8 Days Journey through Ancient Wonders

Istanbul Airport, Turkey - Istanbul Airport, Turkey
  • Beautiful Blue Mosque
  • Galata Tower, Istanbul
  • Library of Celsus
  • Ottoman Era Clock in Antalya

Details

8 Days | 7 Nights

Tour Types: Private
Runs: Every day
Accommodation: 4* Hotels
Minimum Age: 10

Tour Description


Embark on an 8-day journey through Turkey's ancient wonders. Begin in Istanbul, exploring iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Travel to Ephesus to marvel at well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus. Experience the unique terraces of Pamukkale and the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a cruise along the Bosphorus.
  • Discover the fairy-tale-like rock formations and ancient cave dwellings in Cappadocia.
  • In Ephesus visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  • Delve deeper into the Istanbul’s history and culture.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1
Istanbul Airport – Arrival    

1 Stop

1

Istanbul Airport

Welcome to Turkey! Meet your driver the airport and transfer to your hotel in Istanbul.

1 hour

Day 2
Istanbul City Tour – Istanbul    

1 Stop

1

Istanbul City Tour

Start your day by visiting the iconic Blue Mosque, known for its striking blue tiles and grand architecture. Marvel at the intricate designs and take in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic mosque. Next, head to the nearby Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Admire its impressive dome, Byzantine mosaics, and intricate interior decorations. Explore the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Wander through its lavish courtyards, visit the Harem section (optional), and admire the priceless artifacts on display, including the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker's Diamond. Experience the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Stroll through its labyrinthine alleys filled with shops selling traditional crafts, spices, jewelry, textiles, and more. Take the opportunity to haggle and find unique souvenirs. End the day with a relaxing boat cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. Return to your hotel and overnight.

6 hours

Day 3
Bosphorus Cruise – Izmir    

3 Stops

1

Spice Bazzar

Morning time, visit the vibrant Spice Bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in the sights and aromas of exotic spices, Turkish delight, teas, and other local delicacies.

45 mins

2

Bosphorus Cruise

Along with other travelers, cruise along the Bosphorus strait where you will see along the shoreline Ottoman palaces, Bosphorus Bridge, citadels, century mansions and more while on board.

3 hours

3

Izmir

Take the afternoon flight to Izmir, proceed to your hotel in Kusadasi and overnight.

1.10 hours

Day 4
Kusadasi – Pamukkale    

1 Stop

1

Pamukkale

From Kusadasi travel along 3 hours with other travelers to Pamukkale. Lunch is served on arrival then head to the famous Cotton Castle, the main highlight of Pamukkale. Witness the mesmerizing white terraces created by the cascading thermal waters. Continue Hierapolis to see the Basilica, an impressive ancient structure that once served as a Roman public building and the thermal Roman baths. Proceed to your hotel in Pamukkale and free time on your own.

3 hours

Day 5
Pamukkale – Ephesus – Cappadocia    

4 Stops

1

Ephesus

Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world. Walk through the well-preserved streets, marvel at the grandeur of the Library of Celsus, admire the impressive Theater, and visit the Terrace Houses to witness the opulent lifestyle of the ancient Romans.

2.5 hours

2

Isa Bey Mosque

Afterward, visit the Isa Bey Mosque, a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture located near Ephesus. Admire its elegant design, intricate decorations, and serene atmosphere as you explore this historical religious site.

45 mins

3

Sirince Village

Continue your journey to the charming village of Sirince, famous for its traditional houses, narrow streets, and local crafts.

2 hours

4

Istanbul

Conclude your tour by flying from Izmir Airport to Cappadocia. Proceed to your hotel and overnight.

5.25 hours

Day 6
Fly to Cappadocia – North of Cappadocia – Cappadocia    

6 Stops

1

Devrent Valley

Begin your Cappadocia exploration in Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley or Pink Valley. This surreal and otherworldly landscape is dotted with peculiar rock formations that resemble animals and objects. Let your imagination run wild as you stroll through the valley, discovering the whimsical shapes and formations that nature has sculpted over time.

1 hour

2

Pasabag

Next, venture into Pasabag Valley, famous for its fascinating rock formations known as fairy chimneys. These towering structures, with their distinctive caps, create a mesmerizing sight.

1 hour

3

Avanos

Continue your journey to the charming town of Avanos, located on the banks of the Kızılırmak River. Avanos is renowned for its long-standing pottery-making tradition. Visit local workshops and witness skilled artisans shaping clay into beautiful ceramics using traditional techniques.

1 hour

4

Open-Air Museum

Continue your journey to the charming town of Avanos, located on the banks of the Kızılırmak River. Avanos is renowned for its long-standing pottery-making tradition. Visit local workshops and witness skilled artisans shaping clay into beautiful ceramics using traditional techniques.

