Tour Details
Embark on a captivating 6-day tour through Istanbul and Cappadocia, two of Turkey's most iconic destinations. Start your journey in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where you’ll explore historical landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapi Palace. Then, fly to Cappadocia, famous for its surreal landscapes, fairy chimneys, and unforgettable hot air balloon rides. This carefully crafted tour offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, with flights providing a smooth and efficient way to experience the best of both destinations.
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome to Istanbul
- Your journey begins in the lively city of Istanbul, Turkey! Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, our welcoming team will greet you with a warm smile. They will assist you with your transfer to the hotel, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transition from the airport to your accommodations. After checking in, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax or explore at your own pace. Get ready for an exciting adventure as you settle in for an overnight stay in the heart of Istanbul!
Day 2: Full-Day Byzantine and Ottoman Heritage Tour in Istanbul
- Hotel Pick-up (08:00 - 09:15): Your exciting day begins with a personalized pick-up from your hotel or designated location between 08:00 and 09:15. Our dedicated team ensures a smooth and comfortable start to your exploration.
- Hagia Sophia: Known as the Church of Divine Wisdom, this architectural masterpiece stands as a symbol of grandeur and proportion. Revered by both the Islamic East and Christian West, the Hagia Sophia is a remarkable treasure of human history.
- Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque): Experience the magnificence of the Blue Mosque, an iconic symbol of Istanbul, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
- Hippodrome and Obelisk: Discover the Hippodrome, also known as At Meydani or the "Plaza of the Horses", a grand space situated between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, steeped in ancient history.
- Shopping Opportunity: Immerse yourself in Istanbul's vibrant culture with a shopping excursion to local markets.
- Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı): Explore the world’s oldest and largest covered market, a bustling hub in the heart of the city, filled with a vast array of local goods and treasures.
- Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch to fuel up for the rest of the day's explorations.
- Topkapi Palace: Step inside the magnificent Topkapi Palace, once the royal residence of the Sultan and his court. This opulent palace, a hub of political power, offers a fascinating look at the empire's inner workings, including the audience chambers and consultation areas.
- The tour wraps up at 17:00 PM, after which you'll be transferred back to your hotel, reflecting on a day full of fascinating insights into Byzantine and Ottoman history.
Day 3: Half-Day Afternoon Bosphorus Cruise Tour in Istanbul
- Hotel Pick-up (12:00 - 12:30): Your afternoon adventure begins with a personalized pick-up from your hotel or specified location between 12:00 and 12:30. Our friendly team will ensure a smooth and comfortable start to your journey.
- Bosphorus Boat Trip: Set sail on an unforgettable Bosphorus boat tour, cruising along the iconic waterway that divides Asia and Europe. Admire the stunning landmarks lining both shores, offering a picturesque glimpse into Istanbul's rich history and majestic beauty.
- Pierre Loti Hill: After the cruise, head to Pierre Loti Hill, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Take your time to explore the peaceful surroundings, offering a quiet retreat amidst the dynamic life of Istanbul.
- Cable Car Descent: Experience a unique descent from Pierre Loti Hill via a scenic cable car ride. Glide down and enjoy the picturesque landscapes unfolding below, giving you an unforgettable perspective of the Golden Horn.
- Eyüp Sultan Mosque: Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a site of deep historical and cultural significance. Wander the surrounding area, where you’ll be surrounded by the rich cultural tapestry of Istanbul.
- Shopping Opportunity: End the day with a wonderful shopping experience, discovering local treasures and unique souvenirs to take home as a piece of Istanbul’s vibrant culture.
- The tour concludes between 17:00 and 17:30 PM, after which you will be transferred back to your hotel, marking the end of your enchanting Bosphorus Cruise experience.
Day 4: Journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia – Overnight Stay in Cappadocia
- 04:30 AM - Hotel Pickup and Airport Transfer: Your adventure begins with an early hotel pick-up. We'll transport you to the airport for a short 1-hour flight to Kayseri, setting the stage for your exploration of the enchanting region of Cappadocia.
- Arrival in Kayseri and Transfer to Cappadocia: Upon arrival at Kayseri Airport, our transfer team will be waiting to whisk you away to the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia.
- Meet Your Guide and Begin South Cappadocia Tour: Once you reach Cappadocia, you'll meet your friendly tour guide and embark on a fascinating South Cappadocia tour, which includes:
- Devrent Valley: Begin by marveling at the extraordinary rock formations and whimsical fairy chimneys, creating a captivating display of nature’s artistry.
- Monks Valley: Continue your journey to Monks Valley, a surreal landscape filled with ancient monastic dwellings, offering a glimpse into Cappadocia’s rich historical legacy.
- Avanos: Visit the charming town of Avanos, renowned for its pottery craftsmanship passed down through generations. Experience the artistry and traditions of this beautiful town.
