Dive into Istanbul’s Architectural Marvels

• Begin your day with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit the Blue Mosque, renowned for its beautiful blue tiles and grand domes.
• Explore the Hippodrome, once the social and sporting heart of the Byzantine Empire.
• Tour the opulent Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman sultans, with its courtyards, treasury, and relics.
• Conclude your day at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, where you can shop for Turkish crafts and souvenirs.

Accommodation: Overnight in Istanbul

Explore the Magical Landscapes of Cappadocia

• Take an early morning flight to Cappadocia and begin your tour:
  • Visit Uchisar Castle, a natural rock fortress offering panoramic views.
  • Explore the Goreme Open-Air Museum, featuring ancient rock-carved churches with vivid frescoes.
  • Stroll through Pasabag (Monks Valley), home to Cappadocia’s iconic fairy chimneys.
  • Stop by Avanos, a charming town known for its traditional pottery-making workshops.

Lunch: Taste a regional specialty such as pottery kebab at a local cave restaurant.

Accommodation: Overnight in Cappadocia

Delve Deeper into Cappadocia’s Hidden Gems

• Begin your day by exploring an Underground City (e.g., Kaymakli or Derinkuyu), a refuge for early Christians.
• Hike through the scenic Red and Rose Valleys, famous for their stunning rock formations and ancient cave churches.
• Visit Cavusin Village, featuring ancient rock-cut houses and churches.
• End your tour at Pigeon Valley, named for its dovecotes carved into the cliffs.

Optional activity: Start your day with a magical hot air balloon ride to see Cappadocia’s landscapes from above.

Accommodation: Overnight in Cappadocia

Step Back in Time at Ephesus

• Fly to Izmir in the morning and transfer to Ephesus, one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities.
• Discover:
  • The Library of Celsus, an architectural marvel and iconic symbol of Ephesus.
  • The Great Theatre, a grand amphitheater that once hosted performances and public gatherings.
  • The Marble Streets, lined with ruins of ancient temples, baths, and shops.
• Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful pilgrimage site believed to be Mary’s final residence.
• Stop by the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Lunch: Enjoy Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant near Ephesus.

Accommodation: Overnight in Kusadasi

Marvel at Pamukkale’s White Paradise

• Travel to Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its surreal white travertine terraces filled with thermal waters.
• Walk barefoot along the terraces and experience the therapeutic properties of the mineral-rich waters.
• Explore Hierapolis, the ancient city located atop Pamukkale, including:
  • The Roman theater.
  • The necropolis, featuring hundreds of tombs.
  • Historical gates and ancient baths.
• Optional: Relax in Cleopatra’s Pool, a thermal pool surrounded by submerged Roman ruins.

Accommodation: Overnight in Kusadasi

• Fly back to Istanbul in the morning.
• Begin your day with a Bosphorus Cruise, enjoying stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline, historic palaces, and bridges that connect Europe and Asia.
• Visit the Spice Bazaar, a lively and colorful market filled with fragrant spices, Turkish delights, teas, and dried fruits.
• Explore the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, a hidden gem in Istanbul, famous for its exquisite Iznik tilework featuring intricate floral and geometric patterns.

Afternoon: Free time to explore the city further or relax before your final evening.

Accommodation: Overnight in Istanbul

Farewell, Turkey

• After breakfast, transfer to Istanbul Airport for your departure.
• Depart Turkey with unforgettable memories of its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.