Welcome to Turkey!

Your journey begins the moment you arrive in this enchanting land. Enjoy a hassle-free transfer from the airport to your carefully chosen accommodation—whether you opt for a standard, top-end, or premium stay, rest assured that comfort and hospitality await you.

Once settled in, take a moment to relax and unwind, immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of Istanbul, a city where history and modernity blend seamlessly. As the sun sets, get ready for your first overnight stay in this captivating metropolis, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure ahead.

Explore Istanbul: A True Turkish Delight

Wake up to a delicious breakfast at your accommodation before setting off on an unforgettable journey through Istanbul, a city where history, culture, and grandeur intertwine. After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to explore some of the most awe-inspiring landmarks that have captivated travelers for centuries.

Tour Highlights:

✅ Sultan Ahmet Square – The historic heart of Istanbul, surrounded by architectural wonders.

✅ Blue Mosque – Admire its breathtaking design and intricate tilework (Please note: Entry is not available during Friday prayers).

✅ Hagia Sophia – A magnificent fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, standing as one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

✅ Topkapi Palace – Step into the lavish world of Ottoman sultans and explore their former royal residence (Closed on Tuesdays).

✅ Grand Bazaar – Lose yourself in the vibrant maze of over 4,000 shops, making it the largest covered market on Earth (Closed on Sundays).

Our Recommendation:

After the guided tour, take advantage of some free time to continue exploring Istanbul at your own pace. We highly recommend visiting the Spice Bazaar, a sensory wonderland filled with aromatic Turkish tea, exotic spices, and delectable sweets. (Please note: The Spice Bazaar is not included in the guided tour, but you’ll have ample time to visit before returning to your hotel.)

Important Notes:

• Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
• Blue Mosque entry is unavailable during Friday prayers.
• Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.

Pickup Information:

We offer hotel pickups from central locations, including:
📍 Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, and Taksim.
(For pickups outside these areas, an additional charge may apply. Please consult our team for details.)

✨ Overnight stay in Istanbul ✨

Sights Visited

Dolmabahce Palace & Bosphorus Cruise: A Journey Through Elegance and Scenic Beauty

Start your day with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Istanbul. This half-day tour blends history, breathtaking architecture, and panoramic views as you explore both the European and Asian sides of this remarkable city.

Tour Highlights:

🏰 Dolmabahce Palace

Step into the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, the last and most opulent residence of the Ottoman Sultans.
✨ Marvel at its lavish décor, grand chandeliers, and exquisite antique furniture.
✨ Stroll through ornate gardens and explore over 200 magnificently adorned rooms.
📌 Important Note: Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays. On these days, the tour will begin two hours later.

🚢 Bosphorus Cruise

Board a scenic cruise along the iconic Bosphorus Strait, where Europe and Asia meet.
🌊 Enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul’s stunning skyline and historic landmarks.
🌿 Stop at Kucuksu Palace, a hidden gem on the Asian side, surrounded by lush landscapes.
🏛️ Sail past majestic waterfront mansions, ancient fortresses, and bustling harbors.
🎭 The cruise concludes at Eminönü, just steps away from the Spice Bazaar, where you can explore at your leisure.

Key Information:

✔ Dolmabahce Palace and Kucuksu Palace are the only walking stops on this tour.
✔ All other landmarks will be viewed from the boat or bus for a relaxing sightseeing experience.

Evening Travel:

After an unforgettable day, prepare for an overnight bus journey to the Ephesus region (Selcuk or Kusadasi), where more historical wonders await.

✨ Overnight journey to Ephesus ✨

Sights Visited

Arrival in the Ephesus Region

Welcome to the Ephesus region, where history and legend intertwine. Upon arrival in Selcuk or Kusadasi, head to your chosen accommodation and take some time to settle in and refresh before your day of exploration.

Ephesus Full-Day Tour: A Journey Through Ancient Wonders

Start your day with a delicious breakfast, followed by a guided tour of some of the most remarkable historical sites in the region.

