Travel to Cappadocia

Cappadocia 

Cappadocia, a region located in central Turkey, is a land of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is famous for its unique rock formations, underground cities, and ancient cave dwellings that date back to the Byzantine era. Cappadocia has been a popular tourist destination for decades, and it’s not hard to see why – the area is full of adventure and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

One of the most popular activities in Cappadocia is hot air ballooning. The region’s unique topography and stunning landscapes make it the perfect place for a hot air balloon ride. As you float above the fairy chimneys, deep valleys, and ancient churches, you’ll feel like you’re in a magical world. The best time to go hot air ballooning is at sunrise, when the sky is filled with vibrant colors and the landscape is bathed in a soft, golden light.

Another adventure to be had in Cappadocia is hiking. The region is full of hiking trails that take you through stunning natural landscapes, ancient villages, and hidden valleys. One of the most popular hikes is the Red Valley hike, which takes you through a stunning canyon filled with red rock formations and unique rock formations.

One of the hidden treasures of Cappadocia is the underground city of Derinkuyu. This ancient city was carved out of the soft volcanic rock by the Hittites around 4000 years ago, and it was later used as a shelter by early Christians to escape persecution. The city has multiple levels, with underground tunnels, churches, and living quarters. Exploring the underground city is a fascinating experience that takes you back in time to a different era.

Finally, Cappadocia is known for its exquisite handmade pottery, which is crafted using traditional methods passed down through generations. You can visit a pottery workshop to see how the pottery is made, and even try your hand at creating your own masterpiece.

In conclusion, Cappadocia is a land of adventure and hidden treasures. From hot air ballooning to hiking to exploring ancient underground cities, there’s something for everyone in this magical region.

Definitive guide: Places to visit in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is one of the main tourist destinations in Turkey. Located in a place with a stunning landscape, it draws attention to its rich history and archaeological culture.

Check our post highlighting place that you should visit:

The Cappadocia region is located in the Asian zone of Turkey, and the destination is highly sought due to its picturesque geological formations, balloon flights, underground cities, and wild horses.

How can you go to Capadocia?

Do you know the closest airports to Cappadocia? Kapadokya Airport (NAV) in Nevşehir is about 30km to city center and the other one is located in Kayseri, called Kayseri Airport (ASR) about 80km to Cappadocia.

Unlike what many people think, Cappadocia is not a city, but a region full of small towns and villages with a tourist structure to receive travelers. The largest city is Kayseri, but other important cities are Nevsehir, Aksaray, Nigde, Derinkuyu, Kaymakli, Ihlara, Goreme, Uçhisar, Urgup, and Avanos.

Do you know where the name of Cappadocia come from?

The earliest records (late 6th century BC) shows that the Old Persian name of Cappadocia is Haspaduya, which is derived from Iranian Huw-aspa-dahyu- “the land/country of beautiful horses”. The name Cappadocia means: “Land of beautiful horses”, and it is a region that has been inhabited for thousands of years by various civilizations, such as the Hittites and other peoples from Europe and Asia, and encompasses the cities of Göreme, Ürgüp, Nevsehir and Avanos. She became known to Alexandre the Great, although there was only interest in the region for its roads, where trade flowed.

Millions years ago, Erciyes, Hasan and Melendiz volcanoes erupted and flood waters and strong winds shaped current natural structures which are called now as fairyChimneys

The foundation of Göreme dates from this time, formerly Korama, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and currently the most important city in the region. The Göreme National Park is the most visited attraction because it houses the most famous picturesque formations in Cappadocia, where there are dozens of churches, natural sculptures, and rock sites.

Also, the Cappadocia region has several underground cities, the largest of which is Kayamakli. These cities were built primarily to protect Christians from invasion by enemies.

Residents stayed for weeks locked inside them. In the city of Kaymakli, it is estimated that 6 thousand people came to live together at the same time. There is a very clear division of the environments, with bedrooms, kitchens, food storage, churches, secret doors, connecting tunnels, and a complex ventilation system.

The abundance of rock formations in the region formed by erosion over the years has produced several natural caves, caves and depressions that have been used over time as houses, churches and even underground cities.

What to do in Cappadocia?

– Hot air Balloon ride

Hot air Balloon tours are an original and stimulating way to get to know the region. Trips generally take around 1 hour and 30 minutes and cost around €220 (euros). A shorter tour that takes on average 60 minutes, cost around €150 (euros).

– Goreme Open Air Museum

One of the main attractions in the region. The UNESCO World Heritage Göreme Open Air Museum, close to the center of Göreme, (1.5 km) on a hill, is dozens of monasteries, chapels, and churches from the Byzantine period, most of the century X, XI, and XII, carved in the rocks, with well-designed vaults, altars and columns, unique examples of the architecture carved into the rock and the fresco technique, with beautiful illustrations of the life of Christ on the ceilings and walls. The Göreme Open Air Museum is obviously the first sight to be visited in Cappadocia and settlement here started by the end of the 2nd century. It is popular with it’s cave churches such as Tokalı, Karanlık, Elmalı and Nunnery Monastery

Most of the frescoes are shaved with the eyes of the figures, due to the Iconoclast period. There are 11 cafeterias, with tables and benches carved into the rocks.

One of the most remarkable buildings of Göreme Open Air Museum is the Dark Church dating back to the 12th century. The frescoes are quite evident since the structure does not receive too much light.

Curiostiy!

Do you know that The Göreme National Park was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985. The time that the Göreme was first settled is unclear, but it could date back as the Hittite era, between 1800 and 1200 B.C.

Karanlık (Dark) Church is located in Goreme Open Air Museum and dated back to the end of 11c and the beginning of the 12c. The Church is taking a very small amount of light from a small window in the nartex part, therefore, the colors in the frescos are very lively.

Karanlık (Dark) Church is located in Goreme Open Air Museum and dated back to the end of 11c and the beginning of the 12c. The Church is taking a very small amount of light from a small window in the nartex part, therefore, the colors in the frescos are very lively.

Yılanlı (Snake) Church can be visited at Göreme Open Air Museum and dates back to 11th century and dedicated to St. Onuphoris. St. George and St. Theodore were pictured while fighting and defeating a dragon.

