Turkey & Tehran Discoverer

Today we will set off from Iran's chaotic capital and head west to the impressive Dome of Soltaniyeh, where we have an included visit. The 14th-century mausoleum is the 3rd largest dome in the world.

After our visit, we will continue our drive to the small town of Zanjan, where we have free time to explore and possibly visit the fascinating historical laundry hall of Rakhatshor-Khaneh.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Basic Hotel

Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6

Today we will drive to the western Iranian city of Tabriz, where we will have free time to explore some of the sights of the old town.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Basic Hotel

Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6

Border Information: Exit Iran at Bazargan, enter Turkey at Gurbulak.

Today we will drive across the border to Turkey and the Kurdish town of Doubayazt. En route we will have an included visit to the Ishak Pasha Palace and enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes and the nearby Mount Ararat.

Accommodation: Basic Hotel

Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping without facilities

Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 5

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping without facilities

Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7

Today we will complete our drive to Göreme, a small enchanting town in the heart of the Cappadocia mountains.

In Göreme we will stay in a well-equipped hostel - please note that dorm beds are sometimes used here.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Basic Hotel

Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8

Today will be a full day to explore Goreme, including a guided tour of the enchanted valley of Cappadocia. There will also be an opportunity for a magical optional balloon ride over the valley during your time here.. Weather permitting.

Accommodation: Basic Hotel

We will have one final day in Goreme to partake in any optional activities here in Goreme.

Accommodation: Basic Hotel

Today we will have a full day's drive west to arrive in Istanbul, the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia.

In Istanbul we will stay in dorm accommodation in a fantastic hostel with good facilities in the historic district of Sultanahmet, a 5 minute walk from the Blue Mosque.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel

Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 12

Today we will have a free day to explore the myriad of highlights in the old Byzantine and Ottoman capital. There are many places to visit, such as the spectacular Blue Mosque, the colossal Hagia Sophia, the bewildering Grand Bazaar, the phenomenal Topkap Palace, and a ferry cruise on the Bosphorus river.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel

if leaving the trip in Istanbul, you will most likely exit Turkey from Istanbul Atatürk International Airport (IATA code: IST).

Today is the end day for passengers finishing their trip in Istanbul. Please note there is no accommodation included on the trip tonight - please contact your sales agent if you are interested in booking extra nights of accommodation in order to fully explore and take part in some of the optional activities listed below.n in order to fully explore and take part in some of the optional activities listed below.