About
Istanbul, straddling Europe and Asia across the Bosporus Strait, is a city where East meets West in a vibrant blend of cultures, history, and architecture. Formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, it served as the capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Today, Istanbul is a bustling metropolis where ancient landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace coexist with modern life. Its rich tapestry includes bustling bazaars, scenic waterfronts, and diverse cuisine. As Turkey’s cultural and economic heart, Istanbul captivates with its unique fusion of tradition and modernity, making it one of the world’s most iconic cities.
Tour Highlights
Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square is the historic heart of Istanbul, home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the ancient Hippodrome with its Obelisk of Theodosius and Serpent Column. Visitors can also admire the beautiful German Fountain and explore the underground Basilica Cistern with its mysterious Medusa heads. Just a short walk away lies Topkapi Palace, the grand former residence of Ottoman sultans. The square is easily walkable, offering a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture all in one place.
Pigeon Valley
Pigeon Valley is famous for its ancient pigeon houses carved into soft volcanic rock. The valley offers stunning views, unique rock formations, and cave dwellings, making it a popular spot for hiking, photography, and sightseeing. Highlights include the Evil Eye Tree viewpoint near Uçhisar, hidden cave churches, and opportunities to spot ancient frescoes. The area is also known for its tea gardens and occasional wine-tasting stops, with many visitors enjoying the valley by foot, ATV, horseback, or from above in a hot-air balloon.
Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon
A breathtaking panoramic view of the region's surreal landscape at sunrise, with its fairy chimneys, rock formations, and ancient cave dwellings bathed in golden light. Floating silently above valleys like Göreme, Love Valley, and Pigeon Valley, you can witness hundreds of colorful balloons dotting the sky, creating one of the most iconic and photographed scenes in the world.
Kaymakli City
Its extensive network of underground tunnels, rooms, and ventilation shafts carved into soft volcanic rock, spread across eight levels, with four levels open to visitors. Believed to have been built by early Christians to escape persecution and invasions, the city features ancient living quarters, storage rooms, kitchens, stables, and even a church hidden deep underground.
Devrent Camel Valley
Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination or Camel Valley, is famous for its unique rock formations shaped by nature to look like animals and objects, especially a large rock that looks like a camel. Unlike other valleys in Cappadocia, there are no cave houses or churches here, just a surreal landscape perfect for fun photos and letting your imagination run wild.
Basilica Cistern
The highlight of the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is its mysterious underground atmosphere, with rows of ancient marble columns rising from the water, dimly lit to create a magical ambiance. The gentle sound of dripping water and reflections on the still surface enhance the experience, making it one of Istanbul's most unique historical sites.
Bosphorus Cruise Tour
The highlight of a Bosphorus Cruise Tour is sailing along the iconic strait that separates Europe and Asia, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline. Along the way, you’ll pass historical landmarks like the majestic Dolmabahçe Palace, the grand Bosphorus Bridge, charming Ottoman mansions, and the impressive Rumeli Fortress.
Fener & Balat
The highlight of Fener and Balat is their colourful, historic streets lined with vibrant Ottoman-era houses, cozy cafes, and vintage shops. These neighbourhoods showcase Istanbul’s multicultural heritage, with landmarks like the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, St. Stephen’s Bulgarian Church, and old synagogues. It's a charming area to wander on foot, take photos, and soak in the authentic, local atmosphere of old Istanbul.
Tour Highlights
- Sultanahmet Square
- Pigeon Valley
- Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon
- Kaymakli City
- Devrent Camel Valley
- Basilica Cistern
- Bosphorus Cruise Tour
- Ferner & Balat
Accommodation
Radisson Hotel Istanbul Sultanahmet
Hilton Garden Inn Safranbolu
Dinler Hotels - Ürgüp
**Accommodation is subject to change due to room availability.
Cuisines
Levrek (Turkish Sea Bass)
It is especially prized for its mild flavor, tender white flesh, and versatility in cooking. In Turkey, levrek is often served grilled, baked, or steamed, commonly accompanied by fresh vegetables, olive oil, and herbs like dill or parsley.
Adana Kebab
Adana Kebab is made from hand-minced lamb or a mix of lamb and beef, blended with red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and sometimes minced fat for added richness.
Turkish Tea & Coffee
It is known for its strong, rich flavor and thick, velvety texture, it is prepared using finely ground coffee beans, brewed slowly in a small pot called a cezve, traditionally over low heat.
**Images are for illustration purposes only. Actual dishes may vary based on availability.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Kuala Lumpur - Istanbul
Upon arrival at Istanbul International Airport, proceed to the iconic Blue Mosque. Explore Sultanahmet Square and discover landmarks such as the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and German Fountain. Continue to the Topkapi Palace Museum, home to magnificent architecture and the historic Hagia Irene. Conclude the tour with a visit to the majestic Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque.
Day 2
Istanbul - Safranbolu
After breakfast, explore the charming Eski Safranbolu Çarşısı and soak in the town’s heritage. Stop for photos at the historic Cinci Hamam and admire the unique architecture of Köprülü Mehmet Paşa Mosque. Continue with a photo stop at the Cinci Han Caravanserai before enjoying free time to shop for local souvenirs at Yemeniciler Arastası.
Day 3
Safranbolu - Cappadocia
After breakfast, head to Pigeon Valley and take in the scenic beauty of its unique rock formations and charming pigeon houses. Continue to Göreme Valley, where you’ll be amazed by the breathtaking views of the fairy chimneys, stunning valleys, and otherworldly lunar-like landscapes.
Day 4
Cappadocia
After breakfast, experience the unforgettable Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon ride and admire the mesmerizing landscape from above. Continue to Uchisar Castle Village, offering panoramic views of the region and the colourful hot air balloons floating across the sky. The journey continues with visits to Kaymakli Underground City, Ortahisar Castle, and Devrent Camel Valley, known for its fascinating rock formations. Finally, stop by the famous Three Beauties and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
Day 5
Cappadocia - Istanbul
After breakfast, visit the historic Basilica Cistern, famously featured in a James Bond film. Then, enjoy free time shopping at the vibrant Grand Bazaar, followed by more leisure time to explore the bustling Istiklal Street and Taksim Square, known for their lively atmosphere, shops, and cafes.
Day 6
Istanbul - Kuala Lumpur
After breakfast, embark on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise Tour and admire the stunning views along the strait. Enjoy free time to explore the colourful Spice Bazaar, known for its local delights and spices. Later, transfer to the charming Fener and Balat neighbourhoods to soak in the scenic views and vibrant streets of this historic district.
Send us details about your tour
Will get back to you shortly
