Istanbul and Cappadocia 5 Day Private Tour From Istanbul

Day 1: Istanbul Old Town Exploration

1. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
   2h
   Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former Greek Orthodox Christian basilica, later an Ottoman imperial mosque, and now a museum.
2. Blue Mosque
   1h
   Visit the stunning Blue Mosque, known for its impressive architecture and blue tiles.
3. TopkapI Palace
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Discover the historical Topkapi Palace, a former palace of Ottoman sultans.
4. Hippodrome
   1h
   Explore the ancient Hippodrome, a chariot racing track, and a social center in Constantinople.
5. Grand Bazaar
   2h
   Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets.

Day 2: Traditional Istanbul Experience

1. Suleymaniye Mosque
   1h
   Visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, an Ottoman imperial mosque and one of the largest in Istanbul.
2. Misir Carsisi
   1h
   Explore the Spice Bazaar, a colorful market filled with spices, sweets, and various goods.
3. 1h · Admission ticket included
   Discover the historical Theodosius Cistern, an underground water reservoir.
4. Balat
   30m
   Explore the charming old Greek neighborhoods of Balat.
5. Fener Rum Patrikhanesi
   1h
   Explore the charming old Greek neighborhoods of Fener. Admire the exterior of the Red School, a historic building, and an active school (from the outside).
   
   On this tour, you would be experiencing the traditional shopping area with thousands of spices and sweets and some way of experiencing the local way of socializing in old coffee shops and seeing the Greek part of the town which is unique and picturesque.

Day 3: Modern Istanbul & Transfer to Cappadocia

1. Pierre Loti
   1h
   Take in panoramic vistas of the city while relaxing.
2. Eyup
   30m
   Explore the historic neighborhood and visit the mosque.
3. Eyup Sultan Mosque
   30m
   Explore the historic neighborhood and visit the mosque.
4. Walls of Theodosius
   30m
   Trace the ancient fortifications of the old city.
5. Karakoy
   20m
   Ride from the old town to the modern Pera district.
6. Istiklal Caddesi
   1h
   Wander through the lively street filled with cultural attractions.
7. Galata Tower
   30m · Admission ticket included
   Marvel at historic landmarks before ending the tour in bustling Taksim Square. We will visit Galata Tower from the outside.
8. Taksim Square
   1h
   Discover the modern side of Istanbul, Taksim Square.
   
   Depart Istanbul and embark on a journey to the enchanting region of Cappadocia, known for its unique landscapes, history, and culture.

Day 4: Cappadocia Exploration

1. Goreme Open Air Museum
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Embark on an adventure through the captivating landscapes and cultural treasures of Cappadocia.
   
   Explore rock-cut churches and monasteries at the Goreme Open Air Museum.
2. Red Valley
   1h
   Enjoy a hike through the stunning landscapes, fairy chimneys, and unique rock formations at Red and Rose Valleys.
3. Love Valley
   30m
   Discover the valley known for its distinctive phallic-shaped rock formations at the Love Valley.
4. Pigeon Valley
   30m
   Explore the scenic beauty of Pigeon Valley.
5. Cappadocia
   30m
   Panorama Viewpoint: Take in a panoramic view of the Cappadocian landscape.
6. Avanos Oren Yeri
   30m
   Visit the town famous for pottery and the nearby Red River.
7. Avanos Pottery Workshop
   30m
   Learn about the traditional art of pottery.
8. Cavusin
   1h
   Explore the ancient village with unique rock formations.
9. Uchisar Castle
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Visit the rock-cut castle for panoramic views. We will also visit a Handicraft Center to discover local craftsmanship after that.

Day 5: Cappadocia Exploration II

1. Kaymakli Underground City
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Today you can experience an optional hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia at an additional cost.
   
   After your breakfast, we will visit Kaymakli to explore the depths of the underground city.
   
   Then we will continue to a precious stone factory visiting to learn about Turkish precious stones.
2. Ihlara Valley
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Hike through this picturesque valley (it's like the Loire Valley in France).
3. Urgup
   2h
   Visit the charming town of Ürgüp.
   
   Then we will enjoy the local cuisine with a tasting of Pottery Kebap.
   
   We will also stop at Hasan’s House and Viewpoint to experience the hospitality of Hasan's House and enjoy a viewpoint.
4. Pasabag Vadisi
   30m · Admission ticket included
   Explore the valley with unique mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys.
5. Devrent Valley
   30m
   Visit Devrent for more captivating rock formations.

Pickup details

The tour starts with a pick-up from your centrally located hotel (Sultanahmet or Taksim areas) or you may be ready in front of the Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant
located at Sultanahmet Square. To reach the Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant, please walk down the Sultanahmet Tram stop about 100 meters. It's on the left side of the street.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness