











Essence of Turkey
Essence of Turkey: 9-Day Cultural Discovery Tour
Istanbul – Cappadocia – Antalya – Pamukkale – Ephesus – Izmir
Embark on a captivating 9-day journey through the heart of Turkey’s most iconic regions. The Essence of Turkey tour is a perfect blend of rich history, natural wonders, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. From the imperial charm of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, from ancient cities like Ephesus to the turquoise shores of Antalya—this tour showcases the very best of the country.
Highlights include a scenic Bosphorus cruise, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia with optional hot air balloon rides, the calcium terraces of Pamukkale, the ancient marvels of Ephesus, and a taste of Ottoman elegance in Bursa. Along the way, enjoy authentic Turkish hospitality, stay in carefully selected 4-5* hotels, and travel with expert English-speaking guides.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, this all-in-one adventure offers the true essence of Turkey.
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
Tour Type: Semi-inclusive group tour with optional experiences
Destinations: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Izmir
Accommodation: 4–5-star hotels throughout the journey
Meals: Daily breakfast; dinners included in select cities
Language: Guided in English
Optional Add-ons: Hot air balloon ride, Turkish night show, jeep safari, and more
DAY 1. ARRIVAL IN ISTANBUL
Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, transfer to the hotel and meet your professional local guide. Take time to rest and get ready for an unforgettable journey in this magical city. Overnight in Istanbul. Dinner is not included.
DAY 2. ISTANBUL - CAPITAL OF EMPERORS
Start the day with a rich breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, witnessing the unique beauty between two continents, and stroll through the aromatic alleys of the Spice Bazaar.
Optional Old City Tour:
Visit Hippodrome: Travel the routes once used by ancient Roman chariots
Visit German Fountain: A gift from the German Emperor Wilhelm II, full of imperial charm.
Visit Blue Mosque: Admire the serene beauty of the world-famous blue tiles.
Visit Topkapi Palace: Explore the heart of the Ottoman Empire and its royal treasures.
Overnight in Istanbul. Dinner is not included.
DAY 3. ANKARA- MYSTERIOUS CAPPADOCIA
Visit the Atatürk Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the founder of modern Turkey. . Then drive via Ankara, stopping at the stunning Salt Lake, before continuing to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia. Overnight in Cappadocia. Dinner is included.
DAY 4. CAPPADOCIA
Begin the day with breakfast, followed by a magical tour of the region.
Uchisar Castle Village:
Climb to the region’s highest viewpoint for jaw-dropping panoramic views, and wander through a maze of ancient homes carved into the rock — it’s like stepping into a real-life fantasy.
Handmade Carpet Factory:
Step into a world where tradition meets artistry. Watch skilled weavers bring vibrant Turkish carpets to life, knot by knot — a mesmerizing cultural experience.
Avanos (Pottery Village):
Nestled along the Red River, Avanos is famous for its clay — shaped by artisans into intricate ceramics. Try your hand at the potter’s wheel or pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
Pigeon Valley:
A surreal landscape where ancient dovecotes are carved into soft volcanic stone. Enjoy a scenic walk while discovering how pigeons once played a vital role in agriculture and communication.
Jewelry Store:
Explore a curated collection of locally crafted jewelry featuring Anatolian gemstones — perfect for a meaningful gift or a special keepsake.
Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley):
See nature’s creativity on display. The whimsical rock formations resemble camels, seals, and even a dancing couple — no two visitors see the same story.
Ceramic Workshop:
Watch master artisans turn humble clay into dazzling works of art using techniques passed down through generations. This is Cappadocia’s artistry at its finest.
Optional: Hot Air Baloon, Jeep Safari & Turkish Night Show with folk dances and local cuisine.
Overnight in Cappadocia. Dinner is included.
DAY 5. FROM CAPPADOCIA TO ANTALYA
Early morning departure to Antalya.
