1. 10 nights hotel accommodation
2. Domestic flight: Istanbul → Samsun
3. All group tours listed in the itinerary
4. Transportation in air-conditioned, non-smoking coach
5. Professional English-speaking guide
6. 10 Breakfast, 10 Lunch, 10 dinner
7. All entrance fees

1. International flights
2. Turkey entry visa
3. Travel insurance
4. Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, etc.)

1. Route Summary: Thematic and Geographical Focus

This tour offers an in-depth exploration combining four main thematic and geographical areas of Turkey:

• Capitals and Empires (Istanbul, Bursa, Edirne): The tour spans from Istanbul, the heart of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires (Hagia Sophia, Topkapi), to Bursa, the center of early Ottoman rule, and finally to Edirne, the last capital featuring Mimar Sinan's masterpiece, the Selimiye Mosque.
• Ancient Civilizations (Hattusa, Phrygia, Troy): The journey focuses on Anatolia's oldest civilizations, from Homer’s mythical Troy and the traces of King Midas in the Phrygia Valley to Hattusa, the impressive capital of the Hittite Empire in Central Anatolia.
• Republic and the Black Sea (Samsun, Amasya, Ankara): This segment covers a national history route, starting from the launch point of the War of Independence in Samsun, continuing to the Pontic rock tombs in Amasya, and concluding in Ankara, the heart of the modern Turkish Republic (Anıtkabir).
• War and Antiquity (Gallipoli, Assos): The memorials of the Gallipoli Peninsula (site of WWI battles) and Assos (Temple of Athena), a significant example of ancient Greek architecture, serve as important stops along the route.

2. Important Travel Tips and Logistics

• Museum Pass Usage: Given the large number of museums and ancient sites on your itinerary (Topkapi Palace, Ankara Museums, Hittite/Troy sites), it is highly recommended to purchase a Museum Pass Turkey to save time and money on entry fees.
• Cash Requirement: The currency is the Turkish Lira (TL). While credit cards are widely accepted in major centers, carrying cash is advisable for small vendors, local markets, and small businesses in more isolated areas like Boğazköy/Hattusa.
• Travel Comfort: The route involves long bus journeys(especially to/from Samsun and the Central Anatolian sites). Prepare your personal entertainment devices(books, music) and comfort items to make these travel periods more relaxing and productive.
• Time Management: Strict adherence to the schedule and your guide's instructions is critical, especially in crowded locations like Istanbul (Grand Bazaar) and Ankara (Anıtkabir), where large crowds can impact timing.

Clothing, Gear, and Climate Preparation

To comfortably adapt to the varying temperatures and humidity across the Marmara, Black Sea, and Central Anatolia regions, being prepared is crucial:

• Layered Clothing: Layering is essential due to high humidity and potential rain in the Black Sea (Samsun) and Marmara (Istanbul, Bursa) regions, and significant temperature differences in Central Anatolia (Hattusa, Ankara). A waterproof light jacket and layered items (t-shirts, sweaters, fleece) are mandatory.
• Footwear: Since you will be walking on long, stony, and uneven terrain at ancient sites like Hattusa, Troy, and the Phrygia Valley, high-comfort and durable walking shoes are indispensable.
• Cultural Compliance: Modest attire(shoulders and knees covered) is required when visiting religious structures (Blue Mosque, Selimiye Mosque) and Ottoman mosques in Bursa/Iznik. Women must carry a shawl or scarf.
• Equipment: For comfort during long bus rides, bring a neck pillow. A Powerbank(portable charger) for your phone/camera and sunscreen/hat for sunny, exposed areas should be included.