Description
Itinerary:
DAY 01: ARRIVAL ISTANBUL
Hoş geldiniz! Arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST) by flight schedule… Glad to welcome you to Istanbul. Upon arrival, a driver will be waiting for you with a sign indicating your name. Afterwards transfer you to a hotel in Istanbul. Overnight stay in Istanbul.
DAY 02: ISTANBUL DAY TOURS – CAPPADOCIA (B)
After breakfast at the hotel. Today begins your journey through Istanbul’s rich Ottoman and Byzantine history. First, you will visit The Blue Mosque, officially the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is an Ottoman-era historical imperial mosque, step inside this architectural gem and admire its serene beauty and iconic blue tiles. Then Hippodrome: Walk through the ancient Hippodrome, the center of Byzantine chariot races, with historical monuments and obelisks. Grand Bazaar: Get lost in the vibrant maze of the Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for Turkish treasures and souvenirs. End the day with a scenic Bosphorus cruise, witnessing the beautiful views of Istanbul’s European and Asian shores.
There are 2 other historic sites that are interesting to visit, but this is optional because to get there must be based on schedule and entrance ticket availability. They are:
- Topkapi Palace: Discover the former residence of Ottoman sultans, with its intricate architecture and artifacts (Optional, as per schedule and entrance tickets)
- Hagia Sophia: Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, a blend of Byzantine and Islamic art and architecture (Optional, based on schedule and ticket availability)
You can decide on the spot if you would like to visit these sites.
After the cruise we transfer you to the airport for your flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival in Cappadocia, transfer to your Cave Hotel for a restful night. 2 overnight stays in Cappadocia.
DAY 03: CAPPADOCIA – HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DAY – FAIRY CHIMNEYS & ROCK CHURCHES (B)
Breakfast at the hotel, at 09:00am you start the day tour by visiting Goreme Esentepe – Panoramic View: Our journey begins at the Esentepe viewpoint, a breathtaking panoramic spot between Uçhisar and Göreme. From here, you’ll take in stunning views of the unique Cappadocian landscape, including the fairy chimneys and the charming town of Esentepe. Next, we visit the Zelve Open-Air Museum, an extraordinary site that once served as a monastic and Christian learning center. This historical area features ancient monasteries, churches, and chapels adorned with beautifully preserved frescoes, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich past. Our tour continues to Paşabağ (monks valley), also known as Monks Valley, famous for its iconic three-headed fairy chimneys. The valley, often called “Pasha’s Vineyard,” boasts some of the most striking rock formations in Cappadocia, creating an otherworldly landscape. A short drive takes us to Devrent Valley, renowned for its surreal rock formations that resemble a lunar landscape. The small, pointed fairy chimneys here create an imaginative setting, with some formations resembling animals and mythical creatures. We then visit the charming town of Avanos pottery workshop, a hub of pottery-making since 3000 BC. The town is known for its skilled artisans who use clay from the Red River to create beautiful ceramic pieces. Visitors will have the chance to see a traditional pottery workshop and witness the craftsmanship firsthand. Our final stop is the extraordinary Love Valley, where erosion over millions of years has shaped towering rock formations, some reaching up to 40 meters. This dramatic landscape features cone-shaped pillars, pinnacles, and fairy chimneys, making it one of the most unusual and photogenic spots in Cappadocia. Return to the hotel.
Notes:
- Optional Early Morning Activity: For early risers, experience an optional hot air balloon tour over Cappadocia’s breathtaking landscapes at sunrise (additional cost).
- Your tour typically starts around 09:00 and concludes by 16:00 at the latest.
DAY 04: CAPPADOCIA – UNDERGROUND CITY & CAVE DWELLING – FLIGHT BACK TO ISTANBUL (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Around 09:00 AM, check out from your hotel and embark on an exciting tour of Cappadocia’s hidden treasures. Our adventure begins with a scenic trek through Meskendir Valley, located near Ortahisar. Stretching 4.4 km, this valley is home to the historic Meskendir Church, known for its striking geometric red decorations and a large cross engraving on the chapel ceiling. Visitors can explore the church’s interior and take in the valley’s breathtaking surroundings. Then go to one of Cappadocia’s most stunning locations, Rose Valley is famous for its unique rock formations and hidden rock-carved churches. This secluded valley, located behind Ürgüp, is crisscrossed by trails that connect small villages and towns through vineyards and gardens. Along the way, you may encounter friendly locals offering fresh grapes, apples, or apricots. Similar to Rose Valley, Red Valley is known for its impressive rock formations and ancient cave churches. Its maze-like trails wind through the landscape, linking remote villages and farmlands in a way that resembles a spider’s web. This valley is a must-visit for those looking to experience Cappadocia’s natural beauty and history. Next, explore Çavuşin Village, one of the oldest settlements in Cappadocia. The village is famous for its cave houses carved into the rock, creating a labyrinth of ancient dwellings. It is also home to the Church of John the Baptist, the largest cave church in Cappadocia, dating back to the 5th century. Underground City: Cappadocia is home to 36 underground cities, built by early Christians to escape persecution. We will visit the most extensive and well-known of these subterranean settlements. Divided into eight levels, visitors can explore sections of the underground city, including ancient wineries, kitchens, and living quarters, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. Pigeon Valley: Located on the outskirts of Göreme, Pigeon Valley gets its name from the pigeon houses carved into the cliffs over centuries. In the past, local farmers used pigeon manure as a natural fertilizer for their crops. Today, the valley offers stunning panoramic views and is a great spot for photography. Uchisar Castle Panorama: Our final stop is in the picturesque town of Uçhisar, the highest point in Cappadocia. The town’s centerpiece is Uçhisar Castle, a towering rock formation that once served as a fortress. From the top, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the entire region, including the majestic Erciyes Mountain in the distance.
After the tour, bid farewell to the captivating land of Cappadocia, taking with you cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for its natural wonders and you will be transferred to airport and you will take 19:20 (if no availabilty 21:00 *flight might be replaced), then you will be transferred back to your hotel in Istanbul. Overnight stay in Istanbul
Notes:
Flights may vary depending on availability; however, we will arrange the flights that fit the program. If you would like to return to a specific airport please state in the inquiry form, because there are 2 different airports in Istanbul, they are Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW), and we do not guarantee which airport will be used for your flights to/from Cappadocia.
DAY 05: ISTANBUL – DEPARTURE TRANSFER (B)
Breakfast at the hotel, free program until we transfer you to the airport of Istanbul for your onward flight. End of services.
Price: by Request
What’s Included
- All Airport Transfers
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Istanbul-Cappadocia-Istanbul Round-trip Flight Fares with Free baggage limits for domestic flights are 1×15 kgs for check in and 1×8 kgs per cabin (Extra allowance +2$ per kg)
- All Accommodations based on twin/double rooms with breakfast
- 1 day tour in Istanbul
- 2 days tour in Cappadocia
- Entrance fees as per program
What’s Not Included
- Personal expenses such as: Lunch & Dinner, soft drinks, snacks, souvenirs, laundry, minibar, telephone, etc.
- Air tickets & Visa On Arrival
- Donations
- Hot air Balloon
- Tipping driver/tour guide (recommended)
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended)
- Hotel surcharge on public holiday (if applied)
- Any optional program which are not included on tour price
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