6 days in Istanbul and Cappadocia | hot-air balloon ride, private guide and luxury cave hotels

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Today you’ll fly to Istanbul, where a driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel.

Day 2: Private tour of Istanbul

Accompanied by a private guide, you’ll delve into the fascinating history of Istanbul. Your morning begins at Topkapi Palace, the former heart of the Ottoman Empire. Wander through the elegant pavilions, fragrant gardens and shady courtyards, whilst catching a glimpse of the opulence in which the sultans lived. Next, admire the Hagia Sophia, once the largest church in the world, later a mosque and now a monument to Byzantine splendour. The Blue Mosque, with its iconic minarets and ornate Iznik tiles, is your next stop. In the afternoon, visit the Hippodrome, once the beating heart of Byzantine Istanbul, and descend into the mysterious Basilica Cistern, where rows of marble columns reflect in the water. The day ends at the Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of winding alleys filled with hand-woven carpets, fragrant spices and exquisite handicrafts – the perfect place to soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Day 3: Culinary walk & private cruise on the Bosphorus

The morning is free to explore Istanbul at your own pace. Wander through the alleyways of Balat, one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, where colourful wooden houses and trendy cafés alternate. Art lovers can find inspiration on Istiklal Avenue, a lively boulevard brimming with boutiques, music shops and art galleries. For panoramic views, climb the Galata Tower or immerse yourself in the grandeur of Dolmabahçe Palace, with its marble halls and gilded chandeliers on the banks of the Bosphorus. In the afternoon, a private cruise on the Bosphorus awaits, allowing you to experience Istanbul from a different perspective. As the skyline stands out against the water, you’ll glide past ancient palaces, elegant Ottoman mansions and charming neighbourhoods where the city goes about its daily rhythm. End the day in style with dinner at a rooftop restaurant along the Bosphorus, as the sun bathes the city in warm hues.

Day 4: The highlights of Cappadocia

After breakfast, you’ll take a domestic flight to Kayseri. Your private driver will be waiting for you and will take you to Cappadocia. On the way, you’ll make your first stop at the Devrent Valley, where you’ll see some of the most surreal and uniquely shaped rock formations in the world. These formations, known as ‘fairy chimneys’, are the result of centuries of erosion and volcanic activity. You’ll have lunch at a local restaurant. You’ll then drive to Pasabagi, where you’ll discover some of the best-preserved and most striking examples of Cappadocia’s ancient rock-cut dwellings and churches. And, of course, a visit to Cappadocia wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the stunning landscapes and enchanting valleys for which the region is famous. We’ll take you on a picturesque drive through the winding roads and breathtaking landscapes that make Cappadocia such a unique and special place. You’ll stay in one of the ‘cave’ hotels with unique cave rooms carved into the soft stone landscape, or another hotel of your choice.

Day 5: Uncharted places in Cappadocia

Early in the morning, you’ll take a hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia. There is simply no better way to experience Cappadocia than from high above, as you float silently over the landscape and watch the sun slowly rise. Today, the itinerary includes a few undiscovered spots. You will visit Keslik Monastery, a cave monastery complex with two churches and an idyllic garden. Afterwards, you’ll drive to the ancient city of Sobesos, which was discovered by chance in 2002. The city dates back to the 4th century and its boundaries have not yet been determined. You’ll have lunch at a local family-run restaurant. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the underground city of Mazı. The valley and plateau are surrounded by numerous rock-cut cemeteries and churches from the Byzantine period. Four different entrances have been created to descend into the 8-storey underground city. You’ll make one final stop in the charming town of Avanos, known for its traditional pottery and ceramics. You’ll have the chance to watch craftsmen at work and try your hand at pottery yourself.

Day 6: Return home.

Sadly, the trip has come to an end. Today you return home. A driver will take you to Kayseri Airport where you’ll catch a domestic flight to Istanbul. From Istanbul, you’ll fly back home.

What’s the price tag?

For this tour, you can expect a guide price starting from 12,000 euros for two people. This price includes international flights and accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis and depends on your travel dates, hotel choices and any extras such as excursions or extensions.

Frequently asked questions about this Istanbul and Cappadocia tour

What is the best time of year to visit Istanbul and Cappadocia?

April to June and September to November for pleasant temperatures and the best conditions for a hot-air balloon ride.

Is a hire car necessary to explore Turkey properly?

No, for this itinerary, private transfers and domestic flights are the most comfortable and efficient way to travel.

What makes the Cappadocia region so unique?

The surreal landscape of fairy chimneys, combined with the centuries-old tradition of living in carved cave dwellings and underground cities.