Istanbul to Cappadocia & Izmir - 9 days

Istanbul to Cappadocia & Izmir - 9 days

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9 Days From

$2005

$1404

Istanbul to Cappadocia & Izmir - 9 days

9 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul, Turkey

Visiting: Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Izmir

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 32

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

5-75

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2005 $1404 Operator discount: -$602 -30%

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 9-day journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia and Izmir, exploring Turkey's rich history and stunning landscapes. Begin in Istanbul, where you'll visit iconic sites like Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque, with an optional Bosphorus cruise. In Ankara, delve into the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and Ataturk's Mausoleum. Discover Cappadocia's unique terrain, with optional excursions to Goreme and a hot air balloon ride. Relax in Pamukkale's thermal pools and explore the ancient spa town of Hierapolis. Finally, unwind on Izmir's beaches or tour the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Enjoy guided sightseeing, luxurious accommodations, and seamless transfers throughout this unforgettable adventure.

Highlights

  • Istanbul - Take in the highlights of this historic city, including Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque, and opt for a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait

  • Ankara - Browse the fascinating Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and take in the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of modern Turkey

  • Cappadocia - Enjoy free time in this unique landscape or join a full-day optional excursion to visit UNESCO-listed Goreme

  • Pamukkale - Admire the hot springs and take a dip in the famous thermal pools, then visit the Roman spa town of Hierapolis

  • Izmir - Hit the beach with a free day to relax in this Aegean resort town, or join an optional tour of Ephesus

Places You'll See

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation Name: hotel

Welcome to Istanbul! On arrival in the city, you will be escorted to our hotel. There is a brief welcome meeting with our guide and then the rest of the evening is at leisure for you to relax or head out and explore the city, formerly known as Constantinople.



Day 2: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today after breakfast, we discover the sights of Istanbul, one of Europe's oldest and most fascinating cities, straddling the border with Asia. We visit Topkapi Palace, which was home to the majority of Ottoman sultans between 1453 and 1852. Take in the Hippodrome, once home to chariot racing, and uncover the beautiful Blue Mosque.





We see spectacular Hagia Sofia from the outside, and you can opt to go inside for an additional fee. The church was constructed in the 6th century in the Byzantine capital. It was later converted into a mosque by the Ottomans, and is still functioning as a mosque today. It is considered one of the world's greatest architectural marvels.





Our final stop is the Grand Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace filled with a maze of narrow alleys and shops. Here, we can explore thousands of stalls offering everything from traditional Turkish carpets, ceramics, and jewellery to spices, textiles, and souvenirs. There is an optional dinner, complete with traditional belly dancing entertainment for an additional fee.

Day 3: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Istanbul - Ankara. After breakfast, you can explore Istanbul further at leisure or opt for an exhilarating Bosphorus cruise (additional fee) and experience the magnificent strait that divides Asia and Europe. The shores of the Bosphorus are dotted with elegant neighbourhoods, grand Ottoman palaces, historic fortresses, charming old wooden villas, hotels, parks, gardens, restaurants, and cafés.





We then embark on a scenic drive to the vibrant capital city of Ankara, where we'll spend the night.













Day 4: Ankara

Location: Ankara

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Ankara - Cappadocia. After breakfast, we explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, housed in a historic caravanserai (traditional Silk Road inn). The museum showcases artifacts dating back 7,500 years, including the world's most extensive and priceless collection of Hittite relics.





We then visit the impressive Mausoleum of Ataturk, the revered father of modern Turkey. After our visit, we set off on a drive to Cappadocia. Along the way, we'll explore a 13th-century caravanserai and uncover the intriguing underground city of Saratli, one of many subterranean settlements built for protection and spiritual reasons. In the evening, we enjoy dinner at our hotel.





For those seeking further excitement, you can join an optional Whirling Dervishes performance for an additional fee, to experience this mesmerizing display of traditional dance and spiritual ritual.

Day 5: Cappadocia

Location: Cappadocia

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Opt to start your day with an exhilarating hot air balloon tour, floating gently above Cappadocia's volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys, and ancient caves as the sun rises. (booked and paid locally)





After breakfast, spend the day as you please, or join us on an optional full-day tour of Cappadocia for an additional fee.





We explore the historic region of Goreme, nestled among stunning rock formations. Dating back to the Roman period, this area is home to numerous rock churches, remnants of a time when Christianity flourished here. We'll also visit the Red Valley. Next, we head to Avanos, renowned for its exquisite pottery. Here we can take part in a brief pottery workshop to learn about the local craft in a cave.





On our way back to the hotel, we will make a stop at the Devrent Valley, known for its impressive rock formations.









Day 6: Cappadocia

Location: Cappadocia

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Cappadocia - Pamukkale. After, breakfast at our hotel, we say goodbye to Cappadocia as we journey to Pamukkale. On arrival, there is an included dinner and you can spend the rest of the night at leisure in Pamukkale.

