Embark on the Ultimate Turkey Experience
Discover Turkey’s cultural and natural treasures on this 7-day journey featuring Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and a serene 3-day, 2-night gulet cruise from Fethiye. Begin in Istanbul, exploring its rich history and vibrant culture. Continue to Cappadocia, where surreal landscapes and ancient cave dwellings await. Experience the natural beauty of Pamukkale’s travertine terraces, and unwind on the Aegean Sea during a relaxing gulet tour. This meticulously crafted itinerary ensures a seamless blend of exploration, history, and relaxation.
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.
08:00 AM: Check-Out from Hotel
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and prepare for an exciting day discovering the highlights of Istanbul.
09:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Topkapi Palace (Optional)
Delve into the opulence and grandeur of the Topkapi Palace, where Ottoman sultans once resided. Marvel at the intricate architecture, exquisite artifacts, and stunning views of the Istanbul skyline.
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Blue Mosque
Step inside the enchanting Blue Mosque, adorned with its famous blue tiles, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this architectural masterpiece.
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Hippodrome
Journey back in time at the Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine entertainment and chariot races. Discover ancient obelisks and monuments that tell tales of the city’s glorious past.
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Hagia Sophia (Optional)
Be awe-struck by the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its impressive domes, breathtaking mosaics, and the fascinating amalgamation of Byzantine and Islamic influences.
12:30 PM – 01:30 PM: Lunch Break (Not Included)
Enjoy a break for lunch at a local restaurant, experiencing the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine.
01:30 PM – 03:00 PM: Grand Bazaar
Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys filled with colorful stalls, offering a wide array of Turkish treasures.
03:00 PM – 05:00 PM: Bosphorus Cruise
As the day draws to a close, embark on a mesmerizing Bosphorus Cruise, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul’s enchanting skyline, spanning both Europe and Asia.
05:00 PM – 05:30 PM: Transfer to Istanbul Airport
After the cruise, you will be transferred to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Cappadocia.
07:00 PM: Flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia
Catch your flight to Cappadocia, concluding your day in Istanbul.
08:30 PM: Arrival in Cappadocia
Upon arrival in Cappadocia, we will transfer you to your Cave Hotel, where breakfast is included for your stay.
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 “hotel check-out” and discover other highlights of Cappadocia, and then take a flight to Izmir.
#Some days there might no direct flights between Cappadocia/Izmir, so flights would be connected flight with 1 stop over.
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.
Flight from Cappadocia to Izmir: Note: Some days there might be no direct flights between Cappadocia and Izmir, so flights could be connecting with one stopover.
Arrival in Izmir: Upon arrival in Izmir, you will be transferred to Kusadasi.
Check-In to Hotel in Kusadasi: Enjoy your overnight stay in Kusadasi with breakfast included.
HOTEL INFO
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Antalya
Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this upscale, high-rise hotel with a brick and glass facade is a 13-minute walk from the Antalya Museum and a 14-minute walk from Hadrian’..
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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.
HOTEL INFO
Hotel Ölüdeniz
Hotel Ölüdeniz is 300 meters to the sand and shingle beach at the world famous Ölüdeniz and is located at resort center. Right outside the hotel you will fin..
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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.