Map to Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus

Highlights of Turkey Private Tour (Suggested Route)
Day | Highlights |
---|---|
1-3 Istanbul |
Explore Istanbul Highlights & enjoy the Bosphorus cruise |
4-5 Cappadocia |
Experience Cappadocia’s Natural Wonders and attend the Whirling Dervishes |
6-7 Kusadasi |
Discover the Ephesus Museum & Ancient City of Ephesus |
This is an ideal option for Time-smart travelers. If you’re seeking a condensed but memorable Turkey vacation, I am here to assist you.

- Monica Mo
- 8 years of travel advisor experience
- Has helped 5,000+ clients
Tour Highlights
See the Whirling Dervishes spin at Saruhan Caravanserai, live music adding to the enchantment.
Explore Ihlara Valley‘s hiking trails and enjoy its stunning scenery and historic churches.
Venture into Cappadocia fairy chimneys and unearth its underground city.
Marvel at the stunning Blue Mosque adorned with its iconic blue tiles.
Obtain a distinct viewpoint of Istanbul’s landmarks while cruising along the Bosphorus.
Discover Hagia Sophia, being amazed by its magnificence and detailed mosaics.
Step into the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, a treasure trove that will delight you.
Step foot in the hallowed House of the Virgin Mary, learning of its significance to Christians worldwide.
Unveil the ancient wonders of Ephesus, where history whispers from every cobblestone and ruin.
Suggested Itinerary for Inspiration
Your preferences design the real journey. We’re ready to create a wonderful Turkey tour for you.
Day 1
Istanbul Arrival

- Step into the enchanting world of Istanbul, where history meets modernity.
- Upon your arrival at Istanbul airport, our representative will meet you at Exit Door No.14 and ensure a comfortable transfer to your hotel.
Day 2
Istanbul | Meander Through Ancient Splendors

- Meet your private guide for an exciting Istanbul heritage walking tour.
- Stroll through Hippodrome Square and admire the iconic Obelisk and Serpentine Column, silent witnesses to a bygone era.
- Delve into the Topkapi Palace and discover the opulent residence of past sultans of the Ottoman Empire.
- Admire the beautiful Blue Mosque with its iconic blue tiling and visit the historic Hippodrome.
- Explore the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, marveling at its grandeur and intricate mosaics.
- Wrap up your Istanbul adventure at the Grand Bazaar – 3,000 shops for every desire, then return to the hotel.
Day 3
Istanbul | Cruise along the Bosphorus

- Explore the narrow streets of the Spice Market with your private guide and lose yourself in a shopping adventure.
- Step into the opulent Dolmabahce Palace, a 19th-century Ottoman masterpiece gracing the Bosphorus waterfront.
- Gain a unique perspective on Istanbul’s landmarks aboard a Bosphorus cruise(shared), enjoying stunning coastal views.
Day 4
Istanbul – Cappadocia | First Bite of Cappadocia

- Meet your driver and be escorted to the airport for a short flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival at Nevsehir Airport, your guide and driver will be waiting to whisk you away to enjoy the best of Cappadocia.
- Delve into the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open Air Museum, a treasure trove of rock-cut churches adorned with stunning, well-preserved frescoes.
- Explore Pasabag and Zelve Open-Air Museum, famed for their mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and cave dwellings carved for religious use.
- Head to Devrent Valley, known as the “Imagination Valley,” where you’ll witness peculiar rock formations.
- Discover the pottery town of Avanos before a drop-off at your hotel.
Day 5
Cappadocia | Green Tour Awaits

- As dawn paints the sky, you have the option to soar above Cappadocia’s breathtaking landscapes in a hot air balloon.
- Embark on today’s Cappadocian adventure from Goreme Panorama, where you’ll be captivated by the fairy chimneys.
- Descend into the depths of Kaymakli Underground City, a captivating refuge for early Christians seeking solace from persecution.
- Delve into Ihlara Valley, where early Christians once carved churches and painted them throughout its various sections.
- Explore the Selime Monastery, a dramatic backdrop for the Star Wars movie.
- Witness the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes at historic Saruhan Caravanserai, where live music enhances the captivating performance.
Day 6
Cappadocia – Kusadasi | Explore the Highlights of Ephesus

- Meet your driver and be escorted to Kayseri Airport for your flight to Izmir. Upon your arrival, your tour guide will meet you for the Ephesus tour.
- Visit the Artemis Temple and Ephesus Museum.
- Experience the Ancient city of Ephesus with its Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influences. Marvel at the ruins, including the Library of Celsius and the Great Theatre.
- Conclude the day with a soulful pilgrimage to the House of the Virgin Mary.
Day 7
Kusadasi | Departure

- Enjoy free time to explore the lovely city one last time before your driver transfers you to Izmir airport for the flight home.
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Hand-picked Hotel
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![]() Ilayda Avantgarde Kusadasi
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Price Includes
*Price from: US$3,049 per adult
*The price is based on two adults in 4-star hotels during the low tourist season(Nov.-Mar.). We can offer an even more competitive price for groups of 4 or more people. (tour code: gh-tk-1)

One-to-one consultancy

Knowledgeable local guides

Private drivers/driver guides and vehicles as listed

Accommodations Mentioned

Breakfasts and meals as listed

Entry to all attractions on the itinerary

Transportation as listed

A 24/7 helpline while travelling