• Ürgüp

Ürgüp is famous with it’s three black-capped fairy-chimney formations (also known as ‘the three beauties’). Overlooking the rolling countryside just outside of town, it’s a prime spot to capture a sunset photo

Avanos

If there is one thing comes to mind first when one says Avanos, is the clay ateliers. Quality clay derived from Kızılırmak, which is the longest river in Turkey with 1355km long flowing across Cappadocia, take shape in hands of pottery masters

Paşabağ Valley

Paşabağ Valley, also known as the Valley of the Priests, covers a very large area surrounded by mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys. Paşabağ is decorated with very interesting natural formations. Fairychimneys with several heads scattered in vineyards make the area a unique place to walk. Its unique scenery and mystical atmosphere of Paşabağ Valley makes everyone who steps into the fairy-tale land deep in thought.

 – Visiting underground cities

Cappadocia has unique landscapes, and the city also carries an incredible surprise: the underground cities. There are more than 100 cities, of which only 37 have already been opened. Underground Cities were excavated during Hittite times starting from 1650 BC and were used as hiding places during times of raids. The deepest of known 200 underground cities is in Derinkuyu, and the widest is the in Kaymakli

These underground cities declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985, were never used as permanent housing, they were inhabited for some time when Christians needed to hide from religious persecution. The best known are Derinkuyu and Kaymakli.

Derinkuyu, the largest underground city of Cappadocia, consists of 12 floors, more than 50 water wells and a natural ventilation system. Derinkuyu Underground City is one of the most attractive underground complex with its 85 m depth, 8 floors and 52 ventilation stacks. Almost 20 thousand people have lived in the city which has barn, church, missionary school, kitchen, storages, wells etc

Kaymaklı Underground City is one of the major underground cities of Cappadocia. It has sections such as warehouses, kitchens, cemeteries and still contains hidden underground tunnels. Kaymaklı Underground City is one of the biggest underground city with an anticipated capacity of 3500 people. You can visit only first four floor but there are lots of things to see, since this is the widest one.

• Uçhisar Castle

Uçhisar Castle is known as the biggest and most salient fairy chimney of Cappadocia. You can watch Cappadocia from a bird’s eye view at Uçhisar Castle. Uchisar is situated at the highest point in Cappadocia and Uchisar Castle is about 179m high, The top of the Castle, provides a magnificent panorama of the surrounding area with Mount Erciyes in the distance

 – Valley of the Monks

The valley of the monks houses some of the most different fairy chimneys with different shapes, there you will have the opportunity to walk among the rocks and hills that surround the area.

Stroll through the chimneys to see the caves, most of them carved by men and some for religious purposes.

Keşlik Monastery

Keşlik Monastery was carved in the 6th century and used as a monastry during the 13th century. Arkhangelos Church has very different style paintings of Jesus’ life and Mother Mary and Stefanos Church was located on a separate rock mass

Curiosity!

If you want to see the gigantic masterpieces of Andrew Rogers, which can be seen on Google Earth, you must use the natural routes to climb the hills of the region. You will be witnessing history from a different perspective.

– Valley of love

The Valley of love is one of the valleys in the Cappadocia region. The place has this name because of its unmistakable geological formations that are the hallmark of the city, the Chimneys of Fairies.

Devrent valley

Devrent Valley has many different rock formations which are all natural and impeccable art of Mother Nature. Although there are variety of different shapes, the most outstanding one is the shape which looks like a sitting camel.

É um vale super interessante pelas suas formações vúlcanicas. Resultado de erosão aplicada nas rochas vúlcanicas da região. Como sabe se, calculado que há 50 milhões anos atrás.

Hoje em dia , você encontra se um vale onde aparece muitas formações que pode dar uma ‘imaginação’.

Confere neste seguinte video como é este vale :

Veja a avaliação do local pelo viajantes que postaram no Tripadvisor: http://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g297980-d641177-Reviews-Dervent_Valley-Cappadocia.html

Sobesos archeological zone

“Sobesos” is located in Şahinefendi Village and the rescue excavation started in 2002 by Directorate of Nevşehir Museum , and is still on going. The pieces found shows that the city hosted settlements from Neo Roman and Early Byzantine periods

– Çavusin village

Çavusin is a small village very close to Goreme, where the visitor can visit Turkey’s only mosque built in a cave. The building is one of the oldest in the region, dating from around the 5th century.

Çavuşin Village, built among large rocks, is home to a long history, dating back to the first century. You will step into a different world while visiting Çavuşin with it’s history of over a thousand years.

Cavuşin village is one of the earliest settlements in the region and quite dramatic with abandoned view. Several churches can be seen around Çavuşin village and the oldest one – St. John the Baptist is also located here

• Ortahisar village

Ortahisar owns one of the three important rock castles (Başhisar, Ortahisar, Uçhisar) which was used for the protection of Nevşehir against Romans and Mongol invasions by Seljuks during 11-12th century.

• Güvercinlik (Pigeon) Valley

The name comes from the various birdhouses that were carved in the caves. In the past, birds were a very important symbol for Christians, as birds provided the pigments that served as paint to paint ceramics and others, so to protect animals, houses were built throughout the valley.

Güvercinlik (Pigeon) Valley, an essential part of the list of must-see places in Cappadocia, is located between Uçhisar and Göreme.

Hacıbektaş’s Tomb

Hacıbektaş, one of the most visited areas of Nevşehir, deserves to be a favorite of tourists with its sculptures as well as its spiritual atmosphere. It has been nominated for the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Kızılçukur and Güllüdere

If you have time to walk through valleys in Cappadocia, Güllüdere and Kızılçukur valleys, located in Göreme, are the ones to choose and there are several cave churches to be visited.

Güzelyurt village

Güzelyurt is famous with its old Greek houses, churches, and historical sites. St. Gregorius Church, the first site in Monastery Valley, is also located here which dates back to 4th century

Kızılırmak

Kızılırmak River is the longest river in Turkey flowing for a total of about 1,350 kilometers and people who seek a high dose adventure, full of fast and exciting maneuvers with 180 degree turns should try Jet Boat at Kızılırmak.

Seven days in Turkey

Selime

Selime is perhaps one of the most interesting places in the history of Cappadocia carrying traces of Rome, Seljuk, Hittite, Persia, Asus, Byzantium and Ottoman periods. Christians openly began conducting first religious vocal ceremony here which was held in 3c.

