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. You will be taken to your hotel in Istanbul, where you will check in and have the rest of the day free. Take this opportunity to relax and explore the surrounding area at your own pace. 3 overnight stays in Istanbul.
DAY 02: ISTANBUL – CLASSICAL OLD CITY TOUR (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Pick up time from hotel at 09:30 for a full-day walking tour of the heart of Ottoman and Byzantine history. The highlights of the day you will visit first is going to 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: immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the world’s oldest covered market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs, spices, and textiles.
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 tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Istanbul for an overnight stay with breakfast included.
DAY 03: EGYPTIAN SPICE MARKET & BOSPHORUS CRUISE (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Today the day’s activities are still in Istanbul. Begin by heading to the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, where you can indulge in the diverse aromas and explore the bustling market filled with exotic spices, Turkish delights, and other local products. Next, embark on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise, where you can admire the city’s eclectic architecture as you sail between Europe and Asia. Enjoy the scenic views and pass by the magnificent palaces of the Ottomans, including Dolmabahce and Beylerbeyi. After the cruise, return to hotel in Istanbul.
DAY 04: ISTANBUL – PAMUKKALE BY FLIGHT (B)
Early in the morning, you will be picked up from the hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Pamukkale. Today you will “hotel check-out” and discover Pamukkale with an early morning flight. Your tour typically starts around 04:30 AM. Arrival in Pamukkale, discover and explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, renowned for its well-preserved ruins and historical significance. Visit the Necropolis, the Theatre, and the fascinating Cleopatra Pool (You can swim in the pool at extra cost). The highlight of the day will be the famous travertines of Pamukkale, a natural wonder with terraces of dazzling white mineral-rich pools. Take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the unique experience of walking on the cotton-like formations. You will also have the opportunity to visit Pamukkale Naturel Lake and Park, adding to the beauty of the area. After the tour, you will be transferred to Kusadasi for an overnight stay.
DAY 05: EPHESUS TOUR – FLIGHT TO CAPPADOCIA (B)
Today you check-out the hotel after breakfast, you will visit Ephesus and after the tour you will fly to Cappadocia. After breakfast, your day will start with a pick-up from your hotel at 10:00 AM. You will be driven for approximately 20 minutes to reach the Magnesia Gate of Ephesus Ancient City. Once inside the ancient city, you will embark on a comprehensive tour, visiting several significant sites, including Library of Celsus: Admire to the impressive facade of the ancient library, one of the most iconic structures in Ephesus. Temple of Hadrian: Explore the grand temple dedicated to the Roman emperor Hadrian and marvel at its well-preserved columns and intricate reliefs. Terrace Houses (optional): Step into the lavish residential complex known as the Terrace Houses, where the affluent residents of Ephesus once lived. Hercules Gate: Pass through this monumental gateway, adorned with detailed sculptures depicting the legendary hero. Grand Theatre: Witness the magnificent theater that once accommodated up to 25,000 spectators and still hosts performances to this day. Herm (Marker) of Hermes: Discover the ancient markers that served as guides and boundary stones in the city. Artemission: Visit the site where the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood. Stone-carving of the goddess Nike: Admire the intricate stone-carving depicting the goddess Nike, the winged victory. Fountain of Trajan: See the well-preserved ruins of the monumental fountain built in honor of Emperor Trajan. House of Virgin Mary (optional): Conclude the tour with a visit to the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary.
After the tour, you will be taken to Izmir airport for your flight to Kayseri, and then you will be transferred to Cappadocia for overnight.
DAY 06: CAPPADOCIA HIGHLIGHTS TOUR (B)
This early morning be the lucky one to greet the sun from the Hot Air Ballon! (Optional on your personal expenses) ***
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. Zelve Open-Air Museum: 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. Pasabag (Monks Valley): Our tour continues to Paşabağ, 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. Devrent Valley: 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. Avanos Pottery Workshop: We then visit the charming town of Avanos, 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. Love Valley: 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 your Cave Hotel for an overnight stay with breakfast included.
DAY 07: 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 (4.4 km Trek): 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. Rose Valley: 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. Red Valley: 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. Cavusin Valley: Next, we 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, you will be transferred to the airport for a flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
DAY 08: 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-Pamukkale & Pamukkale – Cappadocia & Cappadocia – Istanbul 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
- All day tours as per program
- 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
*** Cappadocia Balloon Tour
Let’s take a journey between the earth and sky, let’s make it real and slowly fly. Just stretch your arm and touch the sky, don’t be afraid it’s not so high. You’re almost there in between, look down to feel the prickles on your skin. Those pretty shapes on the horizon will come alive with sun upon.
This is a small interpretation of what you feel while flying the Balloon. To start with the basic details, for Cappadocia Balloon Tour, you must wake up early in the morning because the most important reason is to watch the spectacular sunrise and panorama of this special place. You must be ready around 4 am in the morning when our pilot will pick you up and take you to the field where the Balloons are getting prepared. Be patient and enjoy the preparation for the flight. You are excited already so hurry up, climb into the basket and let the pilot take you high. Look around, don’t waste your time taking countless pictures because the sensation is much more important than those pictures. You’ll see the fairy chimney right below and be amazed by the spread of stony figures all around, the valleys and unbelievable landscape. And when the sun rises high, the view will surely take your breath away. There will be almost an hour to experience this experience, so use this opportunity to fully enjoy it. And when you are on the ground back, be ready for the surprising champagne celebration of your Cappadocia Balloon Tour. After all this memorable journey we’ll drop you back to the hotel so you can gather your emotions together. Do not hesitate any longer, make sure to take a place in this unique and unforgettable experience of Cappadocia Balloon Tour.
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