Istanbul & Cappadocia Highlights

5 days · 5 suggested stays

Day 1 — Arrive in Istanbul and explore Sultanahmet (overnight: Istanbul)

Hagia Sophia
Iconic Byzantine cathedral with stunning mosaics.
Blue Mosque
Famous for its blue Iznik tiles inside.
Grand Bazaar
One of the largest covered markets in the world.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel — Visit site — More hotels
Comfortable stay in the historic center.

Day 2 — Topkapi Palace and transfer to Cappadocia (overnight: Istanbul)

Topkapi Palace
Ottoman sultans' residence with harem views.
Flight to Cappadocia
Domestic flight from Istanbul to Nevşehir.
Göreme Open Air Museum
Ancient rock-cut churches with frescoes.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel — Visit site — More hotels
Traditional cave hotel in Göreme.

Day 3 — Hot air balloon and valley hike (overnight: Cappadocia)

Goreme Sunset Point
Panoramic views of fairy chimneys.
Rose Valley Hike
Scenic trek through red-hued rock formations.
Uchisar Castle
Volcanic fortress with panoramic views.
Sultan Cave Suites — Visit site — More hotels
Relax in your cave suite for the night.

Day 4 — Underground cities and Avanos pottery (overnight: Cappadocia)

Derinkuyu Underground City
Massive underground city carved into rock.
Avanos Pottery Workshop
Watch artisans make traditional ceramics.
Pasabag Monks Valley
Distinctive mushroom-shaped rock formations.
Sultan Cave Suites — Visit site — More hotels
Final night in the unique cave rooms.

Day 5 — Morning stroll and return flight (overnight: Cappadocia)

Pigeon Valley Walk
Peaceful morning walk through carved cliffs.
Return Flight to Istanbul
Fly back to Istanbul for trip end.
Maidens Tower
Historic tower on a small islet.
Sultan Cave Suites — Visit site — More hotels
Final overnight in Istanbul.

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