8 Day’s in Anatolia

Fight from Chicago to Istanbul.

Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, after meeting with your guide, you will be transferred to the hotel for rest.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Istanbul Airport to fly to Kayseri. Transfer to Cappadocia to continue the tour with the vehicle meeting at Kayseri airport.

Kaymakli Underground City. It is an ancient city in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. The city is carved into soft volcanic tuff rock and consists of underground tunnels, chambers and passages on various levels, which were used as shelter and defense in times of war. Dating back to the Hittite period, the city was expanded and used by early Christians to escape persecution. Visitors can explore the labyrinth-like underground city and see the various living quarters, kitchens, ventilation shafts and wells used by its inhabitants. The city also features a large stone gate that can be closed from the inside to protect its inhabitants from invaders. Kaymakli Underground City is one of the largest and best preserved underground cities in Cappadocia and is a popular tourist attraction for visitors interested in ancient history and culture.

Uchisar Castle : It is the only place where Erciyes and Hasan Mountain can be seen together. The best place to see Mount Erciyes, the creator of the Cappadocia Region, is Uçhisar Castle. Since the Roman period, it has been carved into many rooms, houses, shelters, warehouses, cisterns, tombs, cellars, and has been an important defense point against Arab raids. Large stone cannonballs were kept on it for defense against attackers. Uçhisar Castle, which was used both as a surveillance fortress and a defense fortress, maintained its importance during the Seljuk and Principalities periods. Built on the highest points of the region, Başhisar (Ürgüp), Ortahisar and Uçhisar castles were the three most important protection points of Nevşehir during the Seljuk period. In the first census in 1530, it was determined that approximately 3 thousand people lived in Uchisar. It was inhabited in and around it until the 1960s.

The Pigeon Valley, which extends from Uçhisar to Göreme and covers an area of 4 kilometers, got its name from the pigeon nests carved into the rocks. The people of the region fed these pigeons until the 9th century and used their dung in their vineyards and their eggs in the plaster of the friezes. If you want to see both the pigeon nests and the unique vegetation offered by nature, do not return without walking this valley. There is also a waterfall flowing 15 meters high in the valley.

Full day tour after breakfast at the hotel.

Paşabağ, also known as the Valley of the Monks, is a unique and fascinating destination in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. It is characterized by stunning cone-shaped rock formations known as "fairy chimneys", which were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. These formations are filled with small cave houses, some of which were used by monks and hermits in the past. Visitors to Paşabağ can explore the area on foot, take in the surrounding scenery and admire the intricate details of the fairy chimneys up close. One of the highlights of a visit to Paşabağ is the opportunity to climb to the top of one of the fairy chimneys, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the valley and nearby vineyards. Overall, Paşabağ is a must-see for anyone visiting Cappadocia, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, history and culture.

Göreme is a town in the Nevşehir District. It is well known for its fairy chimneys, eroded rock formations, many of which were hollowed out in the Middle Ages to create Christian churches, houses and underground cities. 

Göreme sits at the heart of a network of valleys filled with astonishing rock formations. Being a centre of early Christianity, it also has the most painted churches, as well as hermitages and monasteries, in Cappadocia. When the nearby Göreme Valley was designated as the most important tourist centre for Cappadocia, the village's name was changed to Göreme for practical reasons.

Once an agricultural settlement, modern Göreme is best known for its flourishing tourism industry, in particular for its hot air balloon rides, and many boutique hotels created out of old cave homes, in addition to ecclesiastical structures connected to its early Christian heritage. The village sits within the Göreme National Park which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985.

Avanos is a district of Nevşehir Province. The name of the settlement, which is 18 km north of Nevşehir, was Venessa, Zuwinasa or Ouenasa in the Ancient Period. In the district, where there are many pottery workshops, the tradition of ceramic making has been going on since the Hittites.

Cappadocia Turkish Night Show: Would you like to have fun at the evening of Cappadocia ? Learn more about the Turkish culture, enjoy Turkish folk, participate in the dance and plays in cave restaurant.Turkish night show is such an experience that you may have fun at plays and dances, learn about the culture and enjoy your dinner at the same time. Turkish night is one of the best ways to enjoy your evening/night in Cappadocia.If you would like to experience fun, this is the activity to choose.Turkish night show includes different folk music and dances representing different part of the country, stage plays and belly dance show in the end.  

After breakfast at the hotel, you will leave the hotel to go to Antalya. It will be a long journey from Cappadocia to Antalya. During the journey, which will take approximately 6 hours, you will visit the historical Caravanserai and take a 30-minute break.

Sultan Han Caravanserai is located in the district of Sultanhanı, which is called by its own name in Aksaray. It was built by the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I and completed in 1229. Its architect is Muhammad bin Havlan from Damascus. With its 4800 m² area, it is the largest Seljuk caravanserai in Anatolia.

When we arrive in Antalya, we will visit the historic old city Kaleiçi and Hadrian's Gate to see the magnificent Mediterranean climate and scenery.

Hadrian's Gate : It is a magnificent ancient Roman monument located in Antalya Old City. It was built in honor of Emperor Hadrian and is considered one of the most remarkable architectural structures of the Roman period in the region. The gate is made of white marble and decorated with intricate carvings. A fascinating area full of narrow streets, ancient buildings and lively bazaars, Antalya Old Town offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.

