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15 - 20
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Airplane
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Group
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English
Itinerary Overview
Experience the magic of history on this comprehensive Turkey highlights tour. Your journey starts in Istanbul, where you will marvel at the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace before a scenic Bosphorus cruise. Next, fly from Istanbul to Cappadocia to explore the surreal landscapes of Devrent Valley, Pasabag, and Avanos. Witness the historic Zelve Valley and descend into the depths of a massive Underground City. While here, you can enjoy an optional hot air balloon ride for an extra cost. The adventure continues as you visit Ephesus, walking through the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater. With domestic flights, premium accommodation, and expert guides, this Turkey highlights tour delivers the ultimate travel experience. Book your dream Turkish vacation today.
Trip Highlights
- Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque – Architectural masterpiece
- Blue Mosque – Iconic tiles
- Topkapi Palace – Ottoman history
- Bosphorus – Scenic cruise
- Devrent Valley – Fairy chimneys
- Pasabag – Mushroom-shaped pinnacles
- Underground City – Subterranean network
- Ephesus – Ancient ruins
- Library of Celsus – Roman grandeur
- House of the Virgin Mary – Sacred pilgrimage
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive in Istanbul at any time. Upon your arrival at Istanbul New Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), our team will be waiting for you at the exit of the international arrivals area, holding a sign with your name on it. You will then be transferred to your hotel for check-in. Overnight in Istanbul.
The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city at your leisure. Alternatively, you can choose to join the Night Cruise on the Bosphorus with Dinner & Show at an additional cost. This optional activity offers a magical evening on the Bosphorus, featuring a delightful dinner, live entertainment, and stunning views of Istanbul’s illuminated landmarks.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Istanbul: Antea Hotel Oldcity, Muyan Suites, or Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast, around 8:30 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel for a full-day guided tour of Istanbul’s most iconic Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks. First, visit Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque Grand Mosque, a masterpiece that served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum, showcasing centuries of Christian and Islamic heritage. Next, head to the Blue Mosque, celebrated for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and six towering minarets, a hallmark of Ottoman architecture.
Continue with a stop at the Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine social life. Here, admire the Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpent Column, and German Fountain, each steeped in historical significance. After these explorations, enjoy a lunch break at a local restaurant and savor traditional Turkish cuisine.
In the afternoon, discover Topkapi Palace Museum, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Walk through its grand courtyards and treasuries, and optionally visit the Harem, the private quarters of the sultan and his family. Conclude your day at the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Explore its lively atmosphere and browse through an array of goods, from spices and carpets to jewelry and ceramics. At the end of the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel around 5:00 PM. The rest of the evening is yours to relax or explore more of Istanbul at your leisure. Overnight in Istanbul.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Istanbul: Antea Hotel Oldcity, Muyan Suites, or Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast around 8:30 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel to join the Half-day Morning Bosphorus Cruise. Your day begins with a visit to the Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar), where you can experience the vibrant colors, aromas, and atmosphere of one of Istanbul’s most iconic marketplaces.
Following your visit, you’ll board a shared boat for a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus — the famous strait that separates Europe and Asia and connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. During the cruise, enjoy breathtaking views of Dolmabahçe Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, the majestic Bosphorus Bridge, as well as centuries-old fortresses and elegant waterfront mansions that line both shores.
After the tour ends, you will be transferred back to your hotel at approximately 12:15 PM. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Overnight in Istanbul.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Istanbul: Antea Hotel Oldcity, Muyan Suites, or Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast, you will check out of your room before 12:00 PM and be transferred to the airport for your flight to Kayseri or Nevsehir, subject to flight availability in the late morning or afternoon. Upon your arrival at the airport, our representative will greet you and facilitate your transfer to your hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is free for you to relax. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Cappadocia: Heaven Cave House, Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel, Zula Cave House, or Kismet Cave House.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
For an optional extra, consider booking an early morning Hot Air Balloon Ride to enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Cappadocia’s valleys. Please note that this activity comes at an additional cost.
