Cappadocia Tour

Cappadocia, originates from the ancient Persian word Katpatuka, meaning "the land of beautiful horses"

Cappadocia Tour

$0 per person

Cappadocia is a mesmerizing region in central Turkey, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and rock-cut churches. Born from volcanic activity and sculpted by centuries of erosion, it offers a remarkable fusion of natural beauty and rich cultural history. The area is also famous for hot air balloon rides, granting unforgettable panoramic views of its enchanting terrain.

Top Attractions and Activities

Hot Air Balloon Ride: A must-do experience at sunrise, offering breathtaking views over the fairy chimneys and valleys.

Göreme Open-Air Museum: Home to rock-cut churches with ancient frescoes; listed by UNESCO.

Underground Cities (Derinkuyu & Kaymaklı): Fascinating multi-level cities built by early civilizations for protection.

Valley Hikes: Scenic walks through valleys like Love Valley, Rose Valley, Ihlara Valley, and more.

Pottery Workshops in Avanos: Try traditional clay pottery in this town known for its artisanal ceramics.

Uçhisar & Ortahisar Castles: Natural rock fortresses with panoramic views.

Turkish Night Show: Enjoy folk dances, live music, and traditional food in a cave restaurant

  • Destination
  • Departure
    Istanbul
  • Departure Time
    Please arrive by 9:15 AM for a prompt departure at 9:30 AM.
  • Return Time
    Approximately 8:30 PM.
  • Dress Code
    Casual. Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat, light jacket.
  • Included
    5 Star Accommodation
    Airport Transfers
    Breakfast
    Departure Taxes
    Entry Fees
    Personal Guide
1

1. Arrival in Istanbul

  • Day 1:
    • Arrival: Arrive in Istanbul, transfer to your hotel, and relax.

2. Full-Day Istanbul Tour

  • Day 2:
    • Morning Departure: Begin the day with a visit to Sultanahmet. Start with a tour of the Grand Bazaar (Bedesten).
    • Topkapı Palace: A minimum 1.5-hour visit to explore the palace's rich history.
    • Hagia Sophia: A 50-minute visit to this iconic monument.
    • Historical Sites: Continue with the German Fountain, Hippodrome, Obelisk, Serpentine Column, and the Blue Mosque.
    • Lunch: Enjoy lunch near the Basilica Cistern.
    • Afternoon: Walking tour through historic Istanbul, passing by the tramway route towards Sirkeci and Eminönü.
    • Spice Bazaar: Explore the vibrant market and sample Turkish delights.
    • Bosphorus Boat Tour: Enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Bosphorus.
    • Evening: Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Istanbul.
    • (Note: Visits to the Harem and Hagia Irene are not included in this itinerary, except for VIP guests.)

3. Journey to Cappadocia

  • Day 3:
    • Early Morning Departure: Begin the journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia, an 8-hour drive.
    • Lunch: Stop for lunch (check with Orhan for options).
    • Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü): Take a break at Orhan Ağaçlı Facilities.
    • Evening Arrival: Arrive in Cappadocia around 8:00 PM, followed by dinner at the hotel.
    • On the Bus: A brief introduction to hot air balloon tours during the journey.

4. Cappadocia Exploration

  • Day 4:
    • Early Morning: Optional hot air balloon tour over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia.
    • Göreme Open-Air Museum: Explore the ancient cave churches and frescoes.
    • Dervent Valley: Visit this unique valley known for its fairy chimneys.
    • Uçhisar: A brief stop at Uçhisar, excluding the castle due to time constraints.
    • Pigeon Valley & Göreme Valley: Explore these picturesque valleys.
    • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Paşabağları.
    • Afternoon: Free time in Çavuşin, followed by a visit to a pottery workshop.
    • Evening: Return to the hotel.

5. Underground City and Traditional Evening

  • Day 5:
    • Morning: Departure at 10:30 AM to visit a carpet store (Sentez or Çınar).
    • Kaymaklı Underground City: Explore this ancient underground city.
    • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Han Restaurant.
    • Afternoon: A city tour of Ürgüp, including a visit to the Three Beauties fairy chimneys and the Koca-Mustafa Pasha Synagogue.
    • Evening: Return to the hotel. At 8:00 PM, enjoy an optional Traditional Turkish Night.

6. Return to Istanbul

  • Day 6:
    • Morning Departure: Head back to Istanbul with a stop at a stone workshop and jewelry store
    • Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Ayrancı Facilities on the way back.
    • Evening: Return to Istanbul via the new highway, arriving around 8:00 PM. Check-in at the hotel.

7. Final Day in Istanbul

  • Day 7:
    • Morning: Early visit to the Spice Bazaar (or on the last day, depending on the schedule).
    • Shopping: Explore a leather store and the Grand Bazaar
    • Optional: Depending on your flight schedule, visit Süleymaniye Mosque.
    • Departure: Transfer to the airport for your return flight.