Turkish Dreams: An Unforgettable 9-Day Trip ✈

Arrival in Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul, where your adventure begins! Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, a member of our team will warmly greet you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel. After settling in, the rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to relax or explore at your leisure.

For those looking to make their first night in Istanbul truly special, we offer an optional Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, a magical evening of dining, sightseeing, and cultural entertainment.

Optional Tour: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

In the evening, embark on a scenic Bosphorus Strait cruise, sailing between the European and Asian shores of Istanbul. As you glide along this historic waterway, admire stunning views of illuminated landmarks, including the Bosphorus Bridge, Kucuksu Palace, and Rumeli Fortress.

The evening’s entertainment will immerse you in Turkey’s vibrant traditions, featuring:
✔ Belly dancing
✔ Folk performances showcasing Turkey’s regional dances
✔ Whirling dervishes in a mesmerizing spiritual ritual
✔ Live Turkish music played on traditional instruments

Meanwhile, savor the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine with a delightful dinner that includes:
🍽 Mezzes (appetizers) bursting with authentic flavors
🍰 Baklava, Turkey’s famous sweet treat
☕ Authentic Turkish coffee to complete your meal

Sit back, relax, and enjoy an unforgettable night filled with culture, music, and breathtaking views of Istanbul by night.

🏨 Overnight in Istanbul

Sights Visited

Discover the Wonders of Istanbul

Istanbul, a city where history and culture collide, boasts a legacy spanning thousands of years. While a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to explore its every corner, today’s tour will take you to some of its most iconic landmarks, offering a glimpse into its fascinating past and architectural splendor.

📍 Highlights of the Day

🕌 Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
Step into the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has witnessed the transformations of empires, serving as a church, mosque, and museum throughout its centuries-old history. Just a short walk away, admire the Blue Mosque, famed for its stunning domes and intricate blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior.

🏛 Hippodrome & Obelisk
Visit the historic Hippodrome, once the vibrant center of Byzantine life, where chariot races and grand events took place. At its heart stands the Obelisk of Theodosius, a monument that has stood the test of time, originally brought from Egypt.

🏰 Topkapi Palace
Explore the lavish Topkapi Palace, the grand residence of Ottoman sultans for over four centuries. Walk through its opulent halls and gardens, overlooking the shimmering Bosphorus Strait, and discover the royal treasures, sacred relics, and hidden stories of the empire’s rulers.

🛍 Grand Bazaar
Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it’s a treasure trove of handcrafted carpets, jewelry, ceramics, spices, and souvenirs—perfect for a memorable shopping experience.

💡 Our Recommendation

After the tour, if you have time and want to indulge in more Turkish flavors, consider a visit to the Spice Bazaar. While not included in the tour package, this vibrant market is the perfect place to sample authentic Turkish tea, exotic spices, and delightful sweets. You can easily make your way back to the hotel afterward.

📌 Important Notes

• Grand Bazaar: Closed on Sundays
• Topkapi Palace: Closed on Tuesdays
• Blue Mosque: Limited access on Fridays due to prayer services

🚐 Pick-Up Information

We offer hotel pick-up services from centrally located areas, including:
✔ Sultanahmet
✔ Sirkeci
✔ Laleli
✔ Aksaray
✔ Taksim

For hotels outside these areas, an additional charge may apply.

🏨 Overnight in Istanbul

Sights Visited

Journey to the Enchanting Land of Cappadocia

This morning, bid farewell to Istanbul as you embark on a journey to the magical region of Cappadocia. You’ll be transferred to Istanbul Airport for your domestic flight, where upon arrival, a local representative will greet you and take you to your accommodation.

Once settled in, the rest of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia at your own pace. From its surreal rock formations to ancient cave dwellings, this region is like stepping into another world.

For those looking to make their first evening in Cappadocia truly special, we offer two optional tours to enhance your experience.

🌅 Optional Evening Tours in Cappadocia

🏍 ATV (Quad) Bike Safari – Sunset Adventure
If you crave adventure, this fully guided Quad Safari is the perfect way to explore Cappadocia’s rugged terrain. Starting around 5:00 PM, you’ll ride through valleys of unique rock formations, fairy chimneys, and ancient caves, all while witnessing a spectacular sunset over the mesmerizing landscape.

🎭 Turkish Night Show & Dinner – A Cultural Extravaganza
Experience the rich traditions of Turkey with an unforgettable Turkish Night Show. This evening of entertainment showcases:
✔ Folk dances from different regions of Turkey
✔ Live music performed on traditional instruments
✔ Whirling dervishes in a mesmerizing spiritual ritual
✔ Colorful costumes that bring Turkey’s diverse heritage to life

While you enjoy the performance, savor a delicious Turkish dinner, featuring local specialties that highlight the flavors of the region.

📌 Note: These optional tours incur an additional cost.

🏨 Overnight in Cappadocia

After a delightful breakfast, set out on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of North Cappadocia, home to some of the region’s most iconic and awe-inspiring sights. From ancient cave dwellings to whimsical rock formations, today’s adventure will leave you mesmerized by the natural and historical wonders of this unique region.

📍 Highlights of the Day

🏛 Goreme Open-Air Museum (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Step into a world of history at the Goreme Open-Air Museum, an ancient monastic complex carved into the soft volcanic rock. This site is home to centuries-old rock-hewn churches and monasteries, adorned with remarkably well-preserved Byzantine frescoes depicting biblical scenes. It’s a true testament to Cappadocia’s deep cultural and religious heritage.

📸 Esentepe Panoramic Viewpoint
Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views at Esentepe, where you’ll be greeted with a sweeping panorama of Cappadocia’s valleys, fairy chimneys, and cave dwellings. This is the perfect spot to snap some unforgettable photos of the region’s surreal beauty.

🪨 Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
Enter the otherworldly landscapes of Devrent Valley, where nature has sculpted rocks into fantastical shapes. Some formations resemble animals—most famously, the “Camel Rock”, a naturally formed rock resembling a camel that has become an iconic symbol of the valley.

⛪ Monks Valley (Pasabag)
Walk through the enchanting Pasabag (Monks Valley), renowned for its tall, multi-capped fairy chimneys. These unique formations, once used as hermit dwellings by monks, create a striking and mystical atmosphere, making it one of Cappadocia’s most famous landscapes.

🎨 Avanos Pottery Workshop
Discover the ancient art of pottery-making in the town of Avanos, a place famous for its red clay pottery tradition, dating back thousands of years. Watch skilled artisans at work, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at shaping your own ceramic masterpiece!

🪨 The Three Beauties
Visit the iconic Three Beauties, a trio of uniquely shaped rock formations that have become one of Cappadocia’s most photographed landmarks. According to legend, these fairy chimneys represent a princess, her love, and their child, making them not only a natural wonder but also a symbol of local folklore.

🌅 Tour Conclusion

After a day of exploring Cappadocia’s most fascinating sights, return to your accommodation, where you can unwind and reflect on the incredible landscapes and cultural treasures you’ve witnessed.

🏨 Overnight in Cappadocia

Sights Visited

Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride & South Cappadocia Tour
Today is packed with unforgettable experiences, from a breathtaking hot air balloon flight at sunrise to a fascinating exploration of South Cappadocia’s hidden gems.

🎈 Optional Early Morning Tour: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we offer an optional hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia. As the sun rises, float high above fairy chimneys, rolling valleys, and ancient cave dwellings, taking in one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the world.
📌 Tour Details:
✔ Pre-flight breakfast with coffee & tea
✔ 1-hour balloon ride over Cappadocia’s spectacular scenery
✔ Post-flight champagne toast to celebrate the experience
✔ Commemorative flight certificate
📍 Note: This optional tour takes place before your full-day South Cappadocia tour and requires an additional cost.

🚶‍♂️ South Cappadocia Tour
After a refreshing breakfast, embark on your South Cappadocia adventure, exploring a series of mesmerizing valleys, historic villages, and an underground city that tells stories of ancient civilizations.

📍 Tour Highlights

🌿 Love Valley, Rose Valley, and Red Valley
Each valley offers a unique and colorful landscape, from the heart-shaped rock formations of Love Valley to the mesmerizing hues of Red and Rose Valleys. These areas are a photographer’s dream, offering breathtaking viewpoints at every turn.

🏡 Cavusin Village – A Step Back in Time
Wander through Cavusin Village, a fascinating settlement where homes and churches are carved into the cliffs. This ancient town provides a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Cappadocia.

🕊 Pigeon Valley (Guvercin Vadisi)
Named after the thousands of pigeon houses carved into the cliffs, Pigeon Valley played a significant role in Cappadocia’s history. Pigeons were once used for fertilization, communication, and trade, and their legacy remains etched into the rocks of this scenic valley.

🔦 Underground City – A Hidden World Beneath Cappadocia
Explore one of Cappadocia’s largest and most well-preserved underground cities, dating back over 2,000 years. Built as a refuge for early Christians and other civilizations, this underground labyrinth features:
✔ Multi-level tunnels that housed entire communities
✔ Living quarters, kitchens, and schools
✔ Sophisticated ventilation systems
✔ Secret escape tunnels and stone doors
This underground city is a true testament to human ingenuity and offers a fascinating glimpse into Cappadocia’s history.

✈ Evening Transfer & Flight to Ephesus
After an incredible day exploring Cappadocia, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, a member of our team will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation in the Ephesus region, where you can unwind and prepare for the next day’s historical discoveries.

🏨 Overnight in Ephesus

Sights Visited

Step Back in Time – Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Ephesus
Today, immerse yourself in the rich history of Ephesus, one of the most magnificent ancient cities in the world. Once a thriving metropolis with a population of over 250,000 people, Ephesus offers a captivating journey into the past, with remarkably preserved ruins that tell the story of its former glory.

📍 Highlights of the Day

🏛 Ancient City of Ephesus (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Walk through the grand ruins of Ephesus, where ancient marble streets, intricate temples, and towering columns still stand as a testament to the city’s significance. Among the most impressive highlights:

✔ Main Street – Once a bustling thoroughfare lined with shops and public spaces, still intact and ready to explore.
✔ The Latrines & Brothel – A fascinating glimpse into the daily life and social customs of ancient Ephesus.
✔ Library of Celsus – One of the most iconic structures of Ephesus, this magnificent two-story library once held over 12,000 scrolls and remains a breathtaking symbol of wisdom and learning.
✔ The Agora – The commercial and political heart of Ephesus, where merchants from around the world once gathered.
✔ The Great Amphitheater – A massive, 25,000-seat arena where gladiatorial contests, performances, and public speeches once took place.

🏺 Temple of Artemis (One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World)
Just outside Ephesus, visit the remains of the once spectacular Temple of Artemis, built to honor the goddess of the hunt and fertility. Though little of the original structure remains, its historical significance and sheer scale make it a must-see site.

⛪ House of the Virgin Mary
Nestled on the peaceful slopes of Mount Koressos, this humble yet spiritual sanctuary is believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary, where she spent her final years under the care of Saint John. The small stone house has become a revered pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from around the world seeking peace and reflection.
📌 Key Features:
✔ A simple baptismal font and altar inside the house
✔ A wishing wall, where visitors leave written prayers
✔ A tranquil setting, perfect for quiet contemplation

🌅 Tour Conclusion
After an enriching day of exploring the wonders of Ephesus, return to your accommodation, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible stories of the past.

🏨 Overnight in Ephesus

Sights Visited

The Enchanting Beauty of Pamukkale & Journey to Antalya
Today, experience one of Turkey’s most breathtaking natural wonders—Pamukkale, also known as the “Cotton Castle.” With its cascading white terraces and mineral-rich thermal waters, Pamukkale is truly a dreamlike destination.

