Istanbul & Cappadocia Discovered

Day 1  Istanbul  
Fly to Istanbul and transfer to your hotel, your base for exploring this enchanting city. Your afternoon is free to begin discovering Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

Day 2  Istanbul  
This morning, why not head out to explore Istanbul’s majestic, imperial monuments, from ornate Byzantine churches to magnificent Ottoman mosques and palaces. Visit the elaborate Topkapi Palace and learn of its colourful history as the court of the Ottoman Empire for over 400 years. After, uncover the beauty of the Blue Mosque, named for the 20,000 vibrant tiles that decorate its interior. Across Sultanahmet Square discover Hagia Sophia, with its impressive dome and blend of Christian and Islamic design it is an unmissable sight. Sample warming black tea and traditional delicacies including the mouthwatering baklava pastry. Later, perhaps experience a revitalising hammam treatment at one of the city’s many Turkish baths.

Day 3  Istanbul  
Explore the beautiful Dolmabahce Palace before enjoying a leisurely cruise along the famous Bosphorus Strait. Take in views of some of the city’s finest buildings along the way, with mosques, historic palaces and magnificent mansions lining the shores. After, wander down bustling Istiklal Street. Discover the labyrinth of the Spice Market in the heart of Istanbul’s old city and watch artisans at work whilst taking in the rich aroma of spices. In the evening, why not indulge in a meze of small sharing plates at a local restaurant.

Day 4  Istanbul to Cappadocia  
This morning, make your to the airport and fly to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Boasting an enchanting scattering of rock formations and hidden cave dwellings, you are free this afternoon to explore this topographical wonderland at your leisure.

Day 5  Cappadocia  
As the sun rises enjoy an epic hot air balloon ride to marvel at panoramic views of this incredible region. In the afternoon perhaps head for one of the many accessible trails around Rose Valley and admire the awe-inspiring vistas of fairy chimneys bathed in a rainbow of colours.

Day 6  Cappadocia  
Today, perhaps visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Goreme Open Air Museum. Once a Byzantine monastic settlement, discover the intriguing history behind its hidden churches and monasteries. Intricately carved into the soft rock, they are decorated with a beautiful array of delicate frescoes and ancient ochre paintings. Later, why not discover the ancient cave villages of Cavusin and Pasabag and venture into the subterranean world of the Kaymakli Underground City.

Day 7  Fly home