Highlights Of Eastern Europe & Turkey

Budapest

Arrive at any time.

There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.We recommend booking pre-accommodation to fully explore this breathtaking city.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Meet Your CEO and Group

1h

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Budapest to Balla Geza Winery

Enjoy a morning free to explore Budapest to get a feel for this charming city. In the afternoon, check out a G Adventures-supported social enterprise cafe and enjoy a drink before we leave Budapest to travel to the Balla Geza Winery for a wine tasting and traditional Romanian dinner. Tonight's accommodation will be at the winery's guesthouse on the property.

With your free morning, opt to check out the Great Market Hall, the city's largest (and oldest) indoor public market, or visit Gellert Hill to learn about the history of Buda and Pest, divided by the Danube River. On a clear day, you can capture amazing panoramic shots of the river as it snakes through this ancient city.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Free Time

Budapest

Enjoy a free time this morning to explore Budapest.

Nem Adom Fel Café and Bar

Budapest

Stop for a refreshment at Nem Adom Fel Cafe and Bar, whose proceeds help fund a non-profit by the same name, which means "Never Give Up." Most of the employees at this social enterprise cafe are living with a disability, and the charity advocates for rights for the disabled all over Hungary. Your meal helps this cafe to invest in the charity's efforts, which also includes supporting rural Roma communities through much-needed social programs.

Private Vehicle

Budapest - Arad 4h - 4h 293km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Balla Géza Winery Visit

Arad

Balla Geza Winery is located in at the foothills of Arad, which was a region known for its wine growing. Since 1999 Balla Geza has been working to bring back the legendary wines from this lost region. Visit the Minis vineyard famous for red wines throughout history. Enjoy a wine tasting with the group and then sit down to a traditional Romanian dinner featuring three different courses. If time allows explore the grounds and then head to the winery's guesthouse where we'll be spending the night. In the morning breakfast is included.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Dinner

Balla Geza Winery to Sighisoara

Enjoy breakfast at the Balla Geza Winery before traveling to the enchanting town of Sighisoara. Use your free time here to explore the cobblestone streets and medieval architecture.

Explore the medieval walled citadel with its cultural attractions and great restaurants and bars. Sample some Romanian cuisine-the Casa Dracula (original home of Vlad, the model for Count Dracula) is now a restaurant specializing in hearty meat and game dishes of the region.

If you plan to visit multiple museums today, speak to your CEO about purchasing one ticket to see three-The History Museum, The Museum Of Medieval Armaments, and The Torture Chamber inside the Clock Tower.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Arad - Sighisoara 4.5h 317km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

Sighisoara Afternoon

Take some time to explore medieval Sighisoara.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
4
Optional Activities for Day 3
Show
The History Museum (Muzeul de Istorie)
50RON Per Person
Sighisoara
Explore the Renaissance furniture, medical instruments, fine arts, and more in this museum located inside the Clock Tower -- it's been around since 1899!
Clock Tower Visit
Sighisoara
Enjoy a visit to the Clock Tower, also known as the Council Tower -- it's Sighisoara's main point of attraction. It was built in the second half of the 14th century and expanded in the 16th century. After a fire in 1676 when the town's gunpowder deposits located in the Tailors' Tower exploded, Austrian artists rebuilt the roof of the tower in its present baroque style and, in 1894, colourful tiles were added.
Casa Dracula (Vlad Dracul Restaurant)
10RON Per Person
Sighisoara
You will not be digging your canine teeth into any humans at the Casa Dracula. Once the original home for Vlad the Impaler, who was the model for Count Dracula, it is now a restaurant specialising in the hearty meat and game dishes of the region.
The Church of the Dominican Monastery Visit
Sighisoara
Enjoy a visit to the Church of the Dominican Monastery. Built in the late Gothic style, it was last repaired in 1929, quite some time after it was first attested in a document back in 1298.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Sighisoara/Brasov

With a local guide, venture into the Romanian countryside to visit traditional villages. Get a true sense of life in this less-visited region. Visit charming Brasov.

Enjoy a guided tour of the nearby countryside. Take in the beautiful rolling scenery and visit medieval villages and fortified churches.In the early evening, transfer to the city of Brasov, the best preserved medieval city in Romania.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Sighișoara Region Guided Tour

Sighisoara 5h - 6h

Coast over rolling hills and into rural villages, learning about the life and folklore of olden times from our expert local guide.