📍 Highlights of the Day

🌊 Pamukkale – The Cotton Castle
Perched high on a mountainside, Pamukkale’s thermal waters, rich in calcium and minerals, have been flowing for millions of years, forming dazzling white travertine terraces that look like frozen waterfalls.
✔ Walk barefoot on the terraces and feel the warm, mineral-rich waters flow beneath your feet.
✔ Relax in the natural thermal pools, which have been sought after for centuries for their healing properties.
✔ Capture breathtaking photos of this one-of-a-kind landscape.

🏛 Hierapolis – The Ancient Healing City
Above Pamukkale’s terraces lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO-listed site that once thrived as a healing and wellness retreat for people across the region.
✔ Explore the Ancient Amphitheater, a remarkably well-preserved structure offering panoramic views over the ruins.
✔ Admire the Sarcophagi, intricately carved burial chambers reflecting the artistry of the past.
✔ Walk through the ruins, where temples, bathhouses, and streets tell the story of this once-prosperous city.

🚌 Evening Journey to Antalya
After exploring Pamukkale and Hierapolis, you will be transferred to Denizli’s bus station for your scenic journey to the Mediterranean city of Antalya.
📌 Tour Details:
✔ Comfortable bus ride to Antalya with picturesque views along the way.
✔ Upon arrival, our team will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.
🏨 Overnight in Antalya

Sights Visited

Discover the Beauty & History of Antalya
Antalya, a vibrant Mediterranean city, is a perfect blend of ancient charm, stunning coastal scenery, and modern energy. Today, embark on an exciting tour that takes you through the historical heart of the city, a scenic waterfall cruise, and a breathtaking cable car ride to enjoy unparalleled views.

📍 Highlights of the Day

🏛 Kaleici – The Old City
Step into the historic heart of Antalya, Kaleici, where narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with charming Ottoman-style houses, ancient ruins, and hidden courtyards. As you wander, discover:
✔ Hadrian’s Gate – A grand Roman gateway, built in 130 AD to honor Emperor Hadrian, still standing as a majestic entrance to the old city.
✔ Hidirlik Tower – An iconic stone tower overlooking the coast, offering spectacular views and a peek into Antalya’s past.
✔ Main Square & City Walls – Explore the bustling city center, framed by the remnants of the mighty walls that once protected this ancient port city.

🚢 Waterfall Cruise – A Coastal Escape
Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along Antalya’s stunning Mediterranean coastline, where turquoise waters meet rugged cliffs.
📌 Scenic Highlights:
✔ Duden Falls – Watch as this picturesque waterfall cascades directly into the Mediterranean, a mesmerizing sight from the sea.
✔ Karpuzkaldiran Falls – One of Antalya’s most spectacular waterfalls, offering incredible photo opportunities as you sail past.

🚡 Cable Car Ride – Panoramic Views from the Summit
After your scenic cruise, take a cable car ride to the top of Tunektepe, one of Antalya’s highest points.
✔ Unforgettable views of the city, Mediterranean coastline, and majestic Olympos Mountains in the distance.
✔ Breathe in the fresh air and soak up the breathtaking landscape that surrounds this vibrant coastal paradise.

🌅 Tour Conclusion
After a day filled with history, adventure, and natural beauty, return to your hotel to unwind and reflect on your Antalya experience.

🏨 Overnight in Antalya

Sights Visited

Farewell & Departure
After enjoying a final breakfast in the beautiful city of Antalya, it’s time to conclude your unforgettable journey through Turkey’s most breathtaking destinations.

🚗 Private Airport Transfer
A private transfer will take you comfortably to Antalya Airport, where you will board your return flight to Istanbul. From there, you can continue your journey home or explore Istanbul further if you have additional time.

💙 A Journey to Remember
We hope this 9-day adventure has been a truly memorable experience, filled with remarkable landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable moments.
🙏 Thank you for choosing us! We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home, and we hope that the magic of Turkey stays in your heart forever.
💫 Until next time!