Depart on your international flight to Istanbul, Turkey. Note: Pre-nights in Istanbul are available for those who wish to arrive early. Please inquire for rates and availability.

Upon arrival in Istanbul, your private driver will meet you at the airport to bring you to your centrally located hotel. Take some time to rest and settle in before we gather this evening for a welcome talk and drink. We’ll then enjoy a special welcome dinner together. Overnight in Istanbul

Today you will enjoy a guided walking tour of Sultanahmet including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the breathtaking Basilica Cistern. You will stop for a traditional Turkish lunch at a local eatery before finishing your tour at the Grand Bazar where you will get the chance to shop for local artisan products. Overnight in Istanbul

Today your guide will lead you across the Bosphorus by ferry to experience Istanbul’s Asian side, where tradition meets every day local life. You will begin your tour at the Beylerbeyi Palace, a 19th-century summer residence showcasing elegant interiors and stunning Bosphorus views. Afterwards, you will continue your tour in Kadıköy, a lively district known for its artistic spirit, historic buildings, and colorful produce markets. Stroll through the fish market, browse local delicacies, and sample authentic Turkish street food. Continue to the seaside neighborhood of Moda, where leafy streets, boutique cafés, and views of the Marmara Sea offer a more relaxed pace. Enjoy Turkish tea or coffee at a waterfront terrace, mingling with locals. In the afternoon, you will catch the public ferry ride back to the European side, arriving on time to enjoy a beautiful cruise over the Bosphorus at sunset. Overnight in Istanbul

Today you will be transferred to the airport to catch your flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, your driver will transfer you to your boutique cave hotel in Ürgüp. Formed by volcanic activity and shaped by centuries of history, Cappadocia is famous for its otherworldly landscapes of fairy chimneys, ancient cave dwellings, and rock-cut churches. You will start the exploration around Ürgüp before heading to a delicious local dinner. Overnight in or near Ürgüp

You will wake up very early this morning to experience the sunrise over magic Cappadocia. As an optional activity, you can decide to go on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. As an alternative, we suggest a jeep safari to experience sunrise is from the Love Valley where you will see all the hot air balloons rising over the fairy chimneys, this is also a memorable experience! Afterwards, you will go back to your hotel to enjoy your breakfast. After breakfast, you will explore the area around Uçhisar (Pigen Valley), Gôreme (Goreme open air museum), Cavusin (Pasabaglar and Devrent Valley), Kaymahli underground city. Late in the afternoon, you will meet your guide for an easy 2-hour trekking in the Rose Valley at sunset. Overnight in or near Ürgüp

Today it is your last day in Cappadocia. Your first stop is Selime Castle, the largest rock-cut monastery complex in Cappadocia, dramatically carved into a cliffside. This ancient site features tunnels, chambers, and a cathedral with panoramic views over the surrounding landscape. You will then proceed to Ihlara Valley, a lush, green canyon carved by the Melendiz River, offering a peaceful contrast to Cappadocia’s arid terrain. You will enjoy an easy hike on a scenic walking trail passing through villages, cave churches with frescoes, and tranquil riverside cafés. You will then drive back to Ürgüp through the southeastern past of Cappadocia making today’s route a perfect loop. Overnight in or near Ürgüp

Today you will be transferred to the airport to catch a domestic flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to the UNESCO site of Pamukkale. Meaning Cotton Castle in Turkish, it is a natural wonder famous for its bright white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. It also houses the ancient city of Hierapolis, where visitors can explore the stunning theater and bathe in the historic Cleopatra’s Pool. You will have the time to enjoy an unforgettable sunset over the pools! Overnight in Pamukkale

Today you will leave for Izmir. En route, you will stop at an olive farm for an olive oil tasting. Afterwards, you will proceed to Ephesus for lunch. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a tour of this stunning archaeological site. Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, showcasing grand Roman architecture and deep historical significance. Highlights include the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Afterwards, you will be transferred to Izmir. Overnight in Izmir

This morning you will enjoy a walking tour of Izmir, a vibrant coastal city on Turkey’s Aegean coast. The tour includes Izmir’s Kemeraltı Bazaar where you will experience the real Turkish lifestyle, the amazing Agora of Ancient Smyrna for a fascinating glimpse into daily life in a bustling Roman port city, and the Clock Tower. You will have the afternoon on own before meeting again for your farewell dinner. . Overnight in Izmir

Today you will be transfered to Izmir airport where you can flights to European hub cities or return flights to Istanbul. For those wanting a to extend their travelers, a transfer to Kuşadası port to join our Greek Isle cruise is possible.