Highlights of Turkey 9 Days
Istanbul, Cappadocia, Kusadasi, Pamukkale
Price
€1849
Overview
Discover the beauty and cultural richness of Turkey with the Highlights of Turkey Tour by True Blue Tour. This carefully curated itinerary is designed for those seeking an immersive and efficient travel experience, showcasing the country’s highlights in a compact timeframe.
Highlights:
- Step inside this 6th-century marvel Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
- Enjoy an unforgettable Bosphorus cruise
- Explore ancient cave churches and underground city in Cappadocia
- Walk on dazzling white terraces and thermal hot springs of Pamukkale
- Wander through Roman ruins at Ephesus Ancient City
Included/Excluded
- Arrival Transfers
- 8 Nights 3/4* Accommodation
- 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches
- Professional licensed local tour guides throughout the tour
- Bosphorus Cruise
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- 3 Domestic Flights
- Group airport transfers during the tour
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
- V.A.T
- Drinks with meals
- Tips for the guide
- Tips for the driver
- Travel insurance
- Any activity mentioned as optional
Tour Plan
Day 1. Arrival, Istanbul
Meet at the airport and transfer to your hotel. You will be given your room key and the rest of the day is yours.
*Please advise your flight arrival details, including which airport, at least 14 days prior to your departure.
Overnight: Istanbul
Included Meals: None
Day 2. Treasures of Old City
Meet your guide in accordance with the tour schedule. Begin your journey at the historic Hippodrome, home to the Obelisk of Theodosius and Serpent Column, iconic remnants of Byzantine history. Visit the stunning Blue Mosque, renowned for its domes, intricate tilework, and towering minarets. Continue to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century masterpiece with intricate mosaics and a soaring dome. End your adventure at the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir with a mysterious, illuminated atmosphere.
Overnight: Istanbul
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3. Istanbul Odyssey
Begin your day sailing the Bosphorus Strait, admiring palaces, fortresses, and fishing villages between Europe and Asia. Ride the historic Tünel to Galata Hill, starting at a lively fish market and exploring spice shops and local street food. Stroll along Istiklal Avenue, through the Beyoğlu district, to the Galata Tower (optional ascent to the tower), where your guide shares its legends. End your day at the Egyptian Bazaar, sampling aromatic spices, teas, and local treats in its vibrant atmosphere.
Overnight: Istanbul
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4. Dreamscape Cappadocia
After early morning transfer to the airport, take a domestic flight to the airport of Cappadocia. Our shuttle van will pick you up and take you to the tour’s starting point.
Begin your tour day at Dervent Valley (Imagination Valley), famous for its whimsical rock formations. Explore the ancient frescoed cave churches of the Göreme Open Air Museum, enjoy panoramic views at Göreme Panorama, and visit Uchisar Rock Castle for stunning scenery. Conclude your day with a visit to a local carpet cooperative to learn about traditional craftsmanship.
Overnight: Cappadocia
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5. Cappadocia’s Hidden Wonders
Optional: For the early birds, today is great to experience the Hot Air Balloon flight over the magical lands of Cappadocia.
This morning, explore the Ozkonak Underground City, a fascinating network of ancient tunnels and chambers. Continue to the stunning Rose Valley, known for its pink-hued landscape, and visit Pigeon Valley and Ortahisar, famous for their stone houses, scenic paths, and charming gardens. In Avanos, watch pottery artisans at work, admire the iconic Three Beauties fairy chimneys, and visit a local carpet cooperative to learn about traditional craftsmanship.
Overnight: Cappadocia
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6. Cappadocia-Kusadasi
Today, say goodbye to Cappadocia, magical lands and take a domestic flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and the balance of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Kusadasi
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 7. Ephesus: Echoes of Antiquity
Start your day with a visit to the peaceful House of Mother Mary, believed to be her final home, and enjoy its serene ambiance. Then, explore Şirince Village with its cobblestone streets, charming houses, local crafts, and famous fruit wines. Complete your day at the ancient city of Ephesus, exploring its preserved streets, Celsus Library, Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders.
Overnight: Kusadasi
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8. The White Marvel of Pamukkale
Your day begins with a comfortable 3-hours journey through the picturesque Turkish countryside.
You will visit the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, a Greco-Roman city from the 2nd century BCE. Explore its theaters, temples, baths, and necropolises while learning about its history. Then, marvel at the stunning Pamukkale travertines, also known as the "Cotton Castle", with their white, mineral-rich terraces. Take a dip in the natural hot springs to relax and rejuvenate.
After the full day tour, take a domestic flight back to Istanbul where the journey started. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight: Istanbul
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9. Departure
There are no scheduled activities today. You can enjoy free time until your departure. Optional airport transfers are available upon request (not included in the tour price).
Overnight: None
Included Meals: Breakfast
