Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale & Fethiye Gulet Tour: 8-Day Turkish Escape
Embark on a thrilling 8-day adventure through Turkey’s most iconic destinations. Begin your journey in Istanbul, where ancient landmarks and bustling bazaars reveal Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. Continue to Cappadocia to explore its surreal rock formations and unique landscapes. Discover Pamukkale, famed for its white travertine terraces and ancient thermal pools. Finally, set sail on a 3-day Gulet Cruise from Fethiye, immersing yourself in turquoise waters, secluded bays, and the beauty of the Aegean coast. This comprehensive package includes guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable experiences.
DAY 1 Arrival Airport Transfer Istanbul
You will be picked from Istanbul Airport and taken to your hotel. Today there is no scheduled activity, you will meet with our guide next day at 09:30 AM
HOTEL INFO
Ottoman Hotel Imperial Istanbul
Ottoman Hotel Imperial is situated on the truly premium location in Istanbul, on an elevated position, surrounded by all the major historical and cultural sights in the heart of..
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DAY 2 Istanbul Highlights – Flight to Cappadocia
Today you will check-out hotel and discover highlights of Istanbul, and then you will take flight to Cappadocia.
09:30 AM – Hotel Pick-Up: Meet with your guide and begin your journey through Istanbul’s rich Ottoman and Byzantine history.
10:00 AM – Topkapi Palace (Optional): Discover the former residence of Ottoman sultans, with its intricate architecture and artifacts. (Optional, as per schedule and entrance tickets)
11:30 AM – Blue Mosque: Step inside this architectural gem and admire its serene beauty and iconic blue tiles.
12:00 PM – Hippodrome: Walk through the ancient Hippodrome, the center of Byzantine chariot races, with historical monuments and obelisks.
1:00 PM – Lunch Break (Optional): Enjoy a break for lunch at a local restaurant (cost not included).
2:00 PM – Hagia Sophia (Optional): Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, a blend of Byzantine and Islamic art and architecture. (Optional, based on schedule and ticket availability)
3:30 PM – Grand Bazaar: Get lost in the vibrant maze of the Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for Turkish treasures and souvenirs.
5:00 PM – Bosphorus Cruise: End the day with a scenic Bosphorus cruise, witnessing the beautiful views of Istanbul’s European and Asian shores.
6:30 PM – Transfer to Istanbul Airport: After the cruise, you will be transferred to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Cappadocia.
Upon arrival in Cappadocia, transfer to your Cave Hotel for a restful night. Breakfast is included.
HOTEL INFO
Dedeli Konak Cave Cappadocia
Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel is located just 500 meters from Urgup Center, 5 kilometers from the Goreme Open Air Museum, and 10 kilometers from the Avanos Fairy Chimneys.
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DAY 3 Cappadocia – Flight to Izmir
Today you will check out from your hotel and discover more highlights of Cappadocia before taking a flight to Izmir.
Note: Some days there might not be direct flights between Cappadocia and Izmir; flights may require a stopover.
For those interested, you will have the option to take an unforgettable hot air balloon tour over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia in the early morning.
Your tour typically starts around 09:00 and concludes by 16:00 at the latest.
Highlights of the day:
Goreme Esentepe – Panoramic View: Our journey begins at the Esentepe viewpoint, a breathtaking panoramic spot between Uçhisar and Göreme. From here, you’ll take in stunning views of the unique Cappadocian landscape, including the fairy chimneys and the charming town of Esentepe.
Zelve Open-Air Museum: Next, we visit the Zelve Open-Air Museum, an extraordinary site that once served as a monastic and Christian learning center. This historical area features ancient monasteries, churches, and chapels adorned with beautifully preserved frescoes, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich past.
Pasabag (Monks Valley): Our tour continues to Paşabağ, also known as Monks Valley, famous for its iconic three-headed fairy chimneys. The valley, often called “Pasha’s Vineyard,” boasts some of the most striking rock formations in Cappadocia, creating an otherworldly landscape.
Devrent Valley: A short drive takes us to Devrent Valley, renowned for its surreal rock formations that resemble a lunar landscape. The small, pointed fairy chimneys here create an imaginative setting, with some formations resembling animals and mythical creatures.
Avanos Pottery Workshop: We then visit the charming town of Avanos, a hub of pottery-making since 3000 BC. The town is known for its skilled artisans who use clay from the Red River to create beautiful ceramic pieces. Visitors will have the chance to see a traditional pottery workshop and witness the craftsmanship firsthand.