Gümüşler Monastry

Gümüşler Monastry (located in Niğde) is a Byzantine monastery and church with massive columns and frescoes. These frescoes dating from the 10th and 11th centuries are among the best-preserved in the region.

Kervansaraylar

1- Saruhan Caravanserai

Sarıhan Caravanserai, built in 1249 during Seljuks period by Sultan Izzettin Keykavus II, supported the flow of commerce, information, and people across the network of trade routes covering Asia, North Africa, and South-Eastern Europe.

2- Ağzıkarahan

The construction of Ağzıkarahan Caravanserai was started in 1231 in the period of Alaaddin Keykubat. Ağzıkarahan Caravanserai, with its magnificent structure having the motifs of the period, soon became one of the most important stopping places of trade caravans.

Güzelyurt village

Güzelyurt is famous with its old Greek houses, churches, and historical sites. St. Gregorius Church, the first site in Monastery Valley, is also located here which dates back to 4th century.

Narlıgöl

Narlıgöl (Acıgöl) crater lake is surrounded by mountains with 1365-meter-high located on the Aksaray-Niğde border and it is rich in calcium, sodium and bicarbonate which is good for various diseases. It also impresses visitors with its unique and romantic heart shape.

Açıksaray

Aciksaray (Open Palace), located in Gülşehir, is remarkable for its facades and the weird-looking formations, some resembling huge mushrooms, trees, even human faces, St. John Church, which dates back to 12c, also located here

Ihlara Valley

Ihlara Valley is located in Aksaray and from entrance till the bottom, there are 382 steps. The depth of the valley is 100m and the length is 14km through Selime village which makes it a perfect location for trekking activities together with 100 hidden cave churches

Other attractions to know in the Cappadocia region:

– Fairy Chimneys;

– Valley of the Monks (Pasabag);

–  The underground city of Kaymakli;

–  Derinkuyu underground city;

– Ilhara Valley;

– Zelve. In the Zelve Valley, you can see many ancient structures. You can come across monasteries, cave houses and churches made by human carving. Monasteries, churches, settlements, as well as tunnels and mills can be visited at Zelve Open Air Museum. Balıklı, Üzümlü and Geyikli Churches are dated before the Iconoclastic period (728-842) and there is also a chapel built in the name of Saint Simeon

Curiosity!

Nevşehir Simit is a famous local pastry made by using fermented chickpea yeast. With it’s oblong shape and distinctive smell, it differs from traditional ring shaped simits.

How to get in the region of Cappadocia?

From Istambul (Biggest city in Turkey), you can travel by plane, car, or bus to Cappadocia at one of the several companies that make the journey. The main airports in the region are at Nevşehir and Kayseri. From there you can take quick transfers to the most touristic cities.

Which is the best time of the year to visit Cappadocia?

The climate in Turkey has well-defined seasons. Summers are hot reaching 30 ° C in high season, from June to August and very cold in winter with an average of 5 ° C.

Devrent Valley,

Devrent Valley, surrounded by surreal fairy chimneys, is a must-see place for every tourist. The resemblance of the fairy chimneys to animals in Devrent Valley takes anyone who wants to go on a fantastic journey on a dream trip. Devrent Valley, surrounded by surreal fairy chimneys, is a must-see place for every tourist. The resemblance of the fairy chimneys to animals in Devrent Valley takes anyone who wants to go on a fantastic journey on a dream trip.

How can Guide in Turkey help me get to know Cappadocia?

If you are in Turkey, we can schedule these visits on a private tour. Also, we offer other packages to the main destinations in the country, transfers, accommodation, and much more.

Contact: +90 536 273 59 61

text us : +1 321 655 82 35

E-mail: info@guideserviceinturkey.com

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Airport transfer shuttle and services in Cappadocia

 As you know, Cappadocia is a place of nature, culture, and thousands of years of history. This makes this region a unique and very special place. We have many tours to feel the nature life and take a close look at the history of the place with the activities below. Check:

Activities

– We arrange airport shuttle transfers for Kayseri and Nevsehir airports. It will cost €10 (euros) per person or €70 (euros) of a private transfer per family. If you request this service, our driver will be waiting for you at the exit gate of the airport holding cardboard sign written your name in it.

Note: We can not arrange your airport transfer without your flight number. Send us these details.

– Private Cappadocia tours with English speaking professional guide in a luxury air conditioner minivan;

– Daily Cappadocia tours (Regional Tour and Underground City, Ihlara Valley Tour );

– Salt Lake Tour;

– Whirling Dervish Show;

– Turkish Night Programs;

– Turkish Bath;

– Quad Bike (ATV) Tour;

– Horse-Back Riding Tours;

– Balloon Tours.

You can get the package program with special discounted price

Make your question or for reservation:

info@guideserviceinturkey.com

+90 536 273 59 61

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Discover luxurious cave hotels in Turkey

Looking for a hotel in Cappadocia? Check out a list of hotels installed in caves at the destination:

Located in the center of Turkey, Cappadocia is a region famous for containing one of the most exotic sceneries in the world. The region is home to numerous rock formations that are the consequences of volcanic activities for more than 2 million years. These picturesque rock formations served as shelters for the Hittite peoples who lived in the region around The 1600s and 1200s B.C.

Some of these caves are so large that underground activities were used by Christians as a refuge and protection for enemies passing through the region. Some of them had several floors and even a defense system, which allowed closing parts of the underground houses allowing a discreet escape from its residents.

Time passed and some Cappadocia inhabitants maintained this ancient tradition. Many of these caves have also become tourist attractions, luxury hotels, and charming inns, perfect for those who want to have an original experience while traveling to Cappadocia.

Cappadocia Hotels

– Hezen Cave Hotel

The luxurious space has charming terraces overlooking the charming village of Orahisar. In addition to the charming environments with totally modern decor, the company also offers tourist services around the city.

–  Museum Hotel

The Museum Hotel has sometimes been classified as the best luxury hotel in Turkey and has 30 spacious suites with a Jacuzzi, massage room, garden or private balcony.

–   Anitya Cave House

This hotel is located in a small village in Ortahisar, a region well known for its stone castles. The Hotel Anitya Cave House mixes environments with modern decor with these impressive historic caves.

