Day 1
Arrive Istanbul – Transfer to our Hotel in Sultanhamet  1st Night  - Arcadia Hotel B/B

Day 2
Our first full day in Istanbul.  This  monumental city stands astride the straits of the Bosphorus, straddling European and Asian parts of Turkey.     We  have the opportunity to explore in depth the imperial capital of the Byzantine Empires and then the Ottoman Sultans.  The chance to experience such  architectural marvels as Haghia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.  A visit to the Topkapi Palace, and the Cisterns.     We take time discovering these historical wonders as well as delving into the colourful  labyrinth of more than 4000  shops that  make up the Grand Bazaar.  Not to be missed out is the Egyptian Bazaar and the Fish Markets that line the shores of the Bosphorus.  2nd night – Hotel Arcadia B/B

Day 3
Second full Day Istanbul – Hotel Arcadia B/B

Day 4
Transfer to the Airport - Fly to Kayseri – meet our Mini bus and driver and travel to our Cave Hotel in Uchisar , Central Anatolia and the region of Cappadocia. 

In the ancient Persian language, Cappadocia meant “land of beautiful horses”.   Trying to describe Cappadocia in physical terms simply does not do justice to the air of mystery that pervades the area.   Remarkable conical rock outcrops, called peri bacalari (fairy chimneys), are the regions most famous characteristic feature.
 
The Museum Hotel   in Uchisar is ideally located and will be our base for the next few days.    It’s terraces afford excellent  views of whole region.   1st night - Museum Hotel  B/B

Day 5
Our first full day to start exploring  the unique landscape , formed by a series of volcanic eruptions, rain and wind.  Over time it has been shaped  by human hands with its rock-cut houses and medieval churches.    A walk through Pigeon Valley and down into the town of Goreme. Enjoy the sunset from some wonderful panoramic view points surrounding the town.  2nd night -  Museum Hotel B/B

Day 6
We take a tour of the Open Air Museum in Goreme,  the largest of the monastic settlements in the region and home to  some of the most fascinating frescoes.  A chance to explore Red Valley.     This evening we enter a caravanserai where the Whirling Dervishes perform their mystic dance.  3rd night - Museum Hotel B/B

During our three days spent in Cappadocia there will be the opportunity to take a hot-air
Balloon flight over this spectacular and beautiful region. (Not included)

Day 7
Our third full day enjoying Cappadocia – 4th night Museum Hotel B/B

Day 8
Early morning in Cappadocia , then transfer by road to Kayseri and make the return flight to Istanbul – Hotel Arcadia B/B

Day 9
A full final day in Istanbul to re-visit some favourite spots  – Arcadia Hotel B/B

Day 10
Transfer to the Airport and depart for home

N.B Flights
A number of airlines fly from the UK direct to Istanbul: British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Easy Jet.
Links to Airlines