Italy Tour , August 21

Istanbul - Amsterdam We will meet at the international departure terminal of Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport three hours before our flight to complete our ticket and baggage procedures. Our flight with Pegasus Airlines to Amsterdam will take approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. Upon our arrival in Amsterdam, we will set out to explore the city. Known for its historical and cultural richness, canals, museums, and vibrant atmosphere, Amsterdam is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe and stands out among other European capitals for its liberal lifestyle. The youthful city hosts numerous events, festivals, and concerts throughout the year, and is filled with galleries, museums, and exhibitions showcasing classical and modern art. During our tour of Amsterdam, we will visit Damrak, the city’s most popular square, the Royal Palace, one of the official residences of the Dutch royal family, and Oude Kerk (Old Church), the oldest church in Amsterdam. After enjoying some free time for shopping and dining, we will head to our hotel in the evening and have free hours to relax.

After breakfast, we begin our tour to Marken & Volendam - Zaanse Schans. You will be captivated by the nature and the colorful houses lined up one after another as we explore Marken and Volendam, where we can best observe the traditional lifestyle of the Netherlands. The residents of Marken, a village that once relied on fishing, transformed after it became a tourist destination and was connected to the mainland by a bridge, leading to a rise in the production of handicrafts and traditional clothing. The houses built on stilts to prevent flooding are still preserved today. We will take a short journey over the bridge to Volendam, which is much larger than Marken. Along the way, we will visit a cheese producer and learn about cheese production in an area with various cheese makers and tasting workshops. After a short free time for your shopping, we will head towards Volendam. In this beautiful town, where famous artists like Picasso and Renoir stayed briefly in the 20th century, you can see many locals dressed in traditional costumes.

After breakfast, we will complete our hotel check-out and head to Brussels. Following our journey, we will arrive in Brugge, often referred to as the Venice of the North. This UNESCO-protected city offers visitors a chance to travel back in time with its historical fabric, well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow streets, colorful historical buildings, canals, and significant structures. Surrounded by greenery, Brugge's parks and nature, along with its romantic atmosphere, will surely captivate you. During our walking city tour, we will see places such as Grote Markt, the Gothic-style Town Hall, Belfort Bell Tower, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and Minnewater (Lake of Love), which boasts the city's most beautiful view. You will have free time to explore the city, where you can relax in charming cafes and enjoy lunch at local restaurants. After our exploration, we will arrive in Brussels. Brussels, the capital of the European Union, can be described as one of the centers of international diplomacy. During our city tour in Brussels, we will visit the Royal Palace, Grand Palace (city square), St. Michael, and the Stock Exchange.

After breakfast, we will set off towards Luxembourg in the morning. On our way, we will visit Trier, located on the banks of the Rhine River in southwestern Germany, one of the oldest cities in the country. Known as Augusta Treverorum during the Roman Empire, Trier is a fascinating city with its rich history and architecture. The history of Trier dates back to Roman times, and the city was built by the Romans in the 16th century BC. Therefore, many remnants and structures from ancient Rome are still accessible today. Among these are the Porta Nigra (Black Gate), Kaiserthermen (Imperial Thermal Buildings), and the Römerbrücke (Roman Bridge), all of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After our visit here, we will head towards Luxembourg. Strategically located in the heart of Europe, Luxembourg is one of the most developed countries in the world economically. Founded in 963, the city is situated at the crossroads of Roman and Germanic cultures and has been influenced by both civilizations. The country, officially known as the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, shares the same name as its capital, which regained its current borders after the Treaty of London.

Luxembourg - Metz - Paris After breakfast, we will complete our check-out procedures early in the morning and leave our hotel to head towards Paris, with a visit to the city of Metz. One of the oldest cities in France, Metz has changed hands numerous times throughout history due to wars between France and Germany, reflecting both cultures in its historic atmosphere, which is sure to impress you along with its stunning nature. As one of the greenest cities in France, Metz boasts a captivating landscape with the Moselle and Seille Rivers and lakes. The "German Gate," built by German workers on the Moselle River, the dazzlingly beautiful Saint-Etienne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture, Place d’Armes Square, the famous Metz Covered Market, and the opera and theater building, one of the oldest structures in France, are all located within Metz. After our exploration here, we will set off towards Paris. Upon arrival, we will begin exploring Paris, one of the world's most important metropolises, where you can see traces of its history at every corner.

After breakfast, we will begin our tour of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River. A delightful experience awaits you as we embark on a boat tour along the Seine, where you will see Paris’s iconic structures. During our river cruise, we will have panoramic views of landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, Alexandre III Bridge, Orsay Museum, and Institut de France, to name just a few. You will have the chance to enjoy the city from a different perspective while spending quality time on this famous river, ensuring a great travel experience. After our river tour, we will ascend to the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Paris. Designed for the 1889 Paris World Fair, this tower has become a symbol of the city and one of the most magnificent structures in the world, still welcoming millions of visitors each year. Following our visit, we will head to our hotel. After the tour, there will be a store visit to try out tax-free, affordable, and quality perfumes.

After breakfast, we will begin our tour of Montmartre (Artists' Hill), Notre Dame Cathedral, Luxembourg Gardens, and the Louvre area. Our first stop will be Montmartre, the most artistic and bohemian district located in the north of Paris. We will first see the Pigalle area, home to the world-famous cabaret show Moulin Rouge, known for its vibrant nightlife and colorful atmosphere. Ascending to Artists' Hill by funicular, we will be greeted by the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Once the center of religious life, the construction of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica began in 1875 to symbolize France's spiritual renewal and was only opened for worship after World War I. After its spiritual transformation, Montmartre became an art hub, hosting many famous artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Emile Zola. You will have free time to explore the bohemian streets filled with art galleries and enjoy lunch. We will continue our tour with Notre Dame Cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece rises on the banks of the Seine River in the historic center of Paris. The cathedral's magnificent stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and famous bell towers will captivate you.

Paris - Istanbul After breakfast, we will complete our check-out procedures and leave the hotel. After some free time provided by our guide, we will head to the airport at the designated time. We will complete our ticket and baggage procedures before flying to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport on Pegasus Airlines flight. With our arrival in local time, our Benelux tour comes to an end. We hope to reunite on another journey where you will create unforgettable memories…