–  House Hotel Cappadocia

A slightly more affordable option, with smaller but very cozy rooms. The hotel offers the famous Turkish bath, which removes all impurities from the body, horseback riding, cooking classes and a well-known balloon ride.

– Gamirasu Cave Hotel

The hotel is located in Ayvali and offers rooms built in volcanic rock that include a private bathroom, while some include an LCD TV and hot tub. Many have balconies overlooking the rose garden. At Gamirasu Hotel Cappadocia’s restaurant, traditional Cappadocian meals are prepared with organic products. The breakfast buffet is served in an open buffet with homemade jams, dried apricots, local honey, and fresh cream.

– Kayakapi Premium Caves

Kayakapi Premium Caves are set in restored historic caves just 1 km from Urgup city center. Its accommodation has heated floors, air conditioning, HD LED TV, coffee makers, the base for iPhone, iPod, Androids and some options have a fireplace and private terrace.

How can Guide in Turkey help me?

If you are in Turkey, we can schedule these visits on a private tour. Also, we offer other packages to the main destinations in the country, transfers, accommodation, and much more.

Contact: +90 536 273 59 61

E-mail: info@guideserviceinturkey.com

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Private tour in Cappadocia
Check out our private tour suggestion for the first day in Cappadocia:

Mysteries of Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a place distinguished by its nature and nowadays has become one of the most attractive tourist spots in Turkey. We recommend at least two days in Cappadocia to discover its mysteries and observe its beauties.

Cappadocia is a historical tourist region that lies in central Anatolia. The region that we call Cappadocia is divided by 3 cities: Kayseri, Nevşehir, and Aksaray. The village of Göreme in Nevşehir is a place where the main and most visited spots are located.
We take you to wherever you want in Cappadocia!
We recommend two days’ trip if you want to do everything calmly, and explore the area, getting to know the small towns and details of Cappadocia.

We have daily walks in English in the region with a style of an excursion, being able to be in a group or individual, according to your choice.
We recommend the private service because we will do something unique for you, being able to choose schedules, where to go and what to do.
You have all the flexibility on how to ride your trip. Normally our daily rate is 8 hours of walking; you choose the start time and where you want to go. If you do not know where to go, our local guide can give suggestions.

Itinerary:

First dayMeet at the hotel with the local guide and our private van at 9 am (or another time of your preference). Then, we will visit the following sightseeings:
– Dervent Valley;
– Göreme Open Air Museum;
– Paşabağ Valley;
– Village of Göreme;
– Uçhisar peak;
– Karlik Sokagi.

Our services in the region:
– Guide in English or another language during visits and activities;
– All transfers between hotel and airport;
– Purchase of tickets for sightseeings
– Balloon ride (optional);
– Local driver in the region of Cappadocia (group or individual).

Observations
– This private service will happen with an English speaking guide.
– We suggest exchanging money in Istanbul before traveling to Cappadocia because there are few money exchange offices in the region;
– Tickets for visits and lunch are included in the price of our package.
–  Payment must be made before the trip and you have to pay at least 20% to confirm the service.
– Please, we ask you to Inform the passenger’s names, tickets, hotel name, and a telephone to facilitate communication.

How much it will cost? 
This tour will cost €335 (euros) per day per group of up to 5 people. If you want to participate with a large number of people or if it is a couple, please request the price.
If you want us to book the hotel for you, we can do it.
Hotel options start at €20 (euros) per person per night, with breakfast in the morning.

WE HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT TRIP!
Send us an e-mail: info@guideserviceinturkey.com

Mysteries of Cappadocia

2 days: Mysteries of Cappadocia 

Cappadocia is a place distinguished by its breathtaking nature and has become one of the most famous touristic spots in Turkey. We recommend at least two days in Cappadocia to discover its mysteries and beauties.

Cappadocia is a historical tourist region that lies in central Anatolia. The region that we call Cappadocia is divided by 3 cities, Kayseri, Nevşehir, and Aksaray. The village of Göreme in Nevşehir is where the main and most visited spots are located.
Contact us and visit this wonderful land.

Itinerary

First day

We will pick you at the hotel with the local guide and our private van at 9 am (or another time of your preference). Then, we will visit the following sightseeings:

– Dervent Valley;
– Göreme Open Air Museum;
– Paşabağ Valley;
– Village of Göreme;
– Uçhisar peak;
– Karlik Sokagi.

Second day

We will pick you at the hotel with the local guide and our private van at 9 am (or another time of your preference). Then, we will visit the following sightseeings:
– The underground cities of Kaymakli, Derinkuyu, Sarhatli, and Ozkonak;
– Pigeon Valley
– Valley of love;
– Avanos valley;
Ortahisar village.

Our services in the region:
– Guide in English or another language during visits and activities;
– All transfers between hotel and airport;
– Purchase of tickets for sightseeing;
– Balloon ride (optional);
– Local driver in the region of Cappadocia (group or individual).

Useful information about Cappadocia region:

– Dervent Valley is also known as the “Valley of Imagination”. The highlight is the symbol of a Camel;
– Uçhisar is the peak of Cappadocia;
– Pasabag Valley is where the most concrete volcanic formations appear;
– Karlik Sokagi is the place with the typical eye-catching houses of the region;
– The underground cities of Kaymakli, Derinkuyu, Sarhatli or Ozkonak are great places to visit, but there are some difficulties to walk around there. Then, this is an optional activity;
– Pigeon valley offers a beautiful view of the valley;
– Valley of love is a very interesting track  in a valley full of volcanic formations;
– The village of Avanos is famous for its ceramic workshops;
– Ortahisar is a less touristy village, but has an intense local population that we bet you never have seen anything similar before!
Two whole days of walking is our nomination. But if you want to do everything calmly, and explore the area, getting to know the small towns and details of Cappadocia, you can add another day.
We have daily walks with English guide in the region in excursion style, where you will be able to participate in group or individual.
We recommend the private service because we can arrange a more personalized and unique tour for you as you decide the schedules and places you want to go and the things you wish to do.
Cappadocia is a place that has a certain difficulty in transportation, then using a car is recommended to get to know more places on the same day and enjoy it better.
You have all the flexibility to choose your transport type. Normally our daily rate is 8 hours of walking, and it’s totally up to you to choose the starting time and where you want to go. If you do not know where to go, our local guide can give suggestions or choose one of the main sites of Cappadocia.