1.5 hours

5

Uchisar Castle

Conclude your tour at the majestic Uchisar Castle, a prominent landmark in Cappadocia. The castle is carved into a massive rock formation and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Climb to the top and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Cappadocia's fairy chimneys, valleys, and villages.

45 mins

6

Cappadocia

Proceed to your hotel and overnight in Cappadocia.

30 mins

Day 7
South of Cappadocia – Istanbul    

6 Stops

1

Goreme

A long day awaits you. You have the option to start the day with a thrilling hot air balloon ride over the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia. Experience the breathtaking views of the region from high above as the sun rises, casting a golden glow over the fairy chimneys and valleys below. After the activity, transfer back to your hotel for breakfast and freshen up.

1 hour

2

Red & Rose Valley

Continue your exploration of Cappadocia with a visit to the Red and Rose Valleys. These valleys are renowned for their vibrant hues and stunning rock formations.

1.5 hours

3

Cavusin Village

Next, head to the ancient village of Cavusin, known for its remarkable rock-cut houses and churches. Explore the remnants of this once-thriving settlement and imagine life in the cave dwellings.

1 hour

4

Pigeon Village

Visit the Pigeon Valley, named after the numerous pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. Learn about the important role pigeons played in the region's agricultural practices and enjoy the scenic beauty of the valley with its panoramic views.

1 hour

5

Kaymakli Underground City

Next, delve into the underground world of Kaymakli Underground City, one of the largest and most fascinating underground cities in Cappadocia. Descend into the depths of this ancient subterranean complex and discover its intricate network of tunnels, rooms, and storage areas.

1 hour

6

Istanbul

Take the evening flight back to Istanbul, proceed to your hotel and overnight.

1.10 hours

Day 8
Istanbul Airport – Departure    

1 Stop

1

Istanbul Airport

At a pre-arrange time transfer to Istanbul International airport for departure.

1 hour

Inclusions


  • Private transfers air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure.
  • 3x hotel accommodation with breakfast in Istanbul.
  • 1x hotel accommodation with breakfast in Canakkale.
  • 1x hotel accommodation with breakfast in Kusadasi.
  • 1x hotel accommodation with breakfast in Pamukkale.
  • English-speaking guide during tour days.
  • Entrance fee to sites mentioned.

Exclusions


  •  International and Domestic Airfares.  
  •  Entry visa to Turkey.  
  •  Meals and beverages not stated. 
  •  Tips to the driver and guides. 
  •  Any personal expenses.  
  •  Others not mentioned in the inclusions.  

Practical Info


• Official check in time at hotels 15:00 – check out time at hotels 12:00.
• Breakfast at hotels is served in the main restaurant.
• The driver/tour guide escorts you according to the booked itinerary, he is not 24/7 at your disposal. For any extra activity or extra use of vehicle, there is a supplement.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and depending on season pack sun protection.
• Day to day itinerary subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, we will make every effort to ensure that all mentioned sites are visited to the best of our ability.
• The Istanbul old city tour is on foot as the places are in walking distance to each other. The order of visits may be reversed.
• The Hagia Sophia is open from 09:00-17:00 in the period November to March and from 09:00-19:00 in the period April to October. The last entry is one hour before closing time. Women need to cover their head, and everyone needs to move the shoes before stepping on the carpet. The Hagia Sophia is now a mosque, so do not walk in front of praying visitors and note that the Hagia Sophia might get busy during Friday prayers around noon.
• Opening Hours of the Topkapi Palace are 10:00-16:00 in the period October to March, 09:00-18:45 in the period April to September. The palace is closed on Tuesdays.
• The Blue Mosque is closed to non-Muslims 45 minutes before the call to prayer, 30 minutes afterwards, and close on Fridays.
• The Grand Bazaar is open from Monday to Saturday from 09:00 to 19:00 and closed on Sundays.
• To respect the local culture please cover shoulders and knees.
• If you opt for a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, it only takes place in the early morning. We recommend booking as early as possible as this is a popular activity and subject to availability.
• For swimming in the Cleopatra Pool of Pamukkale please pack towel, swimwear, and bathing shoes.

How to Book this Tour


- After booking the tour with us online, one of our consultants will get in touch within 24 hours. You need to pay then a 25% deposit by credit card or by bank transfer. The full payment is due latest 15 days before tour start.
- Cancellations or changes need to be sent in written form. Charges are as follows:
• 5% of the total price of the trip for cancellations from the date of booking until 41 days before departure.
• 50% of the total price of the trip for cancellations or changes made 40 to 15 days before departure.
• 100% of the total price of the trip for cancellations or changes made 14 to 01 days before departure or no show.
- For refunds we do not cover transaction fees charged by credit card companies and banks.
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