Classic Istanbul to Cappadocia

Once you have arrived in Istanbul at Istanbul Airport or Sahiba Gokcen International Airport, you will be met and transferred to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day will be at your leisure to begin exploring the city, enjoy some shopping, or relax at a traditional Turkish café.

Please note: This tour is conducted in English. However, dependent on the mix of the group, touring may also be bilingual, in one additional language as well as English.

This morning, we’ll set off on a Bosphorus cruise to experience Istanbul from the water, taking in the city’s unique skyline as it stretches across both Europe and Asia. Admire the blend of historic palaces, lush hills, and elegant wooden “yalis” that line the shores, showcasing the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

After, we will return to the port, where we will then make our way to the Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Market, where you will have some free time to explore, shop or relax.

After, we’ll visit some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, beginning with the Hippodrome, once the centre of Byzantine public life. We’ll then explore the Blue Mosque, renowned for its six minarets and stunning blue-tiled interior, before continuing to the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.

Istanbul - Ankara. After breakfast, we depart to visit Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, showcasing imperial collections, courtyards, and historic chambers. The entrance fee to the harem section is not included.

We’ll then continue to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, featuring a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets and jewellery to spices and antiques.

We then continue to Ankara, the modern capital of Turkey, known for its government buildings, cultural institutions, and Atatürk's. Here, we’ll enjoy dinner, and the rest of the evening will be at your leisure.

Ankara - Cappadocia. Today, we will explore the Anatolian Civilizations Museum, where we'll encounter Neolithic and Paleolithic artifacts from the Urartu, Hatti, Hittite, and Phrygian civilizations.

Afterwards, we will visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic—a monumental complex that includes a museum and ceremonial plaza, reflecting the nation’s respect for its leader.

In the afternoon, we will embark on a journey to Cappadocia. On the way, we will have a stop to explore one of the region's largest underground cities, built by the early Christians for protection against attacks.

This morning, you will have the opportunity to opt to join a hot air balloon tour. Departing early in the morning, this experience offers an unparalleled view of Cappadocia's stunning landscapes, including its rock formations, fairy chimneys, and lunar-like terrain.

After breakfast, we will be embarking on a full-day tour of Cappadocia. starting with the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its cave churches nestled in the valley.

We will then continue to Uchisar Village and the remarkable fairy chimneys. In Derbent Valley, we'll have the opportunity to explore unique rock formations and visit workshops where traditional carpets and onyx stones are crafted.

Cappadocia - Istanbul. Today, we will transfer from the hotel to the Cappadocia airport for our onward flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day will be at your leisure to further explore Istanbul, enjoy some shopping, dine at a Turkish restaurant, or relax with a coffee at a local café — the choice is yours.

After your final breakfast, depending on your departure flight time, you might have some time for some last-minute shopping, exploring, or relaxation before your onward transfer to the airport. Safe travels!