After breakfast around 9:30 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel to start your full-day tour of North Cappadocia. Your first stop will be Devrent Valley, famous for its unique and whimsical fairy chimneys that resemble natural sculptures. Next, you will visit Pasabag Valley, also known as Monks Valley, where you can see the iconic mushroom-shaped pinnacles and learn about the region’s history.
After exploring Pasabag, you will drive to the city of Avanos, known for its rich pottery-making traditions dating back thousands of years, where you will have the chance to see local artisans at work. Following lunch, the tour continues to the Zelve Open Air Museum. This incredible museum features a network of carved caves and ancient churches, offering insights into the region’s rich monastic history. Towards the end of the tour, you will have approximately 15 minutes to take panoramic pictures of the natural Uchisar Castle from the outside. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel at approximately 4:00 PM. The rest of the day will be at your leisure. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Cappadocia: Heaven Cave House, Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel, Zula Cave House, or Kismet Cave House.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast, you will check out of your room, and around 9:30 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel to join the tour for a full-day exploration of South Cappadocia. The adventure begins with a visit to the stunning Red Valley, famous for its red-hued rock formations, followed by a scenic 5 km hike through the picturesque Rose Valley, where you can admire historic rock-cut churches. Next, you will proceed to the ancient Cavusin Village, known for its fascinating cave dwellings and history of Christian monks.
After enjoying a traditional lunch, the tour continues to Pigeon Valley, named after the countless pigeon houses carved into the soft tuff stone, offering spectacular panoramic views. You will then descend into history with a visit to either Kaymakli Underground City or Ozkonak Underground City. These immense subterranean networks were once used by early Christians as refuges from persecution and contain living quarters, stables, and chapels deep beneath the earth. After the tour ends, you will be transferred to the airport for your evening flight to Izmir via Istanbul. Upon arrival in Izmir, our representative will greet you and provide a transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Kusadasi: Efe Boutique Hotel, Derici Hotel, Neopol Hotel Deluxe, or Marina Hotel.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel around 8:30 AM to begin a fascinating journey into history at the Greco-Roman City of Ephesus, renowned as one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean. As you walk along the marble-paved streets, you will witness the architectural grandeur of the ancient world. You will stand before the elegant Temple of Hadrian, dedicated to the Emperor Hadrian, and marvel at the colossal Ephesus Ancient Greek Theatre, a structure capable of holding 25,000 spectators where St. Paul once preached. A true highlight of the visit is the magnificent Library of Celsus, with its iconic two-story façade that stands as a testament to the city’s former wealth and intellectual importance. You will also view the Trajan Fountain, an exquisite example of Roman engineering and art.
After enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, the tour takes a spiritual turn as you visit the House of the Virgin Mary. Located on the slopes of Bulbul Mountain, this stone house is believed to be the final residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus, making it a significant pilgrimage site. Your journey through time continues with a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Finally, you will admire the Isabey Mosque, a beautiful example of 14th-century Seljuk architecture. After the tour ends, you will be transferred back to your hotel, and the rest of the day is free for you to relax. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Kusadasi: Efe Boutique Hotel, Derici Hotel, Neopol Hotel Deluxe, or Marina Hotel.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast, you will check out of your room by 12:00 PM. You will then be transferred to Izmir Airport for your flight back to Istanbul, with the departure scheduled for the late morning or afternoon depending on availability. Upon your arrival at the airport in Istanbul, our representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure, giving you one last opportunity to explore the city or simply relax. Overnight in Istanbul.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Istanbul: Antea Hotel Oldcity, Muyan Suites, or Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel in Istanbul before 12:00 PM. You will then be transferred to Istanbul International Airport according to your flight schedule. This transfer marks the conclusion of our tour and services. If you are looking to extend your vacation with extra leisure days in Istanbul, Cappadocia, or Kusadasi, you can easily customize your itinerary by indicating your preference for additional nights on the booking form.
INCLUDED in the Tour Price:
- All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary, including arrival and departure services
- Domestic flight tickets: Istanbul → Kayseri → Izmir → Istanbul (as per the itinerary)
- 4 nights in Istanbul at a Special Class or 4-star hotel, including breakfast
- 2 nights in Kuşadası at a 4-star hotel, including breakfast
- 2 nights in Cappadocia at a cave hotel, including breakfast
- Professional licensed English-speaking guide during all tours
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch)
- All entrance fees to the sites mentioned in the itinerary
- All local taxes and service charges
NOT INCLUDED:
- International flight tickets.
