7 DAYS ISTANBUL – HIKING & BALOON RIDE AND WHIRLING DERVISHES IN CAPPADOCIA – EPHESUS TOUR

Day 1:  Arrival to Istanbul

Upon your arrival to ISTANBUL Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW), follow the "exit" signs. You will exit the terminal building and will be met by our representative who will be holding a NAME SIGN and transferred to the hotel. Stay overnight in Istanbul.

Day 2: Istanbul sightseeing tour

Pick-up from your hotel. First visit Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine public life. The Hippodrome was the site of thrilling chariot races and grand events. Then visit Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks and Topkapi Palace (closed on Tuesdays), the extraordinary Imperial residence of Ottoman Sultans. Explore its rooms, stunning courtyards, and the impressive Harem as you learn about the lavish lifestyle of the Ottoman rulers. You will be given the opportunity to experience the best examples of the Turkish cuisine, during lunch (not included).

Then visit Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum. Finally visit Grand Bazaar (closed on Sundays), one of the oldest and largest covered bazaars in the world. A unique atmosphere that reflects Istanbul's spirit, offering an almost endless selection of Turkish carpets, gold, jewellery and artworks available across approximately 4,000 shops. After the tour, transfer to your hotel. Stay overnight in Istanbul.

Day 3: Flight to Cappadocia 

After breakfast transfer to Istanbul airport for your flight to Cappadocia. Upon your arrival in Kayseri or Nevsehir airport, you’ll meet your expert guide and start your adventure. 

Explore the fascinating Underground city of Kaymakli, one of the largest and best-preserved in the region. Descend deep below the surface to discover ancient living quarters, kitchens, churches, and storage rooms that once sheltered early Christians from invaders. Continue your exploration with a visit to the stunning Pigeon Valley, known for its unique rock formations and ancient pigeon houses carved into the soft volcanic rock. 

Head to Uchisar, the highest point in Cappadocia and climb to the top of Uchisar Castle for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The castle, carved into a rock formation, offers incredible vistas of the fairy chimneys and the entire Cappadocia region.

After the tour, transfer to your hotel. Stay overnight in Cappadocia.

Day 4: Hiking Tour (Cavusin – Bozdag – Kizilcukur – Pasabalari)  - Optional Whirling Dervishes Tour 

Depart early from your hotel. Our route begins in the ancient village of Cavusin, known for its rock-carved houses and churches dating back to early Christianity.

From there, we ascend Bozdag, offering panoramic views of the unique rock formations and valleys that stretch endlessly across the horizon. The trail then leads us to the mesmerizing Kizilcukur (Red Valley) — famous for its vibrant red-colored cliffs, fairy chimneys, and ever-changing light at different times of the day. Then you’ll enjoy a refreshing picnic surrounded by nature.

We continue our hike toward Pasabaglari (Monks Valley), home to some of the region’s most iconic fairy chimneys. This guided hiking tour is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience Cappadocia in a truly immersive way — away from the crowds, on paths less traveled. After the tour transfer to your hotel. Stay overnight in Cappadocia.

Optional : Whirling Dervishes -  Today you may also consider to join whirling dervishes ceremony. These ceremonies started as a form of meditation by Jalaluddin Rumi, the famous Sufi Muslim mystic and poet, in the 13th century. The Persia-born Rumi "There are many roads which lead to God. I have chosen the one of dance and music. " There are lots of symbols and stories behind the dance. This is more than dance. The dance is unique to the dervishes because they let go of their ego and personal desires to get involved fully in the music. After ceremony, you will be transferred to your hotel.

Day 5: Optional Hot Air Baloon Ride - Cappadocia Sightseeing Tour 

Optional : Hot Air Baloon Ride - Early in the morning: If you do not mind getting up before sunrise, you can take a hot air balloon ride - one of the most popular activities in the Goreme Valley. As you gently lift off at sunrise, you’ll witness the breathtaking views of the sun illuminating the rock formations, which creates a magical atmosphere. 

Balloon transfers will be made by private vehicles.

The flight time is approximately one hour. This flight includes transportation to and from the flight, a personalized flight certificate and the traditional champagne cocktail upon landing.

At the end of the Balloon ride, you will be transferred back to your hotel to freshen up.

After breakfast, your tour guide will meet you at the hotel lobby. 

You’ll explore Cappadocia’s stunning landscapes and historical sites more. Visit Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to ancient rock-cut churches, monasteries, and frescoes. Learn about the early Christian history of the region and admire the beautifully preserved artwork that adorns the walls of these ancient caves. 

Next head to Red Valley, famous for its breathtaking views and vibrant red-colored rock formations. Continue to Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley, famous for its unique rock formations that resemble animals and shapes, like the iconic camel rock. Visit Pasabag, also known as Monk’s Valley, one of the most iconic and visited sites in Cappadocia. Pasabag is famous for its tall, mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys.

End your day in Avanos, a charming town famous for its pottery and handicrafts. Visit a local pottery workshop where you can watch artisans create beautiful pieces using traditional methods, and even try your hand at the wheel. After the tour, transfer to the airport for your flight to Izmir. Arrive in IZMIR AIRPORT and transfer to your hotel. Stay overnight in Kusadasi.

Day 6: Ephesus Tour 

Meet with your guide and driver at hotel and drive to one of Turkey's most famous archaeological sites, Ephesus - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ephesus is one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world. Once a bustling Greek district, it is home to impressive ruins including the majestic theatre and the well-known Library of Celsus. The city’s ancient streets, theatre, and baths provide an overview of the daily life of its former inhabitants, making it a must-see destination for history lovers. 

Visit Artemis Temple, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and House of Virgin Mary. The House of Virgin Mary is a pilgrimage site located on Mount Koressos (a few kilometres away from Ephesus). This site is believed to be the place where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her final years after the crucifixion. The house has been a pilgrimage destination for Christians and is recognized by both the Catholic and Orthodox churches. After the tour, transfer to your hotel. Stay overnight in Kusadasi.

Day 7: Departure - Flight to Istanbul

Pick-up from your hotel and transfer to the IZMIR AIRPORT for your flight to Istanbul. Arrive in Istanbul airport. The end of our services. 

NOTES:

** Our package tours include quality hotel accommodations we’ve selected for your comfort and convenience. However, if you’d like to upgrade to higher-category hotels, we’re happy to customize your stay to match your preferences.

👉 Simply get in touch with us, and we’ll provide upgrade options tailored to your request.

** Feel free to reach out if you'd like any adjustments or more recommendations!

** You can extend your time in Istanbul and Kusadasi if you'd like more time for exploration.

** Please be aware that hot air balloon rides are highly dependent on weather conditions. If the weather conditions are not suitable for the flight, the Hot Air Balloon Ride may be canceled. If your hot air balloon ride is canceled, we will provide a full refund.

** If any of the above sites in Istanbul are closed on your tour day, they will be substituted with alternative locations.

PRIVATE TOUR - AVAILABLE ALL YEAR ROUND!

Tour Includes:

• Domestic FLIGHT TICKETS from Istanbul to Cappadocia & Cappadocia to Izmir & Izmir to Istanbul
• Transportation by AC vehicle with private driver for touring
• 6 nights ACCOMMODATION including breakfast
• Private arrival and departure transfers
• Professional licenced tour guide
• ENTRANCE FEES
• Parking fees 
• All local taxes

Tour Excludes:

• LUNCH & drinks
• Optional tours (BALLOON RIDE & WHIRLING DERVISHES)
• Travel insurance
• Gratuities (optional, but appreciated)