Central Turkey and the Caves of Cappadocia

8 days from £2790 per person

From the hustle and bustle of Istanbul to the natural wonders of Cappadocia this itinerary offers an insight into 3,000 years of Turkish civilisation and history. Located in the heart of Turkey, the region of Cappadocia once formed part of the Hittite and, later, Roman empires. Famous for its remarkable landscapes and unique natural rock formations, there are few places like Cappadocia. Once here, explore the beautiful rock-cut churches and chapels of Göreme, Uchisar's citadel hollowed from volcanic rock and the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu.

Route: Istanbul – Cappadocia

Itinerary Highlights

The last stop along the iconic Silk Road, Istanbul is a fascinating city that has a rich culture and diverse heritage that is wonderful to explore.

In Istanbul, visit the expansive underground basilica water cistern, the magnificent Topkapi Palace and the historic Blue Mosque, before winding your way through the majestic Grand Bazaar.

Cappadocia in central Turkey, is a region full of strange natural formations including tall, cone-shaped rocks, frequently used, since the Bronze Age, to create cave homes and churches.

Itinerary: Central Turkey and the Caves of Cappadocia

Day 1 London to Istanbul

Today fly from London to Istanbul with British Airways and on your arrival you will be met and transferred by car to your accommodation. (N)

Accommodation in Istanbul: Ottoman Imperial Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet (or similar)

Days 2 – 4 Istanbul

Over the next three days you are at leisure to relax and explore this remarkable city. During your stay you will receive a one day private tour of the old city in the company of an English speaking local guide. Places of interest include Topkapi Palace where for 400 years the Ottomans Empire was ruled, the vast underground basilica water cistern with its 336 columns and masterful Byzantine engineering and the Hagia Sophia – the ‘Church of the Holy Wisdom’. Once Christendom’s greatest church, the Hagia Sofia is over 1,400 years old and today is considered one of the world’s finest architectural and religious monuments. Also visit the Blue Mosque, so called for its sparkling Iznik blue tiles which adorn the interior walls as well as the labyrinthine medieval Grand Bazaar where your senses will be assailed by over 4,000 shops. (B)

Accommodation in Istanbul: Ottoman Imperial Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet (or similar)

Day 5 Istanbul to Cappadocia – by air

This morning depart by air for Kayseri in Cappadocia. On your arrival you will be met by your driver-guide and continue onto the stunning Devrent Valley. Visit the open-air museum at Göreme, a World Heritage Site, where the remains of rock-cut churches are decorated with unique frescoes dating from the 9th to 13th Centuries and depict scenes from the bible. Also visit the pretty town of Uchisar which is noted for its volcanic rock cut citadel riddled with tunnels and windows. (B)

Accommodation in Cappadocia: Museum Hotel (or similar)

Day 6 Cappadocia

Start your morning with a visit to the Red Valley, one of the most attractive in Cappadocia and renowned for its superb rock formations. Later explore one of the fascinating underground cities of either Kaymakli or Derinkuyu. Believed to have originally excavated by the Hittites around 1,200 BC the cities where also used by Christians escaping the Arab invasions of the 7th and 8th Centuries who expanded the chambers into an extensive underground complex. Hidden entrances give way to elaborate subterranean chambers with ventilation systems, wells, chimneys and connecting passageways with the upper levels used for living and the lower ones used for storage, wine making and worship. (B)

Accommodation in Cappadocia: Museum Hotel (or similar)

Day 7 Cappadocia

Today leave your hotel and travel further afield to visit the more remote and beautiful Ihlara Valley. Walk for around 4kms through the valley and explore several of the rock cut churches which date from the 11th Century. Before you return to Urgup a visit will be made to the incredible rock cut monastery in the village of Selime. (B)

Accommodation in Cappadocia: Museum Hotel (or similar)

Day 8 Cappadocia to London

This morning return to Kayseri Airport in good time to catch your return flight to Istanbul. On your arrival connect onto the British Airways flight from Istanbul to London. (B)

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

International flights from the UK
Domestic flights
Private car and driver
Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
Hotel accommodation and taxes

What's not included

Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.

Central Turkey and the Caves of Cappadocia

8 days from £2790 per person

Itinerary Highlights

Itinerary: Central Turkey and the Caves of Cappadocia

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What's included

What's not included

Guide to Price

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