are in premium 4-star and
5-star hotels.
(4-star hotels can be upgraded to 5-star upon request.)
🛏️Istanbul-Arrival (2 nights): Radisson President/ Sultanahmet (4*), or similar
🛏️Safranbolu(1 night): Hilton Garden Inn(4*), or similar
🛏️Samsun (1 night): Pereira Hotel (5*), or similar
🛏️Trabzon (2 nights): Aksular Hotel (4*), or similar
🛏️Rize-Ayder (2 nights): Oris Green(4*),or Luxury Bungalows
🛏️Istanbul-Departure (1 night): Elite World Comfy Taksim(4*), or similar
Itinerary Details
Day 1: Istanbul (Arrival) - Transfer to your hotel - Overnight in Istanbul (4*)
(Meals: Welcome Dinner)
Welcome to the Land of Wonders, Turkiye! As you touch down at Istanbul’s vibrant airport, a friendly transfer agent will greet you at the exit gate, holding a sign with your name. From here, you’ll be whisked to your hotel in the heart of Istanbul. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and soak in the lively energy of Sultanahmet’s Old Town. Wander its charming streets, admire the centuries-old architecture, or savor Turkish delights as you prepare for the magical journey ahead. Istanbul welcomes you with two international airports: IST and SAW. ✈️ Upon arrival, collect your luggage and follow the signs to the exit gate. ▶ At IST Airport: proceed to Gate No.14, where your tour guide will be waiting. ▶ At SAW Airport: there is only one exit gate, where your guide will greet you warmly. Safe travels, and let the adventure begin! 😇 . . . Overnight: Istanbul (4*) Meals: Welcome Dinner (Local) Included Activities: Airport Transfer Optional Activities: Cruise Dinner with Turkish Show and Belly Dance on Bosphorus Strait
Day 2: Walking Tour in Old Istanbul - Overnight in Istanbul (4*)
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch)
“Dawn breaks, and thou shalt partake of a feast most splendid!” After breakfast, embark on a walking tour of Old Istanbul’s iconic sites, showcasing the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage: Highlights include: Topkapi Palace(from outside): Explore grand halls and Ottoman artifacts in this former royal residence offering mesmerizing views of the Bosphorus. Hagia Sophia: Admire the architectural splendor of this UNESCO landmark, celebrated for its majestic dome and stunning Byzantine mosaics. Blue Mosque: Enter a serene world adorned with over 20,000 blue Iznik tiles, epitomizing Islamic art and design. Hippodrome of Constantinople: Once the social hub of Byzantium, this ancient arena echoes tales of chariot races and imperial ceremonies. Basilica Cistern: A 6th-century underground marvel with grand columns, eerie lighting, and mysterious Medusa heads, once supplying water to Byzantine palaces. After the tour, return to your hotel for an evening of leisure. Note: Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. . . . Overnight: Istanbul (4*) Meals: Breakfast-Lunch Included Activities: Full-day guided tour Optional Activities: Cruise Dinner with Turkish Show and Belly Dance on Bosphorus Strait
What's included, what's not!
INCLUSIONS:
✔ All Accommodations in super-comfort 4* Hotels & (or High-Class Bungalows option)
✔ All Breakfasts
✔ 8 Lunch+2 Dinner(1 welcome Dinner at arrival-Local)
✔ All Entrance Fees for Sites
✔ All Domestic Flights
✔ All Transportations by Luxury Vans
✔ Guiding by Professional Licensed Tour Guide
✔ Tips at Hotels & Restaurants
EXCLUSIONS:
- International Flights(click for cheap flights)
- Travel Insurance
- Visas (documents will be provided after deposit)
- Tips to Tour Guides and Drivers
- Optional Activities
Day 3: Road Journey from Istanbul to Safranbolu – Overnight in Safranbolu (4*)
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch)
“With the morning’s farewell to the imperial city, set forth on a journey to the storied town of Safranbolu!” Following breakfast, you will check out from your hotel and begin your road journey to Safranbolu, a UNESCO-listed Ottoman town renowned for its well-preserved mansions, historic bazaars, and timeless charm. Before departing from Istanbul, you will explore the Asian side of the Bosphorus: Camlica Hill: Enjoy a panoramic view of the Bosphorus strait from the Asia continent! After completing your visits, you will begin your road journey to Safranbolu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, where the rest of the evening is yours to relax at leisure. . . . Overnight: Safranbolu (4*) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Included Activities: Guided daytime tour in Istanbul, Road journey Optional Activities: N/A
Day 4: Safranbolu Tour - Road Journey to Samsun – Overnight in Samsun (5*)
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch)
“Through verdant valleys and Ottoman echoes, set forth toward the Black Sea’s storied shores!” Following breakfast, you will check out from your hotel and explore the cultural gems of Safranbolu before departing. Highlights include: Safranbolu Old Town: A living museum of Ottoman-era houses and cobblestone streets. Cinci Han Caravanserai: A 17th-century travelers’ inn, once a major stop on the Silk Road. Safranbolu Bazaar: A chance to shop for traditional handicrafts, saffron-infused delicacies, and Turkish delights. After completing your tour, you will begin your scenic road journey to Samsun, traveling through the rolling hills and coastal landscapes of Northern Turkey. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, where the rest of the evening is yours to relax at leisure. . . . Overnight: Samsun (5*) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Included Activities: Guided daytime tour in Safranbolu, Road journey Optional Activities: N/A
Day 5: Samsun Tour - Road Journey to Trabzon – Overnight in Trabzon (4*)
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch)
“Through the whispers of the Black Sea, journey where emerald peaks meet the boundless blue of the horizon!” Following breakfast, you will check out from your hotel and explore Samsun’s historical and coastal landmarks before setting out for Trabzon. Highlights include: Atatürk Monument: A striking equestrian statue honoring Atatürk, symbolizing Samsun’s role in Turkish history. Samsun Promenade: A beautiful coastal stretch where you can take in the fresh Black Sea air before continuing your journey. After your visits, you will embark on a scenic road journey to Trabzon, following the breathtaking Black Sea coastline. Upon arrival in Trabzon, you will be transferred to your hotel, where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. . . . Overnight: Trabzon (4*) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Included Activities: Guided daytime tour in Samsun, Road journey Optional Activities: N/A
Day 6: Trabzon – Sumela Tour - Overnight in Trabzon (4*)
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch)
“Awaken to the whispers of the mountains, where ancient wonders await thy footsteps!” Following a delightful breakfast at the hotel, your journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Black Sea region begins. Today, you shall uncover the hidden marvels of the Pontic Mountains, where nature and history intertwine in enchanting harmony. Highlights include: Sumela Monastery: A 4th-century monastery built into a cliff, surrounded by lush forests in Altindere National Park. Zigana Mountain: Scenic drive through the Pontic range, offering breathtaking views of mountain villages and misty peaks. Karaca Cave: A fascinating cave known for its vibrant colors, unique formations, and crystal-clear stalactites. As your adventure concludes, you will return to your hotel in Trabzon, where the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. . . . Overnight: Trabzon (4*) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Included Activities: Guided daytime tour Optional Activities: Ziplin
Day 7: Trabzon to Uzungol Tour - Overnight in Ayder Plateau (Hotel/Bungalow)
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch)
