Jewish Heritage of Turkey

Transfer from the airport to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin your exploration of this fascinating city.

After breakfast you will be picked up from your hotel and taken on a tour of Jewish Istanbul. You will see the old Jewish Quarter of Balat where the star of David appears on the facades of some buildings. A visit to the Ahrida Synagogue, build over 500 years ago. In the afternoon visit the Archeological Museum, Topkapi Palace Museum, and the Grand Bazaar. (B)

After breakfast visit the Neve Shalom Synagoge, St. Sophia, one the greatest church of the Byziantian Empire, the Blue Mosque, and the Hippodrome. In the afternoon, drive to Pera hill to visit Jewish Synagogues of Ashganazi. (B)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Izmir, ancient Smyrna. Upon arrival you will have a private transfer to your central hotel. In Izmir visit Beth Israel Shar Ashmain Synagogue. Then drive to Sardis, the ancient capital of Lydia to visit synagogues from the Roman period. Return to Izmir for stay overnight. (B)

Full day tour to visit the archeological site of ancient Ephesus with its marble streets, theater, baths, and gymnasia. Among the ruins are Hebrew signs and symbols, reminders of the Jewish past of Ephesus. (B,L)