Simply Turkey

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, our guests meet their professional, certified guides in the hotel lobby between 08:00–08:30. Our guides speak English, and optionally Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Spanish, German, or French.

The tour begins with a short walk to Sultanahmet Square, where guests are introduced to the area’s most iconic monuments. Our guide shares in-depth information about each landmark, including the Hippodrome, the ancient Roman chariot-racing arena that served as a social and political hub during the Byzantine Empire.

Next, we visit the world-famous Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), built in the 17th century by Sultan Ahmed I. It is renowned for its six minarets and the magnificent blue İznik tiles that adorn its interior.

Following this visit, depending on the day’s crowd levels, our guide will decide whether to visit the Hagia Sophia or the Topkapi Palace first:

Hagia Sophia: Originally built in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I, Hagia Sophia remained the world’s largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years. It was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, later transformed into a museum in 1935, and reconverted into a mosque in 2020. It is a masterpiece of architecture and art, celebrated for its immense dome and beautiful mosaics.

Topkapi Palace: This grand palace served as the residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. It was not only a royal residence but also the administrative and spiritual heart of the empire, housing the imperial treasury and sacred relics. The palace's rich design and views over the Bosphorus make it a must-see highlight of Istanbul.

After these key visits, the tour continues with the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı):

Basilica Cistern: Built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I, this underground water reservoir is supported by 336 marble columns. Its mystical ambiance, reflecting pools, and the famous Medusa heads make it one of the city’s most unique and cinematic landmarks.

After the cistern visit, we enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant selected by our agency. Guests are then given some free time to explore or relax.

At 17:00, we return to the hotel.

On the fourth day of their program, our guests will complete their hotel check-out procedures in the early hours of the morning and meet their professional driver waiting in the lobby for their transfer to the airport. This journey typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on weather and traffic conditions.

 

Upon arrival at the airport, guests will complete their check-in procedures and proceed to the boarding gate. The boarding time is scheduled for 05:30 AM; however, this may vary depending on airline-related changes or potential delays. The flight is expected to depart at 06:00 AM, but this time is also subject to change due to operational reasons or possible delays by the airline.

 

After a flight of approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, our guests will arrive at Kayseri Airport. Once they have collected their luggage, they will proceed to the exit gate, where they will be welcomed by our professional ground team and transferred to their hotel. This transfer may also take 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on weather and traffic conditions.

 

Upon arrival at the hotel, check-in procedures will be completed depending on room availability. If the rooms are not yet ready, guests can leave their luggage at the reception and wait for the Northern Cappadocia Tour, which will begin between 09:00 and 09:30 AM. During this waiting period, guests are welcome to enjoy breakfast at the hotel.

Upon arrival at either Kayseri or Cappadocia Airport, our guests are greeted by our professional ground staff and provided with a complimentary private transfer, regardless of the airport or distance difference.

After completing baggage procedures, guests are escorted to their Shuttle vehicles.

---- Cappadcoia North Tour Guided

The Northern Cappadocia Tour is a full-day journey through the region’s most iconic landscapes and culturally rich sites. This tour offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and ancient history, guided by our expert local guides.

 

Göreme Panorama

 

Our tour starts with a breathtaking view over the Göreme Valley, where guests can admire Cappadocia’s iconic fairy chimneys. These formations were created by volcanic eruptions and shaped over centuries by wind and rain.

 

Göreme Open-Air Museum

 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this museum is a collection of rock-cut churches and monasteries dating back to the 4th century. Early Christian monks used this area for spiritual retreat and worship. The Apple Church (Elmalı Kilise) is known for its well-preserved frescoes.

 

Çavuşin Village

 

One of the oldest settlements in Cappadocia, Çavuşin was once a key religious center during Byzantine times. Its abandoned cave dwellings and churches, including the Church of John the Baptist, reveal the area’s layered history.

 

Avanos

 

Located along the Red River (Kızılırmak), Avanos is famous for its pottery tradition, dating back to the Hittite period. During the tour, guests visit a local pottery workshop to see artisans at work — and may try their hand at the wheel!

 

Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)

 

This surreal valley has no historical settlements, but its rock formations are legendary. Shaped naturally by erosion, many rocks resemble animals like camels or dolphins, sparking the imagination of all who visit.

 

Paşabağ (Monks Valley)

 

Famous for its three-headed fairy chimneys, Paşabağ was home to hermit monks who carved out living quarters in the soft volcanic rock. It’s a peaceful and mystical part of the tour, echoing the solitude of ancient times.

 

Uçhisar Castle (Photo Stop)

 

The highest point in Cappadocia, Uçhisar Castle served as a lookout and defense post throughout the Roman, Byzantine, and Seljuk periods. A quick photo stop here offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

 

 Duration: Approx. 7–8 hours

Included: Professional guide, hotel transfers, transportation, lunch.

On their second day in Cappadocia, our guests can choose to join an early morning hot air balloon ride and then return to their hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, they can join one of the most ideal daily excursions to discover the lesser-known parts of Cappadocia, known as the Cappadocia South Tour. 

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Istanbul Airport for your onward flight. Upon arrival at the airport, complete the check-in and immigration formalities before boarding your flight to your next destination. We hope you had a amazing stay exploring the beautiful city of Istanbul.