Istanbul, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia & cappadocia in 5 days

Upon arrival in Istanbul, you will be transferred to the hotel in one of our vehicles.

After check-in, the rest of the day is free to begin discovering this fascinating city, where East and West meet among imperial mosques, centuries-old bazaars, and the unmistakable rhythm of the Bosphorus.

Greca Tip: You can also head to Ortaköy, the area for upmarket chic. There, you will find a strip of stands serving “kumpir,” Turkey's answer to the jacket potato. Pick your spud and toppings and savor the seaside views while you eat on your feet.

Start your day with a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel, providing you with the energy you need for a memorable day in the captivating city of Istanbul. Enjoy the freedom of exploring this remarkable destination at your own pace, immersing yourself in its fantastic atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

In the afternoon, get ready for an extraordinary journey to the enchanting region of Cappadocia, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed at your hotel, where you can complete the check-in process and take some time to relax and rejuvenate.

Greca Tip: We highly recommend consulting with your guide about the possibility of joining a hot-air balloon ride the following day in Cappadocia. Experience the awe-inspiring sensation of gently drifting over the magnificent valleys of the city, capturing unforgettable views from above. It's a truly magical and unforgettable way to enhance your stay in this remarkable destination.

After enjoying a satisfying breakfast, your entire day will be devoted to exploring Cappadocia.

Your journey will commence at the Göreme Valley, home to an open-air museum filled with churches, chapels, and monasteries adorned with ancient frescoes on their walls. Next, you'll proceed to the town of Avanos, renowned for its longstanding pottery-making tradition, which can be traced back to the Hittite period.

Here, you'll be captivated by the utilization of red clay sourced from Kizilirmak, Turkey's longest river, and have the opportunity to savor delightful Turkish tea.

Later on, you'll traverse the Pasabag Valley, also known as the "Valley of the Monks," due to the numerous monk refuges carved into the soft rock. Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking cone-topped rock pillars called Fairy Chimneys.

The tour will then take you through the Devrent Valley, often referred to as the "Imaginary Valley," where you'll encounter a multitude of unique rock formations, some of which resemble animals.

Additionally, you'll visit the Göreme Panorama, a panoramic viewpoint offering fantastic views of Göreme city.

Lastly, you'll explore the city of Urgüp, renowned for its wine production, fertile vineyards, and apricot gardens, where you can capture incredible photos as lasting mementos of your visit.

In the late afternoon, you'll return to Istanbul for your overnight stay.

Greca Tip: Check if you will return to the same Hotel in Istanbul after this tour, and consult with the concierge the possibility of storing your luggage there so you can travel light!

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will begin a full-day exploration of Istanbul with lunch, a city where history whispers from every stone. In the morning, we will admire Hagia Sophia (exterior)— one of the world’s most remarkable architectural wonders and once among the grandest churches ever built.

Our journey continues with a visit to Topkapi Palace, the splendid residence of the Ottoman sultans from 1478 to 1856. This vast complex of courtyards, gardens, and pavilions offers a glimpse into the opulence of imperial life and sits gracefully at the entrance to the Golden Horn.

We will then visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its six slender minarets and cascading domes, a masterpiece that perfectly reflects the harmony and grandeur of Ottoman architecture.

In the afternoon, we will explore the Roman Hippodrome, once the stage of thrilling chariot races and celebrations that captivated Constantinople for over a millennium. Finally, we will dive into the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where colors, aromas, and sounds weave an unforgettable tapestry of daily life. At the end of the visit, transfer back to the hotel.

Greca Tip: If you're looking for valuable tips to make the most of your trip to Istanbul, check out our blog article.

After savoring a delightful breakfast, we will arrange a seamless transfer for you to Istanbul Airport, ensuring you arrive in good time for your international flight.

The entire team at Greca extends their warmest wishes for a safe and pleasant journey. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back soon, creating more unforgettable moments that will stay with you forever.

Have a wonderful trip! Or, as the locals say, "Iyi yolculuklar!"

Greca Tip: If you feel that your time in Istanbul was too brief, you can easily add extra nights to your booking. Simply let us know your preferences, and we'll be happy to assist you.