Timeless Turkey

Day 01: Arrive Istanbul

• Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 02: Istanbul – Full day Istanbul old city tour with local Lunch

• We begin our unforgettable journey in the Sultanahmet district — the very heart of old Istanbul — at the magnificent Hagia Sophia (From outside only). Built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century AD, this architectural masterpiece stands as one of the greatest wonders of the world. Its massive dome dominates the city skyline, while its shimmering mosaics depict emperors and empresses in timeless glory. Our next stop is the enchanting Blue Mosque, named after the thousands of exquisite blue tiles that adorn its interior. Built in the 17th century, it is the only imperial mosque in Istanbul with six elegant minarets reaching toward the sky. We then step into history at the ancient Hippodrome, once the grand stadium of Byzantium. In its heyday, it hosted up to 100,000 spectators and displayed magnificent monuments brought from every corner of the empire. After a delightful lunch break, our tour continues to the legendary Topkapi Palace(closed on Tuesdays) — the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for over four centuries. Here, you’ll explore its courtyards, pavilions, and priceless collections of jewels and artifacts. We conclude our day at the world-famous Grand Bazaar(closed on Sundays), the beating heart of old Istanbul’s commerce. Lose yourself among its 4,000 colorful shops filled with handwoven carpets, silks, jewelry, ceramics, icons, and fine leather goods — a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 03: Istanbul - Full day Bosphorus cruise & 2 continents tour with lunch

• Our tour begins with a visit to the historical City Walls, once guarding Constantinople. They were first breached by the Fourth Crusade in 1204 and later by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror’s forces in 1453, marking the city’s historic fall. We continue to the Golden Horn, a natural harbor stretching about 8 kilometers, where two streams meet at its far end. From here, enjoy beautiful views of Istanbul’s old skyline. Next, we visit the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) — a place filled with the delightful aromas of hundreds of spices and vibrant market life. Then, embark on a Bosphorus cruise, a scenic journey between Europe and Asia. Along the way, see landmarks such as Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, and Ortakoy Village — a symbol of harmony where a church, mosque, and synagogue have coexisted for centuries. You’ll also admire the lush gardens of Yildiz Palace and view the majestic Rumeli Fortress, built by Sultan Mehmet in 1452 to control the strait. After lunch, we visit Beylerbeyi Palace, the elegant summer residence of the Ottoman sultans, with its original furnishings and peaceful gardens. Our final stop is Camlica Hill, the highest point in Istanbul, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus. Before returning, enjoy shopping at Bedesten, where you can see traditional silk weaving and carpet making demonstrations, and explore fine selections of jewelry, handicrafts, carpets, and leather goods. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 04: Istanbul-Cappadocia

• Transfer to Istanbul (IST/SAW) Airport for your flight to Cappadocia (ASR/NAV) Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia.

Day 05: Cappadocia-Full day South Cappadocia tour with Lunch

• Start your day with a hotel pick-up and head toward the stunning Red Valley, passing through Cavusin. Here, you’ll explore the valley’s famous rock-cut churches and enjoy a scenic 2 km hike surrounded by vibrant rock formations. Next, visit Cavusin Village, once abandoned due to rockfalls. Wander through the atmospheric remains of Old Cavusin, filled with ancient cave dwellings, stone houses, and peaceful hermitages carved into the cliffs. After lunch, continue to the beautiful Pigeon Valley, known for its sweeping views and historic dovecotes carved into the soft volcanic rock. In the afternoon, descend into one of Cappadocia’s most fascinating wonders: the Underground City. Early Christians once lived here in safety and secrecy, creating an extraordinary network of nearly 100 interconnected tunnels beneath the village. Originally carved to eight levels—four of which are open to visitors today—this underground world once sheltered up to 5,000 people during times of danger. Many of the tunnels are still used today as storerooms, cellars, and stables, keeping the region’s traditions alive. Overnight in Cappadocia.

Day 06: Depart Cappadocia-End of Tour

• Check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport.