Istanbul to Cappadocia

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Istanbul International Airport (IST).

The day begins with breakfast before taking the public tram to start your walking tour beginning at the Hippodrome, a historical square enriched with landmarks like the German Fountain and the Egyptian Obelisk. A short walk leads to the iconic Blue Mosque, where visitors experience Ottoman grandeur amidst intricate blue tile work. Next, explore the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, once a cathedral and now a museum showcasing Byzantine art and architecture. The journey continues to the ancient Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir adorned with marble columns and mystical lighting, followed by a visit to the bustling Grand Bazaar, offering an array of goods amidst a vibrant atmosphere. Finally, a tram ride back to the hotel concludes the enriching day. For today's activities, please wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be walking around 1-2 miles. It is also advised to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees), bring a small bag for carrying shoes when entering mosques, and remain vigilant against petty theft.

• The Hippodrome

  Take a 20-minute public tram to the Hippodrome, the first stop of today's walking tour. The Hippodrome holds immense historical and symbolic significance, originally constructed by Emperor Septimius Severus in AD 203, and later expanded by rulers such as Constantine the Great and Sultan Murad IV. Serving as the epicenter of social, cultural, and political life for over a millennium, it hosted various events like chariot races and public gatherings. Today, though much of its original structure is lost, the Hippodrome stands as a vast square surrounded by significant landmarks like the German Fountain, a gift from Emperor Wilhelm II to Sultan Abdul Hamid II, symbolizing diplomatic ties. Notable among its monuments are the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, and Walled Obelisk, each representing cultural exchanges and historical events.

  09:30· 20 min· Istanbul
• Blue Mosque

  Take a short 5-minute walk over to the Blue Mosque. Officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. Built in the early 17th century during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, it is famous for its intricate blue tile work adorning the interior walls, giving it the nickname "Blue Mosque." With its six minarets and vast prayer hall, the Blue Mosque stands as a symbol of Istanbul's rich cultural heritage and religious devotion. Please wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and a headscarf. Upon entry, visitors not appropriately attired are provided with shawls or skirts. Shoes are also not allowed inside the mosque. Please note that while there is shoe storage, it is advised to carry shoes in a bag to prevent theft, but it is not appropriate to carry shoes in your hand.

  10:00· 30 min· Instanbul
• Hagia Sophia

  You'll then walk 5 minutes over to the Hagia Sophia. You can expect a queue, and the wait time could be approximately 30 minutes. The Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel renowned for its domed structure and Byzantine grandeur. Originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I, it later served as a mosque under Ottoman rule and is now a museum. Its magnificent interior features intricate mosaics, marble pillars, and a breathtaking dome, reflecting its significance as a symbol of religious and cultural transition throughout history. Please wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and a headscarf. Shoes are also not allowed inside the mosque. Please note that while there is shoe storage, it is advised to carry shoes in a bag to prevent theft, but it is not appropriate to carry shoes in your hand.

  10:30· 45 min· Istanbul
• Basilica Cistern

  The Basilica Cistern is only a 5-minute walk away. The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water reservoir built during the Byzantine period. Constructed in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I, it features remarkable architectural elements such as 336 marble columns, some of which are reused from earlier structures. There is water about 30 centimeters from the ground, and sometimes water dripping from above. Please note that the interior lighting of the Basilica Cistern has the potential to induce epileptic seizures in susceptible individuals. Additionally, those with claustrophobia may experience discomfort or anxiety due to the confined space within the cistern.

  11:30· 30 min· Istanbul
• Grand Bazaar

  The Grand Bazaar is a bustling marketplace dating back to the 15th century, and is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Spanning over 60 streets and housing thousands of shops, the Grand Bazaar offers a sensory feast with its colorful array of goods, including spices, textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and traditional crafts.

  14:00· 150 min· Istanbul

The day begins with breakfast and a slow morning before heading on a culinary adventure at a Turkish Cooking Class, where you'll learn to prepare and savor seasonal delights such as mezes and börek. Following the class, lunch is enjoyed with dishes created during the session. Afterwards, you'll transfer back to the hotel and have the remainder of the afternoon and evening to explore Istanbul at your leisure, taking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant city.

