DAY
1 - Arrival in Istanbul
Upon arrival in Istanbul you will be collected from the airport
and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure
as you begin to soak in the atmosphere of this amazing city. (If you
arrive early, we could arrange a half day orientation tour.)
DAY
2 - Istanbul Classics
You are collected from your hotel and start the day with a
visit to Haghia Sophia, the most influential church of Byzantium. Originally
built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, reconstructed by Emperor
Justinian in 6th century and converted into a mosque by the Ottomans
in the 15th century, it still stands today as one of the world's greatest
architectural marvels.
You then visit the Blue
Mosque, another of the world's most important religious buildings.
Built in the 16th century the mosque is unique for it's 6 minarets
and blue Iznik tiled interior.
Next, visit the Hippodrome,
scene of chariot races. Although little remains of the great stadium
which, in its hey day, is thought to have held 100'000 people,
the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column
of Constantine are highlights.
From here explore the
Basilica Cistern, a vast underground water depot constructed to
meet the needs of the Palace of Constantinople.
After lunch explore the
grand Topkapi Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultan's from the 15th
to the 19th century. With its impressive treasury, exquisite harem,
attractive courtyards and pavilions housing huge collections of
antiquities, Topkapi Palace offers a true insight into the heart
of the Ottoman Empire.
DAY
3 - Spice Bazar and Surrounds
We start the day with a visit to the colourful 17th century Spice
Bazaar and its surroundings. The narrow streets lined with
shops here beautifully emphasize the atmosphere of old Istanbul. It
is a joy to smell the fresh coffee, herbs and spices, to see the dazzling
mixture of nuts, dried fruits, and a thousand varieties of Turkish
delights all being sold as they have been for hundreds of years.
From here visit the delightful Rustem
Pasha Mosque built by master architect Sinan in
the 16th century. Its tiled interior, lavishly decorated with
the finest Iznik tiles, is perhaps the best example in the city.
We then embark on a boat
tour along the Bosphorus waterway separating Europe
and Asia. This is a relaxing way to take in some major landmarks
including the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace, the Bosphorus
Suspension Bridge and the imposing waterfront villas of
Istanbul.
After the
boat trip, you will explore the Galata and Tunel district; the
latter being Istanbul's answer to Barcelona style bohemia!
Lastly, take
a tram to finish the day off at the mind boggling grand covered
bazaar. This legendary mother of all bazaars is a maze of over
4000 shops that will make you wish you had brought a bigger suitcase.
Day 4 - Arrive in Cappadocia
You will be collected from the airport and transferred to your
hotel. The rest of the day is free as you begin to soak in the
atmosphere of this whimsical land.
Day 5 - Tour of Goreme
Tour of Goreme and Surroundings. An introduction to the unique landscape that
is Cappadocia, at ground level. You will explore the famous Fairy Chimneys
and Cave Churches. The day includes: Goreme Panoramic View Point, Kaymakli
underground city, Avanos, famous for its pottery, Pasabag Valley, Dervent
Valley, Urgup and a 3.5km hike in Rose and Honey valleys. A fascinating day
with extraordinary landscapes. Lunch is included.
Day 6 - Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia
The Balloon team will collect you from
your hotel at dawn. After the
flight, there is a champagne ceremony before you are taken back to your
hotel in time for breakfast. The flight will take up the early part of the
morning, the rest of the day is free.
Day 7 - Tour of Cappadocia
Tour of Cappadocia, further afield. You will drive to the awesome Ihlara Canyon.
You will trek in Ihlara Valley visiting various cave churches. Lunch will
be by the riverside in Belisirma village. You will see also; Selime Monastery,
the Town of Guzelyurt with its old Greek houses and underground cities plus
the natural citadel town of Uchisar and Pigeon Valley. Lunch is included.
Day 8 - Free Day
Free day in Goreme. Perhaps a little last minute shopping, a long walk in the
valleys or a Turkish Bath. Alternatively, Balloon enthusiasts can add a second
optional balloon flight on this day.
Day 9 - Transfer to Airport
Transfer to Kayseri Airport for Turkish Airlines flight
back to Istanbul.
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