1
Istanbul
Upon arrival to Istanbul you will be transferred to your hotel. Free afternoon at leisure.
2
Istanbul
After breakfast tour Topkapi Palace, residence of Ottoman sultans, the Hippodrome, site of chariot races, the Blue Mosque, famous for its colorful ceramics, Underground Cistern, and Saint Sophia, decorated with ancient frescoes. Enjoy the 3,000 shops in the Covered Bazaar. Overnight in Istanbul. B L
Breakfast
Lunch
Lunch
3
Istanbul
After breakfast a half-day cruise on the Bosphorus, depending on the weather conditions and visit Spice Market. Free time to explore the city. B
Breakfast
4
Istanbul – Kayseri – Cappadocia
Early morning flight to Kayseri or Nevsehir or pick up from the Cappa- docia hotels. Visit Rose Valley, one of the most beautiful trekking valleys in Cappadocia, and explore the famous rock- cut churches by hik- ing through the valley. Rest in Cavusin, an old Greek village, known for its Christian houses and churches. After having time for lunch visit Ortahisar Castle, similar to Uchisar Castle in style, where storage caves can also be observed. In the afternoon visit Kaymakli Underground City where early Christians lived in fear and faith. On the way back visit to panoramic Pigeon Valley where pigeons contributed to the lives of locals with their manure to fertilize the vineyards. You may also like to taste Cappadocia wine in a local winery. Overnight in Cappadocia. B L
Breakfast
Lunch
Lunch
5
Cappadocia
Early Morning Optional: Hot Air Balloon Tour. Depart from the hotel at 09.30–10.00 depending on the arrival time of the participants and visit Devrent Valley where various types of Fairy Chimneys are abundant. We will walk through this amazing valley. Thereafter visit Pasabagi (Monk’s Valley) with multiple stems and caps, peculiar to this area. After visiting Pasabagi, drive to Avanos which is known for the pottery, a craft dating back to the Hittite period. The red clay which is worked by local craftsmen comes from the residue in the Kizilirmak river, the longest river of Turkey. Further to the time for lunch proceed to Goreme Open Air Museum to visit the churches, chapels and monasteries carved into the Fairy Chimneys from the 10th to the 13th centuries with frescos painted on the walls. Shopping time for the well-known merits of the area. Overnight in Cappadocia. B L
6
Cappadocia / Kayseri – Return
After breakfast transfer to the airport in Kayseri.
Breakfast
