Day 1: Arrival to Istanbul
Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökcen Airport (SAW), follow the “exit” signs. Once you have collected your luggage, please proceed to the exit. Our representative will be waiting to welcome you inside the terminal building, holding a sign with your name. Afterwards, you will be transferred to your hotel. Stay overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2: Istanbul sightseeing tour
Meet with your guide and driver at the hotel. First visit Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine public life. The Hippodrome was the site of thrilling chariot races and grand events. Then visit Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque and Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum. You will be given the opportunity to experience the best examples of the Ottoman cuisine, during lunch (not included).
After lunch visit Underground Cistern, built in the 6th century as a secure water reservoir for the city. It is one of Istanbul’s most unusual tourist attractions! Finally visit Grand Bazaar (closed on Sundays), one of the oldest and largest covered bazaars in the world. A unique atmosphere that offers an almost endless selection of Turkish carpets, gold, jewellery and artworks available across approximately 4,000 shops. After the tour, transfer to your hotel. Stay overnight in Istanbul.
Day 3: Istanbul Sightseeing Tour – Bosphorus Cruise – Flight Cappadocia
After breakfast, meet with your guide and driver at the hotel. First, we will explore Topkapi Palace (closed on Tuesdays), the extraordinary Imperial residence of Ottoman Sultans. Explore its rooms, stunning courtyards and the impressive Harem as you learn about the lavish lifestyle of the Ottoman rulers. You will have a lunch break (not included) at a nice local restaurant in the area.
After lunch, visit Old Spice Market where you can find a vast diversity of spices, many varieties of oils and herbs, and of course the best Turkish delight. It is a perfect place to shop for unique spices and souvenirs. Then enjoy a 2 hours cruise along the Bosphorus, sailing between Europe and Asia while taking in Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and beautiful waterfront views.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 4: Full Day Cappadocia Tour – Optional Whirling Dervishes Ceremony
During your stay in Cappadocia you will have a chance to experience all of Cappadocia’s signature destinations. Your professional guide and private driver will pick you up from your hotel to begin your day in Uchisar, home to the region’s highest natural rock castle, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the valleys of Cappadocia. Continue to Pigeon Valley, named after the countless pigeon houses carved into the cliffs, and take in its peaceful scenery. From there, head to Göreme Open Air Museum, the heart of Cappadocia, where you’ll explore its rich cultural heritage and unique landscape shaped by centuries of volcanic activity.
Next, visit Pasabag (Monks Valley), famous for its remarkable fairy chimneys with distinctive caps and its history of hermits who once lived in seclusion within these rock formations. Then, discover Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley, where natural rock formations resemble animals and figures, offering a fun and creative experience.
End your day in Avanos, a charming town set along the banks of the Kızılırmak River. Avanos is known for its pottery workshops, where you can watch skilled artisans create beautiful ceramics using traditional techniques. Don’t miss the chance to try your hand at pottery or pick up a unique souvenir. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you will spend the night in Cappadocia.
Optional: Whirling Dervishes – Today you may consider joining a whirling dervish ceremony. This spiritual ritual dates back to the 13th century and was inspired by the Sufi mystic and poet Jalaluddin Rumi. More than just a dance, it represents a journey of letting go of ego and connecting with the divine through music and movement. After the ceremony, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Day 5: Hot Air Balloon Ride (optional) – Cappadocia Sightseeing Tour – Flight to Izmir
Optional : Hot Air Balloon Ride – Early in the morning: Start your day with an optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise, offering breathtaking views over Cappadocia’s unique landscape. As you gently lift off at sunrise, you’ll witness the breathtaking views of the sun illuminating the rock formations, which creates a magical atmosphere.
Balloon transfers will be made by private vehicle. The duration of balloon ride is approximately one hour. This experience includes hotel transfers, a personalized flight certificate, and a traditional champagne celebration upon landing. At the end of the balloon ride, you will be transferred back to your hotel to freshen up.
After breakfast, your tour guide will meet you at the hotel lobby.
Following breakfast, begin your tour with a visit to Kaymaklı Underground City, one of the largest and most fascinating underground settlements in the region. Continue to Mustafapasa, a charming village known for its historic Greek architecture, then visit Keklik Monastery, hidden within a peaceful natural setting.
Next, explore the authentic atmosphere of Cemil Village before heading to Red Valley, famous for its stunning rock formations and vibrant colours, especially during sunset. After the tour, transfer to the Kayseri or Nevsehir airport for your flight to Izmir. Upon arrival at IZMIR AIRPORT (approx. 80 km from Kusadasi), you will be transferred to your hotel. The drive takes around 1,5 hours. Check in and enjoy your overnight stay in Kusadasi.
Day 6: Ephesus Tour
Meet with your guide and driver at your hotel and drive to one of Turkey’s most famous archaeological sites, Ephesus – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ephesus is one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world. Once a bustling Greek district, it is home to impressive ruins including the majestic theatre and the well-known Library of Celsus.
Visit Artemis Temple, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and House of Virgin Mary. The House of Virgin Mary is a pilgrimage site located on Mount Koressos (a few kilometres away from Ephesus). This site is believed to be the place where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her final years after the crucifixion. The house has been a pilgrimage destination for Christians and is recognized by both the Catholic and Orthodox churches. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you will spend the night in Kusadasi.
Day 7: Departure – Flight to Istanbul
Pick-up from your hotel and transfer to the Izmir Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Arrive in Istanbul airport. The end of our services.
NOTES:
** Our package tours include quality hotel accommodations we’ve selected for your comfort and convenience. However, if you’d like to upgrade to higher-category hotels, we’re happy to customize your stay to match your preferences.
👉 Activities and tours can be adjusted according to your preferences. Please feel free to contact us for personalized arrangements.
** Please be aware that hot air balloon rides are highly dependent on weather conditions. If the weather conditions are not suitable for the flight, the Hot Air Balloon Ride may be canceled. If your hot air balloon ride is cancelled, we will provide a full refund.
** If any of the above sites in Istanbul are closed on your tour day, they will be substituted with alternative locations.
PRIVATE TOUR – AVAILABLE ALL YEAR ROUND!
| Pax | Price |
|---|---|
| 2 – 4 Pax | 2450 $ pp |
| 5 – 8 Pax | 1950 $ pp |
| 9 – 14 Pax | 1725 $ pp |
Istanbul Hotel (4* boutique hotels) : Sultania Hotel, Sokullu Pasa Hotel, Celal Sultan Hotel, Yasmak Sultan Hotel, Romance Istanbul Hotel
Cappadocia Hotel (cave hotels) : Zeydem Suites, Urgup Evi, Nino Cave Suites or similar
Kusadasi Hotel (4* hotels) : Elite World Hotel, La Vista Boutique Hotel, Suhan Seaport Hotel or similar