Photo Stop at Sultanhani Caravanserai:
Step back in time at this grand 13th-century stone inn, once a vital resting point for Silk Road traders and camel caravans. Its vast courtyard and ornate architecture tell the story of centuries of travel and commerce.
Upon Arrival in Antalya – Visit Kaleiçi Old Town:
Lose yourself in the enchanting maze of cobbled lanes, where Ottoman houses, flower-draped balconies, and cozy cafés invite you to linger. Each corner whispers tales from Roman, Byzantine, and Turkish eras.
Visit Hadrian’s Gate:
Walk beneath this towering triumphal arch, built to honor Emperor Hadrian in 130 AD — an awe-inspiring welcome into Antalya’s ancient core.
Overnight in Antalya. Dinner is included.
DAY 6. PAMUKKALE – HIERAPOLIS
Visit Textile Outlet:
Discover the art of Turkish craftsmanship as you browse vibrant textiles, stylish clothing, and unique local products—perfect for memorable souvenirs or a touch of authentic fashion.
Visit Hierapolis & Cotton Castle:
Step back in time as you wander through the ancient city of Hierapolis, then soak in the surreal beauty of Pamukkale’s gleaming white terraces and thermal pools—one of Turkey’s most iconic natural wonders.
Overnight in Pamukkale. Dinner is included.
DAY 7. SELCHUK + IZMIR
Today you travel to Selçuk.
Visit Leather Factory
Enjoy a live runway-style fashion show showcasing high-quality leatherwear, then browse a curated collection of finely crafted jackets, bags, and accessories—where timeless style meets Turkish tradition.
Visit Ephesus Ancient City
Wander through grand marble streets, awe-inspiring temples, and the iconic Library of Celsus in one of the world’s most remarkably preserved ancient cities—a true journey into the heart of classical antiquity.
Overnight in Izmir. Dinner is included.
DAY 8. ISTANBUL
Drive back to Istanbul with a cultural stop in Bursa.
Visit Green Mosque
Step into a masterpiece of early Ottoman architecture, where intricate tilework, elegant calligraphy, and serene courtyards reflect centuries of spiritual and artistic heritage.
Visit Koza Han Market
Wander through a charming 15th-century silk bazaar, once the heart of the ancient Silk Road—now a treasure trove of handmade scarves, textiles, and timeless Turkish charm.
Visit Turkish Delight Showroom
Indulge your senses with a tasting tour of Turkey’s most beloved sweet treats, from rose and pistachio delights to exotic flavors crafted using centuries-old recipes. Overnight in Istanbul. Dinner is not included
DAY 9 – DEPARTURE
Depending on your flight time, a comfortable bus will transfer you to the airport for your return home.
- Accommodation in 4-5* hotels
- Daily breakfasts and dinners in Cappadocia, Antalya, and Pamukkale. In Istanbul – breakfasts only.
- Group transfers
- Transfers between cities
- Professional guide in English
- Excursions as per the itinerary
- All optional excursions at an additional cost
- Lunches
- Personal expenses
Suggested hotels for the tour:
- Istanbul – Nova Plaza Prime Hotel, Ramada By Wyndham Istanbul Sultanahmet, Days by Wyndham, La Quinta Hotel, Clarion Golden Horn, Ramada Plaza Tekstilkent or similar
- Cappadocia – Nox Cave Hotel, Atrium Cave Hottel, Avrasya Hotel, Crystal Kaymakli Hotel, Suhan Hotel, Emin Koçak Hotel or similar
- Pamukkale – Lycus River Thermal Hotel, Colosae Thermal Hotel, Adem Pira Hotel, `Richmond Hotel, Tripolis Hotel or similar
- Antalya – Ring Downtown Hotel, Lara Garden Hotel, Holyday Inn Lara Hotel, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Antalya Hotel or similar
*These are the suggested hotels for the program, which are not selected in advance and may be replaced by other hotels of the same category.
The hotels in the program are located away from the historical sites in the provinces of the specified cities.
