Istanbul & Cappadocia

Upon arrival at Istanbul airport, you will be met by our representative, assisted through formalities and transferred to your hotel.

After breakfast, you will visit the Hagia Sophia Church, the architectural glory of the 6th century, the Byzantine basilica, the Blue Mosque, the imperial mosque famous for its six minarets and interior tiles. Continue to visit the Topkapi Palace, once the great residence of Ottoman Sultans, now a world famous museum. Explore the Grand Bazaar housing over 4000 shops. Overnight at your hotel. (B)

After breakfast, depart for Ankara where you’ll visit Mausoleum of Ataturk and its Museum. This is the burial place of the national hero who founded modern Republic of Turkey. Depart for Cappadocia. After a picturesque trip along the Salt Lake, arrive in Cappadocia for an overnight stay.

** Upgrade to flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia

In the morning after breakfast, begin sightseeing of Kaymakli in Cappadocia, an underground city built by Christians fleeing persecution. Visit Goreme, the largest open Air Museum where you will see 10th century churches cut out of soft rock with its most spectacular paintings of the region. Continue to the natural fortress in Uchisar. Overnight at your hotel. (BL)

Morning: optional hot air balloon ride

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)