Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen 10-Day Public Transportation Tour

Day 1: **Day 1: Welcome to Cappadocia**

1. Kayseri
   2h
   When you arrive at **Nevşehir or Kayseri Airport**, our team will welcome you and provide a smooth transfer to your accommodation. For guests traveling by bus, a pickup from the bus station will be arranged to ensure a comfortable journey to your accommodation.

Day 2: **Day 2: Discover the Magic of Cappadocia**

1. Zelve Open Air Museum
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **Zelve Open-Air Museum** is a fascinating historical site in Cappadocia, known for its cave dwellings, churches, monasteries, tunnels, and fairy chimneys carved into volcanic rock. Visitors can walk through the ancient valley and explore the unique lifestyle of its former inhabitants.
2. Fairy Chimneys
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **Paşabağları**, Cappadocia’s most famous sites, is known for its impressive fairy chimneys with distinctive caps. Formed by volcanic activity, wind, and rain over millions of years, these unique rock formations also contain small chapels and rooms once used by Christian monks. Visitors can walk among the chimneys, take photographs, and enjoy the area’s fascinating natural and historical atmosphere.
3. Goreme Panorama
   1h · Admission ticket included
   **Göreme Panorama** is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Cappadocia. It offers stunning views of Göreme Valley, fairy chimneys, cave houses, and unique rock formations. The viewpoint is especially impressive at sunrise, when hot-air balloons fill the sky, and at sunset, when the rocks glow in warm colors. It is a perfect place for taking photographs and enjoying Cappadocia’s magical landscape.
4. Avanos
   1h
   **Avanos Pottery Workshop** offers visitors the chance to discover Cappadocia’s traditional pottery-making art. Using red clay from the Kızılırmak River, skilled artisans shape handmade ceramics on a pottery wheel. Visitors can watch the process, try making their own pottery, and explore beautiful traditional designs. It is a memorable cultural experience and a great opportunity to buy unique handmade souvenirs.
5. Goreme National Park
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **Love Valley**, located between Göreme and Uçhisar, is famous for its tall, naturally formed fairy chimneys. Shaped by volcanic activity, wind, and rain, these unique rock formations create one of Cappadocia’s most memorable landscapes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, take beautiful photographs, and watch hot-air balloons floating above the valley. Its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views make Love Valley a must-see destination in Cappadocia.

Day 3: **Day 3: Cappadocia’s Hidden Treasures**

1. Kaymakli Underground City
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **Kaymaklı Underground City** is one of Cappadocia’s most fascinating historical sites. Carved into soft volcanic rock, it consists of several underground levels connected by narrow tunnels. The city contains rooms, kitchens, storage areas, stables, wells, ventilation shafts, and places of worship. Ancient communities used it as a shelter during invasions and times of danger. Visitors can explore its mysterious passages and discover how people lived safely below the ground. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as some tunnels are narrow and low.
2. Uchisar Castle
   1h · Admission ticket included
   **Uçhisar Castle** is one of Cappadocia’s most famous landmarks and the highest point in the region. Carved into a natural rock formation, it contains tunnels, rooms, shelters, and storage areas once used by local communities. Visitors can climb to the top and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Cappadocia’s valleys, fairy chimneys, and surrounding villages. It is especially beautiful at sunset. Comfortable shoes are recommended because some paths can be steep.
3. Pigeon Valley
   1h · Admission ticket included
   **Pigeon Valley** is one of Cappadocia’s most beautiful natural landscapes, located between Göreme and Uçhisar. The valley is named after the thousands of pigeon houses carved into the soft volcanic rock. In the past, local people collected pigeon droppings and used them as natural fertilizer for vineyards and fields. Visitors can enjoy peaceful hiking trails, stunning fairy chimneys, rock formations, and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Pigeon Valley is an ideal place for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants to experience Cappadocia’s unique beauty.
4. Goreme Onix
   1h · Admission ticket included
   **Onyx Workshop:** Discover the art of shaping and polishing onyx, a beautiful natural stone found in Türkiye. Skilled artisans demonstrate how raw onyx is transformed into elegant jewelry, decorative objects, and unique souvenirs. Visitors can watch the production process, learn about the stone’s colors and patterns, and purchase a special handmade gift from Cappadocia.
5. Ortahisar Kalesi
   1h · Admission ticket included
   **Ortahisar Castle** is a historic rock fortress in Cappadocia, located in the charming village of Ortahisar. Carved into a natural rock formation, it was once used for defense, shelter, and storage. The castle contains tunnels, rooms, and caves that reflect the traditional lifestyle of the region. Visitors can explore the surrounding village and enjoy panoramic views of Cappadocia’s valleys and fairy chimneys. With its unique architecture and historical atmosphere, Ortahisar Castle is a memorable destination for history lovers and photographers.
6. Red Valley
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **Kızılçukur Valley**, also known as Red Valley, is one of Cappadocia’s most beautiful natural attractions. It is famous for its red and pink rock formations, which glow beautifully at sunset. Visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails, vineyards, cave churches, and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Kızılçukur is an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone wishing to experience Cappadocia’s peaceful and magical atmosphere.