Current notice about the balloon ride in Cappadocia

Send us an e-mail and we will inform you about the costs. Do not forget to let us know the number of people, in which hotel you will be staying and what is the exact date you wish to hire our services.

Send your question or a message for a reservation: info@guideserviceinturkey.com

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1 day of Cappadocia – balloon and tour 

1 day of Cappadocia – transfer, balloon and tour (optional hotel)

First Day – Arrival in Cappadocia:
• Arrival at Cappadocia airport (Nevşehir or Kayseri), reception with a sign with your name and shuttle
transfer to your hotel booked (we can give hotel suggestions).

Second Day – Cappadocia:
• Our balloon company will pick you up at the hotel around 5:30 a.m. or 6:00 p.m., the balloon ride, and a
small post-flight fraternization; (About pick up time, we’ll inform you the day before about 8.00 p.m.).
• We will meet the group at 9:30 a.m. and take the group tour with a Spanish / English speaking guide at
the following points: Kaymakli underground city, Pombo Valley, Uçhisar Castle, Pink Valley and Çavuşin village
• Lunch will be served in a typical restaurant
• If your ticket is scheduled for the end of this day, we can make the transfer or let us know if it is scheduled for the next day.
Comments
• 1-day group tour with English speaking guide, 2 shuttles transfers and 1-person balloon ride;
• If the balloon ride does not happen on the first day due to weather conditions, we will refund the money from the balloon reservation.
• We suggest exchanging money in Istanbul before going to Cappadocia, because there are no money exchange houses;
• Tickets for visits are included;
• Typical lunch is included;
• Inform the names, details of tickets, hotel name and a telephone to facilitate communication.

WE HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT TRIP!

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4 days and 3 nights in Cappadocia

Travel with us to Cappadocia and get to know the typical villages, take an amazing balloon ride and take
advantage of the wonders of the city

TRAVEL SUMMARY
First day: Arrival in Cappadocia;
Second day: Cappadocia;
Third day: Balloon ride in Cappadocia;
Fourth day: Cappadocia, Istanbul and return;

TRAVEL DETAILS
First day: Arrival at Cappadocia airport in Kayseri
Our guide (who speaks English) will receive you at the airport with a sign where you will have your name
written and we will go straight to our first day in Cappadocia.
We will start in the Soganli Valley, visit small villages along the way and after lunch in an old house from
the 19th century we will continue our walk in the Red Valley. This place is a super interesting place to
watch the sunset. We will proceed to our cave hotel (first category) for check-in and accommodation.

Day 2: Cappadocia

Meet at the hotel with the guide at 9 am (or other time of your preference);
We will discover Cappadocia beginning with the Dervent Valley, the open-air museum of Zelve, the
Pasabag Valley, Avanos, the open-air museum of Goreme and the Uchisar Castle. All these places are
the panoramic places. Return to our hotel at the end of the day.
Day 3: Balloon Flight + Cappadocia

Early in the morning, the balloon company will pick you up at your hotel for the balloon flight . The
responsible guide will inform you about the time, but usually around 5 or 6 hours;
We will take a short walk through the old village of Urgup where we will have lunch. We will continue
after lunch, admiring the Ottoman and Seljuk architecture present in the buildings and meeting with the
locals;
We will end our day with a special moment of relaxation in an authentic hamam (Turkish classical
bathroom), before returning to our hotel;
Day 4 : Cappadocia – Kayseri Airport – Istanbul
Full day visiting Cappadocia: Underground City, Guzelyurt, Ihlara Valley. This valley is a super ecological
place. And let us also know the fortress of Agzikarahan.
At the end of our itinerary, we will continue to Kayseri airport. Boarding to Istanbul.
We recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and sneakers for better locomotion. See some of the
climate of Cappadocia here.

Tour Highlights:
The balloon ride;
The guide in English will be accompanying you leaving the Cappadocia’s airport until the return to the airport;
The service is private;

We can walk in the typical villages at will;
We recommend this package for anyone looking for an opportunity to dig deeper into the rural life of
Cappadocia and get to know the typical villages.

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Cappadocia: Complete package with 3 nights

Cappadocia: Complete package with 3 nights of accommodation and 2 full days of guided tours

We have received a lot of requests for Cappadocia tours. Then, we prepared a complete package with everything included. Check out:

First day – Arrival in Cappadocia

In the afternoon, we will take a flight in a Turkish or Pegasus Airline straight to Cappadocia from Istanbul airport. Don’t worry, we will buy the tickets for this domestic flight for you. This flight will take 1 hour and 10 minutes.

After landing, reception at the airport with a cardboard sign where your name will be written on it and transfer to your booked accommodation.

Notes:

– We will see the possibilities of flights for you depending on the season. If you want a specific time to make this trip to Cappadocia, just let us know.

 – Dinner is not included, but we can offer alternatives to restaurants near your accommodation.

Second day: Tour in Cappadocia and balloon ride

Early in the morning, you will have the chance to participate in the famous balloon ride.

The entire process of balloon ride starts around 5 AM and finishes around 8 AM. Also, we will pick you up at your hotel and we will bring you back after we finish the activity.

On return from the hotel, we will have breakfast in the morning.

At 10 AM, we will leave the hotel for a tour of the region with our guide and private van. Then, we will visit the following sightseeing:

– Underground City of Kaymakli: The underground city was built under the hill known as the Citadel of Kaymakli and opened to the public in 1964. People who lived in Kaymakli (Enegup in Greek) built their houses around a hundred underground tunnels;

– Pigeon Valley: It is one of the most famous valleys in the region of Cappadocia and its name comes from the pigeon-cotes carved on its walls. The valley provides a walk in a green valley with many different rock formations and hundreds of pigeon houses carved into the rock and painted white to attract the pigeons;

– Uçhisar Castle: Uçhisar means “fortress” in Turkish and this place is one of the most typical localities of Cappadocia. The rock castle was used as a shelter in the Hittite period (about 1500 BC) and later by the early Christians during the Roman period and the Byzantines during the Arab incursions in the 7th and 8th centuries and the first Turkish invasions. The fortress is an authentic labyrinth that includes chapels, monasteries, rooms, dining rooms, warehouses, and rooms linked together by a network of galleries spread over twenty floors. Some of the houses are still inhabited;

– Pink Valley: This valley is located between Göreme and Çavusin and is divided into many small valleys: Gulludere, Kizilcukur, Meskendir, and Zindanonu. This beautiful place was named based on the color of the rocks, which varies in tone and intensity depending on the position of the sun, the season, and the weather conditions. During the tour, we will visit several churches, houses, and tunnels in the caves. The Rosa Valley has trails of low, medium, and high difficulty;

– Village of Çavuşin: It is one of the oldest settlements in the area. In this village stands the Church of St. John the Baptist, which offers a panoramic view of the village. Built in the fifth century, it has a stunning location, and its façade with columns emphasize its prominence over the whole valley;

Tickets and lunches are included on this day. Return to the hotel around 5 PM.

