Semi-Private Tour to Old City of Istanbul

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

Sultanahmet Square - The tour begins 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 visits to 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 leave 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.

Kapali Carsi - 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.

Istanbul - After the tour, guests will be dropped back at their hotel if it is located outside the Sultanahmet area. Those staying in the Sultanahmet area can return to their hotels on foot, as the distances are short and within walking distance.

Early Morning Flight from Istanbul to Pamukkale / Tour to Laodicea, Pamukkale, Hierapolis / Overnight at Kusadasi

İstanbul - The driver will meet guests at the reception of their hotel (or at their Airbnb address if parking is available) and then transfer them to the airport for their flight from Istanbul to Pamukkale. * Domestic flight tickets for the destinations listed in the itinerary are included in the tour price.

Pamukkale - Upon arrival at Denizli Çardak Airport, the tour guide will meet guests at the exit of the arrival terminal, holding a welcome sign with the guests’ names for easy identification, and then proceed to the Pamukkale Natural Park area for the tour of the Pamukkale travertines and the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Natural Park - Pamukkale Natural Park is a must-visit destination for nature and history enthusiasts. For centuries, people have been coming here and leaving feeling rejuvenated. This natural park offers experiences at the white travertines of Pamukkale, Cleopatra Pools, and the ancient city of Hierapolis, all located within Pamukkale Natural Park.

Hierapolis & Pamukkale - The highlights of the Hierapolis Ancient City include Roman Baths, Domitian Gate, Latrina, Oil Factory, Frontinus Street, Agora, Byzantium Gate, Triton Fountain, Cathedral, Apollon Temple, Plutonium, Theater, and Antique Pool. During visits to these ancient ruins, guests can take photos from the most picturesque corners of Pamukkale.

Pamukkale Thermal Pools - After visiting the Hierapolis Ancient City, guests will have free time for about 60-75 minutes to explore the natural beauties of Pamukkale and swim at the white travertines - thermal pools (or antique pool - Cleopatra’s pool for an additional fee).

Cleopatra Pools - Situated above the Pamukkale white travertine pools is a particularly spectacular location fed by the same hot springs. Here, guests can bathe in the same waters in which Cleopatra once swam! A professionally run modern spa facility allows visitors to enjoy these historical healing waters. Unlike the white water of the lower pools, the Antique Pool favored by Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt, is pure clear warm water. Once it was surmounted by a Roman Temple to Apollo with an ornate roof held up by Doric columns. Imagine how Cleopatra must have experienced this when envisioning it in its glory days.

Pamukkale - Guests will stop at a local restaurant for lunch. Today’s lunch is included during the guided tour. After lunch, there will be an opportunity to experience a traditional handcraft workshop to learn about the special stones/metals of Pamukkale.

Laodicea - Excavations here have revealed artifacts dating from 3500 BC (Late Chalcolithic) to 3000 BC (Early Bronze Age). The city’s name comes from the Seleucid king Antiochus II, who named it for his wife Laodike in the 3rd century BC when it was thriving. Later controlled by the kings of Pergamum, it was willed to the Roman Empire, and thrived again from the 4th to 6th centuries. Its importance then numbered it among the Seven Churches of Revelation.

Kusadasi - After today’s semi-private guided tour in the Pamukkale district, guests will be transferred to their hotel in Kusadasi.

Kusadasi Castle - This small castle is a picturesque Byzantine fortress standing on the causeway-connected Guvercin Adasi (Pigeon Island) and has recently been renovated. * There is no visit to this place on the tour. Guests can visit there on their own after being dropped off at their hotel in Kusadasi.

Okuz Mehmet Pasa KervansarayI - This caravanserai was built by the Grand Vizier Okuz Mehmed Pasha to support maritime trade in the region. This historical building is opposite Kusadasi cruise port. * There is no visit to this place on the tour. Guests can visit there on their own after being dropped off at their hotel in Kusadasi.

Semi-Private Tour to Ephesus and Its Surroundings / Flight to Cappadocia / Overnight at Cappadocia

Kuşadası - After having breakfast at the hotel, the tour guide and driver will meet guests at the reception of their hotel in Kusadasi and then drive them to the town of Selcuk for the tour of Ephesus and its surroundings.

Ancient City of Ephesus - Ephesus was one of the most important harbor cities in the ancient world and is also mentioned in the book of Revelations as one of the seven churches. The Celsus Library and theater in Ephesus are other highlights. Guests will see and visit the Celsus Library, Temple of Hadrian, the fountain of Trajan, Grand Theater, Hercules Gate, Odeon, Ancient Toilets, and many important historical buildings in this UNESCO-listed ancient city.

Ephesus Experience Museum - At the Ephesus Experience Museum, guests will travel back in time and immerse themselves in the mystical atmosphere of the ancient world. With the innovative approach of this amazing museum, an entirely mesmerizing experience is offered where time breaks free from its static confines and dances in perpetual motion, bringing historical artifacts to life and presenting interactive visual spectacles that will leave an indelible imprint on memory. (Admission to the Ephesus Experience Museum is free if guests have a ticket for Ephesus Ancient City)

Ephesus Terrace Houses - Guests will walk in front of the Terrace Houses during the tour, and the guide will provide information about the Terrace Houses of Ephesus Ancient City. (There is no visit to this place included in the guided tour. However, a short visit may be added if the schedule allows.)

Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House) - The next visit of the tour will be the last home of the Virgin Mary. Upon arrival, guests will be thrilled by the natural beauty that surrounds the monument. The House of Virgin Mary is located on the Aladag Mountains 5 miles away from Ephesus. At the third Ecumenical Council in 431 AD in Ephesus, it was claimed that Mary came to Ephesus with St. John in 37 A.D. and lived there until her death in 48 A.D. After the discovery of the house, the Archbishop of Izmir declared it a place of pilgrimage in 1892. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited this place and prayed there.

Selcuk - Guests will stop at a traditional Turkish restaurant for lunch. After lunch, there will be an experience in a traditional handcraft cooperative to learn about the special arts of Turkish villagers.

The Temple of Artemis - Another visit of the tour is the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, standing today next to Ephesus ancient city.

Ephesus Archaeological Site - At the end of the tour of Ephesus and its surroundings, guests will be transferred to Izmir Airport for their flight to Cappadocia. Please note that there are no direct flights from Izmir to Cappadocia every day. Therefore, guests may have a flight with a layover in Istanbul if there is no direct flight to Cappadocia on their travel date.

Kayseri Erkilet Airport - Upon arrival at Kayseri airport, guests will be transferred to their hotel in Cappadocia.

Hot Air Balloon Ride (Optional) / Semi-Private Tour to Cappadocia / Overnight at Cappadocia

Cappadocia Balloon Tours - Hot Air Balloon Ride (Optional – Book Now with Fixed Price Guarantee, No Last-Minute Increases): Get ready 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 the flight. The flight takes place at sunrise, with the pilot climbing 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, guests will be transferred back to their hotel.

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 this rock-cut architecture 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 try the “Testi Kebab,” a traditional kebab variety of the Cappadocia region of Turkey. (Vegetarian meals are also 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 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.

Cappadocia - At the end of the guided tour, guests will be dropped off back at their hotel in Cappadocia.

Semi-Private Tour to Cappadocia / Flight Back to Istanbul

Mustafapasa - Guests will be picked up from their hotel and then driven to Keslik Monastery. On the way, they will pass through Mustafapaşa (Sinasos) Village, one of Cappadocia’s hidden gems. This charming village combines history and nature, showcasing impressive examples of both Greek and Turkish architecture. With its stone houses, narrow streets, and restored old mansions, Mustafapaşa takes visitors on a journey back in time.

Keslik Monastery - Keslik Monastery is a sprawling cave monastery complex with two churches, a large refectory hall, a sacred spring, and endless cave rooms. Located in an idyllic garden setting, this is the most expansive monastery in Cappadocia. This site has been used and developed in many ways throughout the course of 2,000 years. This area was a gravesite in pre-Christian Roman times, a large communal monastery during the Byzantine era, and now a tourist site in modern Turkey.

Sobesos Ancient City - Sobesos Ancient City was discovered by accident in 2002. The city, which is one of the mirrors of Cappadocia’s history, was unearthed as a result of a 3-year archaeological excavation. As a result of the excavations, it has been observed that there are many motifs embroidered on colored stones. Especially the floor mosaics are made with interesting geometric patterns.

Pigeon Valley - Guests will have their lunch and then continue to Pigeon Valley, located in Üçhisar, to enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the region. The site also features many pigeon houses built by the ancient inhabitants of the area. If desired, guests can also visit the region’s popular onyx stone factory.

Kaymakli Underground City - Kaymakli, one of the major underground cities of Cappadocia, consists of 8 floors. However, as in many underground cities, not all floors are open to tourists. In the city, the first floor is separated for the animals to go out easily. Establish a connection between the churches and other living spaces with the corridors separated from the stables. Kaymakli Underground City, which has astounding sections such as warehouses, kitchens, cemeteries, mughouse, and copper processing workshop, still contains hidden underground tunnels that have not been fully revealed.

Cappadocia - At the end of the guided tour, guests will be transferred to Cappadocia Airport for their return flight to Istanbul.

İstanbul - Upon arrival in Istanbul, guests will be transferred to their hotel or Airbnb address. The tour operator will send detailed instructions, including written information and visuals (such as a video or map), explaining where and how to meet the driver. The departure time for the return flight is generally scheduled between 8:00 pm and 9:00 pm. Accordingly, arrival in Istanbul is expected to be between approximately 9:30 pm and 10:45 pm. Please note that these times may vary by up to ±30 minutes depending on the specific flight scheduled for the travel date. This timing is carefully arranged to ensure guests can fully enjoy their guided tour in Cappadocia before their comfortable return to Istanbul.