For tourists who do not follow the program or who separate from the group, the tour operator will apply measures, including the cancellation of all included services in the program.
The tour operator reserves the right to make changes to the program, modify the arrival dates, or cancel the program. Additionally, optional excursions may be canceled if the minimum number of participants is not reached.
According to international standards, check-in at the hotel is at 14:00, and room checkout is at 12:00.
- Breakfast on the first day (arrival day) is not included.
- Dinner on the last day (departure day) is not included.
FULL DAY OTTOMAN & BYZANTIUM RELICS
Program
“HIPPODROME, GERMAN FOUNTAIN, BLUE MOSQUE, SAINT SOPHIA CATHEDRAL(EXTERIOR), HURREM SULTAN HAMAM(EXTERIOR) TOPKAPI PALACE, GRAND BAZAAR”
Included
- Lunch
- Museum Fee
- Professional English Speaking Guide
- Transfers
DINNER CRUISE WITH ALCOHOL
Program
NIGHT BOSPHORUS CRUISE, DINNER, UNLIMITED ALCOHOLIK AND NON-ALCOHOLIK DRINKS
Included
- Dinner
- Unlimited local alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Dance show
- Transfers
DINNER CRUISE WITHOUT ALCOHOL
Program
NIGHT BOSPHORUS CRUISE, DINNER, UNLIMITED NON-ALCOHOLIK DRINKS
Included
- Dinner
- Unlimited local alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Dance show
- Transfers
HOT AIR BALLOON (Dec - April)
Program
FAIRY CHIMNEYS, GOREME VALLEY, LOVE VALLEY, RED VALLEY, UCHISAR CASTLE
Included
- Transfers
- Preparation time with warm beverages served.
- Approximately 1-hour balloon flight at sunrise over Cappadocia’s stunning landscapes.
- Landing celebration with a champagne toast and certificate presentation.
HOT AIR BALLOON (May - August )
Program
FAIRY CHIMNEYS, GOREME VALLEY, LOVE VALLEY, RED VALLEY, UCHISAR CASTLE
Included
- Transfers
- Preparation time with warm beverages served.
- Approximately 1-hour balloon flight at sunrise over Cappadocia’s stunning landscapes.
- Landing celebration with a champagne toast and certificate presentation.
HOT AIR BALLOON (August - November )
Program
FAIRY CHIMNEYS, GOREME VALLEY, LOVE VALLEY, RED VALLEY, UCHISAR CASTLE
Included
- Transfers
- Preparation time with warm beverages served.
- Approximately 1-hour balloon flight at sunrise over Cappadocia’s stunning landscapes.
- Landing celebration with a champagne toast and certificate presentation.
JEEP SAFARI
Program
DEVRENT VALLEY, MONK’S VALLEY, CAVUSIN VILLAGE, ROSE VALLEY
Included
- Transfers
- Fuel costs
- Water and light refreshments
- Professional Driver
TURKISH NIGHT CAPPADOCIA
Program
DERWISH, BELLY DANCE, FOLK DANCES
Included
- Transfers
- Traditional Turkish music and dance performances (e.g., belly dancing, folk dances)
- Unlimited local drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic, depending on the package)
PARAGLIDING IN PAMUKKALE
Program
PAMUKKALE TRAVERTINES, HIERAPOLIS ANCIENT CITY, KIZILKAYA VILLAGE, DENIZLI PLAIN, KARAHAYIT HOT SPRINGS
Included
- Transfers
- Tandem paragliding flight with a professional pilot
- Pre-flight safety briefing and training
- Local beverages and refreshments
ANTALYA BOAT TOUR
Program
ANTALYA CITY VIEW, KALEICI, SMALL DUDEN WATERFALL
Included
- Transfers
- 1 hour boat trip
- Professional Guide
Click here to download the catalog file related to the tour.
You can contact our customer service directly to make a reservation and obtain further information.
info@touristalia.com
+90 (212) 249 79 89