Exploring Istanbul and Cappadocia

Day 1: Discovering Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by tram or taxi from most parts of Istanbul.
30 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Topkapi Palace

After Hagia Sophia, head to Topkapi Palace to delve into the opulent history of the Ottoman Empire.
Topkapi Palace is a short walk away from Hagia Sophia.
60 TRY, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Doyuran Lokanta

Enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch at Doyuran Lokanta, known for its authentic dishes.
It's a 5-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
50 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Grand Bazaar

Spend your afternoon getting lost in the bustling aisles of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
The Grand Bazaar is a 15-minute walk from Doyuran Lokanta.
Free to enter, shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

End your day with a delightful dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the Golden Horn.
Hamdi Restaurant is a short taxi ride from the Grand Bazaar.
100 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 2: Istanbul's Charm

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise to witness the beauty of Istanbul from the water.
The cruise departure point is easily reachable by tram or taxi.
25 TRY, 2 hours

11:30AM

Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, an impressive symbol of the 19th-century Ottoman Empire.
Dolmabahce Palace is a short walk from the Bosphorus Cruise dock.
60 TRY, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Indulge in a diverse array of Turkish dishes at Ciya Sofrasi, a popular restaurant with a rich culinary heritage.
Ciya Sofrasi is a 10-minute taxi ride from Dolmabahce Palace.
70 TRY, 1 hour

3:30PM

Galata Tower

Climb the Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
Galata Tower is a short distance away from Ciya Sofrasi.
25 TRY, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Istiklal Street

Stroll down bustling Istiklal Street, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Istiklal Street is easily accessible from Galata Tower.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Mikla Restaurant, known for its innovative Turkish cuisine and rooftop setting.
Mikla Restaurant is a 10-minute walk from Istiklal Street.
150 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 3: Departure to Cappadocia

Travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia

9:00AM

Travel to Cappadocia

Take a domestic flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia or opt for an overnight bus journey to reach this enchanting region.
Travel to the airport or bus station from your accommodation. Flight duration is 1.5 hours, while the bus journey takes around 10 hours.
Varies based on transportation choice, 1.5 - 10 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Cappadocia's Wonders

Cappadocia, Turkey

10:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Start your day with a magical hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia.
Hot air balloon rides usually depart early in the morning from designated areas.
200 EUR, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Anatolian meal at Dibek Restaurant, known for its authentic Cappadocian cuisine.
Dibek Restaurant is a short drive from the hot air balloon departure site.
80 TRY, 1 hour

2:30PM

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes at the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum.
The museum is a short distance from Dibek Restaurant.
45 TRY, 2-3 hours

5:00PM

Leisure Time at Cave Hotel

Relax and unwind at your unique cave hotel, experiencing the charm of Cappadocia's cave dwellings.
Return to your accommodation for some leisure time and exploration of the hotel's facilities.
Included in accommodation cost, Ongoing

7:30PM

Dinner at Old Greek House

Dine at the Old Greek House restaurant, sampling delicious local dishes in a historic setting.
Old Greek House is a short walk or drive from your cave hotel.
100 TRY, 1-2 hours
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Day 5: Farewell to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Hike in Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike in Rose Valley, marvelling at the unique rock formations and cave dwellings.
Travel to the starting point of the hike in Rose Valley.
Free, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Han Ciragan Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Han Ciragan Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the valley.
Han Ciragan Restaurant is located along the hiking trail in Rose Valley.
70 TRY, 1 hour

1:30PM

Cappadocia Pottery Workshop

Participate in a hands-on pottery workshop to learn about the traditional art of pottery in Cappadocia.
The pottery workshop is a short drive from Rose Valley.
50 TRY, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Farewell to Cappadocia

Bid farewell to the enchanting land of Cappadocia as you make your way to the airport or bus station for your journey back to Istanbul.
Travel back to the airport or bus station for your return journey to Istanbul.
Varies based on transportation choice, 1.5 - 10 hours
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