Istanbul & Cappadocia Highlights

5 days · 5 suggested stays

Day 1 — Arrive in Istanbul, visit the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, then explore the Grand Bazaar. (overnight: Istanbul)

Hagia Sophia
Iconic Byzantine church turned mosque, now a museum.
Blue Mosque
Stunning Ottoman mosque with blue tiles and six minarets.
Grand Bazaar
Historic covered market with thousands of shops.
Turna HOTEL — Visit site — More hotels
Central hotel in Istanbul, ideal for exploring.

Day 2 — Morning Bosphorus cruise, then fly to Cappadocia and explore Göreme Open Air Museum. (overnight: Istanbul)

Bosphorus Cruise
Scenic boat tour along the Bosphorus strait.
Flight to Cappadocia
Fly from Istanbul to Cappadocia (Nevşehir or Kayseri).
Göreme Open Air Museum
Rock-cut churches and frescoes from Byzantine era.
Cave Hotel in Göreme — More hotels
Stay in a traditional cave hotel for unique experience.

Day 3 — Sunrise hot air balloon ride, then explore Derinkuyu Underground City and Uchisar Castle. (overnight: Cappadocia)

Hot Air Balloon Ride
Sunrise flight over Cappadocia's fairy chimneys.
Derinkuyu Underground City
Ancient multi-level underground city, fascinating.
Uchisar Castle
Rock fortress with panoramic views of Cappadocia.
Cave Hotel in Göreme — More hotels
Second night in cave hotel.

Day 4 — Explore Pasabag Monks Valley and Avanos, then fly back to Istanbul. (overnight: Cappadocia)

Pasabag Monks Valley
Fairy chimney rock formations, unique landscape.
Avanos
Town known for pottery and craft workshops.
Flight to Istanbul
Fly from Cappadocia back to Istanbul.
Turna HOTEL — Visit site — More hotels
Return to Istanbul hotel for last night.

Day 5 — Visit Topkapi Palace and Spice Bazaar, then depart. (overnight: Istanbul)

Topkapi Palace
Ottoman sultans' residence, rich history and treasures.
Spice Bazaar
Aromatic market with spices, sweets, and souvenirs.
Transfer to Airport
Private transfer to Istanbul Airport for departure.
Beyoğlu Suites Hotel — More hotels
Suggested stay for tonight.

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