• Turkish Cooking Class

  Take a 20-minute private transfer to your Turkish Cooking Class. Today, you'll learn how to prepare and enjoy seasonal classics like a Turk! The menu changes almost every week depending on the available vegetables at the market and seasonality of the products, but typically will include mezes (fresh tapas-like appetizers) and börek (pastries filled with cheese, herbs, or minced meat).

  12:30· 120 min· Istanbul

Your day begins with breakfast before saying goodbye to Istanbul and departing to Cappadocia. You'll be picked up from the hotel and transferred to Istanbul Airport for a domestic flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival at Kayseri Airport, you're greeted with a private transfer to the hotel for check-in. Afterwards, you'll take a short transfer to indulge in a delightful wine tasting experience at a local winery in Cappadocia, where you'll explore the nuances of indigenous grapes and sample a selection of locally crafted wines. Accompanied by cheese and dried fruit platters, the tasting session offers a sensory journey through Cappadocia's rich wine culture. You'll then return to the hotel for an evening at your leisure. Please note that additional wine purchases are at guests' own expense, and those with allergies should be cautious of wines containing egg powder for clearing agents.

• Cappadocia Wine Tasting

  Later, take a 15-minute private transfer to the local winery. Experience the flavors of Cappadocia with a captivating wine tasting session. Delve into the world of local grapes as experts explain their characteristics, followed by sampling a variety of locally produced wines. Enhance your tasting experience with accompaniments like cheese and dried fruit platters, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of the wines. Additional wine will be at your own expense. Then, take a 15-minute transfer back to the hotel for the remaining evening at leisure. Please note that some wines contain egg powder for clearing agents, in case of allergies.

  15:00· 60 min· Cappadocia
• Transfer · IST → Cappadocia

  Depart the hotel and take a private transfer to the IST Airport. Your hotel pick up will be scheduled 4 hours prior to the flight time.

  private · 90 min
• Transfer · IST → CAP

  Take a domestic flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia. IMPORTANT: Passport information is REQUIRED to book your domestic flight ticket on your behalf. If your completed passport details are not submitted through your Trip Form at least 45 days prior to trip, you may be responsible for arranging your own domestic flight ticket to Cappadocia. Luggage Guidelines: Travelers are allowed 1 piece of checked luggage with a maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg) and 1 piece of main cabin luggage with a maximum weight of 17 lbs (8 kg).

  flight · 90 min
• Transfer · Cappadocia → Cappadocia

  Upon arrival, take a private transfer from the Kayseri Airport to your hotel for check in.

  private · 60 min

The day begins with an optional hot air balloon flight, offering a mesmerizing perspective of Cappadocia's surreal landscapes at sunrise. Glide over the iconic rock formations and fairy chimneys, capturing unparalleled views from a bird's-eye perspective. If you chose to have a slow morning, your first stop of the day is the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rock-cut churches and ancient frescoes depicting biblical narratives. Explore the intricately carved caves and chapels, gaining insights into Cappadocia's rich history and cultural heritage. Later, you'll indulge in a captivating Turkish rug demonstration at a Women's Co-op, witnessing the intricate artistry and skillful techniques employed by local women in creating handwoven rugs. Learn about the history, significance, and natural dyeing process of Turkish rugs, gaining a deeper appreciation for Cappadocia's rug-making tradition and cultural heritage.

• Göreme Open-Air Museum

  Take a 10-minute private transfer to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its unique rock-cut churches and monasteries. Dating back to the Byzantine era, the museum features remarkable frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Jesus Christ and biblical narratives. Visitors can explore the intricately carved caves and chapels, marveling at the ancient Christian artistry preserved within the surreal landscape of Cappadocia. The museum offers insights into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

  10:00· 120 min· Cappadocia
• Turkish Rug Demonstration at Women's Co-op

  Experience the rich tradition of Turkish rug weaving with a captivating demonstration at a Women's Co-op. You are invited to witness the intricate artistry and skillful techniques employed by local women as they create exquisite handwoven rugs. Learn about the history and significance of Turkish rugs, from the selection of wool to the weaving process, and the symbolism behind the intricate designs. You also have the opportunity to observe the natural dyeing process, where vibrant colors are extracted from plants and minerals indigenous to the region. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Cappadocia's rug-making tradition, providing a deeper appreciation for these timeless works of art.

