Exploring Istanbul and Cappadocia

Day 1: Historical Wonders of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural marvel that has served as a church and mosque throughout history.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by tram or on foot from most central locations.
50 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Topkapi Palace

Next, visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace to immerse yourself in the opulent history of the Ottoman Empire.
Topkapi Palace is a short walk from Hagia Sophia, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
100 TRY, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Grand Bazaar

Explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offering a variety of treasures and local souvenirs.
The Grand Bazaar is a short tram ride or walk from Topkapi Palace.
Free to explore, shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Deraliye Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at Deraliye Restaurant, offering authentic Ottoman cuisine in a historic setting.
Deraliye Restaurant is located in the Sultanahmet area, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of exploration.
150 TRY per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise and Spice Bazaar

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise to admire the stunning skyline of Istanbul and witness the beauty of the city from the water.
The cruise departure point is at Eminonu or Kabatas, easily reachable by public transport or taxi.
25 USD, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Indulge in a delicious lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, a renowned restaurant offering a variety of authentic Turkish dishes.
Ciya Sofrasi is located in Kadikoy, accessible by ferry from Eminonu or Karakoy.
80 TRY per person, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Spice Bazaar

Stroll through the vibrant Spice Bazaar to sample and purchase a variety of exotic spices, teas, and Turkish delights.
The Spice Bazaar is located in Eminonu, a short walk from the Galata Bridge.
Free to explore, shopping costs vary, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Mikla

End your day with a rooftop dining experience at Mikla, offering panoramic views of the city and contemporary Turkish cuisine.
Mikla is located in Beyoglu, providing a perfect end to your day with a stunning culinary experience.
200 TRY per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Exploration in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Chora Church

Discover the beautiful mosaics and frescoes of Chora Church, showcasing the rich Byzantine history of Istanbul.
Chora Church is located in Edirnekapi, easily accessible by taxi or public transport.
30 TRY, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Istiklal Avenue

Explore the bustling Istiklal Avenue, a vibrant pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings.
Istiklal Avenue is located in Beyoglu, offering a lively atmosphere and great opportunities for shopping and people-watching.
Free to explore, shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Galata Tower

Climb the historic Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul, providing a perfect vantage point to admire the cityscape.
Galata Tower is located in Karakoy, offering a unique perspective of Istanbul's skyline.
25 TRY, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Asitane Restaurant

Indulge in a royal Ottoman dining experience at Asitane Restaurant, known for its authentic recipes from the Ottoman era.
Asitane Restaurant is located in Edirnekapi, offering a gastronomic journey through history.
180 TRY per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Final Day in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

10:00AM

Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, a symbol of the Ottoman Empire's last architectural period, blending European and Ottoman styles.
Dolmabahce Palace is located in Besiktas, easily accessible by tram or taxi.
60 TRY, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Kebap

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Ciya Kebap, offering a variety of mouthwatering kebabs and traditional Turkish cuisine.
Ciya Kebap is located in Kadikoy, perfect for a culinary experience before departing Istanbul.
100 TRY per person, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Ortakoy

Visit the charming neighbourhood of Ortakoy, known for its picturesque waterfront, lively atmosphere, and iconic mosque.
Ortakoy is located on the European side of Istanbul, easily reachable by public transport or taxi.
Free to explore, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and a fusion of Turkish and international cuisine.
Sunset Grill & Bar is located in Ulus, providing a perfect setting to end your Istanbul journey.
250 TRY per person, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Arrival in Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

Morning

Check-in to Cave Hotel

Upon arrival in Cappadocia, check-in to a unique Cave Hotel for an authentic experience staying in a cave room.
Most cave hotels offer shuttle services from the airport or can be reached by taxi.
Cost varies depending on the hotel, 1 hour

Afternoon

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum, home to ancient cave churches with stunning frescoes and rock-cut architecture.
Goreme Open-Air Museum is located in Goreme town, easily accessible by taxi or tour.
60 TRY, 2-3 hours

Evening

Dinner at Dibek

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at Dibek Restaurant, known for its authentic Cappadocian cuisine and warm hospitality.
Dibek Restaurant is located in Goreme town, offering a delightful culinary experience.
120 TRY per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Hot Air Balloon Experience and Underground City

Cappadocia, Turkey

4:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Embark on a magical hot air balloon ride at sunrise to witness the breathtaking landscape of Cappadocia from above.
Hot air balloon rides usually depart from Goreme or Urgup, with transfers provided by tour companies.
150-200 USD per person, 1-2 hours

9:00AM

Derinkuyu Underground City

Explore the fascinating underground city of Derinkuyu, carved out of volcanic rock and used by early Christians as a hiding place.
Derinkuyu Underground City is located near Nevsehir, accessible by taxi or guided tour.
40 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Old Greek House

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Old Greek House, a charming restaurant serving traditional Cappadocian dishes in a historic setting.
Old Greek House is located in Urgup, offering a cosy atmosphere and authentic flavours.
100 TRY per person, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Avanos

Visit the pottery town of Avanos to watch local artisans at work and shop for unique handcrafted pottery.
Avanos is a short drive from Goreme, offering a cultural and shopping experience in Cappadocia.
Free to explore, shopping costs vary, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ziggy's

End your day with a delightful dinner at Ziggy's, a popular restaurant in Goreme known for its international and Turkish fusion cuisine.
Ziggy's is located in the heart of Goreme, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of exploration.
150 TRY per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Farewell to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

Morning

Hot Air Balloon Photography

Capture the mesmerising hot air balloons floating over the unique landscape of Cappadocia, creating unforgettable memories.
Head to popular viewpoints such as Sunset Point or Red Valley for the best photography opportunities.
Free, 1 hour

Afternoon

Hike in Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike in Rose Valley to admire the stunning rock formations, ancient cave churches, and lush vegetation.
Rose Valley is located near Goreme, offering well-marked hiking trails and breathtaking views.
Free, 2-3 hours

Evening

Farewell Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Conclude your Cappadocia adventure with a memorable dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant, savouring local dishes in a cave setting.
Topdeck Cave Restaurant is located in Goreme, providing a cosy and authentic dining experience.
200 TRY per person, 1-2 hours
View Hotel Availability