Share this itinerary with your clients via email.
Turkish Highlights:
Istanbul and Cappadocia
Contradictions and cultures collide in a most delicious way in Turkey. Bridging continents, religions, cuisines, and thousands of years of history, Turkey coalesces centuries of architectural styles and philosophies into a delightfully cohesive destination. Start in Istanbul, where you'll see the influence of empires from the Romans to the Byzantines to the Ottomans, all leaving their mark on this former silk road stopover. Then venture inland to Cappadocia, a magical landscape seemingly untouched by time. Take to the skies to see the otherworldly fairy chimneys, then descend into the depths of the earth to explore an underground city. From city streets, to remote rock formations, Turkey is stunning.
ACCOMMODATIONS
va
• 3 Nights Istanbul
• 2 Nights Cappadocia
 
INCLUSIONS
• Private arrival and departure transfers
• Private Istanbul History Tour
• Private Istanbul's Other Half Tour
• Private Landscapes of Goreme Tour
• Shared Hot Air Balloon Ride
• Private Kaymakli Underground City Tour
• Daily Breakfast
Arrive Istanbul:

Arrive in Istanbul's new airport. While visas are required to travel to Turkey, they are easily applied for online. Meet your guide and transfer to your hotel to get your first impressions of this striking city.

(Accommodations, Istanbul)

Istanbul:

Discover the history of Istanbul, from its magnificent buildings, to its delicious snacks. Start at the heart of the Byzantine Empire: the Hippodrome Square. Visit the Serpent Column, which originally came from the temple of Apollo at Delphi; the Obelisk of Theodosius, which came from the Temple of Karnak in Egypt; and the fountain of Wilhelm II. Next, visit the Blue Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Istanbul dating from the 17th century. One of the principal adornments of the skyline of Istanbul, its beautiful silhouette is synonymous with the city. Next, you'll head to the famed Hagia Sophia, a magnificent Byzantine Church and one of the finest architectural works in the world. Considered one of the world's most beautiful buildings, the Hagia Sofia, which means Church of Holy Wisdom of God, is an important surviving example of Byzantine architecture. Note: on Mondays the Hagia Sofia is closed and will be replaced by the Topkapi palace.

Next, we'll take a break at a traditional coffeehouse, where we will drink a frothy Turkish Coffee or tea, before going to the Underground Cistern. This cathedral-sized chamber once provided water to most of ancient capital, and has been important throughout history - even being used in many movies, including James Bond. Then we'll meet the unique characters of the Grand Bazaar including an exclusive design jeweler and a carpet expert. Then we meet the Baklava masters! Baklava is actually not a dessert, but rather an event in itself In Istanbul and Karakoy Gulluoglu is the best place to experience it. This baklava emporium has been catering to Istanbul sweet tooths since 1949.

(Breakfast and Accommodations, Istanbul)

Istanbul:

If you want to have a comprehensive experience of Istanbul, you need to experience the calm of the Asian (or Anatolian) Side. We will cross over the Bosphorus Bridge and visit the Historical Kadikoy Market, which offers a wide variety of options for gourmets, music lovers, and entertainment seekers. Next, make your way from Kadikoy up the hill and you will find yourself in Moda, one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Kadikoy, known especially for its beautiful sea views. You will sit down in one of the famous tea gardens that line the square and take in the lovely atmosphere while sipping freshly-brewed tea. Don't leave Moda before eating an ice-cream at famous Ali Usta Creamery, one of the symbols of the neighborhood.

Next, we'll visit Beylerbeyi Palace, the most beautiful palaces of 19th century. It has been entirely made of marble and is known for its beautiful works of art. Then it's off to Cengelkoy, a neighborhood whose name is famously associated with cucumbers, and is one of the most beautiful areas along the shores of the Bosphorus. In Kanlica, the old fishing village, its yoghurt and authentic structure make it a major district. You will end your day with eating the famous Kanlica yoghurt.

(Breakfast and Accommodations, Istanbul)

Istanbul to Cappadocia:

In the morning, depart Istanbul. Transfer back to the airport for an hour and 20 minute flight to Kayseri, in Cappadocia. Transfer to your hotel, then head off to discover the spectacular landscape this area is famous for. Goreme is an amphitheater surrounded by steep cliffs full of caves leading to a pleasant, verdant valley. The Goreme Open Air Museum is located in a small part of the whole valley and right next door to the modern village of Goreme. It is famous for its monastic complex of rock churches and chapel covered with frescoes. Nest, see Zelve Valley, home to the fairy chimneys. Also in this area is Devrent Valley, site of the ruins at Devrent which are spread over three valleys and house several pointed fairy chimneys with large stems.

Continue onto Cavusin Village, one of the oldest settlements in the area. The Church of St.John the Baptist offers a panoramic view of the village. This church and its paintings date back to the 5th Century, making the oldest church in the region. Avanos is the final stop on this tour, it has been the center of terracotta works since 3000 BC. Visit a traditional pottery workshop, set into the hillside.



(Breakfast, Istanbul; Accommodations, Cappadocia)

Cappadocia:

Start the morning early, with the most famous activity in Cappadocia. A hot air balloon ride provides a feeling of peace and tranquility, as you float effortlessly over the magnificent scenery. The deep canyons and lush fertile valleys of Cappadocia provide the balloons with an ideal playground for a unique and memorable flight, as gentle winds carry us over places that could never be reached except by balloon. Later, visit the underground city of Kaymakli. You will also see the Uschisar rock castle, a 200 foot high fortress that was not built but carved out of a natural hill dominating the area with a breathtaking view of all the surrounding Cappadocian formations. Also in the area is Esentepe Panorama which is considered the best panoramic viewpoint from which to see the area of Goreme Village, fairy chimneys, rock formations and cave houses.

Then see Rose Valley, an isolated valley with beautiful rock formations and rock-carved churches. The most interesting part of this area is the countless tracks connecting the small villages and towns through vineyards and gardens like a spider net. It is always possible to see villagers working in the area and offering grapes, apples or apricots to you.



(Breakfast & Accommodations, Cappadocia)

Depart Cappadocia:

After seeing the highlights of Turkey, transfer back to Kayseri, where you can fly back to Istanbul to connect to a flight home, or on to your next Avanti Destination!



(Breakfast, Cappadocia)

 
** Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
#travelavanti