🏛️ Ephesus: Walk Through the Ancient Roman World

Step back in time as you explore the awe-inspiring ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.
✨ Wander through its marble-paved streets, lined with remnants of grand temples, bathhouses, and an immense theater that once hosted over 25,000 spectators.
✨ Discover the Library of Celsus, a stunning architectural masterpiece that once held thousands of scrolls.
✨ Feel the echoes of history in this once-thriving metropolis, which was home to over 200,000 residents more than 3,000 years ago.

🕊️ House of the Virgin Mary: A Sacred Pilgrimage Site

Journey to the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the place where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her final years.
✨ A site of deep spiritual significance, it is visited by pilgrims from all over the world.
✨ Experience the peaceful atmosphere, and if you wish, light a candle or leave a wish at the wishing wall.

⛪ Temple of Artemis: Echoes of the Ancient World

Visit the remnants of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
✨ Though only a few columns remain today, the temple was once an architectural marvel and a center of worship and trade in the ancient world.
✨ Learn about its storied past, from its grand construction to its eventual decline.

Evening at Leisure

After a day of immersion in ancient history, return to your accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi for a relaxing evening.

✨ Overnight stay in the Ephesus region ✨

Sights Visited

Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour: A Journey Through Natural and Ancient Wonders

Start your day with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Selçuk or Kuşadası, following a delightful breakfast. Today’s journey takes you to Pamukkale, one of Turkey’s most spectacular natural wonders, and Hierapolis, an ancient city steeped in history.

Tour Highlights:

🌿 Pamukkale (Cotton Castle): A Natural Marvel

Upon arrival in Pamukkale, enjoy a delicious lunch before setting out to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
✨ Marvel at the dazzling white travertine terraces, naturally formed by mineral-rich thermal waters.
✨ Walk barefoot along the terraces and feel the warm, healing waters beneath your feet.
✨ Capture breathtaking panoramic views of this surreal landscape, a true feast for the senses.

🏛️ Hierapolis: The Ancient Spa City

Step into Hierapolis, a Greco-Roman city built atop Pamukkale’s thermal springs, once a renowned center for healing.
✨ Discover well-preserved ruins, including the grand theater, necropolis, and thermal baths.
✨ Hear fascinating stories from your guide about its past as a flourishing ancient spa town.
✨ Stroll through the historic streets and imagine life in this once-thriving city.

🪂 Optional Activity: Pamukkale Paragliding

Evening Travel:

After an incredible day of exploration, prepare for your overnight bus journey to Cappadocia, where otherworldly landscapes and fairy chimneys await your arrival.

For the adventurous traveler, elevate your experience with an optional paragliding tour.
✨ Soar above Pamukkale’s white terraces and Hierapolis’s ancient ruins, enjoying an unparalleled bird’s-eye view.
✨ Experience the thrill of flight while taking in one of Turkey’s most breathtaking landscapes.

✨ Overnight journey to Cappadocia ✨

Sights Visited

Welcome to Cappadocia: A Land of Dreams
Arrive this morning in Goreme, where the extraordinary landscapes of Cappadocia welcome you with their breathtaking beauty. This region, famed for its fairy chimneys, rock-carved dwellings, and surreal valleys, promises an unforgettable adventure.
South Cappadocia Tour: Unveiling Hidden Wonders
After a hearty breakfast, get ready for a guided exploration of South Cappadocia’s most fascinating sites.

🏰 Kaymaklı Underground City: A Hidden Marvel
✨ Descend into the ancient underground city of Kaymaklı, a labyrinthine network of tunnels, chambers, and living spaces that once sheltered entire communities.
✨ Learn how these ingenious subterranean cities protected their inhabitants from invaders and harsh climates.