Lodging at the hotel. For dinner, we will have some suggestions for you.

Third day: Tour in Cappadocia

After breakfast at the hotel (which is included), we will leave with our local guide and driver around 10 AM.

Then, we will visit the following sightseeings:

– Esentepe: The region of Esentepe is the best place to observe the variety of colors of the fairy chimneys and this incredible landscape that remained the moon;

– Open-air museum Göreme: It houses treasures from the time of the first Christians, who here took refuge to survive the persecutions by the Roman empire. For a long time, this place was the center of the monastic life, it housed several Churches excavated in the stones, constructed between centuries VII and XIII, that continue in their great majority, open for visits, revealing its interior covered with Byzantine frescoes.

Also, the museum has been a member of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1984.

– Devrent Valley: It is also known as “Valley of Imagination” or “Pink Valley”, it reveals many rocky lunar formations. The little fairy chimneys of the valley form a lunar landscape because of their strange appearance. The valley also has several rocks in the form of animals. It looks like a zoo carved out of nature! Some of the most easily visible forms are camels, snakes, seals, and dolphins. If you give wings to your imagination you can also see other shapes. It’s like looking at the clouds and seeing dragons. There is even a rock that looks like the Virgin Mary with the Baby Jesus;

– Paşabağ: The place has the mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys where the monks lived alone  on the rocks;

– Avanos: It is situated on the banks of the Kızılırmak, the Red River, which is the largest river in Turkey and separates the city from other parts of Cappadocia. The town is known mainly for tapestry and for its red clay pottery from the banks of Kızılırmak, a traditional activity in the area since the time of the Hittites, and still very important. It is a popular tourist destination due to the beauty of the old town with its cobbled streets and river views.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Tickets and lunches are included on this day. Return to the hotel around 5:30 pm. Lodging at the hotel included.

For dinner, we will have some suggestions for you.

The fourth day: Transfer to the airport and take the flight to Istanbul. 

Tickets included.

How much it will cost?

The value of this package for couples is 650 USD per person.

If the balloon ride does not happen due to weather conditions, USD 340 will be refunded due to cancellation.

What is included? 

• Breakfast in the morning;
• Domestic passages;
• Transfers in Cappadocia;
• A two-night stay at the hotel in the cave hotel;
• Balloon ride for each passenger.

Hotel Options 

• Urgup Acropolis Cave hotel;
• Osmanbey Cave hotel;
• Mithra Cave hotel;
• Ask-i Derun Cave hotel;
• Gedik Cave hotel;
• Kaya Kapi Premium Cave hotel;
• Nostalgic Cave hotel;
• Stone House Cave hotel;
• Uchisar Kaya Cave hotel;
• Doors of Cappadocia;
• Ottoman Cave Suites;
• Artemis Cave hotel;
• Anatolina Houses.

Notes:

• We can organize your arrival every day of the week;
• If you come this day at night, we can buy the ticket for you and without leaving the airport in Istanbul, you already catch the flight to Cappadocia. Inform arrival time with airport name and flight number;

– The hotels we select are the best ones in the Region. Please, check and we will book one of them for you. If you let us choose, we promise you will not regret it;

– The hotels that we choose are located near downtown. Also, we can offer a huge list of restaurants for you;

• We will inform you about the hotel pick up time the night before the balloon ride. We’ll let you know when you must be ready in the hotel lobby. Also, we will inform you if the ride was canceled;
• We will have a guide service during these tours throughout the day. We will have information about culture, history, religion, and gastronomy. Also, we will have stop times for photography and shopping as well;
• We prefer to take the return flight to Istanbul at noon. If you prefer another time, please advise previously.
•  

For reservations, questions, and more information, please contact:

+90 536 273 59 61

Email: info@guideserviceinturkey.com

========

All included Cappadocia Package

All included Cappadocia Package -3 nights accommodation and 2 full days of extraordinary activities 

We have received a lot of requests for the Cappadocia package (exclusively). Then, we decided to prepare this package to highlight the best out of Cappadocia.

Itinerary

First day: Arrival

In the afternoon, we will take the flight to Cappadocia from Istanbul airport (Don’t worry, we will buy the domestic tickets for you). The flight takes 1h10 minutes.

After landing in Cappadocia airport, we will transfer you to the booked hotel.

Note: Dinner is not included in the hotel, but we have a few options near the building.

Second day: Tour in Cappadocia

During the early morning, while the sunrise is happening, we can do the famous activity of a balloon ride (optional).

At 10:00 am, we will follow toward some external visitations with our private guide in the following sightseeing:

– Underground City of Kaymakli: You will travel to the underground city built under the hill known as the Citadel of Kaymakli and opened to the public in 1964. People who lived in Kaymakli (Enegup in Greek) built their houses in the underground tunnels;

– Pigeon Valley: It is one of the most famous valleys in the region of Cappadocia and its name comes from the pigeon-cotes carved on its walls. The valley provides a walk in a green valley with many different rock formations and hundreds of pigeon houses carved into the rock and painted white to attract the pigeons. Farmers collect the droppings of pigeons which are an excellent fertilizer for vines and orchards;

– Uçhisar Castle: Uçhisar means “fortress” in Turkish and is one of the most typical localities of Cappadocia, with its house being confused with the rocky landscape so characteristic of the region. Situated on the highest point in Cappadocia, it houses the Uçhisar Castle, which provides an incredible panoramic view of the region. The rock castle was used as a shelter in the Hittite period (about 1500 BC) and later by the early Christians during the Roman period and the Byzantines during the Arab incursions in the 7th and 8th centuries and the first Turkish invasions. The fortress is an authentic labyrinth that includes chapels, monasteries, rooms, dining rooms, warehouses, and rooms linked together by a network of galleries spread over twenty floors. Some of the houses are still inhabited;

– Pink Valley: It is located valley between Göreme and Çavusin and is divided into many small valleys: Gulludere, Kizilcukur, Meskendir, and Zindanonu. This beautiful valley was named after the color of the rocks, which varies in tone and intensity depending on the position of the sun, the season and the weather conditions. During the walk, we will visit several churches, houses, and tunnels in the caves. The pink Valley has trails in low, medium, and high difficulty.

