How to plan your 6-Day Private Guided Tour to Istanbul and Cappadocia

If you’re looking for a private guided tour that allows you to explore Turkey like a local, the 6-Day Private Guided Tour to Istanbul and Cappadocia is a great option. This tour will take you on a journey through the beautiful city of Istanbul and the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to plan this tour and make the most of your time in Turkey.

Overview

The 6-Day Private Guided Tour to Istanbul and Cappadocia is a fully-guided private tour that allows you to explore the best of Istanbul and Cappadocia in just one trip. The tour includes five nights of accommodation, all airport transfers, entrance tickets for museums, personal expenses, and lunch. Additionally, travelers can choose to add a one-way flight ticket from Cappadocia to Istanbul for an additional fee of PP 50 USD.

What’s Included

• Professional licensed guide
• All airport transfers
• Entrance tickets for museums
• Personal expenses
• Lunch
• Cappadocia to Istanbul one way flight ticket (can be obtained according to your request PP 50 USD)

Meeting And Pickup

The tour offers pickup points at various locations throughout Istanbul. When booking the tour, travelers can select a pickup point that is most convenient for them.

What To Expect

During the tour, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the stunning city of Istanbul and the unique landscapes of Cappadocia. The tour begins with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia Museum, which was built in the 6th century and served as an Orthodox Christian Church, a Roman Catholic Church, and a mosque. The tour then continues with visits to the legendary Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

The second part of the tour takes travelers to Cappadocia, where they can explore the unique landscapes of the region. The tour includes visits to the famous Fairy Chimneys, the Goreme Open-Air Museum, and the underground city of Kaymakli. Additionally, the tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia (additional fee required).

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

Cancellation Policy

• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
• If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
• Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted. Cut-off times are based on the experience’s l.

How to Book

If you’re interested in booking the 6-Day Private Guided Tour to Istanbul and Cappadocia, you can do so online through the Viator website. The booking process is straightforward, and you can select your preferred dates and pickup location during the checkout process.

Conclusion

The 6-Day Private Guided Tour to Istanbul and Cappadocia is an excellent way to explore the best of Turkey in just one trip. By following the advice in this blog post, you can plan your tour with ease and make the most of your time in Istanbul and Cappadocia. Whether you’re interested in exploring the historic landmarks of Istanbul or the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, this tour has something for everyone. So why wait? Book your tour today and experience the magic of Turkey for yourself!

An Insider’s Guide to Istanbul: Discover Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, you’ll definitely want to visit the famous landmarks like the Sultanahmet Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. But to truly explore this fascinating city, you need to go beyond the tourist traps.

Here are some recommendations for unique experiences and hidden gems that only the locals know about.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

– The Chora Church: Also known as Kariye Museum, this Byzantine church is not as well-known as some of the other attractions, but it’s a true gem. The stunning mosaics and frescoes in this 11th-century church are absolutely breathtaking.

– Balat District: This colorful and historic district is full of charming streets, old buildings, and traditional Ottoman houses painted in vibrant colors. Explore the street art, vintage shops, and local cafes that give this neighborhood its unique character.

– Princes’ Islands: Take a ferry to one of the Princes’ Islands and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a different world. The islands are car-free and feature stunning beaches, old churches, and even a famous Greek orphanage.

Dining Spots: The Best Places to Try Local Cuisine

Turkey is known for its delicious food, and Istanbul has some of the best culinary experiences in the world. Here are some places to try the local cuisine:

– Ortakoy Market: This vibrant market is a foodie’s paradise, with dozens of stalls selling everything from traditional Turkish breakfast to fresh seafood. Don’t miss the famous baked potato with toppings like cheese and sausage.

– Beyoğlu: This neighborhood is home to some of the best restaurants in Istanbul, serving everything from classic Turkish dishes to inventive fusion cuisine. Be sure to try the local street food, such as simit (a type of sesame-coated bread) and döner kebab.

– Ciya Sofrası: Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, this restaurant is famous for serving traditional Turkish dishes from all regions of the country. Don’t miss the meze platter and the lamb cooked in a clay pot.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions, Festivals, and Art

Istanbul is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there are many opportunities to experience it firsthand:

– Turkish baths (hammams): This is a quintessential Turkish experience, and there are many hammams in Istanbul to choose from. Relax, unwind, and embrace the local culture.

– Whirling Dervishes: The Mevlevi Sufi Order is a mystical sect of Islam, known for their mesmerizing spinning dance. You can see the dervishes perform in Istanbul, and even attend a workshop to learn the spinning technique.

– Istanbul Music Festival: This annual festival takes place in June and features classical and traditional Turkish music, as well as international acts. It’s a great way to experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from the Past

– Basilica Cistern: This underground chamber was built in the 6th century and features ancient columns and mysterious carvings. Legend has it that Medusa’s head is buried somewhere in the cistern.

– Maiden’s Tower: This historic tower is located on a small island near the Asian side of Istanbul. It’s been a lighthouse, a military outpost, and even a quarantine station. Today, it’s a popular spot for romantic dinners and stunning panoramic views.

– Galata Tower: This tower was built in the 14th century and offers 360-degree views of Istanbul. It’s also been a prison, a fire tower, and a science center.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

– Kadikoy Market: This market is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is a great place to experience the local culture. You can find everything from fresh produce and spices to handmade crafts and clothes.

– A Walk Through Balat: Take a stroll through the colorful streets of Balat and discover the hidden gems and local cafes that give this neighborhood its unique character.

– Bosphorus Boat Tour: Take a boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait and enjoy stunning views of Istanbul from the water. You can also see some of the beautiful Ottoman mansions and palaces that line the shore.

In conclusion, this insider’s guide to Istanbul offers a glimpse into the city’s unique culture, history, and hidden gems. These off-the-beaten-path suggestions will allow you to experience Istanbul like a local, and create memories that will last a lifetime.