Highlights of Turkey: from Istanbul to Cappadocia & the Aegean

Istanbul

Day 1: Welcome to Istanbul

Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can settle in and relax after your flight.

The afternoon is free for you to explore the city at your own pace. Perhaps take a short walk through the nearby neighborhoods or enjoy a Turkish coffee at a local café.

In the evening, join a welcome dinner (optional) at a traditional Turkish restaurant to kick off your journey with authentic flavors and warm hospitality.

Istanbul

Day 2: Istanbul walking tour

Embark on a city walking tour to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks. Visit the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, and admire the Blue Mosque with its intricate tilework. Walk through the ancient Hippodrome, where you’ll see the Obelisk of Theodosius, then continue to the Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern.

In the afternoon, stroll through the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, for shopping and cultural immersion.

In the evening, we recommend an optional Bosphorus dinner cruise. Dine under the stars with views of Istanbul’s skyline and illuminated palaces, accompanied by local performances.

Istanbul - Cappadocia

Day 3: Explore Cappadocia

Take a morning flight to Kayseri or Nevşehir, then transfer to the heart of Cappadocia. There, begin your visit with the Göreme Open Air Museum, home to beautifully preserved rock-cut churches and Byzantine frescoes.

Afterward, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon, taking in the unique landscape or resting before your next adventure.

Cappadocia

Day 4: Hot air ballooning over fascinating landscapes

Start your day with an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s surreal landscape. Afterward, visit Uçhisar Castle for sweeping panoramic views of the valleys below.

Continue to Pasabag Valley, known for its striking fairy chimneys, before descending into the fascinating underground city of Özkonak that was once used for shelter and protection.

Optionally, head to Avanos in the afternoon for a traditional pottery workshop to watch artisans at work. You could even try shaping your own piece of pottery.

Cappadocia

Day 5: Cooking class or visit to Soganli Valley

Wake to a a scenic breakfast overlooking the valley as dozens of colorful hot air balloons drift across the morning sky. For your second day in Cappadocia, choose between two immersive experiences:

Option 1: Spend the day with a local cook in Göreme preparing traditional Turkish dishes. While your meal simmers, explore pottery making, either through a hands-on class or a demonstration. Return to enjoy your self-cooked meal with a local family before visiting traditional carpet shops for a live weaving demonstration.

Option 2: Discover the peaceful Soganli Valley, known for its scenic trails and rock-cut churches. Walk among ancient cave dwellings and explore frescoed chapels dating back to the Byzantine era.

Cappadocia - Konya - Antalya

Day 6: Explorations along the way to Antalya

Today begins with a drive to Konya (approx. 3 hours). En route, stop at the Sultanhani Caravanserai, a remarkably preserved 13th-century inn that once hosted Silk Road travelers and their camels.

In Konya, visit the Mevlana Museum, the spiritual center of the Whirling Dervishes and a key site in Sufi culture.

After exploring Konya, continue your drive to Antalya where you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening by the coast.

Antalya

Day 7: A tour of Antalya

After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, soak in the relaxed coastal atmosphere. Then embark on a full-day tour of Antalya, beginning with visits to its scenic waterfalls, such as Düden or Karpuzkaldıran.

Next, stroll through Kaleiçi, the historic Old Town with cobbled streets, Ottoman-era houses, and a picturesque ancient harbor.

Enjoy the evening at your leisure: relax by the sea, shop for local crafts, or dine in one of Antalya’s charming restaurants.

Antalya

Day 8: Choose your own adventure

Today is a free day in Antalya to enjoy at your own pace.

Optional experiences include relaxing at one of the region’s beautiful Mediterranean beaches, or taking a day trip to Alanya, which is known for its stunning coastal views and historic sites.

Alternatively, explore the impressive Roman ruins of Perge and Aspendos where you can walk through ancient streets and see one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world.

Antalya - Pamukkale - Kusadasi

Day 9: Day trip to Pamukkale

Embark on a day trip to Pamukkale, a natural and historical wonder. Explore the ruins of Hierapolis, including its impressive ancient theater, and stroll through the ancient necropolis, one of the largest in Turkey.

Later, walk barefoot on the stunning white travertine terraces, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters cascading down the hillside.

After your visit, continue your journey with a drive to the coastal town of Kuşadası where you’ll check into your hotel and unwind.

Kusadasi

Day 10: Ancient wonders in Ephesus

Begin your day with a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world. Explore the iconic Library of Celsus, walk along Marble Street, and stand in the awe-inspiring Great Theatre.

If you wish, you can visit the House of the Virgin Mary on Mount Koressos, a peaceful pilgrimage site believed to be her final home.

Stop at the site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Return to Kuşadası for a relaxed evening. Depending on what you fancy, explore the town or enjoy dinner by the sea.

Istanbul

Day 11: Sail the Bosphorus

Take a morning flight back to Istanbul.

Here, we recommend a scenic Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia. On the Asian side, visit the elegant Beylerbeyi Palace and take in panoramic views from Çamlıca Hill.

Spend your afternoon with free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Visit the vibrant Spice Bazaar or unwind with a traditional Turkish bath experience.

Istanbul

Day 12: Farewell, Turkey

As your trip comes to an end, you wlil be transferred to the airport for your flight home. Return with memories of an unforgettable Turkish adventure.