  14:00· 120 min· Cappadocia

After breakfast, the day begins with a transfer to an Avanos pottery demonstration, where skilled artisans showcase centuries-old techniques in shaping clay, providing insights into the history and significance of the region's renowned pottery craft. Following this immersive experience, you'll head on a journey to the Özkonak Underground City, a fascinating Byzantine-era complex carved into volcanic rock. Exploring narrow tunnels and chambers, visitors gain profound insights into the daily lives of ancient inhabitants and marvel at the ingenuity behind these remarkable underground dwellings. Please note that this activity may trigger claustrophobia. Afterwards, guests are transported back to the hotel, reflecting on a day filled with cultural discovery and appreciation for Cappadocia's rich history.

• Avanos Pottery Demonstration

  Take a 20-minute private transfer to the pottery demonstration. Avanos is renowned for its rich clay deposits and centuries-old pottery craft. Witness skilled artisans as they shape clay, demonstrating age-old techniques passed down through generations. Learn about the history and significance of Avanos pottery, and immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of this ancient craft. Please note that this is a demonstration, and not a pottery class.

  11:00· 120 min· Cappadcia
• Özkonak Underground City

  From the pottery demonstration, you'll take a 20-minute private transfer to the Özkonak Underground City. Dating back to the Byzantine era, this subterranean complex consists of multiple levels carved into the soft volcanic rock. Visitors can explore narrow tunnels, chambers, and living quarters, gaining insights into the daily life of its ancient inhabitants. The Özkonak Underground City offers a unique glimpse into the region's history and the ingenuity of its early residents who constructed these remarkable underground dwellings for protection against invaders. Please note that this activity could trigger claustrophobia. Afterwards, take a 40-minute private transfer back to the hotel.

  10:00· 20 min· Cappadocia

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the Kayseri Airport for a domestic flight back to Istanbul! Upon arrival in Istanbul, you'll transfer to the hotel. Later in the day, you'll embark on a captivating walking tour through Istanbul's vibrant Galata district, starting at the iconic Galata Tower and exploring charming streets, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. Admire the diverse architecture and stroll along the historic Galata Bridge, immersing yourself in the neighborhood's eclectic ambiance. The day concludes with a farewell dinner to celebrate all the amazing memories made together.

• Galata Walking Tour

  Embark on a captivating walking tour through Istanbul's vibrant Galata district, renowned for its historical landmarks, charming streets, and lively atmosphere. Begin your journey at the iconic Galata Tower, an ancient stone structure offering panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus. Wander through the bustling streets lined with boutique shops, trendy cafes, and art galleries, immersing yourself in the neighborhood's eclectic ambiance. Explore the historic Galata Bridge, spanning the Golden Horn and connecting the old city with the modern district of Karaköy. Admire the diverse architecture, from Ottoman-era buildings to contemporary designs, as you stroll along the waterfront promenade. Please note that stops on the walking tour are subject to change.

  18:00· 90 min· Istanbul
• Transfer · Capadoccia → Istanbul

  Depart the hotel and take a private transfer to the Kayseri Airport. Your hotel pick up will be scheduled 4 hours prior to the flight time.

  private · 90 min
• Transfer · CAP → IST

  Take a domestic flight from Cappadocia to Istanbul. IMPORTANT: Passport information is REQUIRED to book your domestic flight ticket on your behalf. If your completed passport details are not submitted through your Trip Form at least 45 days prior to trip, you may be responsible for arranging your own domestic flight ticket to Istanbul. Luggage Guidelines: Travelers are allowed 1 piece of checked luggage with a maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg) and 1 piece of main cabin luggage with a maximum weight of 17 lbs (8 kg).

  flight · 90 min
• Transfer · IST → IST

  Upon arrival, take a private transfer from the Istanbul Airport to your hotel for check in.

  private · 90 min

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Istanbul International Airport (IST).