- Visa to enter Turkey.
- Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride.
- Optional tours mentioned in the program (available at an additional cost).
- Services not explicitly mentioned in the program.
- Drinks and dinner.
- Travel insurance (recommended).
Important Information:
- The order of the itinerary is indicative and subject to change, but all visits described in the program will take place.
- This is a regular group tour, but it can be provided as a private tour upon request at an additional cost.
- Regular group tours include shopping stops as part of the itinerary.
- Please provide your arrival details at the time of booking.
- The Blue Mosque is not open for visitation on Fridays due to religious prayer services. On these days, only the outside area of the Blue Mosque can be visited.
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays. It will be replaced with the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici).
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
- During religious holidays, the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar are closed.
- The sequence of the daily tours within the itinerary may vary depending on the availability of domestic flight tickets, the opening/closing times of various historical sites, and other logistical considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our tours are designed to offer the perfect balance of social interaction and personalized attention. Typically, group sizes range from 15 to 25 travelers. This size is ideal for enjoying a lively, friendly atmosphere without the crowds of large bus tours. Please note that since this is a multi-destination itinerary, you may meet different fellow travelers and be led by specialized local expert guides in each unique region (such as Cappadocia or Ephesus), ensuring you always have the most knowledgeable host for that specific area.
After reviewing the detailed tour itinerary, you can make an online reservation by following these steps:
- Select Your Tour Details:
- Go to the tour itinerary page.
- On the right side of the page, find the online booking form.
- Select the number of travelers and your desired tour start date.
- Choose Extra Options (Add-Ons):
- Proceed to the next step to view available add-ons.
- Choose any extra options you wish to include in your tour package.
- Provide Your Information & Passenger Details:
- Continue to the checkout page.
- Fill in the required personal details (name, email, phone number, etc.).
- Enter the passenger information using valid passport details.
- Click “Place Order” to submit the form and complete your reservation request.
- Enter Your Visa or MasterCard Credit Card Information
- Please enter a valid Visa or MasterCard to complete your booking.
- The credit card used for payment must belong to one of the travelers who will be participating in the tour. This is required for verification and security purposes.
- Once the required 30% deposit is charged to your credit card, your tour reservation will be confirmed via email within 24 hours.
- The remaining 70% balance must be paid in cash to our representative on the day you arrive in Istanbul. You will receive a receipt upon payment. If you prefer to pay the remaining balance by credit card, a 5% bank processing fee will be added to cover transaction costs.
Deposit Payment
- A 30% deposit is required for most tours in Turkey to guarantee your reservation.
- For some special tours, full payment may be requested at the time of booking.
- The 30% deposit is collected when booking online.
- Once the deposit is received, your reservation is confirmed and secured.
Remaining Balance Payment
- The remaining 70% balance is paid upon arrival in Istanbul. However, if your tour starts in a different city, the payment can be made to our local representative in that city at the start of your tour.
- You may pay the remaining balance in cash, in either USD (USD) or US Dollars (USD).
- If you choose to pay in USD, the amount will be calculated based on the USD-to-USD exchange rate on the day of payment.
- Due to daily exchange rate fluctuations, the exact USD amount cannot be provided in advance.
- If you pay in USD, no conversion is needed and the listed balance amount will apply directly.
Credit Card Payment Option
- Alternatively, the remaining balance can be paid using a Visa or MasterCard credit card.
- All credit card payments are processed in USD (USD) by One Nation Travel.
- If your card account is in another currency, your bank may charge a currency conversion fee.
- A 5% bank processing fee will also be added to credit card transactions for the remaining balance.
Once your online reservation is received and the specified 30% deposit is charged to your credit card, your domestic flight tickets will be confirmed. You will receive an email confirmation, including all the details, within 2-3 days.
Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your preferences. Please contact us in advance if you have specific requests or changes you’d like to make to the itinerary. Some changes may be subject to an additional fee.
Yes, airport transfers are included in the tour price. Upon your arrival and departure, we provide complimentary transfers between the airport and your hotel.
Cappadocia offers a variety of extra activities to enhance your experience, all available at an additional cost:
- Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride: Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s unique landscape. This unforgettable experience provides panoramic views of the fairy chimneys and valleys.
- ATV Tour: Explore the rugged terrain and hidden trails on an exciting ATV (quad bike) tour. It’s a thrilling way to discover the area’s natural beauty off the beaten path.
- Horseback Riding: Enjoy a peaceful horseback ride through the valleys and hills of Cappadocia. Known as the “Land of Beautiful Horses,” this activity offers a unique perspective of the region.
- Whirling Dervish Show: In the evening, immerse yourself in Turkish culture by attending a traditional Whirling Dervish Show. Witness the mesmerizing Sema ceremony, a spiritual dance that has been performed for centuries.
- Turkish Night Show with Dinner: Experience an authentic Turkish Night Show featuring traditional music, folk dances, and belly dancing performances. Enjoy a delicious dinner while immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Turkey.
- Turkish Bath (Hamam) Experience: Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Turkish bath, a unique experience that combines steam, massage, and cleansing rituals.
These activities can be arranged upon request and are not included in the standard tour package. We recommend booking in advance to ensure availability.
Our online booking system automatically assigns room configurations based on the total number of travelers in a single reservation to ensure comfort and the best possible rates.
Standard Room Allocations:
- 1 Traveler: 1 Single Room
- 2 Travelers: 1 Double or Twin Room
- 3 Travelers: 1 Triple Room
- 4 Travelers: 2 Double or Twin Rooms
- 5 Travelers: 1 Double or Twin Room + 1 Triple Room
⚠️ Important – How to Book Separate Rooms: If you prefer to stay in separate rooms rather than the standard shared configuration, you must make separate reservations.
- Example 1 (2 Travelers requiring 2 Single Rooms): Do not select “2 People” in one booking. Instead, make two separate reservations, selecting “1 Person” for each booking.
- Example 2 (3 Travelers requiring 1 Double + 1 Single Room): Make one reservation for “2 People” (to secure the Double Room) and a second reservation for “1 Person” (to secure the Single Room).
If you have specific bedding requests within a shared room (e.g., requesting Twin beds instead of a French bed), please contact us immediately after booking.
On domestic flights in Turkey, the luggage allowance is 15 kg (33 lbs) per person for checked baggage. For carry-on luggage, you are allowed one piece weighing up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs) per person. If your total luggage weight per person is within these limits, you should be fine.
Please note that any excess luggage weight over 15 kg for checked baggage will incur additional charges by the airlines. These extra charges are not included in the tour price and are your responsibility to pay directly to the airline at the time of check-in. We recommend packing accordingly to avoid any unexpected fees.
Your luggage is your own responsibility throughout the tour. Please ensure that you handle any issues related to overweight or excess baggage directly with the airlines.
If you need to cancel or change your travel dates, please notify us at least 5 days before the tour starts. In this case, the cost of all flight and bus tickets—which are non-refundable—will be deducted from your paid balance, and the remaining amount will be refunded to you. For cancellations or date changes made less than 5 days before the tour, the full amount paid will be considered non-refundable, as a “no-show” policy will apply.
Our multi-day Turkey packages are regular group/shared tour arrangements, not fully escorted tours with one tour leader and the same guests from arrival to departure. Sightseeing tours are shared and usually operate with about 15-20 guests, but group size and participants may change by city or day as travelers join or leave different scheduled tours. Licensed English-speaking guides lead scheduled sightseeing visits only. Guides do not travel with guests on domestic flights, intercity buses, airport transfers, hotel transfers, or free-time periods unless this is specifically stated in the itinerary. For flights, buses, and transfers, guests are met by our driver or local representative at airports, bus terminals, or hotels and assisted with the planned transfer. One Nation Travel coordinates the full itinerary, hotels, domestic tickets, transfers, local guides, and support throughout the trip.
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