🌄 Uchisar Castle Panorama: A View from the Top
✨ Stop at Uchisar Castle, the highest rock formation in Cappadocia.
✨ Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and fairy chimneys.
🌿 Meskendir Valley: A Scenic Stroll
✨ Embark on a leisurely walk through Meskendir Valley, a landscape of lush greenery, winding trails, and surreal rock formations.
✨ Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and take plenty of photos of this natural wonder.

Optional Adventures

🏎️ ATV (Quad) Bike Safari – A Thrilling Sunset Experience
For adventure seekers, embark on an exhilarating 2-hour ATV safari at approximately 5:00 PM.
✨ Ride through rugged landscapes, ancient valleys, and surreal rock formations.
✨ Catch a spectacular sunset over the unique terrain of Cappadocia, creating an unforgettable memory.

Evening Option: Turkish Night Show & Dinner
End your day with a night of cultural entertainment!
✨ Enjoy a lively Turkish Night Show, featuring:
✅ Traditional folk music and performances.
✅ Whirling Dervishes showcasing a mesmerizing spiritual dance.
✅ Belly dancing and a reenactment of a Turkish wedding.
✨ Savor a delicious traditional dinner, complete with local specialties and drinks.
✨ Immerse yourself in the rich culture and warm hospitality of Turkey.

Overnight in Cappadocia
After a day of exploration and adventure, retreat to your comfortable accommodation in Cappadocia for a well-deserved rest.

✨ Get ready for another day of discovery in this magical region! ✨

Sights Visited

Early Morning Option: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight
🌅 Start your day with a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
For those seeking unparalleled views and magical moments, embark on a Hot Air Balloon Flight over Cappadocia’s surreal landscape.
✨ Float gently above the fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock formations as the first light of dawn paints the sky in hues of orange and pink.
✨ Witness the breathtaking scenery from above, an experience that captures the true essence of Cappadocia.
✨ This is one of the most popular bucket-list activities in the world (Additional cost applies).
📌 Tip: Hot air balloon rides fill up quickly! It’s recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.

North Cappadocia Tour: A Day of Exploration & Culture
After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided tour of North Cappadocia, a region rich in history, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage.

🌙 Devrent Valley: A Surreal Landscape
✨ Stroll through the otherworldly rock formations of Devrent Valley, often compared to a lunar landscape.
✨ See the “Camel Rock” and other naturally sculpted formations, shaped by centuries of wind and erosion.
🌟 Three Beauties: An Iconic Cappadocia Landmark
✨ Visit the Three Beauties, a famous trio of fairy chimneys that have become one of the region’s most recognizable sights.
✨ Learn about the legends and folklore associated with these unique rock formations.

⛪ Goreme Open-Air Museum: A UNESCO Treasure
✨ Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, home to ancient rock-cut churches and monasteries.
✨ Admire the beautifully preserved frescoes, depicting biblical scenes and early Christian art.
✨ Discover the historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a cornerstone of Cappadocia’s rich past.

🏡 Local Villages & Handicrafts: A Cultural Experience
✨ Visit traditional villages to experience the authentic culture of Cappadocia.
✨ Watch artisans at work, crafting handmade pottery, carpets, and onyx jewelry, using techniques passed down through generations.
✨ A perfect chance to bring home a unique, locally made souvenir.

Evening Travel: Return to Istanbul
After a final day of exploration in Cappadocia, prepare for your overnight bus journey back to Istanbul, where your adventure comes full circle.

✨ Overnight journey to Istanbul ✨

Sights Visited

Arrival in Istanbul: The Journey Comes Full Circle

Welcome back to Istanbul, where your incredible journey through Turkey’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture comes to a close. Arriving early this morning, you’ll have time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories made along the way.

✨ Need Assistance? ✨
If you require accommodation arrangements, additional bookings, or any other travel assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Alaturca. Our team is always happy to help ensure a smooth and hassle-free conclusion to your adventure.

💙 Thank You for Traveling with Us! 💙
It has been our pleasure to guide you through this remarkable journey, and we hope you leave with beautiful memories and stories to cherish forever. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you again!