- 4.9/5 547 Latest reviews
- Destination: Turkey
- Duration: 9 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Experience the Classic Turkey Tour, a 9-day journey through Turkey’s most iconic destinations. Begin in Istanbul, exploring the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and enjoy a scenic Bosphorus cruise. Then visit the ancient city of Ephesus, discovering the Celsus Library, Roman Baths, and Arcadian Way, followed by the surreal Pamukkale terraces and Hierapolis ruins.
Conclude your adventure in Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys, rock-cut churches, and panoramic valleys. Witness the magical hot air balloons at sunrise, hike through the Red and Pigeon Valleys, or relax in local vineyards. This private and bespoke tour blends history, culture, and natural wonders, offering an unforgettable way to explore Turkey in just 9 days.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 3
Istanbul
Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Suleymaniye Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Bosphorus Cruise, Dolmabahce Palace
4
Ephesus
Arcadian Way, Roman Baths, Celsus Library, Shrine of Virgin Mary
5
Pamukkale
Cotton Castle, Hierapolis Ancient City
6 - 8
Cappadocia
Goreme Open Air Museum, Pigeon Valley, Devrent Valley, Pasabag Valley, Uchisar Castle, Hot Air Balloon, Optional Hiking & Wine Tasting
9
Istanbul
Istanbul
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
Welcome to Istanbul, where East meets West! Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. If time allows, stroll through the Spice Bazaar, tasting exotic Turkish delights and inhaling the aromas of saffron, sumac, and freshly roasted coffee. This is the perfect introduction to Turkey’s vibrant culture.
Highlights: Private airport transfer, Spice Bazaar exploration, first taste of Turkish culture
- Istanbul
- Day 2: Istanbul – History & Culture
Dive into Istanbul’s rich history with a private guided tour. Marvel at the Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece blending Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Explore the Topkapi Palace, home of sultans, and the serene Suleymaniye Mosque, offering panoramic city views. Descend into the Basilica Cistern, where mysterious columns rise from shimmering waters, and visit the Hippodrome of Constantinople, a relic of chariot races and imperial grandeur.
Highlights: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Suleymaniye Mosque, Hippodrome of Constantinople, insider stories from expert guide
- B
- Istanbul
- Day 3: Istanbul – Bosphorus Cruise & Dolmabahce Palace
Begin the day with a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, enjoying views of palaces, mosques, and the iconic Galata Tower from the water. Visit Dolmabahce Palace, a symbol of Ottoman luxury, and admire its grand chandeliers and exquisite interior. Afternoon at leisure—shop for spices or join a hands-on Turkish cooking class to prepare traditional dishes.
Highlights: Bosphorus Cruise, Dolmabahce Palace, Turkish cooking class, Spice Market visit, optional cultural experiences
- B
- Istanbul
- Day 4: Istanbul – Ephesus – Kusadasi
Fly to Izmir and transfer to Ephesus, a city frozen in time. Walk along the Arcadian Way, see the impressive Celsus Library, the Roman Baths, and Terrace Houses. Visit the nearby Shrine of Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site. End the day with a scenic drive to your hotel in Kusadasi.
Highlights: Ephesus ruins, Celsus Library, Roman Baths, Terrace Houses, Shrine of Virgin Mary, guided historical storytelling
- B
- Kusadasi
- Day 5: Kusadasi – Pamukkale
Journey to Pamukkale, the natural wonder known as the “Cotton Castle.” Walk on snow-white travertine terraces and soak in therapeutic mineral pools. Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, including its well-preserved theater, necropolis, and sacred pools. Capture stunning photos and enjoy a serene atmosphere away from the crowds.
Highlights: Pamukkale terraces, Hierapolis Ancient City, hot mineral springs, photo-worthy panoramic views
- B
- Pamukkale
- Day 6: Pamukkale – Cappadocia
Transfer to Cappadocia, a land of surreal landscapes. Check in to your cave hotel, where modern comfort meets ancient charm. Enjoy sweeping views of valleys, fairy chimneys, and rock formations from your private terrace. Evening at leisure to savor local cuisine and soak in the unique atmosphere of this magical region.
Highlights: Cave hotel experience, panoramic views, immersive local culture, peaceful evening in Cappadocia
- B
- Cappadocia
- Day 7: Cappadocia – Valleys & Museums
Explore Cappadocia’s otherworldly terrain. Visit Devrent Valley, where rocks resemble sculptures, and Pasabag Valley, home to iconic fairy chimneys. Discover the Göreme Open Air Museum, filled with rock-cut churches and vivid frescoes. End the day at Uchisar Castle, offering breathtaking panoramic views, and stroll through Pigeon Valley with its charming dovecotes.
Highlights: Göreme Open Air Museum, Devrent & Pasabag Valleys, Uchisar Castle, Pigeon Valley, unique photo opportunities
- B
- Cappadocia
- Day 8: Cappadocia – Free Day & Hot Air Balloon Experience
Witness the magic of hundreds of hot air balloons rising at sunrise—a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Spend the day hiking through Red Valley, exploring Cavusin Village, or tasting local wines at a cozy vineyard. Optional experiences include ATV tours or horseback riding in the valleys. End the day relaxing in the serene Cappadocian landscape.
Highlights: Sunrise hot air balloons, Red Valley hike, vineyard wine tasting, Cavusin Village exploration, optional adventure activities
- B
- Cappadocia
- Day 9: Cappadocia – Istanbul Departure
Transfer to Kayseri Airport for your flight back to Istanbul and connect with your international departure. Reflect on a journey filled with history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, leaving unforgettable memories of Turkey.
Highlights: Private airport transfer, farewell to Turkey’s iconic landmarks
- B
Trip Highlights
Hodjapasha Cultural Shows
Experience Turkish culture through live performances, including Whirling Dervishes and traditional dance.
Cappadocia Turkish Night
Enjoy Turkish cuisine, wine, and live folk and belly dance performances in a cave.
Cappadocia Balloon Ride
Float above fairy chimneys and rock formations at sunrise for an unforgettable Cappadocia view.
Accommodation Options
The hotels listed below have been carefully selected based on customer feedback. You can either choose the ones you'd like to stay in or allow our travel experts to recommend options tailored to your specific requirements.
Istanbul 3 Nights
- 4.0
Top Choice
Fer Hotel
Address: Turbedar Sokak No 12 Molla Fenari Mah, Istanbul 34120, Turkey
- 4.0
Levni Hotel & Spa
Address: Ankara Caddesi No: 12 Hoca Paşa, Istanbul 34110, Turkey
- 5.0
Rixos Pera Istanbul
Address: Kamerhatun Mesrutiyet Cad. No 44, Istanbul 34440, Turkey
Kusadasi 1 Night
- 5.0
Top Choice
Charisma Deluxe Hotel
Address: Akyar Mevkii No:7, Kusadasi 09400, Turkey
Cappadocia 3 Nights
- 5.0
Top Choice
Mithra Cave Hotel
Address: Aydınlı Mahallesi, Akgül Sokak No: 10, Goreme 50180, Turkey
- 4.0
Kayakapi Premium Caves
Address: Kayakapi Mahallesi,Kuscular Sokak No:4350400, Urgup Cappadocia, Turkey
- 4.0
Cappadocia Cave Resort & Spa
Address: Goreme Cad. Divanli Sok. No. 83, Uchisar 50240, Turkey
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