Day 7: Pamukkale

Location: Pamukkale

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Pamukkale - Izmir. Today we visit the unique cotton fortress of Pamukkale. This surreal landscape, often referred to as the 'Cotton Castles,' was sculpted by frequent earthquakes in the fault depression of the Menderes River basin. We’ll be captivated by the gleaming white cliffs, crystalline marble, and sparkling quartz formations that shimmer in the sunlight. Whilst here, we can also visit the ruins of the Roman health spa of Hierapolis and enjoy a swim in our hotel’s thermal pool.





Later, we will make our way to Izmir, where we will have dinner and spend the night.

Day 8: Izmir

Location: Izmir

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you have the choice to unwind in Izmir at leisure. This resort town is home to fabulous beaches, with Ilica and Cukuralti being top choices. Alternatively, you can join our optional tour of the world-renowned ruins of Ephesus, for an additional fee.





Ephesus served as a pivotal cultural hub in the past and continues to captivate visitors today. We will walk alongside 2,000-year-old marble streets, marvel at the grandeur of an ancient theatre, explore the breathtaking Library of Celsus and the impressive gymnasium, and be awe-inspired by the remarkable Hadrian's Temple.





The optional tour also visits the House of the Virgin Mary, an important Catholic shrine believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final years, accompanied by Saint John. We also visit a regional rug production centre.





Back in Izmir, the final night of our tour is at leisure.

Day 9: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast

Izmir - Istanbul. Your Turkish adventure comes to an end today. Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before an included transfer to the Istanbul airport for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • 8 breakfast and 5 dinners

    Enjoy 8 breakfasts and 5 dinners included in the tour package.

  • 8 nights 4-5 star hotels

    Stay in 4-5 star hotels for 8 nights during the tour.

  • Escorted by an English speaking, degree qualified Turkish tour guide

    The tour is escorted by an English-speaking, degree-qualified Turkish tour guide.

  • One arrival transfer on day 1 and one departure transfer on day 9 included per booking

    One arrival transfer on day 1 and one departure transfer on day 9 are included per booking.

  • All relevant transfers and transportation in private modern air-conditioned vehicles

    All relevant transfers and transportation are provided in private modern air-conditioned vehicles.

  • Guided sightseeing in Istanbul, Ankara & Pamukkale

    Enjoy guided sightseeing tours in Istanbul, Ankara, and Pamukkale.

  • Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go

    This tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators.

What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.

  • Tipping - an entirely personal gesture

    Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.

  • Optional excursions

    Optional excursions are not included in the tour package and may incur additional fees.

Mode of Transport

Travel in private modern air-conditioned vehicles with all relevant transfers included, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey.

Accommodation

Enjoy 8 nights in 4-5 star hotels, providing comfort and luxury throughout your journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia and Izmir.

Age Policy

Min: 5 (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult) Max:75

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 8 nights in 4-5 star hotels.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes 8 breakfasts and 5 dinners.

  • Is there a tour guide provided?

    Yes, the tour is escorted by an English-speaking, degree-qualified Turkish tour guide.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour?

    Yes, one arrival transfer on day 1 and one departure transfer on day 9 are included per booking.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    All relevant transfers and transportation are provided in private modern air-conditioned vehicles.

  • Are there any optional excursions available during the tour?

    Yes, there are several optional excursions available, including a Bosphorus cruise, a Whirling Dervishes performance, a hot air balloon tour in Cappadocia, and a tour of the ruins of Ephesus.

  • What activities are available in Cappadocia?

    In Cappadocia, you can opt for a hot air balloon tour, join a full-day tour to explore the historic region of Goreme, visit the Red Valley, participate in a pottery workshop in Avanos, and see the rock formations in Devrent Valley.

  • What can I do during my free time in Izmir?

    In Izmir, you can relax at the beach or join an optional tour of the world-renowned ruins of Ephesus.

  • What historical sites will we visit in Istanbul?

    In Istanbul, you will visit Topkapi Palace, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. You can also see Hagia Sofia from the outside and opt to go inside for an additional fee.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 5 years old, and under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. The maximum age is 75.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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$2145 $1716

Operator discount: -$429

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Jan 19, 2025 - Jan 27, 2025
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Operator discount: -$686

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Operator discount: -$686

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Operator discount: -$686

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Operator discount: -$686

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Operator discount: -$686

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$2285 $1600

Operator discount: -$686

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Operator discount: -$686

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Operator discount: -$686

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Operator discount: -$707

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Operator discount: -$707

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Operator discount: -$707

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Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 27, 2025
$2355 $1649

Operator discount: -$707

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Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$2355 $1649

Operator discount: -$707

Sunday - Monday

Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 17, 2025
$2215 $1551

Operator discount: -$665

Sunday - Monday

Nov 23, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025
$2215 $1551

Operator discount: -$665

Sunday - Monday

Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 22, 2025
$2215 $1551

Operator discount: -$665

Prices last published on 20-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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