Licence : TURSAB A4339
Discover the lesser-known treasures of Turkey on this 10-day small-group tour combining iconic highlights and off-the-beaten-path gems. Start in Istanbul, exploring its Old City landmarks before flying to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia and its famous fairy chimneys and underground cities. Continue to Hattusa, the ancient Hittite capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site, then journey north to the riverside town of Amasya, renowned for its Ottoman houses and dramatic rock tombs. Travel through Kastamonu with its hilltop castle and traditional architecture, and on to Safranbolu, another UNESCO-listed Ottoman town with cobblestone streets, caravanserais and historic mansions. Enjoy an atmospheric day trip to the Black Sea village of Amasra, known for its scenic harbor and fresh seafood. On the way back to Istanbul, relax at Abant Lake, surrounded by pine forests and mountain scenery, the perfect nature break to end your Turkey itinerary. Ideal for culture lovers and photographers
Day(s) : 10
Countries : Turkey
Start City : Istanbul
End City : Istanbul
Meals : 9 breakfasts, 4 dinners
Welcome to Istanbul. After picking you up from the airport, we'll drop you off at your hotel for a free day in Istanbul to explore the city.
Overnight : Istanbul
Category : 4 star
Hotel : Yasmak Sultan Hotel
Today's itinerary begins with a visit to the Topkapi Palace (including Hagia Irene and the Harem) , which was once the home of the Ottoman Empire's sultans. We continue with stops at the Blue Mosque, St. Sophia Museum, and Hippodrome.
On an optional, afternoon, 'Half day Bosphorus cruise', you can cruise between two continents on the stretch of water that separates Europe and Asia.
Overnight : Istanbul
Category : 4 star
Hotel : Yasmak Sultan Hotel
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer you to your hotel and the remainder of the day is free to explore.
Overnight : Cappadocia
Category : 4 star
Hotel : Cappadocia Estates Hotel
After breakfast, to marvel at Cappadocia's lunar scenery, we'll visit the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum and the fairy chimneys, as well as tour the various levels of an underground city. Prepare your cameras because photo opportunities abound!
Don't miss tonight's optional Turkish folklore event, which will feature folklore and belly dancers... it'll be a night to remember!
Overnight : Cappadocia
Category : 4 star
Hotel : Cappadocia Estates Hotel
Depart from Cappadocia in the morning and enjoy a scenic drive through central Anatolia. En route, stop at Hattusas, the ancient capital of the Hittite Empire, to explore its impressive ruins, including monumental gates and temples that reveal the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After the visit, continue your journey north toward Amasya, a picturesque city nestled in a narrow valley along the Yeşilırmak River. Known for its Ottoman-era wooden houses and dramatic rock tombs carved into the cliffs, Amasya offers a unique blend of history and charm.
Overnight : Amasya
Category : 3 star
Hotel : Tashan Hotel 1699
Begin the day exploring Amasya’s charming town center, strolling along the Yeşilırmak River to admire its iconic Ottoman houses and picturesque views. Visit the elegant Hazeranlar Mansion, a beautifully preserved example of 19th-century Ottoman architecture, and enjoy a short riverside walk to soak in the tranquil atmosphere. After this cultural experience, depart Amasya in the late morning and drive through scenic landscapes toward Kastamonu, a historic city known for its traditional wooden houses and rich heritage. Arrive in the afternoon and check into your hotel for an overnight stay, with time to relax or explore the local surroundings at leisure.
Overnight : Kastamonu
Category : 3 star
Hotel : Uğurlu Konakları
Begin your morning exploring Kastamonu’s cultural treasures, starting with Kastamonu Castle for sweeping city views, followed by Nasrullah Mosque and Square, and the Liva Pasha Mansion Ethnography Museum to experience Ottoman heritage. Stroll through charming streets lined with historic wooden houses before departing late morning. En route to Safranbolu, pause at the spectacular Glass Viewing Platform overlooking the canyon—a perfect spot for breathtaking photos and a memorable experience. After this scenic stop, continue to Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Ottoman architecture and cobblestone streets.
Overnight : Safranbolu
Category : 3 star
Hotel : Gulevi Safranbolu Hotel
Begin the day exploring Safranbolu’s historic town center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its Ottoman architecture. Visit the impressive Cinci Han and Cinci Hammam, once vital stops for Silk Road travelers, and continue to the Kaymakamlar Museum House, showcasing traditional Ottoman life. Admire the elegant Izzet Mehmet Pasha Mosque and take in panoramic views from the iconic Clock Tower, a landmark overlooking the charming streets below. In the afternoon, depart for Amasra, a picturesque Black Sea village known for its stunning coastal views and fresh seafood. Enjoy a short walking tour and photo stop before returning to Safranbolu.
Overnight : Safranbolu
Category : 3 star
Hotel : Gulevi Safranbolu Hotel
Depart Safranbolu in the morning and travel west toward Istanbul, enjoying the scenic landscapes of northern Turkey. En route, stop at the serene Abant Lake, a natural gem surrounded by lush pine forests and rolling hills. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and capture stunning photos of this tranquil setting. Guests may also enjoy a quick coffee or tea at a lakeside café before continuing the journey. After this refreshing break, resume the drive to Istanbul.
Overnight : Istanbul
Category : 4 star
Hotel : Port Bosphorus Hotel
Departure airport transfer in Istanbul and our tour concludes.
This is intended to give an idea of the type of accommodation that may be expected. The actual hotels used for any given tour may change due to many reasons such as group size, availability, time of year, hotel standard has dropped or simply we found a better hotel. We update the website immediately if and when any changes take place. If and when we do change hotels it will be to a hotel of equal or higher standard and will be at no extra cost.
Where more than one hotel is shown for a given an overnight stop this means that one of those hotels will be used.
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