Small Group: 9 Days Best of Turkey Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

1. Istanbul
   1h
   Arrive in Istanbul and you will be met by our staff outside the International Arrivals. Then transfer to your hotel with a van.

Day 2: Bosphorus & Modern Istanbul

1. Bosphorus Strait
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Enjoy a relaxing boat trip between Europe and Asia. You'll see Ottoman palaces like Dolmabahce, wooden villas (yalis), and the iconic Rumeli Fortress from the water.
2. Yildiz Palace Museum
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Explore the last residence of the Ottoman Sultans, surrounded by beautiful gardens and pavilions offering a glimpse into royal life.
3. Misir Carsisi
   1h
   Walk through the historic 'Egyptian Bazaar,' filled with the aromas of exotic spices, herbal teas, and traditional Turkish delights.
4. Istiklal Caddesi
   1h
   Experience the heartbeat of modern Istanbul as you stroll down this pedestrian street lined with historic buildings, shops, and classic red trams.
5. Taksim Square
   1m
   Visit the symbolic heart of modern Istanbul, where history meets contemporary life. See the Republic Monument and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this world-famous square.

Day 3: Istanbul Old City Walking Tour

1. Hippodrome
   1h
   Explore the center of Byzantine civic life, where chariot races and political riots once took place. See the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain.
2. Blue Mosque
   1h
   Marvel at the 20,000+ blue Iznik tiles and the unique six minarets of this masterpiece of 17th-century Ottoman architecture.
3. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
   1m · Admission ticket included
   Visit this architectural wonder that served as both a church and a mosque, famous for its massive dome and stunning golden mosaics.
   
   Note: Hagia Sophia may be partially or fully closed for restoration in 2026. In this case, it will be replaced with Basilica Cistern.
4. Topkapi Palace Museum
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Step into the world of Ottoman Sultans. Explore the royal courtyards, the sacred relics, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
5. Grand Bazaar
   1h
   Get lost in one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops selling jewelry, leather, and handmade ceramics.
6. Istanbul
   45m
   Turkish Carpet Workshop
   
   Visit a traditional workshop to observe centuries-old weaving techniques. Learn about the rich history of Turkish craftsmanship and the symbolism behind traditional motifs.

Day 4: Golden Horn & Süleymaniye – Flight to Cappadocia

1. Golden Horn
   Pass by
   After breakfast, explore the Golden Horn area of Istanbul.
2. Pierre Loti
   1h
   Take a cable car to the top of the hill for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Golden Horn. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional Turkish coffee while admiring the historic skyline of Istanbul.
3. Fener & Balat
   1h
   Stroll through the narrow, colorful streets of Istanbul's most historic neighborhoods. Discover the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, vibrant historic houses, and the unique multicultural heritage of these hidden gems.
4. Suleymaniye Mosque
   1h
   Visit the masterpiece of Imperial architect Mimar Sinan. This 16th-century mosque is not only an architectural wonder but also offers one of the most beautiful views overlooking the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.
5. Cappadocia
   2h
   (5 Days option starts with this flight)
   In the afternoon, enjoy a private transfer to Istanbul Airport for your domestic flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your cave or stone hotel.

Day 5: Northern Cappadocia

1. Cappadocia
   1h
   (Optional & Extra Charge) In the early morning you will be picked up from your hotel for a Balloon Ride over the valleys of Cappadocia for a duration of 1-hour.
2. Ozkonak Underground City
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Discover how ancient people lived in multi-level underground cities to hide from invaders, featuring ventilation shafts and giant stone doors.
3. Uchisar Castle
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Climb the highest point in Cappadocia, a giant rock fortress honeycombed with caves, offering the best panoramic views of the entire region.
4. Pasabag Vadisi
   1h
   Visit Paşabağ (Monks Valley), home to Cappadocia’s most famous fairy chimneys with distinctive multi-capped formations. Explore ancient monk caves and chapels while enjoying one of the region’s best photo stops.
5. Avanos Pottery Workshop
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Visit a traditional pottery workshop by the Red River. Watch a demonstration on a kick-wheel and try your hand at this ancient craft.
6. Devrent Valley
   1h
   Explore the 'Imagination Valley' to see unique animal-shaped rock formations, including the famous stone camel.

Day 6: Southern Cappadocia

1. Goreme Open Air Museum
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site with its incredible rock-cut churches and well-preserved Byzantine frescoes.
2. Pigeon Valley
   2h
   Admire the unique volcanic formations and pigeon houses carved into the rocks.
3. Rose Valley
   1h
   Discover Rose Valley, one of Cappadocia’s most scenic landscapes, known for its pink-hued rock formations and panoramic viewpoints. Walk through winding trails, cave churches, and valleys shaped by erosion.
4. 1h
   Stop at Mustafapaşa, a charming former Greek village known for its well-preserved stone mansions and authentic local atmosphere.
5. Ortahisar Kalesi
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Visit Ortahisar Castle, a massive natural rock fortress rising above the town of Ortahisar. Once used as a strategic lookout and storage area, the castle offers panoramic views of Cappadocia.

Day 7: Flight to Izmir & Ephesus Tour

1. Izmir
   Pass by
   Early morning hotel pick-up at 05:15, transfer to Kayseri Airport.
   
   Upon arrival, transfer to Ephesus for a full-day tour.
2. Ephesus Ancient City
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Explore one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Walk through the historic marble streets and learn about its 2,000-year-old heritage.
3. 30m · Admission ticket included
   Stand before the iconic facade of the third-largest library of the Roman world, a masterpiece of ancient architecture.
4. Pass by
   Visit the Great Theatre of Ephesus, an impressive ancient structure that once seated over 25,000 spectators. Used for performances, ceremonies, and public gatherings.
5. Temple of Hadrian
   Pass by
   Temple of Hadrian, one of the most elegant monuments in Ephesus, built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Admire its finely detailed reliefs and well-preserved façade.
6. The House of the Virgin Mary
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Visit the peaceful shrine located on Mt. Koressos, believed to be the final residence of the Virgin Mary.
7. The Temple of Artemis
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Visit the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although only ruins remain today, the site offers insight into the grandeur of ancient Ephesus.
8. Selcuk
   30m
   Observe a fashion show and learn about Turkey's world-famous high-quality leather production and craftsmanship.

Day 8: Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour / Return to Istanbul

1. Pamukkale
   2h
   This morning you will start with a 2-hours drive to Pamukkale since it is your last step of Turkey Tour.
2. Pamukkale Thermal Pools
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Walk on the white calcium terraces filled with warm thermal water, often called the "Cotton Castle" of Turkey.
3. Hierapolis & Pamukkale
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located above the Pamukkale terraces. Discover well-preserved ruins, including the grand theatre, necropolis, and Roman baths, making this a key cultural highlight of the Pamukkale tour itinerary.
4. Cleopatra Pools
   30m · Admission ticket not included
   Cleopatra Pools
5. Pamukkale Theater
   30m · Admission ticket included
   Visit the magnificent 2nd-century Roman theatre, famous for its impressive relief decorations and perfect acoustics.
6. Istanbul
   2h
   After the tour, transfer to Denizli Airport for your flight back to Istanbul. Upon arrival in Istanbul, transfer to your hotel.
   (5 Days tour option ends with this flight)

Day 9: Departure from Istanbul

1. 1h
   Enjoy a free morning to relax or explore at your leisure. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure, concluding your memorable trip.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Family-friendly tour for all ages with local guides
• Availible start dates for 9 Day option: April 15, May 6, May 27, June 17, Sept 9, Sept 30, Oct 14, or Nov 4.