8-Day Cappadocia, Ephesus, Konya, Pamukkale Tour

This 2-day private Istanbul city tour covers iconic landmarks including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace with Harem, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Underground Cistern, Suleymaniye Mosque, and the Spice Market.

Highlights

• Visit Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace with Harem
• Explore Hippodrome Square and Blue Mosque
• Discover the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market
• See the Underground Cistern and Suleymaniye Mosque
• All entrance fees included, no hidden charges

Description

Day 1: Your private guide will meet you at Istanbul port or hotel holding a sign with your name. The tour starts at the Hippodrome, the ancient site of chariot races and Byzantine events. Next, visit Hagia Sophia, built in 532 AD by Emperor Justinian I, followed by the Blue Mosque, known for its blue Iznik tiles. Continue to Topkapi Palace, the former residence and administrative center of Ottoman sultans, including a visit to the weapons section and Harem. The day ends at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets with over 1,200 shops selling jewelry, pottery, spices, and carpets. Return to the port after approximately 7 hours.

Day 2: Meet your guide at Istanbul Port and visit the Underground Cistern, the city’s largest covered water reservoir built by Justinian I. Then enjoy free time at the Spice Bazaar, where the air is rich with spices and herbs. Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, built between 1550-1557 by architect Sinan, notable for its four minarets and large courtyard. Drive back via the Golden Horn to conclude the tour after about 4 hours.

Important update for Hagia Sophia visit

As of January 15, 2024, live guiding inside Hagia Sophia is not permitted. Guests must use smartphones and headphones for audio guide content or purchase headphones at the entrance. Visitors without smartphones follow informational signs inside.

Includes

• 7 nights accommodation in boutique and cave hotels across Istanbul, Cappadocia, Kusadasi, and Pamukkale
• Professional local guides
• 7 breakfasts and 2 dinners
• Entrance fees to all listed sites
• Airport transfers by private vehicle
• Air-conditioned transportation throughout
• Domestic flights: Istanbul to Cappadocia and Izmir to Istanbul

Excludes

• Hot air balloon ride (optional, extra cost)
• Lunch and drinks
• Dinners in Istanbul and Cappadocia
• Tips

Important information

• The itinerary may be rerouted between Cappadocia and Izmir airports due to flight availability or public holidays without changing site visits or accommodations.
• For Saturday arrivals, the Istanbul tour is scheduled at the end of the trip on Friday with the Istanbul to Izmir flight on Day 2.
• The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays; the Spice Market will be visited instead on those days.
• A reverse itinerary may be organized depending on flight and hotel availability.
• The detailed itinerary will be provided after booking.
• For Sunday departure tours, the Istanbul tour is at the end of the trip.

Cancellation policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For a better experience, bring your smartphone and headphones for the Hagia Sophia visit. Booking early is advised to secure preferable times and availability.