Turkey: Istanbul & the Landscapes of Cappadocia 9 days
About This Experience
Get to know the culture that developed at the intersection of East and West in Istanbul, a city that effortlessly blends the ancient and the modern. Uncover the spice of life at the center of this colorful capital as you experience the rush of the Grand Bazaar, survey a skyline speared by minarets and watch the whirl of Sufi mystics. For a retreat from the bustle, escape to Cappadocia’s lunar landscapes, where you’ll explore the ins and outs of this region’s rock-hewn villages and steep-peaked terrain.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
7 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 5 Dinners (three-course or buffet), including beer or wine on select days
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
The chance to visit two continents in one
Mouthwatering mezze bites & Turkish teas
Cappadocia’s ancient, cavernous hideaways
Walking among rock-carved churches & “fairy chimneys”
Ancient Greco-Roman ruins & frescoes
Haggling & mingling with locals at the Grand Bazaar
Overnight Flight1 night
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day2
Descend into the city of mystics and minarets
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to Istanbul, the crossroads of East and West as well as the world’s only city that spans two continents. A Go Ahead representative greets you at the airport and escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin getting to know Istanbul. In the evening, greet your fellow travelers at your welcome dinner.
Day3
Travel back to the days of sultans and swords
Breakfast
Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Underground Cistern
Follow a local guide through Istanbul’s vibrant streets and historic UNESCO World Heritage sites. You’ll visit the city’s Hippodrome, once considered the social center of ancient Constantinople, the breathtaking Blue Mosque, named for the blue tiles adorning its interior, and an elaborate underground cistern. After free time for lunch, continue to the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Following your tour, you’ll be free to spend the evening as you like, perhaps stopping to sample Turkish delights, sip apple tea or stroll along the Bosphorus.
Cappadocia3 nights - hotel info
Day4
Make your way through the moonscapes of Pigeon Valley
Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, fly to the captivating region of Cappadocia, where you’ll tour Pigeon Valley’s dramatic canyon and rock formations, take in sweeping city views from atop Uchisar Village and walk through the moonscapes of Avcilar Valley. This afternoon, consider joining our optional Whirling Dervishes excursion. Watch as gown-clad mystics swirl through the air, symbolizing their turning toward truth. Later, cap off your first day in Cappadocia at dinner with your fellow travelers.
Optional Excursions
Whirling Dervishes $35* pp
The Sufi Muslim sect known as the Whirling Dervishes was founded in the 13th century by Mevlana Rumi. They were named after their elaborate dance-like ritual, which honors the movement of the Earth. Learn more about this fascinating ancient faith and its modern-day practitioners during this cultural performance.
Day5
Roam among rock-carved churches and ancient frescoes
Breakfast, Dinner
Set out to discover Cappadocia’s intriguing ancient villages with a local guide. Begin your adventure with a look back in time as you explore the 1,000-year-old rock-carved churches found in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Göreme Open Air Museum. Then, venture to the villages of Avanos and Çavuşin to meet local pottery artisans before traveling into the Pasabag Valley, also known as the Monks Valley, to explore the region’s famed “fairy chimneys.” Afterward, learn the history and artistry behind one of Turkey’s most colorful and popular exports—its brightly woven rugs. In the evening, share your favorite moments from the day with fellow travelers over an included dinner at a local restaurant.
Day6
Get a glimpse into Cappadocia’s underground culture
Breakfast, Dinner
You’re free to explore Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes on your own, perhaps taking an early-morning balloon ride over the area’s intriguing rock-formed columns and lunar-like topography. Later on, consider joining our optional excursion to Keslik Monastery and Kaymakli, one of Cappadocia’s 36 hidden cities. Once a secret hideaway, the underground city is comprised of hundreds of cavernous tunnels, complete with ancient wine cellars, kitchens and stables. In the evening, wind down over dinner with your group.
Optional Excursions
Underground City and Keslik Monastery $25* pp
Get a feel for what life was like when Turks and Greeks lived side by side in the former Ottoman village of Sinasos, known today as Mustafapaşa. After walking among the town’s Grecian-style homes and past its two soaring minarets, set out to explore the village of Cemil, known for its ancient churches built into the surrounding mountains. Afterward, make your to Cappadocia’s famed rock-carved Keslik Monastery, before concluding the day delving into the cavernous tunnels of the Kaymakli underground city. The widest of Cappadocia’s 36 underground cities, Kaymakli was originally used as a secret hideaway from invaders and later expanded to contain nearly 100 tunnels, complete with wine cellars, kitchens and stables, some of which are still in use today.