Private Vehicle

Sighisoara - Brasov 1.6h 115km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Brasov

Visit the picturesque Bran Castle and learn the history (and rumours) of this fascinating place.

Impressively situated on a rock outcrop and dominating the valley, this 14th century castle is steeped in history and folklore. Soak in the gorgeous countryside as you learn about the creepier side of Romania.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Bran Castle Visit

Bran Half Day

Visit the picturesque Bran Castle, impressively situated on a rock outcrop and dominating the valley. This 14th century castle is steeped in history and folklore and is an unmissable highlight. Sometimes called "Dracula's Castle", it served as a defense point to protect the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. Rumours abound regarding Dracula's interaction with the castle. You'll have to visit to find out the truth.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
3
Optional Activities for Day 5
Show
Catherine's Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei) Visit
Brasov
Get ready to go back in history with a visit to Catherine's Gate, built in 1559 and the only original gate to have survived from medieval times.
Schei District Visit
Brasov
During the Saxon rule of Brasov, from the 13th to the 17th century, Romanians were forbidden from owning property inside the citadel walls and so they settled in the southwestern Schei district. Walk up Strada Prundului to Piata Unirii and the beautiful St. Nicholas Church; then, wander around the small curving streets that gradually slope upwards against the hill. Continue to the southern end of Schei and you'll end up on the gravel road to the impressive Solomon's Rocks (Pietrele lui Solomon), a popular picnic area for locals during the weekend but relatively quiet all other times.
Black Church (Biserica Neagra) Visit
30RON Per Person
Brasov
The Black Church is the biggest church between Vienna and Istanbul. It's a famous landmark of the town of Brasov, is Romania's leading Gothic church, and has the largest church bell in the country, weighing a hefty 7 tons (6,350 kg)! Explore its beautiful interior, including stained glass windows and its collection of 119 Turkish carpets, the largest in Europe.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Brasov/Bucharest

Travel to Bucharest and enjoy an orientation walk. Take time to explore the Soviet-esque architecture, the beautiful cathedral, or indulge in Bucharest's international cuisine.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Train

Brasov - Bucharest 4h

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Orientation With CEO

0.5h - 1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
6
Optional Activities for Day 6
Show
Arch of Triumph Visit
Bucharest
Enjoy a visit to the Arch of Triumph to marvel at the exterior of this historic monument. The arch was initially built to celebrate Romania's independence so troops could march under it on their return to the city in 1878. The current arch was built in 1936, it replaced the wooden and quickly built structures that stood before.
National Village Museum Visit
Bucharest
Check out examples of Romanian rural architecture at this outdoor museum that's literally a park 10 hectares large. It boasts rural homes built in the styles throughout Romania as well as churches, outhouses, and mills -- you'll really feel like you're walking through a Romanian village. To give an even more authentic feel to things, many structures are filled with furniture and pieces from the eras they replicate.
National History Museum Visit
Bucharest
Boasting more than 650,000 items, the museum, inaugurated in 1972, gives visitors a true understanding of Romanian culture. Housed in the former historic monument once known as the Palace of the Post, it is situated in the old historical centre of Bucharest.
Palace of the Parliament Visit
Bucharest
Enjoy a visit to the Palace of the Parliament, which contains both chambers of the Romanian parliament as well as the National Museum of Contemporary Art (MNAC). It's the world's largest civilian building with an administrative function, according to the World Records Academy; it's also the most expensive administrative building.
Bucharest Bike Tour
20RON Per Person
Bucharest
You can always cover more land on a bike! Get out an explore on two wheels.
Museum of the Romanian Peasant
Bucharest
Visit the Museum of the Romanian Peasant for a interesting look inside the rural culture of Romania. The museum displays a collection of costumes, artifacts of Romanian peasant life, and religious icons.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Bucharest/Veliko Tarnovo

Enjoy some free time to explore more of Bucharest in the morning before travelling to Bulgaria and one of the oldest cities in the world, Veliko Tarnovo. Wander the medieval town, visit the museums, or sample your first taste of Bulgarian cuisine.

