Tour#1 10-Day Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale Türkiye Highlights Tour

Today explores the historic heart of Istanbul, shaped by Byzantine and Ottoman rule. Begin at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once the center of imperial ceremonies and chariot races. Continue to the Blue Mosque, admired for its elegant proportions, followed by Hagia Sophia, one of the most influential monuments in world history. In the afternoon, visit Topkapı Palace, the former residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries, including the Harem, offering insight into palace life and court hierarchy. The day concludes at the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, an underground Roman water reservoir showcasing remarkable ancient engineering.  Overnight in Istanbul.

This day highlights Istanbul’s commercial, religious, and maritime identity. Begin at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest covered markets, reflecting centuries of trade. Continue to the Süleymaniye Mosque, designed by the master architect Sinan and representing the peak of classical Ottoman architecture. Visit the richly decorated Rüstem Pasha Mosque, famous for its İznik tilework, followed by time at the lively Spice Market, historically linked to global trade routes. In the afternoon, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, offering scenic views of palaces, mosques, and waterfront neighborhoods along the strait between Europe and Asia.  Overnight in Istanbul.

Today explores Istanbul beyond its imperial core. Walk along İstiklal Street, the city’s most vibrant pedestrian avenue, reflecting Istanbul’s 19th- and early-20th-century transformation. Visit the iconic Galata Tower for panoramic views over the Golden Horn and Bosphorus, followed by the Chora Church (Kariye), renowned for its exceptional Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. Continue through the historic Fener and Balat neighborhoods, known for their colorful streets and multicultural heritage. The tour ends in the afternoon, followed by transfer to the airport for the evening flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia (Ürgüp / Nevşehir).

Early risers may enjoy an optional hot air balloon flight, offering unforgettable sunrise views over Cappadocia’s valleys and fairy chimneys. Later in the morning, begin the guided tour with panoramic views from Uçhisar Castle, the region’s highest natural viewpoint. Continue to the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring rock-cut churches and monastic spaces decorated with Byzantine frescoes. Visit Paşabağ (Monks Valley), where distinctive mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys reflect both the geology and spiritual history of the region. In Avanos, visit a traditional pottery workshop using red clay from the Kızılırmak River, before ending the day in Devrent Valley, known for its imaginative rock formations shaped by erosion.  Overnight in Cappadocia.

Begin the day at Kaymaklı Underground City, one of Cappadocia’s largest subterranean settlements, featuring multi-level tunnels, storerooms, kitchens, and ventilation shafts that once sheltered entire communities. Continue to Keşlik Monastery, a tranquil rock-cut complex with chapels and communal spaces illustrating Cappadocia’s monastic traditions. In the afternoon, visit Mustafapaşa (Sinasos), a former Greek-Ottoman village known for its elegant stone mansions and refined architectural details. This day offers a deeper look into Cappadocia’s layered past, blending early Christian heritage with rural Anatolian life.  Overnight in Cappadocia.

Begin with a scenic walk through Red Valley, one of Cappadocia’s most atmospheric landscapes, where soft volcanic formations glow with warm tones throughout the day. After the hike, enjoy a Cappadocian cooking experience, hosted by a local family or women’s cooperative, preparing regional dishes using traditional Anatolian methods. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for a flight to Izmir, followed by a road transfer to Kuşadası.  Overnight in Kuşadası.

Today is dedicated to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean world and a major center of Roman administration, trade, and religion. Walk along marble-paved streets past the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, and the impressive Great Theatre, which once held up to 25,000 spectators. Continue to the House of the Virgin Mary, an important pilgrimage site, followed by St. John Basilica, traditionally believed to mark the burial place of the Apostle John. From here, view the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.  Overnight in Kuşadası.

Depart Kuşadası for a full-day excursion inland. Visit Aphrodisias, a UNESCO-listed ancient city dedicated to Aphrodite, renowned for its marble sculpture school and exceptionally well-preserved stadium, agora, and reliefs. Continue to Pamukkale, where the ancient spa city of Hierapolis was built around natural thermal springs. Walk through the ruins of baths, temples, and necropolis, and view the famous white travertine terraces, formed by mineral-rich waters flowing down the hillside for thousands of years. Return to Kuşadası in the evening.  Overnight in Kuşadası.

After breakfast, private transfer to Izmir Airport (ADB) for your onward flight.