Semi-Private Tour to the Old City of Istanbul

Sultanahmet District - Guests will be picked up from their hotel in Istanbul and transported to the Sultanahmet area, where they will meet their guide and fellow group members. These semi-private tours accommodate a maximum of 10 participants, including the guest’s party.

Sultanahmet Square - The tour commences in Sultanahmet Square (Sultanahmet District), where visitors will explore the Hippodrome and the German Fountain.

German Fountain - Situated at the entrance of Sultanahmet Square, the German Fountain immediately enchants visitors with its graceful architecture and fascinating history. Presented by German Emperor Wilhelm II in 1901 to mark his visit to Istanbul, this octagonal structure boasts a stunning neo-Byzantine design and a dome adorned with gleaming golden mosaics. Providing a tranquil spot amidst the bustling square, the fountain symbolizes the friendship between the Ottoman Empire and Germany.

Hippodrome - The Hippodrome invites travelers to experience the splendor of ancient Constantinople, once the vibrant center of social and sporting life in the Byzantine Empire. This expansive square, where thousands once gathered for exhilarating chariot races, now features remarkable monuments such as the Serpent Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Walled Obelisk. As visitors wander through the area, they can almost hear the echoes of cheering crowds and feel the pulse of centuries-old imperial ceremonies.

Sultanahmet - Following the visit to Sultanahmet Square, the tour continues with stops at the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

Blue Mosque - With its six slender minarets soaring gracefully into the sky, the Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic architectural marvels. Named after the exquisite blue İznik tiles that embellish its interior, the mosque offers a serene atmosphere enhanced by soft light filtering through its stained-glass windows. The harmony of domes, semi-domes, and intricate craftsmanship showcases the pinnacle of classical Ottoman architecture. Visitors depart with a sense of peace and admiration for the artistry that defines this sacred space.

Hagia Sophia Mosque - A masterpiece that has shaped the soul of Istanbul for over 1,400 years, Hagia Sophia stands as a testament to the city’s layered heritage. Built in 537 as the grand basilica of the Byzantine Empire, its immense dome, intricate mosaics, and ingenious engineering continue to inspire awe. Having served as a church, a mosque, and a museum over the centuries, Hagia Sophia embodies the rich cultural fusion of civilizations. Every visitor is drawn into its profound atmosphere, where history seems to whisper from the walls.

Topkapi Palace - Step into the heart of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapı Palace, the grand residence of sultans for nearly four centuries since its construction in the mid-15th century by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. This magnificent complex, overlooking the Bosphorus, brings history to life with its opulent courtyards, exquisite tiles, and legendary treasures, including sacred relics and the world-famous Imperial Treasury. During our guided tour, you’ll discover stories of power, intrigue, and royal ceremony that shaped an empire. Topkapı Palace is not just a museum—it’s a journey into a world of grandeur you’ll never forget.

Grand Bazaar - Experience the vibrant soul of Istanbul at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, founded in the 15th century during the reign of Sultan Mehmed II. With more than 4,000 shops spread across a maze of colorful streets, the bazaar offers everything from handcrafted jewelry and carpets to spices, ceramics, and unique souvenirs. Our guided visit helps you explore the best corners of this historic marketplace, meet local artisans, and enjoy an authentic shopping experience full of culture, energy, and unforgettable discoveries.

İstanbul - At the end of the tour of Istanbul Old City, guests will be transferred to the airport for their flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, they will be transferred to their hotel in Cappadocia.

Hot Air Balloon Ride (Optional) / Overnight at Cappadocia

Cappadocia Balloon Tours - Hot Air Balloon Ride (INCLUDED FOR SILVER, GOLD, AND DIAMOND PACKAGE OPTIONS – EXCLUDED FOR BRONZE PACKAGE OPTION): Prepare for a unique and unforgettable experience in Cappadocia! Guests will be picked up from their hotel and transferred to the balloon site, where they can watch the balloon being prepared for flight. The flight occurs at sunrise, with the pilot ascending to a comfortable altitude of approximately 700 to 1000 meters above ground level. From this height, guests will marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Cappadocia below. During certain segments of the flight, pilots may also fly as low as 1 meter above the rock formations, providing perfect opportunities for photos. The total activity lasts approximately 3 hours, with the flight itself lasting around 60 minutes. At the end of the flight, there will be a champagne celebration, and guests will receive a souvenir to remember this magnificent experience. Afterwards, they will be transferred back to their hotel.

