Turkey Collection
Jewish Heritage Tour in Turkey
A journey through time exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage of Turkey's Jewish community, from Istanbul to Izmir and Ephesus.
Gallery
Moments from the Journey
Full gallery coming soon — for now, explore this journey through our itinerary and highlights above.
Overview
A Journey Through 10,000 Years
Join us on a journey through time and history with our Jewish Heritage Tour in Turkey. Discover the rich cultural and religious heritage of the Jewish community in Istanbul, explore the best-preserved Greco-Roman city in the world, and witness the wonders of ancient Greek and Roman civilization in Ephesus. Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and traditions of this fascinating community as you visit synagogues, ancient ruins, and traditional Jewish quarters. Our expert guides will take you on an unforgettable journey to explore the hidden gems and iconic landmarks of Turkey.
Highlights
What Makes This Tour Unforgettable
Galata & Balat
Istanbul's historic Jewish quarters, including the Neve Shalom, Ashkenazi, Ahrida and Yanbol Synagogues
Bosphorus & Kuzguncuk
A private ferry tour and a visit to a neighborhood housing a mosque, church and synagogue side by side
Izmir's Jewish Heritage
The Beth Israel Synagogue, the Velvet Castle (Kadifekale) and the Ancient Agora of Smyrna
Sardis
One of the largest excavated ancient synagogues in the world, alongside the ruins of temples and the Acropolis
Day by Day
Your Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Istanbul
Welcome to Istanbul, the Imperial City. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be picked up and transferred to your Istanbul hotel. Please note that to visit synagogues, we require a copy of your passport sent to us via email in advance; some synagogues may not be accessible during the tour.
Day 2
Istanbul Old City Jewish Heritage Tour
The tour begins with a visit to the Galata District, home to the city's Jewish community since the 11th century, including the Galata Tower, the Neve Shalom Synagogue (completed 1951), and the Ashkenazi Synagogue (founded 1900). After lunch, we visit the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the Blue Mosque, and the Aya Sophia Museum.
Day 3
Istanbul Golden Horn Jewish Heritage Tour
We visit the Balat neighborhood, a traditional Jewish quarter near the Golden Horn, including the Ahrida Synagogue (one of the oldest in the city) and the Yanbol Synagogue (first built during the Byzantine period), as well as the Jewish Home for the Aged. After lunch, we continue to Topkapi Palace and have free time at the Grand Bazaar.
Day 4
Bosphorus & Two Continents Tour
Our sightseeing tour continues with a visit to the Egyptian Market (Spice Bazaar) and a private ferry tour of Istanbul via the Bosphorus. We also visit synagogues in the Kuzguncuk neighborhood, home to Jews expelled from Spain and Portugal since the late 15th century, before visiting Camlica Hill.
Day 5
Flight from Istanbul to Izmir / Izmir Jewish Heritage Tour
After check-out, we take a short flight to Izmir and visit the Beth Israel Synagogue, as well as the Velvet Castle (Kadifekale), built during Alexander the Great's reign, and the Ancient Agora of Smyrna.
Day 6
Exploring Ephesus Greco-Roman City Tour
We embark on a journey to the ancient city of Ephesus, witnessing the Agora, Odeon, Roman Baths, Grand Theatre, Marble Street, and more. We also visit the House of Virgin Mary, the Artemis Temple site, and the Archeological Museum in Selcuk, which houses the statue of Artemis retrieved from the temple. We are transferred to our hotel in Izmir for an overnight stay.
Day 7
Discovering the Importance of Sardis in Ancient Times
We head to the ancient city of Sardis, exploring the partially restored synagogue, ruins of temples and churches, and the Acropolis, as well as the Temple of the Goddess Cybele. We visit the Pactalos River, the Persian Royal Road, the Sardis Synagogue — one of the largest ancient synagogues excavated, in use from the 3rd century AD — and the ruins of a gymnasium and bathhouse. The day ends with a drive to Izmir for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 8
Flight from Izmir to Istanbul
On the final day of the tour, after hotel check-out, we transfer to Izmir Airport for the return flight.
What's Included
Your Journey Covers
- Hotel accommodation in the category of your choice
- Domestic flight tickets inc. taxes
- Sightseeing tours on a regular group basis (private basis on request)
- Licensed tour guide assistance during the sightseeing tours
- Main entrance fees to all sites visited as per the itinerary
- Fast-track entries to the museums and natural parks
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Deluxe air-conditioned vehicles for tours and airport transfers
- Domestic land transport between each destination
- Taxes and handling service
- 24/7 support during your trip
Questions
Frequently Asked
Do I need to provide any documents in advance to visit synagogues?
Yes — a copy of your passport must be sent in advance by email for synagogue security clearance. Please note some synagogues may not be accessible at all times, depending on security and scheduling.
Are all the listed synagogues guaranteed to be open during the visit?
Most are included as standard, but access to certain synagogues can vary based on security arrangements at the time of travel.
What is the religious/historical focus of the Sardis visit?
Sardis is home to one of the largest excavated ancient synagogues in the world, alongside Roman-era temples, an Acropolis, and a major bathhouse and gymnasium complex.
Is this tour suitable for travelers of all faiths?
Yes, while focused on Jewish heritage sites, the tour is educational and open to all travelers interested in this history.
Private Design Service
Not exactly the journey you had in mind?
Tell us your travel style, dates, pace and wish list. We'll design a private journey around what you actually want to experience.