Istanbul and Cappadocia

4-Day Journey: Discover Istanbul and the magic of Cappadocia

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul and first impressions

After a short three-hour flight from Amsterdam you land at the impressive Istanbul Airport. A comfortable coach takes you to your hotel in the vibrant heart of the city, where you will spend the first night. Spacious rooms and inviting beds ensure you can fully recharge for the adventure ahead. In the evening you enjoy a delicious dinner in town and enjoy Istanbul’s lively atmosphere.

Day 2: City tour and flight to Cappadocia

After a hearty breakfast the day begins with an extensive guided tour of Istanbul. Admire the Blue Mosque and the magnificent Hagia Sophia, which has served as church, mosque and museum over the centuries. Explore Topkapi Palace, the former royal residence of the sultans, and wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar.

After lunch, the group transfers to the airport for a short domestic flight of about an hour to Cappadocia. A thirty-minute drive will bring you to a unique hotel where you will spend the next two nights. This special property offers cave rooms that perfectly match Cappadocia’s character, a region famed for its spectacular rock formations and underground cities.

Day 3: Magical balloon flight and discoveries in Cappadocia

At 04:45 a coach will take the group to the balloon launch site. Upon arrival, a light breakfast is served, after which you step into the hot air balloon for a unique balloon flight. For an hour you drift high above Cappadocia’s impressive rocks and valleys, enjoying a glorious sunrise and breathtaking views over the surreal landscape.

Back at the hotel you ‘ll have a good breakfast, followed by a visit to an underground city and Cappadocia National Park with a guide. Here you admire subterranean churches adorned with beautiful paintings and learn more about the history of this remarkable region.

The afternoon offers time for relaxation and culinary indulgence: enjoy a tasty lunch in a charming Mustafapaşa restaurant and a rooftop wine tasting, where you discover the flavours of regional wines with a splendid view over the landscape.

After a day of discoveries and culture you still have time to shop for souvenirs at the local market or stroll through the town’s picturesque streets. Let yourself be surprised by local crafts, handmade jewellery and unique artworks. The day ends with a delightful three-course dinner in a local restaurant, where you savour traditional Turkish dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and great passion.

Day 4: Return to Istanbul and conclusion of the trip

After a good breakfast you depart for Cappadocia Airport for a short flight back to Istanbul. Following a layover of just ninety minutes, you fly on to Amsterdam. You will return home with wonderful memories of this trip and a wealth of impressions from two of Turkey’s most beautiful regions.

Why Turkey?

Turkey offers everything you seek in a unique travel destination: a rich culture, a fascinating history and breathtaking nature. Whether you wish to enjoy modern Istanbul, with its lively markets and impressive historic sights, or Cappadocia’s fairy-tale landscapes from a hot-air balloon, Turkey delivers a one-of-a-kind experience. Add the warmth and hospitality of the local people and you’re assured of a very special travel experience.