Cappadocia Camel Tour - Camel Ride (INCLUDED): Join the guides during the safety briefing. Get to know the new camel friends and start the safari journey. Admire the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia as guests ride into the Red and Rose Valleys. Afterwards, they will be dropped back at their hotel. Standard Route of Safari: Red and Rose Valleys, Zindanonu Valley, Meskenler Valley. ** The route could be replaced with different routes if the weather is not suitable on the experience date.

Cavusin - Turkish Bath Experience (INCLUDED) – Feel Like a Local: Step into a centuries-old tradition and let the journey end in total relaxation. Enjoy a rejuvenating Turkish bath experience featuring a warm marble room, traditional exfoliating scrub, and a rich foam massage that leaves the skin refreshed and the body completely renewed. The Turkish bath, rooted in Ottoman culture, has been a symbol of purification and relaxation for generations — offering not just cleansing, but a truly authentic cultural experience. Unwind, refresh, and feel brand new.

Northern Cappadocia Tour

Fairy Chimneys - Cappadocia is famous for its unique landforms. The Fairy Chimneys are the most obvious places to visit where these landforms are best seen and the common life of humankind and nature. On this tour, guests will see many examples of the Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia, with the first being Three Beauties. Meet the most famous family of fairy chimneys: Three Beauties. These are the official symbol of both Urgup and Cappadocia.

Goreme Open-Air Museum - The Goreme Open-Air Museum features an extensive monastic complex carved directly into the soft volcanic rock, including ancient churches, kitchens, wineries, storerooms, and living spaces once inhabited by Anatolian Christians. With its unique architectural details and beautifully preserved frescoes, the site offers a vivid window into early Christian life in Cappadocia. Its cultural and historical significance has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

TokalI Church - The Tokalı Church (Buckle Church) in the Göreme Open Air Museum is considered one of the most beautiful of the Cappadocian cave churches. Its interior boasts some of the most outstanding frescoes, notable for their theological and artistic significance. The church is part of a larger complex that includes four churches and a hermitage, all dating back to the 9th century. Once the most famous church in the region, it remains one of the most impressive churches in the area today.

Ortahisar - The entire town is dominated by the 90-meter-high (300 ft) rock-castle in the center of the town, which is called Sivrikoya by the inhabitants. It is an extraordinary example of the rock-cut architecture typical of the region and served as a refuge from attackers in Byzantine times. Guests will see all these rock-cut architectures by panoramic visit.

Avanos Oren Yeri - Today’s lunch service will be in a local restaurant at Avanos, and guests will have the chance to taste the “Testi Kebab,” a traditional kebab variety of the Cappadocia region of Turkey. (Also, vegetarian meals are available in the same restaurant.) Avanos is a popular destination because of its attractive old town with cobbled streets and views over the river. The old city of Avanos, known in ancient times as Venessa, overlooks the longest river of Turkey, the Kizilirmak (Red River), which also separates Avanos from the rest of Cappadocia. The most famous historical feature of Avanos, which is still relevant and very visible today, is its production of earthenware pottery; it is also the most economic activity in the town. The ceramic trade in this district and its countless pottery factories date right back to the Hittites, and the ceramic clay from the red silt of the Kizilirmak has always been used.

Uchisar Castle - Uchisar rock castle is one of the biggest landmarks of Cappadocia. It is the highest tuff hill in the area with beautiful views of the surrounding valley full of bizarre rock formations. (There is no visit to the rock castle due to walking difficulties and safety risks there. Guests will have a stop for a panoramic view of this rock castle.)

Devrent Valley - Also known as Imagination Valley, this valley contains many animal-shaped rocks, mostly in red color. Some of the most frequent shapes resemble a camel.

• Transfers at the mentioned airports for domestic flights in the itinerary
• Hotel / Airport pick-up & drop-off services
• Domestic flight tickets: Istanbul to Denizli - Izmir to Istanbul (or Izmir to Cappadocia)
• Professional tour guide licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism
• 1 night hotel accommodation including breakfast
• One way ferry ticket from Kos and Rhodes Islands to Turkey, if departing from these Greek Isles

• Dinner & drink
• Entrance fees (Your tour guide will have pre-paid tickets for you can skip the line.)
• Admission fees
• Admission fees

This trip itinerary offers rich history and stunning ruins, making them the ultimate highlights of any journey in the western region of Turkey. Travelers will have the chance to explore Aphrodisias, Hierapolis, Pamukkale Natural Park, Ephesus, and the surrounding areas. These sites are worth discovering for their historical and natural beauty. The travel package provides a great opportunity to link travels in Western Turkey with Cappadocia, another key destination in the country. Additionally, this semi-private tour with a maximum of 10 travelers offers a more personalized experience while still enjoying the company of others. It strikes a balance between intimacy and group dynamics, enhancing the overall adventure.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.