Day 4: **Day 4: Journey to Konya**

1. Mevlana Muzesi
   5h · Admission ticket included
   **Mevlana Museum** in Konya is one of Türkiye’s most important spiritual and cultural landmarks. It is the former lodge of the Mevlevi dervishes and the final resting place of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, the famous 13th-century poet and philosopher. Visitors can explore the peaceful complex, see Rumi’s tomb, and learn about his teachings of love, tolerance, and spiritual enlightenment. The museum also displays calligraphy, manuscripts, musical instruments, and objects related to the Whirling Dervishes. With its meaningful history and calm atmosphere, the Mevlana Museum offers a memorable cultural experience.
2. Pamukkale
   3h
   Departure from Konya province to Pamukkale.

Day 5: **Day 5: Pamukkale’s Natural Wonders**

1. Pamukkale
   4h
   **UNESCO World Heritage Site:** Explore Pamukkale’s dazzling white travertine terraces, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters over thousands of years. Then discover the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can admire Roman ruins, including the theater, baths, marble streets, and necropolis. Complete your visit with a relaxing swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, a historic thermal spring surrounded by ancient columns.
2. Ephesus Ancient City
   3m · Admission ticket included
   Departure from Pamukkale to Ephesus, Izmir

Day 6: **Day 6: Ephesus and Alaçatı**

1. Ephesus Ancient City
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **Ephesus Ancient City** is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Türkiye. Once an important center of trade, culture, and religion, it was home to impressive landmarks such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian, and marble-paved streets. Ephesus also stood near the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Walking through its ruins offers visitors a fascinating journey through Greek and Roman history.
2. The House of the Virgin Mary
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **The House of the Virgin Mary**, located near Ephesus, is believed to be where Mary spent her final years. Today, it is a peaceful pilgrimage site visited by people from different faiths. Visitors can see the small chapel, make wishes at the wishing wall, and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.

Day 7: **Day 7: Alaçatı and Çeşme**

1. Alacati
   3h
   **Alaçatı** is a charming coastal town on Türkiye’s Aegean coast, famous for its historic stone houses, colorful streets, traditional windmills, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore boutique shops, art galleries, cafés, and restaurants while enjoying delicious Aegean cuisine. Alaçatı is also popular for windsurfing because of its strong, steady winds. With its beautiful architecture and relaxed atmosphere, it is a perfect destination for culture, shopping, and seaside enjoyment.
2. Cesme
   3h
   **Çeşme** is a popular seaside destination on Türkiye’s Aegean coast, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, water sports, and fresh seafood at local restaurants. Famous beaches such as Ilıca, Altınkum, and Boyalık offer different experiences, from warm shallow waters to peaceful bays. Çeşme Castle and the charming town center are also worth visiting. With its natural beauty, lively beach clubs, and historic sites, Çeşme is an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.
3. Istanbul
   3h
   departure for Istanbul

Day 8: **Day 8: Istanbul’s Cultural Heritage**

1. Dolmabahce Palace
   3h · Admission ticket included
   **Dolmabahçe Palace** is a magnificent historical landmark located on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Built in the 19th century by Sultan Abdülmecid, it served as an important residence for the Ottoman sultans. The palace combines Ottoman and European architectural styles and is famous for its grand halls, crystal chandeliers, elegant decorations, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the Selamlık, Harem, and Ceremonial Hall while enjoying stunning Bosphorus views. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk spent his final days and passed away here on November 10, 1938.
2. Sultan 1.Ahmet Camii
   3h · Admission ticket included
   **The Blue Mosque**, also known as the **Sultan Ahmed Mosque**, is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, it is located opposite Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet Square. The mosque is renowned for its six elegant minarets, grand domes, spacious courtyard, and thousands of beautiful blue İznik tiles decorating the interior. As an active place of worship, visitors should dress modestly and respect prayer times. The Blue Mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and an essential stop for anyone visiting Istanbul.
3. Misir Carsisi
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **The Egyptian Spice Bazaar** is one of Istanbul’s most colorful and historic markets. Located in the Eminönü district, it is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and rich variety of spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, nuts, teas, herbs, and traditional sweets. Visitors can explore its lively aisles, enjoy the fragrant aromas, and shop for local products and souvenirs. Built in the 17th century, the bazaar remains an important part of Istanbul’s cultural and commercial life.

Day 9: **Day 9: Istanbul’s Historic Treasures**

1. Ayasofya Camii
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque** is one of Istanbul’s most remarkable historical landmarks. Originally built in 537 as a Byzantine cathedral, it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The building later served as a museum and reopened as a mosque in 2020. Hagia Sophia is famous for its enormous dome, Byzantine mosaics, marble columns, and Ottoman additions, including calligraphy and minarets. Located in Sultanahmet Square, it reflects Istanbul’s rich history and the meeting of Byzantine and Ottoman cultures.
2. Blue Mosque
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **The Sultan Ahmed Mosque**, also known as the **Blue Mosque**, is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, it is located in Sultanahmet Square, opposite Hagia Sophia. The mosque is renowned for its six elegant minarets, grand domes, spacious courtyard, and beautiful blue İznik tiles. As an active place of worship, visitors should dress modestly and respect prayer times. The Blue Mosque is a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture and an essential stop for anyone exploring Istanbul.

Day 10: **Day 10: Departure**

1. İstanbul Sabiha Gokcen Lounge
   2h · Admission ticket included
   **Farewell and Transfer:** Your journey concludes with a comfortable transfer to the airport, marking the end of an unforgettable Turkish adventure.

Pickup details

All guests are picked up from their preferred location and dropped off at their desired destination.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels