Embark on a thoughtfully designed 10-day journey across Turkey, combining vibrant cities, ancient wonders, and natural marvels. This route takes you from the cultural heart of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, the tranquil shores of Antalya, and the historical richness of Ephesus. Every day introduces new discoveries, curated with care to offer comfort, context, and connection to Turkey’s diverse heritage.
What’s Included
- 2 nights of accommodation in Istanbul
- 3 nights in Cappadocia
- 2 nights in Antalya
- 2 nights in Kusadasi
- Domestic flight tickets (Istanbul–Cappadocia, Izmir–Istanbul)
- Daily breakfast and lunch as specified in the itinerary
- All airport transfers
- Ground transportation in air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicles
- English-speaking licensed tour guides
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Visa for Turkey
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Dinners and beverages during lunch
- Tips for guides and drivers
Highlights
- Explore Istanbul’s Iconic Landmarks: Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar with expert guidance.
- Cruise Between Continents: Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Cruise showcasing palaces, mosques, and historic mansions on both European and Asian shores.
- Discover Cappadocia’s Unique Landscapes: Marvel at fairy chimneys, underground cities, rock-cut churches, and panoramic valleys like Rose and Pigeon Valley.
- Walk Through Ancient Roman Cities: Explore Perge, Aspendos, and Ephesus—home to theaters, agoras, and the world-famous Library of Celsus.
- Soak in Pamukkale’s Thermal Terraces: Stroll across white travertine pools and visit the ruins of Hierapolis and the Cleopatra thermal pool.
- Experience Antalya’s Nature and History: Visit Kursunlu Waterfall and admire the coastal city’s Roman and Seljuk architecture.
- Visit the House of Virgin Mary: Discover this peaceful pilgrimage site near Ephesus, believed to be the last residence of the Virgin Mary.
- See One of the Seven Wonders: Witness the remains of the Temple of Artemis, once a grand sanctuary of the ancient world.
- All Domestic Flights and Transfers Included: Travel comfortably with arranged domestic flights, private transfers, and air-conditioned ground transportation.
- Handpicked Accommodations Across 4 Regions: Stay in carefully selected hotels in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, and Kusadasi for comfort and convenience.
Day 1: Arrival In Istanbul
Upon landing at Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW), you’ll be welcomed by your private transfer representative and escorted to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy the remainder of the day at your own pace. Whether you prefer resting or stepping out for a brief stroll, this initial downtime helps you ease into your Turkish adventure.
Overnight Stay: Istanbul
Day 2: Full-Day Walking Tour Of Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula
Your exploration begins with a guided walk through Istanbul’s Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves centuries of imperial grandeur. Your first stop is Hagia Sophia, once the world’s largest cathedral and a symbol of Byzantine innovation. Its vast dome, ornate mosaics, and layered history reflect the transformation from church to mosque to museum.
Next, visit the Blue Mosque, known for its six elegant minarets and distinctive blue İznik tiles. A few steps away lies the Hippodrome, where chariot races and imperial ceremonies once animated the city’s political heart. You’ll also see the Obelisk of Theodosius, a relic brought from Egypt during Roman times.
Continue to Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Inside, you'll find imperial treasures, sacred relics, and chambers filled with stories from the empire’s golden era.
The final stop is the Grand Bazaar, an iconic marketplace with over 4,000 shops under one roof. From handwoven carpets to intricate ceramics, this is an ideal place to absorb Istanbul’s bustling commerce and craftsmanship.
Overnight Stay: Istanbul
Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise And Flight To Cappadocia
After breakfast and check-out, the day starts with a visit to the Spice Bazaar, where shelves brim with colorful spices, dried fruits, and fragrant teas. Then, board a Bosphorus Cruise to witness Istanbul from the water. Sail past Ottoman palaces, fortresses, waterfront mansions, and mosques as you move between Europe and Asia.
Later in the day, you’ll be transferred to the airport for a domestic flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival in Kayseri or Nevsehir, you’ll be taken to your hotel to rest for the night in the land of fairy chimneys.
Overnight Stay: Cappadocia
Day 4: South Cappadocia Tour
Today’s tour focuses on the region’s southern valleys and underground cities. Start at the Rose Valley, a scenic area known for its pink-toned rock formations. Continue to Cavusin Village, an abandoned Greek settlement with homes and chapels carved into the rocks.
Next is Pigeon Valley, named after its numerous dovecotes carved into volcanic cliffs. This valley is ideal for short walks and wide-angle photography.
Your journey then takes you underground to explore Kaymakli or Ozkonak Underground City, a multi-level complex once used by early Christians to escape persecution. These labyrinths feature communal kitchens, churches, and air shafts—all engineered from soft volcanic stone.
End the day in Ortahisar, a quaint town dominated by a towering rock castle and traditional stone homes.
Overnight Stay: Cappadocia
Day 5: North Cappadocia Tour
The northern section of Cappadocia offers a mix of cultural and geological highlights. Your first visit is to the Goreme Open-Air Museum, home to centuries-old churches painted with Byzantine frescoes.
Next, explore Devrent Valley, known for its surreal rock shapes resembling animals and abstract figures. At Pasabag (Monks Valley), you’ll see iconic mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys once used by reclusive monks.
In Avanos, learn about traditional pottery-making using red clay from the Kızılırmak River. You’ll also enjoy a Turkish lunch in this artistic riverside town.
Continue to Goreme Panorama, a lookout point offering sweeping views of the valley. Your final stop is Uchisar Castle, the region’s highest natural fortress with views extending to Mount Erciyes on clear days.
Overnight Stay: Cappadocia
Day 6: Konya Stop And Arrival In Antalya
Check out after breakfast and begin your transfer to Antalya, with a cultural detour in Konya. Visit the Sultanhanı Caravanserai, a Seljuk roadside inn once used by Silk Road traders. Then, tour the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to the Sufi mystic Rumi. His philosophy of universal love and tolerance continues to influence cultures worldwide.
After lunch, continue your journey to Antalya, where you’ll check into your hotel and relax by the Mediterranean coast.
Overnight Stay: Antalya
Day 7: Ancient Cities And Waterfalls Of Antalya
The day begins at Perge, an ancient Greco-Roman city featuring well-preserved colonnaded streets, Roman baths, a stadium, and agora. The ruins provide insight into city planning and public life in antiquity.
Next, visit the Aspendos Theatre, one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. With a capacity of over 20,000, it’s still used today for cultural performances.
After a riverside lunch, head to Kursunlu Waterfall, a peaceful escape surrounded by pine forests. Cool air and cascading waters make it a rejuvenating end to your day.
Overnight Stay: Antalya
Day 8: Pamukkale Tour And Transfer To Kusadasi
After an early morning departure, travel inland to Pamukkale, known for its white travertine terraces. These calcium-rich formations were created by centuries of flowing thermal waters. You can walk along the terraces or dip your feet into the warm mineral pools.
Visit the nearby ruins of Hierapolis, which include the Roman Bath, Theater, and Temple of Apollo. The Cleopatra Pool, filled with submerged columns and thermal waters, offers an optional swim experience.
Following the tour, continue to Kusadasi, a coastal town on the Aegean Sea.
Overnight Stay: Kusadasi
Day 9: Ephesus, Virgin Mary’s House, And Artemis Temple
Today’s excursion explores the region’s rich religious and historical heritage. Start at the House of Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site believed to be Mary’s final home.
Then, discover Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Eastern Mediterranean. Walk along marble roads, past the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theater, once hosting over 25,000 spectators. The layout and structures offer insight into Roman urban life and architecture.
End the day at the Temple of Artemis, a once-grand sanctuary and one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Overnight Stay: Kusadasi
Day 10: Departure From Izmir
Your journey concludes with a transfer to Izmir Airport, followed by a domestic flight to Istanbul based on your schedule. This marks the end of your guided tour. Our team is available to assist you with future travel arrangements or questions.
This 10-day itinerary blends history, culture, and nature into a well-paced experience. From Istanbul’s imperial past to the mineral-rich terraces of Pamukkale, and from the surreal valleys of Cappadocia to the coastlines of Antalya and Kusadasi, the journey offers layers of discovery. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this route provides meaningful insights into Turkey’s diverse identity.
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