Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya

Flight to Istanbul

We will begin our adventure in Turkey with passport and luggage check-in to reach Istanbul, a city with a long and interesting history, counted among the largest urban centers in the world. 

Istanbul

After arriving in Istanbul and checking into the hotel, we have a welcome dinner awaiting us. Then, accommodation in a city whose history began 3,000 years ago. The city emerged in the place where the legendary Byzantium was located in ancient times, later becoming Constantinople.

Istanbul

After breakfast, we will begin our tour of Istanbul. We will start with the Topkapi Palace, which served as the residence for Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years. Next, we will visit the Roman Hippodrome.

After lunch, we will reach the famous Hagia Sophia, also known as the Church of Holy Wisdom, and then the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque.

We will also stop at the tomb of Sultan Mahmud and the ancient Ottoman cemetery, Cemberlitas, and finally, we will visit the Grand Bazaar – the best shopping center in the Old World with around 4,000 shops.

Return to the hotel and overnight stay. For those interested, there is an optional evening cruise on the Bosphorus with dinner and a traditional dance show.

Istanbul

Today, we will head to the Beyoğlu district, where the famous Galata Tower is located. It is one of the most important attractions on the map of Istanbul. We will also stroll through the narrow streets of this part of the city and shop on the famous Independence Avenue.

Next, we will visit the Suleymaniye Mosque. During the tour, we will have lunch at one of the local eateries near the Spice Bazaar. Return to the hotel.

Istanbul, Cappadocia

Transfer to the airport in Istanbul and flight to Cappadocia – a volcanic region resembling the surface of the moon.

We will stay in a unique hotel where rock-carved apartments offer peace and tranquility, providing an unforgettable experience.

For those interested: an afternoon ATV tour at sunset, horseback riding, or a jeep safari tour.

Capadocia, Antalaya

For those interested, a very early wake-up call to take a hot air balloon flight at sunrise.

After breakfast, we will head to a viewpoint overlooking Pigeon Valley, where we will learn about the rich history of Cappadocia and its unique rock formations.

Next, we will explore Monk’s Valley with its famous mushroom-shaped chimneys and the rock-cut cell of St. Simon the Monk. We will also witness a demonstration of making clay pots on a potter’s wheel, with the opportunity to try our hand at this local tradition.

Finally, we will visit the Underground City of Kaymakli, one of the deepest caves in Cappadocia. Lunch will be provided during the tour. Overnight stay in a hotel in Cappadocia.

Antalaya

After breakfast, we will drive to Antalya. Upon checking into the hotel, we will begin the sightseeing tour of Antalya. We will visit the Hadrian’s Gate, which serves as the main entrance to the Old Town in Antalya.

We will enjoy the sunset from the best vantage point in the city. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

Antalaya

On this day, we will embark on a full-day cruise along the coast. Listening to the waves, we can relax on the deck, soak up the sun, and when the captain drops anchor, take a dip in the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Lunch will be served on board the ship, followed by several opportunities to swim, snorkel, and immerse ourselves in the festive atmosphere of the evening.

Departure from Istanbul

And so our adventure in Turkey comes to an end. After checking out from the hotel, we will transfer to Antalya Airport, fly to Istanbul, and then return to our homes.

We also recommend exploring other trips to Europe, such as Spain, Portugal, and Greece.

Turkey 2024: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya