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.

After breakfast, we will drive to the Spice Market for a shopping session, followed by some free time for you to further explore at your own pace.

Later, we will gather for a 1.5-hour Bosphorus Cruise, where we'll sail along the waterway that separates Asia and Europe. During the cruise, take in the stunning views of Istanbul, including its forests, palaces, and traditional wooden houses situated on both continents.After our cruise, we will venture to a local restaurant for lunch.

Afterwards, we will visit the Sultanahmet Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the renowned Hagia Sophia. You will then have some free time at the Grand Bazaar before returning to the hotel.

Please note: From 2027, this day will also include a walking tour through the districts of Pera and Galata. Lunch will not be included on this day for 2027 departures.

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!