“With the morning’s golden light, set forth on a journey through time and nature’s embrace!” Following a delightful breakfast, you will complete the hotel check-out and embark on a day rich in cultural wonders and breathtaking landscapes. Delve into the storied past of Trabzon, then find serenity in Uzungöl, a hidden jewel cradled in the Pontic Alps. Highlights include: Hagia Sophia of Trabzon: Marvel at the 13th-century Byzantine frescoes adorning this architectural masterpiece. Atatürk’s Mansion: Enjoy sweeping views of the Black Sea from this historic hilltop retreat. Uzungöl (Long Lake): Stroll along the shores of this alpine lake, surrounded by lush forests and charming wooden houses. After a dreamy lunch at Uzungöl, you will journey onward to the enchanting Ayder Plateau, where your dream bungalow awaits amidst nature’s grandeur. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. . . . Overnight: Ayder Plateau (Hotel / Bungalows) Meals: Breakfast-Lunch Included Activities: Guided Daytime tour Optional Activities: Zipline
Day 8: Ayder Tour - Overnight in Rize/Ayder Plateau (Hotel/Bungalow)
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch)
“As morning’s light graces the peaks, set forth on a journey through nature’s untamed splendor!” Following a dreamy breakfast, your adventure continues with a day brimming with breathtaking landscapes, ancient wonders, and charming villages nestled in Turkey’s Black Sea region. Highlights include: Fırtına (Storm) Valley: A lush, misty valley leading to the Ayder Plateau, offering awe-inspiring scenery. Çamlıhemşin, Konaklar, and Şenyuva Bridge: Timeless villages adorned with historic stone bridges and traditional wooden houses. Zilkale: A medieval fortress perched atop a cliff, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Goksu Falls: A mesmerizing trek to the region’s highest waterfall, cascading through emerald-green forests. Upon completing your tour and any optional activities, you will return to your bungalow in Ayder, where the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. . . . Overnight: Ayder (Bungalow) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Included Activities: Guided daytime tour Optional Activities: Zipline
Day 9: Flight from Trabzon to Istanbul - Overnight in Istanbul (4*)
(Meals: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner)
“With the dawn’s first light, bid farewell to the highlands and journey toward the city’s embrace!” Following a delightful breakfast, you will check out from your hotel in Ayder and begin your journey to Trabzon Airport. Depending on your flight schedule and the season, you may explore additional wonders of this alpine paradise before heading to the airport. Possible visits include: Ayder Plateau: A breathtaking highland retreat, home to rolling meadows and misty mountain peaks. Traditional Village Life: Encounter locally dressed village women engaged in age-old customs. Rize downtown. Waterfalls: Witness cascading falls plummeting from hundreds of meters, a mesmerizing sight to behold. After your tour, you will be transferred to Trabzon Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel in the vibrant Taksim Square area, the beating heart of Istanbul’s nightlife and home to the bustling Istiklal Street. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. . . . Overnight: Istanbul (Taksim) 4* Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included Activities: Guided daytime tour, Flight, Airport transfers Optional Activities: N/A
Day 10: Free Day in Istanbul Taksim (Optional tours available) - Overnight in Istanbul (4*)
(Meals: Breakfast)
“Upon this day of leisure, let Istanbul’s timeless wonders and hidden treasures reveal themselves to thee!” Today is a free day in Istanbul, allowing you to explore and unwind at your own pace. Whether you choose to wander through Istiklal Street, sip Turkish coffee, or uncover the city's rich heritage, the day is yours to shape as you desire. Optional tours are available for those wishing to delve deeper into Istanbul’s marvels. Pricing details will be provided upon request, as they vary depending on the size of your private group. . . . Overnight: Istanbul Taksim Area (4*) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Lunch included if on tour) Included Activities: N/A Optional Activities: Daytime tour
Day 11: Farewell to Turkey – Departure from Istanbul
(Meals: Breakfast)
“With souls enriched and memories bright, part ways with Angels Vacations—until destiny calls thee back!”😇 Following breakfast at the hotel, you will proceed to check out and be transported to the airport for your departure flight. We sincerely hope you’ve cherished every moment of your vacation and are leaving with a treasure trove of unforgettable memories and photos! We can’t wait to welcome you back for another adventure. Safe travels! . . . Overnight: N/A Meals: Breakfast Included Activities: Airport transfer Optional Activities: N/A