–Çavuşin village: It is one of the oldest settlements in the area. In this village stands the Church of St. John the Baptist, which offers a panoramic view of the village. Built-in the fifth century, it has an impromptu location, and columns emphasize its prominence over the whole valley.

Tickets and lunches included on this day.

Return to the hotel around 5:30 pm.

Note: Dinner is not included in the hotel, but we have a few options near the building.

Third day: Tour in Cappadocia

After breakfast at your hotel around 9 am, you will meet our local guide and our driver and we will take the tour around the region visiting the following sightseeing:

– Esentepe: The region of Esentepe is the best place to observe the variety of colors of the fairy chimneys and the incredible landscape that reminds the moon;

– Open-air museum Göreme: It houses treasures from the time of the first Christians, who took refuge in this place to survive the persecutions by the Roman empire.   For a long time, it was the center of the monastic life, it housed several Churches excavated in the stones, constructed between centuries VII and XIII that continue in their great majority, open for visits, revealing its interior covered of Byzantine frescoes. Some are in a better state of preservation than others, and in some, the frescoes are repeated, understandable if we judge for the educational value they represented, since the images facilitated the understanding of the teachings of the gospel of Christ. The museum has been a member of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1984;

– Devrent Valley: It is also known as “Valley of Imagination” or “Pink Valley” and reveals many rocky lunar formations. The little fairy chimneys of the valley form a lunar landscape because of its strange appearance. The valley also has several rocks in the form of animals. It looks like a zoo carved out of nature! Some of the most easily visible forms are camels, snakes, seals, and dolphins. If you give wings to your imagination you can also see other shapes. It’s like looking at the clouds and seeing dragons. There is even a rock that looks like the Virgin Mary with the Baby Jesus;

– Paşabağ valley: The vale has the mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys where the monks lived alone and reserved on the rocks;

– Avanos: It is situated on the banks of the Kızılırmak, and known as the “Red River”, which is the largest river in Turkey and separates the city from other parts of Cappadocia. The town is known mainly for tapestry and for its red clay pottery from the banks of Kızılırmak, a traditional activity in the area since the time of the Hittites, and still very important. It is a popular tourist destination due to the beauty of the old town with its cobbled streets and river views.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

Tickets and lunches included on this day.

Return to the hotel around 5:30 pm.

Note: Dinner is not included in the hotel, but we have a few options near the building.

Fourth day: Return flight

After breakfast in your hotel in the morning, transfer to the airport to take the flight to Istanbul.

Costs

The cost of this package for a couple is US$650 per person.

Note: In case the balloon ride does not happen due to weather conditions, US$340 will be refunded due to cancellation.

Included

–   Breakfast in your book hotel;

–   Domestic passages;

–   Transfers in Cappadocia;

–    A two-night stay at the cave hotel;

–    Balloon ride for each passenger.

Hotel options

We can make your reservation in the following hotels:

– Urgup Acropolis Cave hotel;

– Osmanbey Cave hotel;

– Mithra Cave hotel;

– Ask-i Derun Cave hotel;

– Gedik Cave hotel;

– Kaya Kapi Premium Cave hotel;

– Nostalgic Cave hotel;

– Stone House Cave hotel;

– Uchisar Kaya Cave hotel;

– Doors of Cappadocia;

– Ottoman Cave Suites;

– Artemis Cave hotel;

– Anatolia Houses.

Useful information:

– We can organize this trip for any day of the week;

–  If you arrive in Istanbul at night, we can buy the ticket for you and without leaving the airport, you can already catch the flight to Cappadocia. Please inform us of the arrival time with, airport name and the flight number;

–  The hotels are the best in the Region and quoted already in this list from above. Please see and we choose one of them. If you let us choose, we promise you will not regret it!

– The hotels that we choose to stay in the next downtown. Then we will have a large list of restaurants for you;

– We will inform you about the hotel pick up time the night before. We’ll let you know that you’re ready in the hotel lobby. If it’s a cancellation of a balloon ride, in this case, we’ll let you know early too;

– We will have a guide service during these tours throughout the day. We will give you information on culture, history, religion, gastronomy and so on. We will have stop times for photography and shopping as well;

– On the return flight schedule for Istanbul, we prefer it to be afternoon. If you prefer another time, please inform;

– We will check our possibility the next morning for the balloon ride, in case it did not happen the day before.

Have interesting? Send us an email: info@guideserviceinturkey.com

=====

4 dias – Viagem apenas para Capadócia

Para solicitar este roteiro envie um email para turquiaguia@gmail.com com as seguintes informações:

* Número de pessoas que vão participar do passeio;

* Hotel onde você vai se hospedar (caso não tenha , podemos reservar para você);

* A data exata em que você quer fazer este passeio;

* Envie também o seu celular para agilizarmos o nosso contato.

AVISO: NOSSA CLASSIFICAÇÃO DE ROTEIROS É APENAS UMA SUGESTÃO, VOCÊ PODE ESCOLHER QUALQUER ROTEIRO EM QUALQUER DIA, PODE ALTERNAR OS DIAS OU ATÉ FAZER ROTEIROS DIFERENTES!

Somos a única empresa de turismo da Turquia que tem CNPJ e conta jurídica bancária no Brasil, isso facilita pois assim você não precisa pagar IOF.

04 dias / 03 noites

1º dia: Chegada ao aeroporto da Capadócia em Kayseri

Nosso guia (que fala português) recebe você no aeroporto com um cartaz onde terá o seu nome escrito e seguiremos direto para nosso primeiro dia de passeio na Capadócia. Começaremos pelo Vale de Soganli, visitaremos pequenas vilas pelo caminho e após nosso almoço em uma casa antiga do século XIX seguiremos para nossa caminhada no Vale Vermelho. Este lugar é um lugar super interessante para acompanharmos o pôr do Sol. Seguiremos para o nosso hotel-caverna (primeira categoria) para check-in e acomodação.

