Türkiye

Day 1: Arrival

Upon arrival at the Istanbul Airport, you will be greeted outside the terminal building and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.  (B)

Day 2: Istanbul

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide and start your old city tour in Istanbul’s historic district of Sultanahmet to explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and soak in the rich history of this vibrant city.  Visit the Topkapi Palace, once the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans. This sprawling complex is home to an impressive collection of jewelry, ceramics, and other treasures, as well as beautiful gardens and courtyards.  Continue to the iconic Hagia Sophia. This ancient cathedral-turned-mosque is a true architectural masterpiece. With its towering dome and intricate mosaics, it’s no wonder it’s been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Head over to the Blue Mosque, another iconic symbol of Istanbul. The Blue Mosque is known for its beautiful blue tiles and six minarets, which make it one of the most photographed buildings in the city. It’s also an active mosque, so be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Visit the Underground Cistern. This ancient underground water system is a must-see for any history buff. The cool, dark halls and columns make for a unique and memorable experience.  End the touring day with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

Note:

Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.

Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.

Evening At leisure.  Overnight in Istanbul.  (B)

Day 3: Istanbul/Cappadocia

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the Istanbul airport for your flight to Kayseri.  Upon arrival at the Kayseri airport, you will be greeted by your guide to start your tour.  The day will begin with a visit of the Devrent Valley where various types of fairy chimneys are abundant. Walk through this amazing valley to fully appreciate the uniqueness of the landscape.  Visit Pasabagi (Monk’s Valley) with multiple stone stems and caps, a mystical geology peculiar to this area. Drive to Avanos, which is known for intricately decorated pottery, a craft dating back to the Hittite period.   Proceed to the fabulous Goreme Open Air Museum to visit the churches chapels and monasteries carved into the fairy chimneys between the 10th and 13th centuries. The fresco painted walls in these structures are captivating in their colour and artistry. On our way back to the hotel we’ll stop along the way to take photos of exquisite scenery and mesmerizing valleys.  After the tour, drive to your hotel to check-in. Dinner at leisure.  Overnight in Cappadocia.  (B)

Day 4: Cappadocia

This morning you have the OPTION to enjoy an early morning hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia. There’s simply no better way to experience the dazzling diversity and drama of Cappadocia’s unique geography than from way up high, as you silently drift over the landscape while the sun slowly rises. It’s absolutely unforgettable.  Provided the weather conditions are cooperative, you’ll be picked up at your hotel in the early morning (before sunrise) and transferred to the meeting point. The estimated flying time is 1 hour. At the end of the flight, celebrate the moment with sparkling wine and fresh fruit.

After the balloon ride, return to the hotel to refresh.

Following breakfast at your  hotel, meet your guide and drive to the Rose Valley. During a walking tour, see the many cave dwellings, vineyards, apricot and almond trees and ancient cave churches.  Visit to the old Christian village of Cavusin and Pigeon Valley, whose name comes from the thousands of pigeon houses (dovecotes) that have been carved into the soft stone since ancient times. Onward to Kaymakli Underground City, a subterranean village where early Christians hid from persecutors. During the tour you will also visit the Ortahisar natural rock castle, which offers a magnificent panorama over the fairy chimneys of Hallacdere and the snowy peak of Mt. Erciyes. Return to the hotel for overnight in Cappadocia.  (B)

Day 5: Cappadocia/Istanbul- En Route

After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, transfer to Kayseri airport for your flight to Istanbul (connections can be made for ongoing flights to USA or other destinations).  (B)

This is a sample itinerary which can be further customized to suit your preference. Prices will be quoted upon request according to the date of travel and the number of passengers in your vehicle, and the hotel level preferred 4*, 5* (we will be happy to offer suggestions).