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Finesse your bartering skills in this lively and legendary souk
Breakfast
Hagia Sophia
Pack your belongings and fly back to Istanbul this morning. Get reacquainted with the city as you explore one of Turkey’s most iconic sites, the Hagia Sophia, which held the title of the world’s largest cathedral for nearly 1,000 years. Afterward, get ready to haggle with the locals as you make your way through the Grand Bazaar, a lively and legendary souk that boasts over 5,000 vendors offering traditional rich-colored rugs, aromatic spices and other luxurious goods. In the evening, head out to explore on your own, perhaps stopping in an off-the-beaten-path restaurant to sample authentic Turkish meze and boldly flavored kebabs. After filling up on Turkish delicacies, consider taking an evening walk to soak in the cityscape lit up at night.
Day8
Soak in scenes of every day life on the banks of the Bosphorus
Breakfast, Dinner
Set off on your own today or opt for our Bosphorus Straits cruise. If you go-it-alone, consider paying a visit to Princes’ Island to see the Turkish elite’s summer palaces, or take in the Byzantine-era mosaics and frescoes found in Church of St. Saviour in Chora. If you choose to take our optional excursion, you’ll begin your day with a visit to the spice market and a leather-crafting demonstration en route to your Bosphorus Straits cruise. Once aboard, relax and look out on the contrasting Asian and European architecture along Istanbul’s waterfront. In the evening, gather for one last meal with your group at your farewell dinner.
Optional Excursions
Bosphorus Straits Cruise $55* pp
Cruise through the Bosphorus Straits, looking out on decadent Ottoman palaces and imposing medieval castles as you journey through the narrow waterway that separates Europe from Asia. On your way, you'll stop to visit the famous Egyptian bazaar, known as the Spice Market. After returning from your cruise, sit down to a lunch of Turkish specialties. Please note: This excursion is weather dependent. In some cases, dinner will be offered instead of lunch.
Day9
Leave your heart in the City of the World’s Desire
Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)
Güle güle! If you’re not staying for our two-night tour extension, it’s time to say farewell to Istanbul. A Go Ahead representative escorts you to the airport early this morning for your return flight home.
Extend Your Stay
Add Istanbul $249*
Perfectly positioned between East and West, Istanbul has remained Turkey’s cultural and historical heart for centuries upon centuries, from the rise and fall of one empire to the next. Spend two more nights in the City of the World’s Desire getting a taste for the local spice of life. Order up a glass of raki, walk the walls of ancient Constantinople, drift along the Bosphorus and leave feeling like a true İstanbullu.
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Walk the walls of that once contained Constantinople
Breakfast
Today is open to spend as you wish. You may want to venture over to Galata Bridge, whose lower deck offers waterfront dining and tea houses, perfect for boat watching. Go back in time on a walk along the four-mile stretch of walls surrounding the old Byzantine city of Constantinople. In the evening, experience Istanbul’s lively nightlife by attending a traditional belly dancing show or dining street-side on Nevizade Sokak, a narrow street overflowing with outdoor eateries and authentic watering holes.
Day2
Experience the city from a whole new angle
Breakfast
Continue discovering Istanbul today. You may wish to ascend the Galata Tower, which was originally built in 1348 to house prisoners of war and now serves as a conservatory boasting 360-degree views of the city. Or, you could visit the Dolmabahce Palace and admire the decor, designed by the same interior designer responsible for the Paris Opera House. At the end of your day, you may choose to treat yourself to a taste of honey-drizzled baklava.
About This Experience
Get to know the culture that developed at the intersection of East and West in Istanbul, a city that effortlessly blends the ancient and the modern. Uncover the spice of life at the center of this colorful capital as you experience the rush of the Grand Bazaar, survey a skyline speared by minarets and watch the whirl of Sufi mystics. For a retreat from the bustle, escape to Cappadocia’s lunar landscapes, where you’ll explore the ins and outs of this region’s rock-hewn villages and steep-peaked terrain.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
7 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 5 Dinners (three-course or buffet), including beer or wine on select days
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
The chance to visit two continents in one
Mouthwatering mezze bites & Turkish teas
Cappadocia’s ancient, cavernous hideaways
Walking among rock-carved churches & “fairy chimneys”
Ancient Greco-Roman ruins & frescoes
Haggling & mingling with locals at the Grand Bazaar
Overnight Flight1 night
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day2
Descend into the city of mystics and minarets
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to Istanbul, the crossroads of East and West as well as the world’s only city that spans two continents. A Go Ahead representative greets you at the airport and escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin getting to know Istanbul. In the evening, greet your fellow travelers at your welcome dinner.
Day3
Travel back to the days of sultans and swords
Breakfast
Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Underground Cistern
Follow a local guide through Istanbul’s vibrant streets and historic UNESCO World Heritage sites. You’ll visit the city’s Hippodrome, once considered the social center of ancient Constantinople, the breathtaking Blue Mosque, named for the blue tiles adorning its interior, and an elaborate underground cistern. After free time for lunch, continue to the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Following your tour, you’ll be free to spend the evening as you like, perhaps stopping to sample Turkish delights, sip apple tea or stroll along the Bosphorus.
