Day 1: Istanbul
Arrival in Istanbul.
Discover the Magic of Turkey: Your Next Adventure Awaits
History + Luxury
Step into the rich tapestry of Turkey, where ancient history meets modern luxury, and every moment feels like a story waiting to be told. Ideally nestled in the heart of Istanbul’s vibrant streets, your journey begins at the lavish Çırağan Palace Kempinski, a former Ottoman palace turned into a five-star sanctuary overlooking the sparkling Bosphorus Strait.
Immerse yourself in the cultural wonders that surround you, from the iconic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, all just a stone’s throw away. Relish the contrasts of Istanbul, where centuries-old mosques stand alongside modern art galleries, and tradition dances with innovation.
Venture beyond the city to Cappadocia’s enchanting landscapes, where whimsical fairy chimneys and sunrise hot air balloon rides await. Bask in the serenity of the Mediterranean as you unwind at a luxury ocean-view resort in Bodrum, or wander through the ancient ruins of Ephesus, where history comes alive under your feet.
What’s Included
- 4 night accommodation in Istanbul
- 3 night accommodation in Kusadasi
- 3 night accommodation in Cappadocia
- Economy class domestic flight tickets
- Museum Pass, valid at most of the sites
- Meal plan as mentioned in the itinerary
- Transfer services from/to airports
- Transportation by air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle
Pricing is shared privately. Tell us your dates and group size and we will prepare a proposal.
Postcards from Turkey: Stunning Sights and Scenic Views
Turkey Tour Itinerary
Days 2 and 3: The Treasures of Istanbul
In these two days we will be exploring the treasures of Istanbul. We will visit Hagia Sophia, the religious center of the city during the Byzantine period. Next, Topkapı Palace, which housed the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Continue to the Hippodrome; during the Roman period the Hippodrome was the civil center for the people of the city, where once 100,000 spectators could be held. Next, the Blue Mosque, one of the most famous landmarks of the old city with its famous six minarets and magnificent dome. Next, the Grand Bazaar; with 18 entrances and more than 4,000 shops, it is one of the greatest bazaars in the world.
Day 4: HD Bosphorus Cruise / Flight to Izmir
After breakfast and hotel check-out, visit the Spice Bazaar, called the Egyptian Bazaar during the Ottoman period. Next, cruise on the Bosphorus, where you will enjoy a magnificent view. A great history with beautiful nature. After the tour, flight to Izmir.
Day 5: Aphrodisias, Hierapolis, Pamukkale Tour
Today we will start by visiting Aphrodisias, a city of great historical significance, almost lost until the excavation work of Turkish professor Dr. Kenan Erim from New York University. Thanks to a grant from National Geographic in the 1960s, Dr. Erim uncovered a vast array of ruins that revealed Aphrodisias as one of the most important cities in Turkey. Next we will drive to Pamukkale, the “Pools of Heaven on Earth.” The unique terraces were formed by running warm spring water at a temperature of 35 °C, containing calcium bicarbonate. The ancient city of Hierapolis has the biggest necropolis in Anatolia, with 1,200 gravestones.
Day 6: Ephesus Tour
After breakfast and hotel check-out, today you visit the House of the Virgin Mary, the final house where Mary spent her last days. Then ancient Ephesus, the best-preserved classical city in the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Day 7: From Kusadasi to Kayseri
After breakfast, depending on our flight, we may visit the traditional Sirince Village on the way to the airport. Flight to Kayseri. Transfer to the hotel in Cappadocia.
Day 8: Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia
Today you visit the Goreme Museum, which consists of many rock-cut churches from the second half of the 9th century with beautiful colorful frescoes decorating the walls. Next, Devrent Valley, famous for its quirky animal-shaped rocks. Pasabagi, which means “the Pasha’s vineyard.” Avanos, where you will enjoy a typical Turkish lunch and experience making pottery with local experts. Goreme Panorama, which has one of the best panoramic views of the fairy chimneys and Uchisar.
Day 9: Cappadocia
*Optional hot air balloon ride in the morning. Today you visit Rose and Red Valley, an incredibly unique area of Cappadocia with sharp ridges, then Cavusin, Pigeon Valley, and the underground cities, once a place of refuge for 15,000 Christians.
Day 10: Flight to Istanbul
Overnight in Istanbul. Free day after the flight, or we can still do some activities on request.
Day 11: Departure Day
According to your pick-up time, drive to the airport. End of our service.
Additional Information
What’s Not Included
Entrance tickets to the following attractions are excluded from the Museum Pass: Hagia Sophia, Virgin Mary in Ephesus.
Lunch, dinner and drinks.
Tips for the guides & drivers.
What You Need to Know Before the Event
- Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays and Basilica Cistern will be visited instead.
- The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
- The Blue Mosque is closed on Fridays due to Friday prayer. On these days, you will visit the garden only.
- The bag allowance is 15 kg. For hand luggage, it is 8 kg for domestic flights.
Travel Insurance
Missing out on a vacation is disappointing, but losing the money you invested in your trip makes it even worse. That’s why we strongly recommend trip insurance. You can travel with peace of mind knowing that you’re protected against the unexpected.