2º Dia: Capadócia

Encontro no hotel com o guia às 09:00. Conferimos que a bateria da maquina fotográfica esteja carregada. Dia inteiro descobrindo a Capadócia começando pelo Vale de Dervent, o museu a céu aberto de Zelve, o Vale de Pasabag, Avanos, o museu a céu aberto de Goreme e o Castelo de Uchisar. Todos estes lugares são os lugares panorâmicos. Retorno ao nosso hotel no final do dia.

3º Dia: Vôo de Balão + Capadócia

Bem cedo, a empresa de balão busca você no hotel para realizar o sonho de Vôo de balão. Sobre horário de pick-up, por favor conferir (com o nosso colega no dia anterior). Vamos realizar uma curta caminhada pela antiga vila de Urgup onde almoçaremos. Continuaremos após o almoço admirando a arquitetura otomana e seljúcida presente nas construções e encontrando com os habitantes locais. Terminaremos nosso dia com um momento especial de relaxamento em um autêntico banho turco (hamam), antes de retornarmos ao nosso hotel.

4º Dia: Capadócia – aeroporto de Kayseri – Istambul

Dia inteiro visitando a Capadócia: Cidade Subterrânea, Guzelyurt, o vale de Ihlara. Este vale é um lugar super ecológico. Recomendamos que vista se com roupa confortavel e sapato ou tênis. E vamos conhecer também a fortaleza de Agzikarahan. Ao término do nosso roteiro, seguiremos para o aeroporto de Kayseri. Embarque para Istambul.

Tour Highlights:

* Não vai faltar nada relacionado à Capadócia,

* incluido o passeio de balão.

* o guia em português vai estar acompanhando você desde aeroporto até retornando para o aeroporto,

* o serviço só para você e seu grupo.

* Terá a condição de passear nas vilas típicas à vontade

Recomendamos este pacote para quem procura uma oportunidade de afundar mais na vida rural da capadócia, e conhecer as vilas típicas.

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02 Days / 01 Night to Cappadocia

Itinerary: 02 Days / 01 Night 

How much time this tour will take? 
02 Days / 01 Night (If you want, feel free to ask one-night extension at Cappadocia region).
When will happen the departure?
Departures happen all year round for regular Group and private tours.
How many people can participate in this tour? 
Group Size of Regular Tours: 14 passengers.
Are there options for private tours?For those who prefer to be accommodated on a more personalized basis and enjoy the flexibility and privacy of an individual arrangement, we can organize a private tour.
What are the highlights of that tour?
The highlights of this tour are South & North Cappadocia.

Itinerary:

Day 1
Early morning flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia –o.n. in Cappadocia
Morning (Approx. Flight Duration: 90min).

After the hotel picks up in Istanbul, we will take the morning flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia. Arrival and meeting at the airport arrival gate you will be met and transferred to Cappadocia to join the tour.
Full-Day North Cappadocia Tour.

Tour Highlights: Dervent Valley, Paşabağ, Avanos, Göreme and Üçhisar Castle.
We will visit Paşabağ’s “fairy chimneys”, where the voice of the wind harmonizes with songs of the fairies.

From here, we will stop at Avanos downtown and check the terracotta art. The ceramic trade in this district and its countless pottery factories date right back to the Hittites, and the ceramic clay from the red silt of the Kızılırmak has always been used. After, a visit to the ceramic & tile center to see how the ceramics are made by hand.

After lunch, we will visit the famous Göreme Open Air Museum to see the best examples of Byzantine art in Cappadocia. People of Göreme, at the heart of the Cappadocia Region, realized that these soft rocks could be easily carved out to form houses, churches, monasteries.

Then, we will enjoy the day by taking a look to the Göreme Valley from next to the Üçhisar Rock-Castle; has the numerous hollowed-out containers, rock tombs, and a large water cistern all welcome you as silent witnesses to history and human life giving you a panoramic view of the valleys of Cappadocia.

Optional: Üçhisar Castle can be added into the itinerary (If you required)

Day 2
Cappadocia tour and return to Istanbul
Optional: Hot Air Balloon Flight (Approx.60-80 min between 05:00 am to 08:00 am).

Full-Day South Cappadocia Tour
Tour Highlights; Kaymakli Underground City, Red Valley, Cavusin, Ortahisar, Pigeon Valley.

Depart from your hotel to visit Red valley Through Cavusin Village and explore the famous rock-cut churches and hike 2 km. Then visit Cavusin village. Old Cavusin was abandoned several decades ago due to avalanches.

After lunch, we will drive to the Pigeon Valley. In the afternoon, we will visit the Underground City, where early Christians lived in fear and faith. The houses in the village are constructed around the nearly one hundred tunnels of the underground city, which is one of the most interesting underground settlements in Cappadocia.

The underground city was originally carved out as eight floors; however, only four floors are available to visit. In wartime, about 5000 people could refuge there. The tunnels are still used today as storage areas, stables, and cellars. On the way back visit the Ortahisar town. Transfer to the Airport for flight to Istanbul on arrival to then transfer to your hotel in Istanbul.
Instead of return flight this evening, you can spend another overnight at your cave hotel. Please feel free to ask the extension. We also can arrange your return flight to Istanbul, on the next morning/afternoon or evening.
PS: You can extend your Cappadocia tour by adding or replacing it with the itineraries below.

Green Tour Highlights: Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Belisirma Village, Selime Monastery, Yaprakhisar (Available for Regular Group tour or Private tour)

Blue Tour Highlights: Kaymakli Underground City, Soganli Valley, Sahinefendi (Sobessos), Keslik Monastery, Mustafa Pasha (Sinassos) (Available for Private tour).

We hope you had a memorable tour and we look forward to seeing you in the future on another Luxury Istanbul Tour. Have a safe trip back home and thanks for choosing us.

We can make for you TAILOR-MADE itineraries on request. Please feel free to contact us if you have any requests. Please contact your travel professional.

info@guideserviceinturkey.com  or call us at + 90 536 273 59 61