Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to your hotel. After checking in, spend the afternoon exploring Sultanahmet, the historic heart of Istanbul. Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture, and the nearby Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue tiles. Stroll through the Hippodrome, where you can see the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing traditional Turkish cuisine.
Start your day with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, exploring its opulent rooms and the Harem section. After lunch, take a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, offering spectacular views of Istanbul’s skyline, palaces, and fortresses along the waterway that divides Europe and Asia. In the evening, explore the lively Grand Bazaar for shopping and experience Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife with dinner and drinks in a local area.
Begin your day with a visit to the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir with impressive columns and a serene atmosphere. Explore the nearby Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, a notable Roman Catholic church. In the afternoon, head to Taksim Square and stroll along Istiklal Street, famous for its shops, cafes, and street performers. End the day with a dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city.
Fly from Istanbul to Cappadocia and check into your unique cave hotel. After settling in, start exploring the surreal landscape of Cappadocia with a visit to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, featuring ancient rock-cut churches with beautiful frescoes. Enjoy a sunset viewpoint for panoramic views of the fairy chimneys and rock formations. Have dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.
Experience an early morning hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscape, watching the sunrise as you float above fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock formations. After the balloon ride, visit an underground city like Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, where early Christians once sought refuge. In the afternoon, explore the Pasabag Valley and the Devrent Valley, known for their unique rock formations. Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening and dinner.
Fly from Cappadocia to Antalya, a picturesque coastal city on the Mediterranean. After checking into your hotel, explore Antalya’s Old Town (Kaleiçi), with its narrow streets, historic houses, and the beautiful Hadrian’s Gate. Visit the Antalya Museum to learn about the region’s history and archaeological finds. Enjoy a relaxing evening at the old harbor with dinner by the sea.
Spend the day relaxing at Konyaaltı Beach or Lara Beach, enjoying the Mediterranean sun and crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, take a trip to the nearby ancient ruins of Perge, an impressive site with well-preserved Roman architecture, including the stadium, theater, and baths. Return to Antalya for dinner and enjoy the vibrant nightlife or a leisurely evening in the city.
Travel from Antalya to Pamukkale, renowned for its white travertine terraces and thermal springs. Check into your hotel and explore the stunning travertine terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis, which features a well-preserved Roman theater, baths, and the Necropolis. Enjoy a dip in the thermal pools and relax in the natural hot springs. Have dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.
Travel from Pamukkale to Kusadasi, a charming port town on the Aegean coast. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and explore the local area. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most significant archaeological sites, featuring the impressive Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, and the Temple of Artemis. Return to Kusadasi for dinner and a leisurely evening.
Relax at one of Kusadasi’s beautiful beaches, such as Ladies Beach or Long Beach, enjoying the sun and sea. In the afternoon, visit the Kusadasi Bazaar for shopping and explore the local area. If time permits, you can also visit the nearby town of Selçuk for additional historical sites or a local Turkish bath experience. Enjoy a final dinner in Kusadasi.
Travel back to Istanbul for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Istanbul. Transfer to Istanbul Airport for your flight home, concluding your 11-day journey through Turkey’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities.