Enjoy this charming town and opt to visit the Tsarevets Fortress just outside the city.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Free Time

Bucharest Morning

Get out and explore.

Private Vehicle

Bucharest - Veliko Tarnovo 3h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Veliko Tarnovo

Enjoy the morning in the medieval town of Veliko Tarnovo. In the afternoon, visit the hilltop village of Arbanasi. Soak in the views over Veliko Tarnovo.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Arbanasi Village Visit

Arbanasi

Enjoy a visit to Arbanasi. This hilltop village was the residence of choice for the wealthy Roman elite and is still a country haven for the high-flyers of modern Bulgaria. The views all around and down to Veliko Tarnovo are amazing.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
1
Optional Activities for Day 8
Show
Nativity Church Visit
7.67EUR Per Person
Arbanasi
Visit the 16th-century Church of the Nativity to see the amazing murals. For tours in English, there is an additional 25 EUR fee per group.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Veliko Tarnovo/Sofia

Travel to Sofia and take an orientation walk of the capital city. Later, wander down the pedestrian street or visit the eclectic Ladies' Market.

A mix of western grandeur and Soviet bulk, Sofia boasts a gold-domed church and delicious international dining.Sample modern takes on Bulgarian and international food, with some great trendy dining opportunities.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Orientation With CEO

0.5h - 1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Private Vehicle

Veliko Tarnovo - Sofia 3h - 4h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
3
Optional Activities for Day 9
Show
Ladies' Market Visit
Sofia
Enjoy a visit to the eclectic Ladies' Market - Sofia's biggest market for fresh produce, meats, fish, cheeses and spices.
St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Visit
Sofia
Don't miss the stunning gold-domed Alexander Nevsky church, honouring the Russian liberators whose contribution saw the end of Ottoman rule in Bulgaria.
Vitosha Boulevard Visit
Sofia
Enjoy a stroll down Sofia's chic pedestrian area, Vitosha Boulevard.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Sofia/Plovdiv

Travel to Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city. Visit the hilly old town, museums, or the Theatre of Ancient Philippopolis, one of the many Roman ruins found here.

Opt to relax over coffee and a Bulgarian baklava, a specialty of the area.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Train

Sofia - Plovdiv 2h

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Free Time

Plovdiv

Get out and explore.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
3
Optional Activities for Day 10
Show
Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis Visit
3.5EUR Per Person
Plovdiv
Go back nearly 2,000 years and tread in the steps of Roman legionnaires by visiting the Theatre of Ancient Philippopolis.
Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum Visit
5EUR Per Person
Plovdiv
Visit the Ethnographic Museum, which has an impressive collection of traditional Bulgarian costumes.
Plovdiv Old Town Visit
Plovdiv
Plovdiv is one of the oldest towns on earth, dating back as far as 4000 BC. Wander the atmospheric streets of the hilly area and view the colourful buildings. Opt to visit cafes or restaurants in this living museum.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Plovdiv/Istanbul

Spend time in the morning exploring more of Plovdiv before boarding an afternoon bus to Istanbul.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Free Time

Plovdiv

Don't waste a minute, get out and explore.

Local Bus

Plovdiv - Istanbul 7h

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
3
Optional Activities for Day 11
Show
Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis Visit
3.5EUR Per Person
Plovdiv
Go back nearly 2,000 years and tread in the steps of Roman legionnaires by visiting the Theatre of Ancient Philippopolis.
Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum Visit
5EUR Per Person
Plovdiv
Visit the Ethnographic Museum, which has an impressive collection of traditional Bulgarian costumes.
Plovdiv Old Town Visit
Plovdiv
Plovdiv is one of the oldest towns on earth, dating back as far as 4000 BC. Wander the atmospheric streets of the hilly area and view the colourful buildings. Opt to visit cafes or restaurants in this living museum.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Istanbul

Enjoy a city tour with a local Turkish guide. Opt to visit the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, the Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya), and the Topkapi Palace.

After getting the lay of the land with a local guide, spend some free time visiting all you can in this eclectic city straddling two continents.In the evening, there are plenty of cool little bars and restaurants to celebrate the end of an amazing journey over a raki or two.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Istanbul Guided Walking Tour

Istanbul 3h - 4h 5km

Begin the day in Istanbul with a walking tour in the old city, including a visit to the historic Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and the magnificent Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya). When you step inside, you'll see why the Hagia Sophia is one of the great churches of the Byzantine Empire; it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest. Be awed by the Blue Mosque's symmetry and internal tile work, and take the chance to learn more about the ceremony behind Islam, as it is a working mosque.