• Private transportation
• Hot Air Balloon Ride (Optional – Book Now with Fixed Price Guarantee, No Last-Minute Increases)
• Lunch
• Breakfast
• Entrance fees
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off services
• Domestic flights: Istanbul → Pamukkale, Izmir/Ephesus → Cappadocia → Istanbul
• Semi-private guided tours, limited to 10 guests per group
• 3 nights’ accommodation at Kusadasi (1) and Cappadocia (2), including breakfast

• Dinners
• Drinks
• Accommodation at Istanbul

⭐ Small-group tours are capped at 10 participants for a personalized experience
⭐ Embark on a hot air balloon adventure over Cappadocia’s enchanting fairy chimneys
⭐ Stay overnight in charming cave boutique hotels
⭐ Savor delightful lunches at selected restaurants, featuring Testi Kebab

Discover Turkey’s most iconic sites on this 5-day journey. Visit Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the lively Grand Bazaar, relax in Pamukkale’s thermal terraces, travel back in time at Laodicea, Ephesus, and the House of Virgin Mary, and explore Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, ancient monasteries, valleys, and underground cities. Semi-private tours, gourmet lunches, Testi Kebab, and an optional hot air balloon ride promise an unforgettable adventure filled with culture, history, and unique experiences.

• To arrange your flight tickets, the local tour operator may kindly request some passport details. Providing this information will help ensure that your domestic flight booking can be completed smoothly.
• E-tickets for your domestic flights will be sent by the local tour operator three days prior to your departure date. Printed copies of the tickets are not required by airline companies or the local tour operator. You may use the digital copies.
• Each domestic flight includes a baggage allowance of 15 kg of checked luggage and 8 kg of hand luggage per person. If you require additional baggage allowance, please inform the local tour operator in advance. Please note that extra charges may apply for luggage exceeding the 15 kg limit.
• If you wish to change your scheduled domestic flight(s) after they have been issued, the local tour operator may request the cost of new flight tickets. Please note that flight tickets cannot be refunded or changed once issued.
• Accommodation for this tour will be at Carina Boutique Hotel in Kuşadası and Zeydem Suites Cave Hotel in Cappadocia. Please note that accommodation in Istanbul on the first evening of the tour is not included in the price. If standard or superior rooms at the specified hotels are not available on your travel dates, the local tour operator reserves the right to replace them with hotels of equivalent quality. Therefore, no refunds will be provided in such cases.
• Package prices are based on accommodations in double or triple rooms. Rooms are assigned according to the number of guests in your booking: 2 guests will receive a double room, and 3 guests a triple room. For groups of 4 or more, rooms will be arranged as the most suitable combination of double and/or triple rooms. For bookings of 2 or more guests, a single room supplement may apply if a single room is requested. Single travelers (for bookings of one person) are not charged extra and will automatically be accommodated in single rooms.
• ⭐ MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE FOR HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE : Hot air balloon rides are subject to weather conditions and safety regulations set by the Civil Aviation Authority. Unlike some others, the local tour operator offer a guaranteed refund for the cost of hot air balloon experience if the flight is canceled due to unfavorable weather. In such cases, the balloon flight cost is refunded promptly, typically by the following day, ensuring a worry-free and transparent travel experience.
• ⭐ FIXED PRICE GUARANTEE FOR HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE : Hot air balloon tour prices are dynamic and may vary from day to day. Especially, if a hot air balloon tour is canceled on any given day due to weather conditions, prices for the following day may increase by 30–40%, and on some days even by 70–80%. In such cases, this local tour operator guarantees that the price will remain fixed at the rate valid at the time of your reservation and will not be subject to any changes. BOOK NOW WITH A FIXED PRICE GUARANTEE AND SAVE MONEY!
• ⭐ SEMI-PRIVATE GUIDED TOURS : Unlike standard group tours, the guided day tour(s) in this travel package are operated with a maximum of 10 participants per group. This exclusive format ensures a more personal, immersive, and comfortable experience, allowing guests to truly connect with Turkey’s ancient heritages and breathtaking landscapes.
• The Hot Air Balloon Ride will be operated in the Standard Category. This category offers an approximate flight duration of one hour, using baskets with a capacity of 20 to 28 passengers. The actual flight time may vary between 50–55 minutes or 65–70 minutes, depending on weather conditions prior to landing. Flight duration decisions are made by the pilot in accordance with the safety regulations of the Civil Aviation Authority. The total duration of the activity is approximately 3 hours.
• If you have not added the Hot Air Balloon Ride to your booking for this travel package, the hot air balloon experience and any related services mentioned or advertised in the description are not included.
• If you do not use any service or choose not to participate in activities, tours, or airport transfers, this will be considered a last-minute cancellation. In such cases, no refund will be provided.
• The children aged 6 and under are not allowed to participate in the hot air balloon ride due to Civil Aviation regulations.
• Child rates apply only when accompanied by two paying adults. If the booking includes 1 adult and 1 child, the local tour operator may charge the rate for 2 adults.
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
• Infant meals not included.
• If you require a baby cot (crib) for infant guests aged 0–2, please kindly inform the local tour operator.

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.