8 Days Istanbul and Cappadocia Tour Package
Essence of Turkey: Istanbul & Cappadocia
Explore Istanbul's historic wonders and the magical valleys of Cappadocia in 8 days with flights, guided tours, and local experiences included.
Tour Overview
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the heart of Turkey with our 8-day Istanbul & Cappadocia Adventure Tour Package. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural wonders as you explore two of the country’s most iconic destinations.
- Discover Istanbul’s centuries-old landmarks including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar with expert local guides.
- Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Cruise with a delightful lunch on the boat between two continents.
- Experience the unique fairy chimneys, cave churches, and panoramic valleys of magical Cappadocia.
- Visit underground cities, hike through red and rose-colored valleys, and witness traditional pottery-making in Avanos.
- Customize your trip with flexible domestic flight options between Istanbul and Cappadocia.
- Perfect balance of guided tours and free time for shopping, relaxing, or optional add-ons.
Tour Itinerary
Welcome to Istanbul
Arrival at Istanbul Airport
Upon landing at the airport, our professional team will greet you at the exit holding a sign with your name.
You will be transferred to your hotel in the city center of Istanbul.
Check into your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax and recover from your journey.
The first day of your 8 Days Istanbul and Cappadocia Tour Package starts with a warm welcome in one of the most vibrant cities in the world.
Overnight in Istanbul
Half Day Morning Istanbul Old City Tour
Meal: Breakfast
08:30 ─ After breakfast at the hotel, our tour guide will pick you up and we’ll transfer you to the heart of the Old City (Sultanahmet).
- Ancient Hippodrome: The center of sporting and political activities in Byzantine Constantinople. Here, you will see the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain, all full of fascinating stories.
- Hagia Sophia: Once a church, later a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again—this architectural marvel will leave you speechless with its massive dome and incredible mosaics.
- Blue Mosque: Known for its elegant six minarets and breathtaking blue tiles, this imperial mosque is one of the landmarks of Istanbul.
- Grand Bazaar: Explore the vibrant labyrinth of over 4,000 shops. Find handmade carpets, jewelry, lanterns, spices, ceramics, and souvenirs. This is a great place to shop, haggle, and soak in the atmosphere.
12:30 Free Time: After the Grand Bazaar, you’ll have free time to explore Sultanahmet at your own pace.
Overnight in Istanbul
Bosphorus Lunch Cruise with Lunch Between Two Continents
Meal: Breakfast and Lunch
13:30 ─ After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, our team will pick you up and transfer you to the boat for an unforgettable cruise on the Bosphorus Strait.
- Bosphorus Cruise: Experience the beauty of Istanbul from the sea, cruising between Europe and Asia. Glide past iconic landmarks including the Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Çırağan Palace, Rumeli Fortress, Beylerbeyi Palace, and the two Bosphorus Bridges.
- Live Commentary: Your local guide on board will share the history and stories behind the buildings, mosques, and palaces that line both shores of the strait.
- Lunch on Board: You will enjoy a freshly prepared lunch while taking in the panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul skyline.
17:00 ─ The Bosphorus lunch cruise ends.
You will be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight in Istanbul
Fly to Cappadocia & Continue to relax in Cappadocia
Meal: Breakfast
You will have breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
According to your flight time, we will transfer you to the airport in Istanbul for your flight to Cappadocia.
Note: You can choose your preferred flight time — morning, afternoon, or night. Please inform us of your preference during booking.
Upon your arrival at the airport in Cappadocia, our staff will welcome you at the exit gate with a name sign.
You will be transferred to your hotel in Cappadocia.
Overnight in Cappadocia
Cappadocia Red Tour
Enhance Your Experience
Make your tour unforgettable with these popular add-ons
Hot Air Balloon Flight
Experience the #1 rated activity in Cappadocia! Join over 10,000 satisfied travelers who've enjoyed our Cappadocia hot air balloon flight with breathtaking sunrise views.
Balloon Watching Tour
Cappadocia balloon watching tour takes you to secret viewpoints for incredible photos. Small groups, best viewpoints, and perfect timing guaranteed!
Meal: Breakfast and Lunch
09:30 ─ Your tour guide will pick you up from your hotel and you will be transferred to the first destination of the Cappadocia Red Tour.
- Our first stop will be Paşabağları (Monks Valley), famous for its surreal, mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys. You’ll be fascinated by the natural rock formations that look like they were sculpted by hand.
- Next, we visit the Zelve Open Air Museum. Once home to one of the region’s largest communities, this ancient monastic complex contains rock-cut churches, homes, and tunnels used by early Christians.
- On the way to Avanos, we’ll stop by Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley), known for its whimsical rock shapes that resemble animals and mythical figures.
- In Avanos, we’ll take a break for lunch and visit a traditional pottery workshop. Watch artisans mold clay as they’ve done for centuries using techniques passed down through generations.
- Our final stop is Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the entire region – a perfect photo opportunity to capture the volcanic beauty of Cappadocia.
17:00 ─ The Cappadocia Red Tour ends.
You will be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight in Cappadocia
Cappadocia Yellow Tour & Fly to Istanbul
Meal: Breakfast and Lunch
09:30 ─ Your tour guide will pick you up from your hotel and you will be transferred to the first destination of the tour.
- The day will start with hiking in Red – Gulludere Valley. You’ll enjoy the scenic beauty of the rose-colored rock formations and explore ancient cave churches adorned with historic frescoes.
- Next, we’ll visit the iconic Pigeon Valley, famous for its centuries-old pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. Learn how locals used pigeon droppings to fertilize their vineyards.
- We will head to an Underground City, where you’ll explore an impressive labyrinth of tunnels and rooms used by early Christians for refuge and survival.
