Semi-Private Tour to Old City (Sultanahmet District) of Istanbul – Flight to Cappadocia – Overnight at Cappadocia

Istanbul Old City Tour - The travel package services commence with a guided walking tour of Istanbul’s historic Old City. Participants will meet their licensed tour guide and embark on a semi-private tour, exploring the heart of Sultanahmet, the city’s ancient center. The meeting (departure) point for today’s tour is the German Fountain in the Sultanahmet District. The tour guide will be waiting there, and then the old city walking tour will begin.

Sultanahmet District - Today’s tour will cover visits to the highlights of the Sultanahmet District, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, German Fountain, and the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı). The tour guide will provide details about the Sultanahmet District at the start of the tour.

German Fountain - The German Fountain, located at the northern end of Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, across from the Mausoleum of Sultan Ahmed I, is a striking gazebo-style structure. Built to commemorate the second anniversary of German Emperor Wilhelm II’s 1898 visit to Istanbul, the fountain was constructed in Germany, transported in pieces, and assembled on-site in 1900. Designed in the Neo-Byzantine style, it features an octagonal dome supported by eight marble columns, with its interior adorned in stunning golden mosaics.

Hippodrome - The Hippodrome of Constantinople, now known as Sultanahmet Square, was once the grand chariot racing arena and a key social and sporting hub of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Today, it stands in modern-day Istanbul as a public square, renowned for its rich history and the surviving remnants of its ancient structures.

Hagia Sophia Mosque - Visit the Hagia Sophia with pre-booked tickets and experience one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, deeply rooted in Greek Orthodox history. Discover how this magnificent structure was transformed into a mosque following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Marvel at the unique blend of architectural elements from both a mosque and a church, coexisting harmoniously. Take in the grandeur of its soaring dome, towering minarets, intricate mosaics, vivid paintings, and ancient Roman columns. Learn about the addition of exquisite İznik tiles over the years, the craftsmanship behind the Virgin Mary mosaic, and the Ottoman tradition of burying their sultans in the courtyard.

Topkapi Palace - Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi) is more than the former imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans; it also served as the center of executive and judicial power for nearly 400 years. This architectural masterpiece stands as a symbol of the Ottoman Empire’s grandeur and influence. A stunning example of Oriental design, the palace showcases the empire’s wealth and authority. Please note that visits to the Harem section are not included. * The Topkapi Palace is closed to visits on each Tuesday. That’s why, this visit will be replaced with Istanbul Archaeological Museum, if your experience date is Tuesday.

Kapali Carsi - The Grand Bazaar, known as Kapalıçarşı in Turkish, is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, nestled in the heart of Istanbul. Established in the 15th century, this vast marketplace spans over 60 streets and alleys, housing more than 4,000 shops and stalls. Bursting with energy and color, the bazaar offers an incredible variety of goods, from jewelry, carpets, and textiles to ceramics, spices, leather products, and traditional Turkish handicrafts. It’s a dream destination for those seeking unique souvenirs and gifts. The Grand Bazaar’s architecture is equally captivating, featuring a maze-like layout, vaulted ceilings, and vibrant displays. Strolling through its winding pathways allows visitors to soak up Istanbul’s rich history and culture while engaging with friendly local merchants.

Istanbul - At the conclusion of the tour, a driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Cappadocia.

Cappadocia - Upon arrival at Cappadocia airport, a driver will meet you at the arrivals terminal exit, holding a sign with your name. From there, you’ll be transported to your hotel in Cappadocia, which is about an hour’s drive away.

Guided Tour to Ephesus and Its Surroundings - Flight from Izmir to Cappadocia - Overnight at Cappadocia

Kuşadası - After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, the tour guide will pick you up around 09:00 AM for a full-day tour to Ephesus and its surroundings. * At the end of the tour, you will be directly transferred to Izmir Airport for your flight to Cappadocia.

Kusadasi Gazi Begendi Park - Before driving to the Ephesus area, there will be a stop at Gazi Begendi Park (Hill) for photo opportunities of the stunning Kusadasi Bay.

Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House) - The first visit will be to the pilgrimage site claimed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary. Upon arrival, visitors will be captivated by the natural beauty surrounding the monument.

Ancient City of Ephesus - The next visit will be to the Ephesus Ancient City. Ephesus was one of the most important harbor cities in the ancient world and is mentioned in the Book of Revelations as one of the seven churches. The Celsus Library and theater in Ephesus are other highlights. Visitors will see the Celcus Library, Temple of Hadrian, Fountain of Trajan, Odeon, Agora, Fountain of Domitian, Hercule Gate, Grand Theater, Nike, Ancient Toilets, and more during the tour of this ancient city.

Selcuk - There will be a stop at a traditional Turkish restaurant for lunch, which is included in the guided tour. After lunch, there will be an experience at a traditional handcraft cooperative to learn about the special arts of Turkish villagers.

The Basilica of Saint John - The tour includes a visit to this ancient Basilica dedicated to the author of Revelation, St. John. According to legend, St. John died in this church after having written the Fourth Gospel, and the Basilica was built by Emperor Justinian over St. John’s burial place.

Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport - At the end of the tour, participants will be transferred to Izmir airport for their flight to Cappadocia.

Cappadocia - Upon arrival at Cappadocia airport, another driver will meet participants at the exit gate of the arrival terminal and transfer them to their hotel in Cappadocia.

• Transfers at the mentioned airports for domestic flights in the itinerary
• Flight Tickets: Istanbul to Denizli - Izmir to Istanbul or Izmir to Cappadocia
• XX nights hotel accommodation including breakfast
• Hotel pick-up & drop-off services for each mentioned tour and transfer on itinerary
• Professional tour guide licensed by Ministry of Culture and Tourism

• Dinner & Drinks
• Entrance fees of the museums (Your guide will have pre-paid tickets to skip the line.)

This 3 days tour, starts and ends in Istanbul. Book that pre-planned guarantee departure tour, and then soak up some of Turkey’s rich history when you visit Ephesus and Cappadocia. Two nights accommodation at cave hotel, 2 full-day guided tours, 2 lunch, 2 breakfast, and airport transfers are all included. For an even more unforgettable experience, wake up early for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys (optional).

• The prices of package are valid for accommodation at the double or triple room. If you would like stay at single room, there should be single room supplement cost.
• Your accommodation will be in Vintage Cave Hotel / Cappadocia. If this hotel is not available for standard/superior rooms on your travel dates, the local tour operator can change it to equivalent hotel. The local tour operator will inform you that detail next 72 hours after your booking to this trip.
• The pick-up time details are approximately. The team of local tour operator will contact you each day for give you information about the exact pick-up time details of next day.
• The local tour operator will send the e-tickets of your domestic flights six days before of your departure date. Some days, there are no direct flight between Cappadocia and Izmir(Ephesus). That’s why, this domestic flight could be a connecting flight if there are no direct flight on your travel date.
• You will have 15kg luggage + 8kg hand bag quota for each domestic flight. If you will need more luggage capacity, please inform that to us.
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
• Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults.
• The Standard Balloon Ride has an One-hour approximately flight duration with 20 to 28 people capacity basket. The flight duration could be 50-55 minutes or 65-70 minutes. This situation depend the weather conditions before landing. Total activity duration is approximately 3 hours.
• Pick-up Time for Hot Air Balloon Ride : Summer (April to October) 03:30am to 05:00am - Winter (November to March) 05:00am to 06:00am. Exact pick-up time will be informed you at the late afternoon one day before.
• Hot air ballooning is a fully weather-dependent activity and the Civil Aviation Authority determines whether the flight will be held. If your flight is cancelled due to inclement weather conditions, you will be refunded the cost of hot air balloon ride. “t weather conditions, you will be refunded the cost of hot air balloon ride.
• There are no any guiding service by the licensed tour guide for hot air balloon ride. The staff and pilots will assist you on your balloon ride experience.
• The children who 6 years old and under are not allowed to balloon tours.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.