Love Valley: Our final stop is the extraordinary Love Valley, where erosion over millions of years has shaped towering rock formations, some reaching up to 40 meters. This dramatic landscape features cone-shaped pillars, pinnacles, and fairy chimneys, making it one of the most unusual and photogenic spots in Cappadocia.
Transfer to Airport: After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Izmir.
Arrival in Izmir: Upon arrival, transfer to Kusadasi for an overnight stay, with breakfast included.
HOTEL INFO
Suhan Seaport Hotel
Suhan Seaport Hotel is located just 500 meters from Kusadasi city center and offers its guests a comfortable stay with 80 well-appointed rooms. The hotel features the Suhan Seap..
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DAY 4 Pamukkale – Fethiye
Today you will check out from the hotel and discover Pamukkale, then head back to Fethiye.
On the last day, your tour typically start around 07:30.
Highlights of the tour include:
Hierapolis: Visit the Necropolis, the Theatre, and the fascinating Cleopatra Pool (Swimming at the Cleopatra Pool requires an admission charge).
Pamukkale: The highlight of the day will be the famous travertines of Pamukkale, a natural wonder with terraces of dazzling white mineral-rich pools. Take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the unique experience of walking on the cotton-like formations.
Pamukkale Naturel Lake: You will also have the opportunity to visit Pamukkale Naturel Lake and Park, adding to the beauty of the area.
DAY 5 Fethiye to St. Nicholas Island
Fethiye to St. Nicholas Island
Guests should arrive at Fethiye Harbor by 10:00 AM.
After check-in, board the gulet for a brief orientation. Departing Fethiye Harbor, the first stop will be Butterfly Valley—time for a refreshing swim, lunch, and an optional hike to the waterfall. Butterfly Valley is home to over 136 species of moths and butterflies, although they can be harder to spot on warmer days.
Optional Activity: Paragliding over the Blue Lagoon
The next destination is Oludeniz (Blue Lagoon), one of the world’s most photographed beaches. Here, guests can opt for paragliding. Launching from Babadag Mountain at 2000 meters, you’ll soar over the Blue Lagoon with stunning views. Pre-booking for this activity is recommended for special rates. If interested during the cruise, inform the captain.
In the evening, the gulet will anchor at St. Nicholas Island. Explore the island’s ancient ruins and watch the sunset from above. (L, D)
HOTEL INFO
Gulet Fethiye
The gulets, traditional Turkish boats, offer a high-quality cruising experience that combines luxury, comfort, and adventure.Embarking on a gulet cruise in Turkey is an experien..
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DAY 6 St. Nicholas Island to Kas
St. Nicholas Island to Kas
Wake up to a swim in the pristine waters of Aquarium Bay near Kalkan, followed by breakfast on board.
Then, cruise to Kas, a quaint fishing village filled with lively cafes, beer gardens, and unique shops—ideal for exploring and discovering beautiful handmade jewelry and a well-preserved ancient theater.
Optional Activity: Diving
Kas is one of the best places for diving in southern Turkey. Both beginners and certified divers can experience underwater wonders, including caves and wrecks. Pre-booking is recommended for discounted rates.
The night will be spent in a secluded bay between Kas and Kekova. (B, L, D)
HOTEL INFO
Gulet Fethiye
The gulets, traditional Turkish boats, offer a high-quality cruising experience that combines luxury, comfort, and adventure.Embarking on a gulet cruise in Turkey is an experien..
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DAY 7 Kas to Demre – Antalya – Back Istanbul
Kas to Demre
After breakfast, sail to the Sunken City, an ancient Lycian town submerged by a second-century earthquake. Marvel at the ruins as the gulet cruises slowly through this protected World Heritage site. Note that swimming, diving, and snorkeling are prohibited here.
Next, anchor near Kekova to visit Simena Castle. A walk to the top offers enchanting views over the bay.
In the afternoon, the gulet arrives at Demre Harbor, marking the end of the cruise. You will be picked up and transferred to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul.
HOTEL INFO
Ottoman Hotel Imperial Istanbul
Ottoman Hotel Imperial is situated on the truly premium location in Istanbul, on an elevated position, surrounded by all the major historical and cultural sights in the heart of..
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DAY 8 Farewell & Departure Transfer
Departure airport transfer and end of our services.
If you like you can add extra nights in Istanbul to extend your stay.