- Open Air Museum: Explore the fascinating Open Air Museum, once a significant Christian center during the early Middle Ages. Marvel at the monasteries, churches, and chapels, each adorned with stunning iconography and unique architectural features.
- Uchisar: End your day with a visit to Uchisar, a troglodyte town offering panoramic views of the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where you can take in the breathtaking scenery.
- Tour Conclusion and Hotel Drop-off: Your captivating day concludes at 17:00, after which you'll be dropped off at your special-class cave hotel in Cappadocia. Take time to relax and recharge, preparing for more adventures in this magical region!
Day 5: Discover North Cappadocia and Return to Istanbul – Overnight in Istanbul
- Breakfast at Hotel: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, giving you the energy needed for a full day of adventure in North Cappadocia.
- Morning - North Cappadocia Exploration (09:30 AM): After breakfast, prepare for an exciting exploration of North Cappadocia. Please check out of your hotel and store your luggage in the designated area, as we begin the day’s adventure.
- Kizilcukur: Marvel at the stunning rock formations and hidden churches in the picturesque Kizilcukur Valley, where nature and history beautifully merge.
- Cavusin: Explore the ancient village of Cavusin, with its historical settlements and churches that hold stories of Cappadocia’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
- Hospital Monastery: Visit the Hospital Monastery, one of the oldest in the region, offering a spiritual glimpse into the past and the ancient practices of the monastic life.
- Underground City: Dive deep into the fascinating Underground City, exploring its intricate tunnels, rooms, and storied history. Discover how this subterranean world provided refuge for Cappadocia’s inhabitants.
- Pigeon Houses: Conclude your exploration by marveling at the pigeon houses and unique rock formations that define the region’s landscape, adding a natural charm to the historical beauty of Cappadocia.
- Tour Finish at 17:00: The North Cappadocia tour will conclude by 17:00 PM. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to Kayseri Airport for your flight back to Istanbul.
- Flight to Istanbul: Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, our dedicated team will be there to assist with a smooth transfer to your hotel.
- Transfer to Hotel: Our team will provide a seamless transfer from Istanbul Airport to your hotel, ensuring you can relax after a day of exploration in Cappadocia. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey through North Cappadocia.
Day 6: Final Day in Istanbul & Transfer to Airport
- Breakfast at Hotel: Begin your last morning in Istanbul with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, savoring the final moments in this dynamic city.
- Free Time: Take advantage of your free time to explore any last-minute sights or enjoy a relaxing morning. Whether it's revisiting a favorite landmark, picking up some souvenirs, or simply enjoying a Turkish coffee in a local café, the choice is yours to make the most of your remaining hours in Istanbul.
- Airport Transfer: When the time comes, our team will assist you with your airport transfer. Based on your flight schedule, we will ensure a smooth and comfortable journey from your hotel to Istanbul Airport, concluding your amazing journey through Turkey.
- Safe Travels: As your time in Turkey comes to an end, we wish you safe travels and hope that the memories of your trip will last a lifetime. We look forward to welcoming you back on your next adventure!
Essential Travel Tips: Information for Your Trip
- Looking to enhance your adventure? We can arrange a hot air balloon tour for you on the early morning of Day 2. Soar high above Cappadocia and take in breathtaking views from the sky for an unforgettable experience!
What's Included
- Private Transportation: Enjoy hassle-free transfers from Istanbul Airport to your hotel and back at the end of your trip.
- Domestic Flight Tickets: Your package includes round-trip flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience.
- Accommodation: Stay in comfort with 4 nights in Istanbul and 1 night in Cappadocia, both including breakfast to fuel your daily adventures.
- Full Day Istanbul City Tour: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Istanbul with comprehensive transportation, expert guidance, and lunch included.
- Half Day Bosphorus Cruise: Experience the stunning beauty of the Bosphorus with transportation, guidance, and a scenic cable car ride.
- Two Full Day Cappadocia Tours: Explore the magical landscapes of Cappadocia with transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum tickets for a complete and enriching experience.
What's Not Included
- International Flights to Turkey: This package does not cover international flights to Turkey. Travelers are responsible for booking their own flights to and from Turkey.
- Personal Travel Insurance: We highly recommend securing personal travel insurance to cover unforeseen situations like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
- Visa for Turkey: Travelers must obtain the necessary visa to enter Turkey. Ensure your travel documents are ready well in advance. Please check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your home country for visa requirements.
- Personal Expenses: While the package includes many services, please budget for personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
- Museum Entrance Fees: Museum entrance fees for specific sites like Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia are not included. You can conveniently purchase tickets from us to skip long lines and make the most of your visit.
Meeting Location
- Our tour package includes easy pick-up and drop-off at both Istanbul International and Sabiha Gokcen Airports. No matter your arrival location, our team will provide a smooth and efficient transfer to start your memorable 6-day journey through Istanbul and Cappadocia. Experience stress-free transportation as you embark on this amazing Turkish adventure.