Cappadocia3 nights - hotel info
Day4
Make your way through the moonscapes of Pigeon Valley
Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, fly to the captivating region of Cappadocia, where you’ll tour Pigeon Valley’s dramatic canyon and rock formations, take in sweeping city views from atop Uchisar Village and walk through the moonscapes of Avcilar Valley. This afternoon, consider joining our optional Whirling Dervishes excursion. Watch as gown-clad mystics swirl through the air, symbolizing their turning toward truth. Later, cap off your first day in Cappadocia at dinner with your fellow travelers.
Optional Excursions
Whirling Dervishes $35* pp
The Sufi Muslim sect known as the Whirling Dervishes was founded in the 13th century by Mevlana Rumi. They were named after their elaborate dance-like ritual, which honors the movement of the Earth. Learn more about this fascinating ancient faith and its modern-day practitioners during this cultural performance.
Day5
Roam among rock-carved churches and ancient frescoes
Breakfast, Dinner
Set out to discover Cappadocia’s intriguing ancient villages with a local guide. Begin your adventure with a look back in time as you explore the 1,000-year-old rock-carved churches found in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Göreme Open Air Museum. Then, venture to the villages of Avanos and Çavuşin to meet local pottery artisans before traveling into the Pasabag Valley, also known as the Monks Valley, to explore the region’s famed “fairy chimneys.” Afterward, learn the history and artistry behind one of Turkey’s most colorful and popular exports—its brightly woven rugs. In the evening, share your favorite moments from the day with fellow travelers over an included dinner at a local restaurant.
Day6
Get a glimpse into Cappadocia’s underground culture
Breakfast, Dinner
You’re free to explore Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes on your own, perhaps taking an early-morning balloon ride over the area’s intriguing rock-formed columns and lunar-like topography. Later on, consider joining our optional excursion to Keslik Monastery and Kaymakli, one of Cappadocia’s 36 hidden cities. Once a secret hideaway, the underground city is comprised of hundreds of cavernous tunnels, complete with ancient wine cellars, kitchens and stables. In the evening, wind down over dinner with your group.
Optional Excursions
Underground City and Keslik Monastery $25* pp
Get a feel for what life was like when Turks and Greeks lived side by side in the former Ottoman village of Sinasos, known today as Mustafapaşa. After walking among the town’s Grecian-style homes and past its two soaring minarets, set out to explore the village of Cemil, known for its ancient churches built into the surrounding mountains. Afterward, make your to Cappadocia’s famed rock-carved Keslik Monastery, before concluding the day delving into the cavernous tunnels of the Kaymakli underground city. The widest of Cappadocia’s 36 underground cities, Kaymakli was originally used as a secret hideaway from invaders and later expanded to contain nearly 100 tunnels, complete with wine cellars, kitchens and stables, some of which are still in use today.
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Finesse your bartering skills in this lively and legendary souk
Breakfast
Hagia Sophia
Pack your belongings and fly back to Istanbul this morning. Get reacquainted with the city as you explore one of Turkey’s most iconic sites, the Hagia Sophia, which held the title of the world’s largest cathedral for nearly 1,000 years. Afterward, get ready to haggle with the locals as you make your way through the Grand Bazaar, a lively and legendary souk that boasts over 5,000 vendors offering traditional rich-colored rugs, aromatic spices and other luxurious goods. In the evening, head out to explore on your own, perhaps stopping in an off-the-beaten-path restaurant to sample authentic Turkish meze and boldly flavored kebabs. After filling up on Turkish delicacies, consider taking an evening walk to soak in the cityscape lit up at night.
Day8
Soak in scenes of every day life on the banks of the Bosphorus
Breakfast, Dinner
Set off on your own today or opt for our Bosphorus Straits cruise. If you go-it-alone, consider paying a visit to Princes’ Island to see the Turkish elite’s summer palaces, or take in the Byzantine-era mosaics and frescoes found in Church of St. Saviour in Chora. If you choose to take our optional excursion, you’ll begin your day with a visit to the spice market and a leather-crafting demonstration en route to your Bosphorus Straits cruise. Once aboard, relax and look out on the contrasting Asian and European architecture along Istanbul’s waterfront. In the evening, gather for one last meal with your group at your farewell dinner.
Optional Excursions
Bosphorus Straits Cruise $55* pp
Cruise through the Bosphorus Straits, looking out on decadent Ottoman palaces and imposing medieval castles as you journey through the narrow waterway that separates Europe from Asia. On your way, you'll stop to visit the famous Egyptian bazaar, known as the Spice Market. After returning from your cruise, sit down to a lunch of Turkish specialties. Please note: This excursion is weather dependent. In some cases, dinner will be offered instead of lunch.
