Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST or SAW), you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Spend the day settling in or exploring the vibrant city at your own pace.

In the evening, prepare for a magical Bosphorus Cruise with Dinner & Folkloric Show. Starting at approximately 7:30 PM, this enchanting experience allows you to witness the beauty of the Bosphorus Strait, the natural divide between Europe and Asia.

Board the cruise with a welcome drink and take in breathtaking views of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including the Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden’s Tower, and the illuminated Bosphorus Bridge.

Relish a delicious spread of Turkish cuisine, from flavorful appetizers to delectable desserts, while enjoying live entertainment featuring a vibrant Turkish folkloric show. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

After an unforgettable evening, return to your hotel for a restful night.

Overnight Stay: Istanbul.
Pickup Time: Approx. 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting off on a Full-Day Ottoman & Byzantine Relics Tour. Starting around 8:30 AM, this immersive journey will take you through Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district, showcasing its most iconic landmarks.

Morning Highlights:

• Hagia Sophia: Explore the architectural grandeur of this legendary structure, which has transitioned through history as a church, mosque, museum, and now a mosque again.
• Hippodrome of Constantinople: Marvel at its ancient obelisks and monuments, a reminder of the city's Byzantine glory.
• Blue Mosque: Admire the breathtaking interiors and stunning exteriors of this historic masterpiece. Remember to carry a scarf for entry.
• Grand Bazaar: Stroll through this vibrant marketplace to discover an array of goods, from textiles to spices. If closed, the Arasta Bazaar will be visited instead.

Afternoon Highlights:

• Enjoy a delicious local lunch before continuing the tour.
• Topkapi Palace: Step into the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, showcasing a treasure trove of artifacts and royal history.

After the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel by approximately 5:30 PM.

Important Notes:

• Bring a scarf for visits to mosques.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

Overnight Stay: Istanbul.

Experience the charm of Bursa, Turkey's first Ottoman capital, on a full-day tour filled with adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes. Starting at 8:30 AM, your journey begins with a ferry ride across the Izmit Gulf, where you can breathe in fresh air and enjoy scenic views.

Tour Highlights:

• Yalova City Safari (Optional): Embark on an exciting safari tour amidst picturesque surroundings.
• Turkish Delights Factory: Sample and purchase authentic Turkish sweets in Bursa.
• Inkaya Tree: Visit this 650-year-old natural monument, a symbol of Bursa’s history.
• Bee House: Learn about traditional beekeeping and see bees in their natural habitat.

Lunch & Activities:

Savor a delicious mixed grill lunch with vegetarian options on Uludağ Mountain, Turkey’s premier ski and nature destination. Enjoy breathtaking views and fresh mountain air, with the option of an exhilarating cable car ride.

Afternoon Exploration:

• Green Mosque & Green Tomb: Discover the architectural and cultural heritage of Ottoman Bursa.
• Silk House & Ancient Turkish Bath: Learn about Bursa's history as a major silk trade center and Ottoman spa hub.

Return to Istanbul by approximately 9:30 PM, enriched with unforgettable memories.

Important Notes:

• Ferry rides may be replaced with Osmangazi Bridge in heavy traffic.
• Tours are available in English, Arabic, and Turkish.
• Be ready 15 minutes before departure time.

Overnight Stay: Istanbul.

Discover the serene beauty of Büyükada, the largest of Turkey’s Princes' Islands, on this 9-hour excursion. Escape the hustle of Istanbul and embrace the peaceful charm of this picturesque island.

Morning Highlights:

• Begin your journey with a comfortable hotel pickup by air-conditioned coach, transferring to the port.
• Board a boat and cruise across the Sea of Marmara, enjoying stunning views of Istanbul’s landmarks like Topkapi Palace and the iconic Maiden’s Tower, featured in the James Bond movie The World is Not Enough.

On the Island:

• Dock at Büyükada and stroll through its quaint streets. The pedestrian-only island offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
• Admire Ottoman-era wooden mansions and learn about the island’s intriguing history as a site of exile and a monastic settlement during Byzantine times.
• Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant and take the afternoon to explore the island at your own pace. Rent a bike (not included) or relax on one of its beautiful beaches.

Return to Istanbul:

• Reboard the boat for your return journey. Feed seagulls with simit (sesame bread) provided by your guide as you soak in the sparkling sea views.
• Travel back to your hotel by coach for a relaxing evening.

Timing: Approx. 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
Overnight Stay: Istanbul.

After breakfast, bid farewell to Istanbul as you prepare for the next leg of your journey. A private transfer will take you to the airport for your included flight to Kayseri, located in central Turkey.

Upon arrival in Kayseri, you will be transported to Cappadocia, a region renowned for its unique landscapes, ancient subterranean cities, and breathtaking rock formations.

Spend the rest of the day settling into your accommodations or exploring the area at leisure, soaking in the magical atmosphere of Cappadocia.

Overnight Stay: Cappadocia.

Start your day with an optional Hot Air Balloon Tour, an unforgettable adventure offering breathtaking views of Cappadocia's surreal landscapes.

Hot Air Balloon Tour (Optional):

• Begin early in the morning (before sunrise) with a pickup from your hotel.
• Arrive at the take-off site to witness the mesmerizing inflation of the balloon.
• Soar above the unique valleys, fairy chimneys, and rock formations of Cappadocia during a 1-hour flight, capturing the stunning beauty of the region bathed in the morning light.

Full-Day Cappadocia Highlights Tour:

After breakfast, continue your exploration of Cappadocia with a full-day guided tour.

• Göreme Open Air Museum: Discover rock-cut churches adorned with ancient frescoes.
• Devrent Valley: Marvel at the surreal, otherworldly rock formations that resemble animals and figures.
• Pasabag (Monks Valley): Explore the iconic fairy chimneys and learn about their historical significance.
• Avanos Village: Visit this charming village famous for its traditional pottery and craftsmanship.
• Uçhisar Castle: Enjoy panoramic views of Cappadocia from this towering rock citadel.

Lunch:

Savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Turkish cuisine.

After a day of exploration and wonder, return to your hotel in Cappadocia to relax and reflect on your adventures.

Overnight Stay: Cappadocia.

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia. You’ll be transferred to Kayseri Airport for your included flight back to Istanbul or onward to your next destination.

Reflect on the incredible memories and experiences gathered during your journey through Turkey’s vibrant history, culture, and natural wonders.

Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you again!