Free Time

Istanbul

With so much to see and do, don't waste a minute.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
4
Optional Activities for Day 12
Show
Topkapi Palace Visit
1500TRY Per Person
Istanbul
Take a step back in time with a visit to the Topkapi Palace. Once home to the Ottoman sultans and their harems, it's now a museum hosting a number of collections, ranging from porcelains found in Europe, Asia and China to Ottoman-era weaponry.
Spice Bazaar Visit
Istanbul
Visit the atmospheric Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. Built in 1660, this is where many of the spices were originally imported. This market was, and still is, the centre of Istanbul's spice trade.
Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya) Visit
25EUR Per Person
Istanbul
Visit the Hagia Sophia, one of the most important and breathtaking icons of ancient Byzantine architecture. The domes and buttresses of the mosque punctuate the skyline of Turkey's capital and stand tall as a symbol of national pride.
Blue Mosque Visit
Istanbul
Explore the fabulous Blue Mosque, admiring the beautiful symmetry and internal tile work of the building. As it is a working mosque, take the chance to learn more about the ceremony behind Islam, the religion of about 98 per cent of today's Turks. Head to the front of the Blue Mosque, to see the ancient Hippodrome. It was once the scene of chariot races, and now houses monuments from various moments in Istanbul's history.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Istanbul

Take advantage of a free day in Istanbul to explore this incredible city and choose from a number of available optional activities. In the evening, head out for an optional group dinner and take a walk through the old square to see some of Istanbul's iconic monuments lit up at night.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
7
Optional Activities for Day 13
Show
Archaeological Museum
15EUR Per Person
Istanbul
Opened in 1891, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Home to a classical statuary, artifacts, and sarcophagi - including the stunning sarcophagus from the Royal Necropolis of Sidon - this museum presents one of the best opportunities to catch a glimpse into the life of ancient Turks.
Dolamabahce Palace
1200TRY Per Person
Istanbul
Built in the early 1800s, the Dolamabahce Palace is the largest and the most important palace of the Ottoman Empire, after the Topkapi Palace. Marvel at its grandeur.
Galata Tower
30EUR Per Person
Istanbul
Climb up the Galata Tower - one of Istanbul's oldest architectural landmarks - for an amazing panoramic view of the city. To get the full experience, time your visit with the call to prayer that happens at sunset.
Basilica Cistern
900TRY Per Person
Istanbul
Built in 532 AD, the Basilica Cistern is the largest cistern (underground water storage) of Istanbul. Spot the pillar bases carved in the likeness of Medusa.
Topkapi Palace Visit
1500TRY Per Person
Istanbul
Take a step back in time with a visit to the Topkapi Palace. Once home to the Ottoman sultans and their harems, it's now a museum hosting a number of collections, ranging from porcelains found in Europe, Asia and China to Ottoman-era weaponry.
Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya) Visit
25EUR Per Person
Istanbul
Visit the Hagia Sophia, one of the most important and breathtaking icons of ancient Byzantine architecture. The domes and buttresses of the mosque punctuate the skyline of Turkey's capital and stand tall as a symbol of national pride.
Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise
Istanbul
Go even deeper into Istanbul, discovering diverse and lesser-visited districts with your CEO, and some of the best photography spots in the city! Today we will walk along the ancient Constantinople city walls; see Tekfur Palace(the Blaherne Palace) which has got thick walls adjacent to the landwalls ; stroll through the photogenic Fener (Greek) and Balat (Jewish) districts, known for their colourful wooden houses; enjoy lunch together; and cruise the Bosphorus Strait for stunning views of Ottoman palaces and the city skyline. Please note: this is a full day (6+ hours) day excursion. Lunch is included. Your CEO will collect you from the hotel lobby at 9am. Please bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and modest clothing/coverings for shoulders and upper legs for visiting religious sites. There will be a welcome note at the reception with more details from your CEO, so please check on arrival.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Istanbul/Canakkale

Travel east from Istanbul to the Gallipoli Peninsula for a guided tour of the area including ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. In the afternoon, continue on to the harbour town of Canakkale.