Day9
Leave your heart in the City of the World’s Desire
Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)
Güle güle! If you’re not staying for our two-night tour extension, it’s time to say farewell to Istanbul. A Go Ahead representative escorts you to the airport early this morning for your return flight home.
Extend Your Stay
Add Istanbul $249*
Perfectly positioned between East and West, Istanbul has remained Turkey’s cultural and historical heart for centuries upon centuries, from the rise and fall of one empire to the next. Spend two more nights in the City of the World’s Desire getting a taste for the local spice of life. Order up a glass of raki, walk the walls of ancient Constantinople, drift along the Bosphorus and leave feeling like a true İstanbullu.
Istanbul2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Walk the walls of that once contained Constantinople
Breakfast
Today is open to spend as you wish. You may want to venture over to Galata Bridge, whose lower deck offers waterfront dining and tea houses, perfect for boat watching. Go back in time on a walk along the four-mile stretch of walls surrounding the old Byzantine city of Constantinople. In the evening, experience Istanbul’s lively nightlife by attending a traditional belly dancing show or dining street-side on Nevizade Sokak, a narrow street overflowing with outdoor eateries and authentic watering holes.
Day2
Experience the city from a whole new angle
Breakfast
Continue discovering Istanbul today. You may wish to ascend the Galata Tower, which was originally built in 1348 to house prisoners of war and now serves as a conservatory boasting 360-degree views of the city. Or, you could visit the Dolmabahce Palace and admire the decor, designed by the same interior designer responsible for the Paris Opera House. At the end of your day, you may choose to treat yourself to a taste of honey-drizzled baklava.
Passport & Visa
In order to enter Turkey, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of your return home. A visa is also required for U.S. and Canadian passport holders to enter Turkey. The cost to purchase a visa upon arrival in Turkey is $20 for Americans and $60 for Canadians (payment in USD only and subject to change without notice). If you’re not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact the Turkish Consulate.
Health
There are no major health risks associated with traveling to Turkey. Especially during the summer months, take proper care for sun exposure. While no vaccinations are required for entry, be sure to check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and overseas travel recommendations.
Cuisine
Turkish food is invariably fresh and very carefully prepared. Sourdough bread with sheep’s cheese and olives, as well as jam or honey, is typically eaten for breakfast. A midday meal or dinner often starts with a meze, a plate of varied appetizers, such as cheese pastry rolls, pickled vegetables and potato fritters. You’ll also see salads served with dips made of eggplant, beans or red caviar. On the coast, fish is an excellent choice, where fresh tuna, turbot and sardines are very good. Meat eaters should try lamb kebabs, in a wide variety of types, each with a different sauce or dressing. The national drink is tea, which comes in various flavors. Turkish coffee is extremely strong and thick. Avoid drinking the tap water in Turkey.
Transportation
Round-trip flights arrive in and depart from Istanbul. There are also included round-trip flights from Istanbul to the Cappadocia region. All other included transportation on your tour is by private motor coach. In your free time, you may wish to explore the main cities by public transportation. Istanbul has an extensive—and remarkably inexpensive—transport system of bus, tram, train and metro lines. Purchase all-inclusive passes for the best deal and try to avoid peak periods of travel, when walking is probably your best bet.
Baggage Allowance
Airlines have varying weight restrictions on luggage. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline’s checked baggage policies. Bear in mind that your luggage will probably weigh more on your return trip due to souvenir shopping. We allow only one suitcase per person. One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it does not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height). There may be times when you’ll have to handle your own bags, and you’ll find that lightweight luggage provides a distinct advantage. Make sure you label your baggage and carry valuables, medication and documents in your carry-on luggage.
Clothing & Packing Tips
Light, loose-fitting clothing that provides comfort when exploring the sights is essential for your tour. A sun hat, sunglasses and a sturdy pair of walking shoes are recommended for sightseeing. It’s always a good idea to be ready for any eventuality—a lightweight sports jacket and emergency rainwear are advised. If you plan to visit an especially elegant restaurant or attend the opera or theater, you will probably feel more comfortable in something more formal. Also, remember that it is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (entrance may be denied on this basis).
Currency
The Turkish lira is the currency you’ll be using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in Turkey rather than at home, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We advise that you take credit cards and dollar bills in small denominations and suggest informing your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they don’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges. Exchange small amounts of lira at one time to compensate for inflation.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalency of $3USD/CAD per person per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per person per day for your Tour Director. If applicable, we also recommend the equivalency of $2USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
- Sort By:
- Newest
- Highest Rating
- Lowest Rating
- Photo Reviews
