Istanbul, Ankara & Cappadocia

Once you have arrived in Istanbul, 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. Afterward, 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 reutringing to the hotel.

Istanbul - Ankara. This morning, 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 then continue to Ankara, the modern capital of Turkey, known for its government buildings, cultural institutions, and Atatürk's Mausoleum, arriving in the early evening.

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.

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 Kayseri or Nevsehir Airport for your onward flight to Istanbul, where our tour will come to an end. Safe Travels!