Turkey Highlights: Istanbul & Cappadocia

5 days · 5 suggested stays

Day 1 — Arrive in Istanbul and explore Sultanahmet Square (overnight: Istanbul)

Sultanahmet Square
Historic center surrounded by major monuments.
Hagia Sophia
Iconic Byzantine cathedral turned mosque.
Blue Mosque
Famous Ottoman mosque with blue tiles.
Turna HOTEL — Visit site — More hotels
Comfortable hotel in central Istanbul.

Day 2 — Topkapi Palace and transfer to Cappadocia (overnight: Istanbul)

Topkapi Palace
Ottoman sultans' residence with gardens.
Flight to Cappadocia
Domestic flight from Istanbul to Nevşehir.
Goreme Sunset Point
Panoramic view of fairy chimneys at dusk.
Beyoğlu Suites Hotel — More hotels
Luxury suites in Göreme cave hotel.

Day 3 — Hot air balloon and underground cities (overnight: Cappadocia)

Göreme Open Air Museum
Ancient rock-cut churches and monasteries.
Derinkuyu Underground City
Massive subterranean city carved in rock.
Rose Valley
Scenic hiking trail with rock formations.
Yalikavak Palmarina Suites — More hotels
Return to comfortable cave hotel.

Day 4 — Uchisar Castle and Avanos pottery (overnight: Cappadocia)

Uchisar Castle
Volcanic rock fortress with panoramic views.
Avanos
Traditional town known for pottery making.
Zelve Open Air Museum
Valley with abandoned cave dwellings.
Yalikavak Palmarina Suites — More hotels
Final night in Cappadocia.

Day 5 — Pigeon Valley and return to Istanbul (overnight: Cappadocia)

Pigeon Valley
Trail with carved pigeon holes in rocks.
Flight to Istanbul
Domestic flight from Nevşehir to Istanbul.
Grand Bazaar
Historic covered market with shops.
Turna HOTEL — Visit site — More hotels
Final night back in Istanbul.

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