Kaleici(Old City): Get ready to discover Kaleici, the pearl of Antalya, with its historical artifacts, traditional houses, labyrinthine streets, entertainment venues and souvenir shops between the walls surrounded by both sea and land. You will be amazed by the authentic atmosphere of Kaleiçi, an open-air museum that reveals Antalya's deep-rooted history and is alive every season of the year.

The ancient city of Hierapolis is an archaeological site in southwestern Turkey, near the modern city of Pamukkale. The city was founded by the Pergamon kings in the 2nd century BC and served as a center of culture, religion and education in the region. It was also known for its hot springs, believed to have healing properties. Visitors to the area can explore the ruins of the city, including its impressive theater, necropolis and ancient baths. One of the most striking features of Hierapolis is the nearby natural wonder of Pamukkale, a series of terraced hot springs formed over thousands of years, creating stunning white mineral formations. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is a popular destination for tourists and history buffs.

• After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Selçuk, Izmir to visit the ancient city of Ephesus and the historical village of Şirince.

The ancient city of Ephesus is one of Turkey's most impressive and best-preserved archaeological sites. Located in the Aegean Region, near the town of Selçuk, Ephesus was once a bustling metropolis and the center of commerce, culture and spirituality of the ancient world. Visitors to the area can explore the ruins of great public buildings, temples and houses, including the magnificent Library of Celsus and the 25,000-seat Great Theater. Other important structures include the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Terrace Houses, where the wealthy residents of Ephesus lived. The area is also home to the Basilica of St. John and the House of the Virgin Mary, both important pilgrimage sites for Christians. With its rich history and impressive architecture, the ancient city of Ephesus is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient civilizations and world history.

Şirince, located in Selçuk district of İzmir, is an important point with its history and culture. Although it is called Şirince Village, it is actually a much different place than a village. With its architecture, places to visit and culture that have been preserved for years, Şirince is a different world in itself. In 2012, when the world was talking about the apocalypse according to the Mayan calendar, it was said that Şirince was the only place to be protected on this date. Şirince, which was recognized worldwide with this news, was even in the first place in search engines at that time. Later, as the date of December 21 approached, people from all over the world started to wonder about Şirince. Even if the rumors were not true, Şirince brought a different dimension to tourism.

After the tour, transfer to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport for your flight to Istanbul.

After arriving at Istanbul Airport, you will go to your hotel to rest.

Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque) : The Blue Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a stunning mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the early seventeenth century during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I and is famous for its impressive architecture and the beautiful blue tiles that adorn its interior walls. The mosque has a central dome and six tall minarets that can be seen from many points in the city. It is recommended to bring a scarf with you when visiting the Blue Mosque.

Obelisk & Hippodrome : The Theodosius Obelisk is a tall, ancient Egyptian obelisk located in the Hippodrome in Istanbul, Turkey. It was brought to Istanbul during the reign of Emperor Theodosius in the fourth century and stands in the centre of the Hippodrome, a historic area once used for chariot races and other public events. The obelisk is covered with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Egyptian mythology and history. The Hippodrome and the Obelisk of Theodosius are popular tourist attractions in Istanbul, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich historical and cultural heritage.

Afterwards we will visit Hagia Sophia, the eighth wonder of the world. Hagia Sophia is a historical landmark in Istanbul, Turkey. Originally built as a cathedral in the sixth century, it was later converted into a mosque and today serves as a museum. Visitors are required to wear appropriate clothing when entering, including head and shoulders coverings. It is advisable to bring a scarf with you when visiting Hagia Sophia, as it is a respectful and appropriate way to cover your head during your time inside. Hagia Sophia's beautiful architecture and rich history make it a must-see for anyone visiting Istanbul.

Topkapi Palace : Topkapi Palace is a historic site in Istanbul, Turkey, which served as the main residence and administrative centre of the Ottoman sultans for over four centuries. Visitors can explore the palace's courtyards, rooms and museums, such as the Harem and the Treasury, and enjoy spectacular views of the Bosphorus. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Topkapi Palace is a popular attraction for tourists and history buffs.

The Grand Bazaar is a bustling bazaar in the old city of Istanbul with more than 4,000 shops selling a variety of goods. It is a must-see for visitors who want to experience the rich history and culture of the city.

Before boarding the flight to Chicago, depart for a boat trip on the unique Bosphorus.

Bosphorus Tour : A Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul is a popular and exciting way to explore the city's iconic waterway that separates Europe and Asia. Visitors can take a guided boat tour from one of the many departure points along the Bosphorus and enjoy spectacular views of Istanbul's skyline and historic landmarks. Along the way, visitors will pass by many famous attractions such as the Galata Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace and the iconic Bosphorus Bridge. Many tours also include stops at charming fishing villages and traditional markets, allowing visitors to experience the local culture and cuisine. As the boat passes by historic mansions and palaces, tour guides provide informative commentary on Istanbul's rich history and culture. A Bosphorus cruise is a great way to experience the city from a unique perspective and is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Istanbul.
After the boat tour, transfer to Istanbul Airport.