Make an early morning visit to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during WWI in the battle of the same name. Take in the sights and learn the sombre story.It is only a little further to Canakkale, a busy harbour town with a thriving student population. Join the crowds as they stroll the waterfront nightly.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Istanbul - Gallipoli Peninsula 4h 260km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Gallipoli Battlefields Guided Tour

Gallipoli Peninsula 2.5h - 3h

Visit this moving and beautiful site, a great complement to any trip to Turkey, even for those not familiar with the Battle of Gallipoli. Tour the grounds to see ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. Learn how the Turks fought off the numerically superior, but badly commanded, Allied forces who were forced to withdraw nine months later; this battle holds special significance for Australians and New Zealanders, as both nations lost many soldiers.

Ferry

Gallipoli Peninsula - Canakkale 0.33h

Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Canakkale/Selcuk

Set off from Canakkale and visit the ancient city of Troy. Continue travelling south to the town of Selcuk for the night.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Canakkale - Troy 4.75h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Troy Visit

Troy 1h - 2h 1km

See historic Troy, made famous by Homer's "Iliad," (and more recently by Orlando Bloom and Brad Pitt). Tour the city that, for centuries, was regarded as just a myth, until its ruins were found in in the mid-19th century. Imagine what a great city this must have been, while taking a tour of the remains. Don't miss the chance to have a photo taken with the Trojan horse.

Private Vehicle

Troy - Selcuk 0.25h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Selcuk/Izmir

Explore Ephesus this morning as well as the Temple of Artemis, one of the ancient seven wonders of the world. Back in Selcuk, take part in a demonstration of how to prepare pide, a traditional Turkish flatbread, then devour the delicious results for lunch. In the afternoon transfer to the city of Izmir for an orientation walk of the old Kemeralti bazaar then board an overnight train bound for Cappadocia.

Tour the nearby ancient Roman ruins of Ephesus for a glimpse into what life was like thousands of years before in this part of what is now Turkey. After driving back to Selcuk, learn all about how to make "Turkish pizza," called pide before transferring north to the city of Izmir for some exploration before hopping on the overnight train.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Ephesus Visit

Selcuk 2h - 3h

Tour the ruins of ancient Ephesus to get a feeling of what life must have been like during Roman times. Take in its massive, well-preserved theatre, which dominates the view down Harbour Street. See the two-story library, whose facade has been carefully reconstructed from all original pieces. Built in AD 125, it once held nearly 12,000 scrolls.

Pide Demonstration and Lunch

Selcuk 1h - 0h

Learn all about the preparation of pide, a savoury flatbread often affectionately referred to as "Turkish pizza." See how they are traditionally prepared by flattening wheat dough then topping with cheese, tomatoes and other ingredients before cooking in a hot oven. Enjoy the finished results for lunch.

Private Vehicle

Selcuk - Izmir 1h 80km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Orientation Walk of Kemeralti Old Bazaar

Izmir 1h - 1.5h

Set out on foot with your CEO on an orientation walk of the Kemeralti Old Bazaar, in Izmir. Wander amongst the traditional food stores before taking some free time in Izmir to explore.

Overnight Train (beds)

Izmir - Konya 13h 560km

Curl up in shared, private sleeper cabins and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch

Konya/Cappadocia

Disembark the train in Konya and grab some breakfast at a nearby restaurant. Visit the Mevlana Museum before continuing by private vehicle to the Cappadocia region and check into the hotel. Sip a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the sunset from a nearby viewpoint before heading out for an optional dinner with the group in the evening.

Transfer to Cappadocia for 2 days of exploring the surreal and spectacular landscapes of the area.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Mevlana Museum Visit

Konya 0.5h

Visit the Mevlana Museum and mausoleum of Mevlana Rumi, a Persian Sufi mystic. Learn more about the mystic Islamic sect known as the Whirling Dervishes.

Private Vehicle

Konya - Cappadocia 3h 233km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast

Cappadocia

Set out on a full day of exploration of the Cappadocia area, starting with a hike through the iconic "fairy chimneys." Stop at various scenic viewpoints for photos on the way to the massive subterranean complex of the Kaymakli underground city before some free time in the afternoon for individual exploration or to relax at the hotel. In the evening, gain insight into the local cultural traditions by sharing a meal with a local family.

