Welcome to Turkey! Your tour begins in Istanbul, the vibrant and historic city that bridges two continents. Upon arrival at Istanbul International Airport, you will be met by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and some time to rest, you can explore the local area or relax to recover from your journey.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Today, you´ll embark on a full-day city tour of Istanbul. You´ll visit the iconic Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture. Next, you´ll explore the Hagia Sophia, a historic monument that has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Then, you´ll head to the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman Sultans and home to an extensive collection of artifacts. Afterward, you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, where you´ll find an array of shops selling spices, textiles, and souvenirs.
Overnight in Istanbul.
In the morning, you´ll enjoy a relaxing Bosphorus cruise, which will take you along the strait that separates Europe and Asia. You´ll get breathtaking views of Istanbul´s iconic landmarks from the water. After the cruise, you´ll have some free time for last-minute sightseeing or shopping. In the late afternoon, you´ll be transferred to the airport for a domestic flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival in Cappadocia, you´ll be taken to your hotel for a good night´s rest.
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Get ready for an unforgettable day in Cappadocia´s unique landscape. In the morning, you´ll visit the Devrent Valley, also known as "Imagination Valley," where the rock formations resemble various shapes and figures. Next, you´ll explore the Pasabag (Monks Valley), famous for its peculiar fairy chimneys. Afterward, you´ll visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you´ll find rock-cut churches with stunning frescoes. The tour will also take you to the Uchisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Today´s tour will take you to the southern part of Cappadocia. You´ll start with a visit to the fascinating underground city of Kaymakli or Derinkuyu, where early Christians sought refuge during times of danger. Next, you´ll explore the picturesque Ihlara Valley, famous for its lush greenery and rock-cut churches. After lunch, you´ll visit the Selime Monastery, an ancient religious complex carved into the rocks. In the late afternoon, you´ll be transferred to the airport for a flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, you´ll be taken to your hotel in Kusadasi, a coastal town close to Ephesus.
Overnight in Kusadasi.
Today, you´ll visit one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world: Ephesus. Walk along its ancient streets and admire the grandeur of the Celsus Library, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theatre, where St. Paul once preached. After exploring Ephesus, you´ll visit the nearby House of the Virgin Mary, a place of pilgrimage for many Christians. Return to your hotel in Kusadasi for an evening of relaxation.
Overnight in Kusadasi.
In the morning, you´ll depart for Pamukkale, a natural wonder renowned for its white terraces of travertine pools. You´ll have the opportunity to walk barefoot on these mineral-rich formations filled with warm, healing waters. Afterward, you´ll visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, which once thrived as a Roman spa town. Explore the ruins of Hierapolis, including the well-preserved theater and the Necropolis. In the late afternoon, you´ll be transferred to Denizli Airport for a flight back to Istanbul.
Overnight in Istanbul.
On your final day, you´ll have some free time to explore Istanbul once more or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Your tour guide will arrange your transfer to Istanbul International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your incredible 8-day Turkey tour.
This itinerary showcases some of Turkey´s most famous historical and natural wonders, providing a fantastic overview of this diverse and fascinating country.