- As the final stop, we’ll explore Cavuşin Village, known for its abandoned cave houses and the Church of St. John the Baptist – one of the oldest cave churches in Cappadocia.
17:00 ─ The Cappadocia Yellow Tour ends.
You will be transferred to the airport.
You will fly to Istanbul on a late evening flight. (Flight times are changeable based on availability.)
Upon your arrival in Istanbul, our staff will welcome you at the airport.
Transfer to your hotel in the city center.
Overnight in Istanbul
Free Day & Enjoying Evening Cruise
Meal: Dinner (on boat)
Today will be your free day until the evening. You can relax at your hotel or explore more of Istanbul’s charming streets and shop for unique souvenirs.
19:30 / 20:00 ─ We will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the pier where the boat will depart for the evening cruise.
The boat sets sail along the scenic Bosphorus Strait, offering stunning night views of Istanbul’s illuminated landmarks — such as Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, Bosphorus Bridge, and Ortaköy Mosque — from both the European and Asian shores.
During the cruise, enjoy a rich Turkish dinner accompanied by live entertainment including belly dancing, folk dance performances, and traditional music shows.
After the cruise, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight in Istanbul
End of the Wonderful Turkey Tour
Meal: Breakfast
After enjoying your final breakfast at the hotel, you will check out from the hotel.
According to your flight time, our travel team will transfer you to the airport. (Please be ready at your hotel lobby at least 3 hours before your flight departure.)
Thank you for choosing us. We would love to see you again in Turkey!
What's Included
Included
- Domestic Flights to Cappadocia from/to Istanbul
- Istanbul and Cappadocia group day tours
- Mentioned meals
- Accommodation in Cappadocia and Istanbul
- All mentioned airport transfers on the destinations in the tour program
- Guiding service on the tours
- Land transportations for the tours by the touristic vehicles
- Local taxes & service charges
- Entrance fees for the sights in the program
Not Included
- Personal Expenses
- Optional activities and tours in Cappadocia and Istanbul
- Drinks at Lunches
- Unmentioned meals in the itinerary
- Pick- up from the hotel in Istanbul for the half-day tour
Hotel Options
If you have a preferred hotel, please mention it in the "Additional Request" section at checkout.
We’ll do our best, but your booking will be made at one of the listed hotels or a similar-quality option based on availability.
Important Remarks
Please read the following important information carefully before booking. These remarks contain essential details about your tour experience.
- Luggage allowance for domestic flights: 15kg check-in + 8kg cabin.
- Early booking for Cappadocia hot air balloons are strongly recommended due to limited availability.
- Flight times may vary due to the availability and season.
More Details
Step into a journey where empires once stood — your 8-day Istanbul and Cappadocia tour package begins with a warm welcome in the city where East meets West. Wander through the Sultanahmet Square, feel the spiritual power of the Blue Mosque, and walk beneath the stunning domes of Hagia Sophia. Hear stories of sultans and merchants as you explore the colorful maze of the Grand Bazaar.
On day three, float between continents on the Bosphorus Lunch Cruise, where historic palaces and waterfront mansions unfold before your eyes — all while enjoying a freshly prepared Turkish meal onboard.
Then, take a short flight to the magical lands of Cappadocia. Over the next few days, explore valleys carved by nature and time — from the surreal shapes of Pasabag (Monks Valley) to the timeless tranquility of Gulludere and Pigeon Valley. Dive into history beneath the surface in an underground city, and enjoy the charm of Uchisar Castle and Avanos pottery workshops.
Each evening, unwind in charming boutique hotels that reflect the warmth and texture of the region. This tour offers you just the right blend of expert guidance and freedom to wander. And when it’s time to say goodbye, you’ll take home more than souvenirs — you’ll carry a piece of Turkey in your heart.
An extraordinary tour that showcased the best of Istanbul and Cappadocia! Istanbul’s history came alive as we explored its iconic landmarks and lively streets. Cappadocia felt like a different planet with its fairy chimneys and underground cities. The hot air balloon ride at sunrise was the most magical experience of my life. The accommodations were excellent, and the transportation was comfortable and efficient. The guides were friendly, professional, and truly enhanced the trip.
This tour was the highlight of my trip to Turkey. Istanbul’s mix of ancient landmarks and vibrant bazaars offered a perfect introduction to the country. Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes and thrilling balloon ride were truly unforgettable. The cave hotel stay added a unique and authentic touch to the experience. The organization was seamless, and we didn’t have to worry about a thing. The guides made sure we learned a lot while having fun.
A magical journey that captured the essence of Turkey’s culture and landscapes! Exploring Istanbul’s Old City was like stepping into a living museum, with so much history around every corner. Cappadocia’s incredible rock formations and hidden churches were awe-inspiring. The hot air balloon ride gave us an unparalleled view of this enchanting region. Everything from the accommodations to the transportation was first-class. The guides’ passion for their country was evident and made the experience unforgettable.
This tour was the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes. Istanbul’s iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar left me in awe of its rich history. Cappadocia, on the other hand, felt like stepping into another world with its unique rock formations and fairy chimneys. The hot air balloon ride at sunrise was truly magical and a highlight of the trip. The accommodations were comfortable, and everything was seamlessly organized. The guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and made the experience unforgettable.
This tour was everything I hoped for and more! Istanbul’s historical treasures like the Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern were fascinating to explore. Cappadocia’s stunning natural beauty and the unforgettable balloon ride made it feel like a dream. Staying in a cave hotel was such a unique and cozy experience. The itinerary was perfectly balanced, giving us both adventure and relaxation. The guides were knowledgeable and made every moment special.
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