Turkish Delight: Istanbul & Cappadocia Adventures
Your TourHero
This trip is looking for a TourHero! If you love to travel and love to organize, get your crew together and make this trip your own! When 5 or more people book this trip, you can travel for free. Chat with us below to get started!
Duration
5 days · 4 nights
Travel Date
Jun 1 - Jun 5, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6
Transportation
Van, plane
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
25 - 40
Travel interest
Exploring, sightseeing, history & culture
Your Local Guide
Tour Altinkum Travel was founded in 2006 with a mission to represent the historical and cultural values of Turkey in the best and most effective way through high-end service. Their passion is to make everyone’s dream holiday real by creating personalized travel experiences. TAT’s success lies in its commitment to running events with professionalism and expertise, and working with specialists, travel guides, and travel specialist partners who are highly experienced in their own branches and industry. If you are looking for custom trips, day tours, biblical journeys, and luxe accommodations in Turkey, TAT is the company to call!
Turkey is an incredible country with ancient history, divine architecture, and delicious gastronomy. Sample it all on this five-day journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia where you’ll enjoy various guided tours with a private, local expert, immersive experiences, and an iconic hot air balloon ride over the expansive rock landscape. Don’t miss out on this cultural getaway where you can learn about Turkey’s vibrant history and see all the major landmarks along the way.
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
Your TourHero
This trip is looking for a TourHero! If you love to travel and love to organize, get your crew together and make this trip your own! When 5 or more people book this trip, you can travel for free. Chat with us below to get started!
Duration
5 days · 4 nights
Travel Date
Jun 1 - Jun 5, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6
Transportation
Van, plane
Turkey is an incredible country with ancient history, divine architecture, and delicious gastronomy. Sample it all on this five-day journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia where you’ll enjoy various guided tours with a private, local expert, immersive experiences, and an iconic hot air balloon ride over the expansive rock landscape. Don’t miss out on this cultural getaway where you can learn about Turkey’s vibrant history and see all the major landmarks along the way.
Timeline
- Day 1 · Istanbul
- Arrive in Istanbul
- Transfer from airport to accommodation
- Check-in at Recital Hotel (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 2 · Istanbul
- Breakfast
- Optional full-day guided tour of Istanbul (lunch included)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 3 · Istanbul & Cappadocia
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Half-day tour with Bosphorus cruise (lunch not included)
- Transfer from tour to airport
- Fly from Istanbul to Cappadocia
- Transfer from airport to accommodation
- Check-in at Cappa Rossa Cave Hotel (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 4 · Cappadocia
- Breakfast
- Sunrise hot air balloon ride
- Full-day tour of Cappadocia (lunch included)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 5 · Departure
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer from accommodation to airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Istanbul, Turkey – an ancient city filled with culture, history, art, and stellar gastronomy
Welcome to Istanbul, the first stop on your Turkish journey through the country’s expansive physical and historic landscapes. From Roman to Byzantine, you’ll find the relics of many empires scattered throughout the land. Every step you take around this majestic city will be filled with detailed architecture and stories that span centuries and rulers. Not only will you find a melding of cultural impacts within the architecture, but the food in Turkey tells a similar story of various time periods and leaders. You’ll find Asian and Italian classics, kabobs, and much more throughout the streets and in fine-dining establishments. Upon arrival, take your private transfer to your hotel, freshen up, and enjoy the vibrant city life in downtown Istanbul. From your hotel, you’re walking distance to the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and much more. Grab a steller meal with the group and toast to an incredible journey together!
Day 2
Enjoy a free day in Istanbul or discover the hidden wonders of the city on a full-day guided tour
Good morning, travelers! You have a free day in the city to explore at your own pace. Walk the streets, head to some of the iconic landmarks, and indulge in Turkish cuisine. If you're looking for more structure, book a full-day tour with a local guide who will cover all the major landmarks and historical events of the country. You’ll start your day exploring Hagia Sophia, the religious center of the city during the Byzantine period, once the largest building on Earth barring the Egyptian Pyramids or the Great Wall of China! Next, your guide will take you to Topkapi Palace, which was the imperial residence of the Sultan and the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. You’ll continue on to the Hippodrome, built by the Roman Emperor Septimus Severus in 203 AD. From here, you’ll venture to the famous Blue Mosque, which was built by the Ottoman Sultan Ahmet I in the year 1616 AD. Lastly, you’ll stop at the Grand Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace known throughout the world. The area features 18 entrances and more than 4,000 shops! As the tour ends, your guide will take you back to your hotel where you can enjoy your final night in Istanbul with your group. Grab some food and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure!
Day 3
Embark on a half-day tour of the Spice Bazaar and the Bosphorus Strait before flying to Cappadocia
After a restful sleep, enjoy breakfast at the hotel, leave your bags at reception, and jump in your transfer for a half-day tour. Your guide will start the exploration with a trip to the Spice Bazaar, once called the Egyptian Bazaar during the Ottoman period. Next, you’ll take a cruise on Bosphorus Strait, where you’ll observe the shoreline packed with old wooden villas, marble palaces, fortresses, and quaint fishing villages. You’ll pass by Dolmabahce Palace, the Rustem Pasa Mosque, the Rumeli Fortress, and the imperial pavilions of Yildiz Palace. After the tour, your driver will take you to the airport to catch your flight to the iconic region of Cappadocia. This area of Turkey is known for its “fairy chimney” rock formations, canyon houses, and rock-face churches. Upon arrival, your driver will take you to your hotel where you can rest and relax for another day of adventure.
Day 4
Take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia then explore the area with a private guide
Rise and shine, adventure seekers! What a day we have in store! After an early breakfast, you'll soar over the rocky landscape in a hot air balloon. As the sun rises, you’ll float high above the beautiful terrain, marveling at the picturesque landscape. From here, you’ll be greeted by your guide and driven to the town of Göreme to explore the many rock-cut churches from the second half of the 9th century with colorful frescoes decorating the walls. Next, you’ll be taken to Devrent Valley, famous for its animal-shaped rocks. You’ll continue on to Paşabaği where you'll marvel at the famous fairy chimneys, followed by a traditional Turkish lunch in Avanos. You’ll even get a chance to try your hand at making some pottery with local experts! We’ll continue on to Göreme Panorama for the best views of the fairy chimneys. You’ll have time to stop and take all the social media-worthy pictures you can fit in your camera roll. You’ll finish up the tour in Uçhisar, which features the highest natural rock castle in the world. Upon completion, your driver will take you to your next hotel to rest and relax on your last night in Turkey. If you’re looking for more travel fun, extend your trip with two additional nights in Antalya. (See add-ons below.)
Day 5
Say goodbye to Turkey or keep the fun going and continue on to Antalya
Who can believe this Turkish adventure has come to an end? You’ve wandered through the cities and visited all the iconic landmarks. We hope you had a great time! After breakfast, it’s time to pack up and head to the airport to catch your flight back to Istanbul. However, you also have the option of extending your trip by traveling to the beautiful resort city of Antalya. (See add-ons below.) No matter where you end up next, we hope you enjoyed your trip. Safe travels!
Accommodation
Recital Hotel (or similar according to availability)
Your first stop on this epic Turkish journey is in Istanbul at the Recital Hotel. Located in the heart of Old Town, you're steps away from the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower, The Grand Bazaar, and much more. The hotel features a panoramic rooftop terrace, classic furnishings, luxury linens, and beautiful rooms. Wind down at night with Turkish tea and mezze while the sun sets, get cozy in your room with free Wi-Fi, spa-like en suite and flat screen TV, and enjoy a stellar breakfast on site in the morning. With 24/7 support, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy your trip to the fullest. Room type: Double rooms.
Cappa Rossa Cave Hotel (or similar according to availability)
Cappa Rossa is a 150-year-old boutique hotel with only 6 rooms for maximum comfort and luxury. This posh accommodation is situated in Ürgüp, only a few minutes from the city-center in a prime location to explore Cappadocia. The rooms feature beautiful stone walls, plush bedding, mini-bar, and stylish en suites to make you feel right at home. On site, you’ll find a quaint restaurant overlooking the stellar landscape with free morning breakfast and free Wi-Fi to stay connected. Room type: Double rooms.
Included
- 2 nights at Recital Hotel in Istanbul (or similar)
- 2 nights at Cappa Rossa Cave Hotel in Cappadocia (or similar)
- Shared occupancy in accommodations (double rooms)
- Round trip economy domestic flights from Cappadocia to Istanbul
- Private airport/excursion transfers with AC
- All breakfasts and most lunches
- Hot air balloon ride
- Admission fees for all sightseeings mentioned in the itinerary
- English-speaking guide throughout the trip
Not included
- International flights
- All dinners
- Beverages (with included meals)
- Personal expenses not stipulated
- Optional add-ons
- Tips for guides & drivers (optional)
FAQ
What happens if I need to cancel my trip?
Please check the on this itinerary page for specific details.
Will TourHero or the operator take care of my visa (if applicable)?
Travelers are responsible for researching visa requirements and obtaining a visa if needed. Please check government websites to ensure you have the necessary documents, along with passport requirements, before your departure date. This includes necessary transit visas, permits, and vaccinations required prior to travel and any required reciprocity fees for the destination. TourHero will provide a booking confirmation document after purchase, which may be needed to obtain a visa.
If your visa is denied for any reason, TourHero will issue a refund based on the cancellation policy. However, we are unable to provide a refund after the cancellation due date has passed.
Do I need a passport for this trip?
A full and valid passport is required for all persons traveling to any destination outside of one’s home country. Most international tours require a passport that's valid for at least six (6) months beyond the scheduled end of your itinerary. TourHero will not issue refunds based on passport issues such as renewals or lost passports.
What's included in the price?
Please check the inclusion and exclusion sections above. You'll find information about included meals, transfers, flights, and activities. If you have any questions or need support, please contact hello@tourhero.com.
Available add-on
Upgrade to a single room throughout your five-day getaway
Looking for more privacy on your Turkish vacation? If so, upgrade to a single room in Istanbul and Cappadocia where you can unwind at the end of each day in a private setting.
Price: GBP 129
20 spots left
Spend an extra two nights in Antalya
Add three extra days to your Turkish getaway with a trip to Antalya, a Turkish resort city featuring yacht-filled harbors and gorgeous beaches. You’ll fly from Cappadocia to Antalya, and enjoy free time here to do as you please! This add-on includes two nights at the Mediterra Art Hotel with free breakfast, airport transfers, and flight from Cappadocia. Note: For the flight from Antalya to Istanbul, Antalya flight baggage allowance is 15kg for checked bags and 8kg for carry-on hand luggage (1 piece only).
Price: GBP 112
20 spots left
Upgrade to a single room in Antalya
If you’re choosing to extend your trip with the Antalya add-on, you can also upgrade to a single room! Add this upgrade to your Antalya package to ensure you are comfortable during your stay.
Price: GBP 41
20 spots left
Istanbul city tour (Day 2)
Explore Istanbul on a guided city tour that will take you to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar. This add-on includes pick up and drop off at the hotel, lunch, and all admission fees.
Price: GBP 53
20 spots left
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
- Add-on: Istanbul city tour - Unsplash: Engin Yapici
- You'll start the day with a guided tour of the Spice Bazaar aka the Egyptian Bazaar. - Unsplash: abdurahman iseini
- Welcome to Cappadocia! - Unsplash: Mar Cerdeira
- After the Spice Bazaar, we'll take a boat cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. - Unsplash: Linus Mimietz
- Welcome to Recital Hotel, your home away from home in downtown Istanbul. - Recital Hotel
- Welcome to Istanbul, Turkey. This vibrant city features incredible history, stellar art, and delicious cuisine. - Unsplash:
- Walk around Old Town or head to Taksim Square, known for its boutique shops and delicious food options. - Unsplash: Aram Sabah
- On your tour, you'll visit the iconic Blue Mosque that once housed the Sultan Ahmet Camii. - Unsplash: Adli Wahid
- You'll spend time exploring Topkapi Palace, an expansive property that features incredibly ornate detailing. - Unsplash:
- Your last stop is at the Grand Bazaar, featuring over 4,000 shops! Leave room in that suitcase for souvenirs! - Unsplash: Dana
- You'll start your tour with a trip to Hagia Sophia, officially known as the Holy Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. - Unsplash: Adli Wahid
- This morning, take an iconic hot air balloon ride over the majestic landscape of Cappadocia. - Unsplash: canmandawe
- Upon arrival in Cappadocia, you'll head to the town of Göreme to explore the ancient landscape. - Unsplash: Maria Darii
- This is the place to admire those famous fairy chimneys! - Unsplash: alevision.co
- Your guide will also take you to Devrent Valley to see the chimneys shaped like animals. - Unsplash: Caglar tas
- You'll stop in Avanos for an authentic Turkish lunch and try your hand at making pottery with the locals. - Unsplash: A. DK
- Drop your bags in the room and start exploring this magnificent city! - Recital Hotel
- Spend a few extra nights in Turkey in the gorgeous resort town of Antalya. - Pexels: esrageziyor
- Upgrade to a single room during your stay in Antalya to ensure you are comfortable and happy. - Mediterra Art Hotel
- Upgrade to single rooms during your stay in Turkey for extra comfort and more privacy. - Recital Hotel
- Welcome to the Cappa Rossa Cave Hotel, your home in Cappadocia. - Cappa Rossa Cave Hotel
- Enjoy delicious meals while you marvel at the surrounding landscape. - Cappa Rossa Cave Hotel
- You'll be surrounded by stone walls and cozy furnishings in this luxe hotel. - Cappa Rossa Cave Hotel