Outdoor enthusiast? Hire a bike to get around on two wheels or join your CEO on an optional trekking tour through one of the beautiful valleys of the region.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Hike Through the Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia

Cappadocia 1.5h - 2h 4km

Immerser yourself into the surreal and spectacular landscapes of Cappadocia on a hike through the iconic and aptly-named "fairy chimney" formations.

Kaymakli Underground City

Kaymakli 1.5h

Visit the ancient and expansive subterranean complex of the Kaymakli Underground City. Thought to have been built between the 8th and 7th Century BC, Kaymakli was carved out of the rock and consists of nearly a hundred tunnels with vast amounts of storerooms, ventilation shafts and a church.

Free Time

Cappadocia

Take advantage of free time in the Cappadocia area to choose from a number of optional activities or relax at the hotel.

Dinner with Local Family

Cavusin

Enjoy seasonal homemade dishes, and talk with friendly hosts about life in rural Cappadocia.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Dinner
4
Optional Activities for Day 18
Show
Pottery Center Visit
Goreme
Learn more about the famous local art of pottery making and take advantage of the opportunity to create your own masterpiece.
Carpet Demonstration
Enjoy an informative demonstration of one of the oldest art-forms in Turkish history. Gain a greater appreciation for the labour and workmanship involved in weaving rugs and carpets as you learn about the process.
Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride
Goreme
Cappadocia is captivating from the ground, but that's just the half of it. See the seemingly hand-painted landscapes of Cappadocia as they deserve to be seen, from the air aboard a hot air balloon. Take to the skies in one of the most favoured places in the world to experience a hot air balloon ride.
Turkish Bath
75EUR Per Person
Goreme
Take along a towel, soap, and shampoo, and experience a bath like no other. Following your bath, you will enjoy a traditional foam massage, included in the entrance fee. Get some tips from the friendly locals - they'll show you the correct protocol. Make sure to check the hours as the bathhouses are strictly segregated, usually being used by men in the morning and evenings, and women in the afternoons.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Cappadocia/Istanbul

After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport to catch the flight back to Istanbul. Enjoy the rest of the day free for individual exploration of the historic and vibrant city, grab some street food or relax at a cafe before an optional final dinner with the group.

Continue on to Istanbul for the opportunity to finish up your sightseeing or get in some last minute shopping.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Plane

Cappadocia - Istanbul 1.25h - 1.5h 675km

Leave the wind-sculpted landscapes of Cappadocia behind and fly back to Istanbul.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
6
Optional Activities for Day 19
Show
Topkapi Palace Visit
1500TRY Per Person
Istanbul
Take a step back in time with a visit to the Topkapi Palace. Once home to the Ottoman sultans and their harems, it's now a museum hosting a number of collections, ranging from porcelains found in Europe, Asia and China to Ottoman-era weaponry.
Archaeological Museum
15EUR Per Person
Istanbul
Opened in 1891, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Home to a classical statuary, artifacts, and sarcophagi - including the stunning sarcophagus from the Royal Necropolis of Sidon - this museum presents one of the best opportunities to catch a glimpse into the life of ancient Turks.
Dolamabahce Palace
1200TRY Per Person
Istanbul
Built in the early 1800s, the Dolamabahce Palace is the largest and the most important palace of the Ottoman Empire, after the Topkapi Palace. Marvel at its grandeur.
Galata Tower
30EUR Per Person
Istanbul
Climb up the Galata Tower - one of Istanbul's oldest architectural landmarks - for an amazing panoramic view of the city. To get the full experience, time your visit with the call to prayer that happens at sunset.
Basilica Cistern
900TRY Per Person
Istanbul
Built in 532 AD, the Basilica Cistern is the largest cistern (underground water storage) of Istanbul. Spot the pillar bases carved in the likeness of Medusa.
Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya) Visit
25EUR Per Person
Istanbul
Visit the Hagia Sophia, one of the most important and breathtaking icons of ancient Byzantine architecture. The domes and buttresses of the mosque punctuate the skyline of Turkey's capital and stand tall as a symbol of national pride.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Istanbul

Depart at any time.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast