Culture Tour – Istanbul to Cappadocia

After breakfast, we begin our tour program, either with or without a guide, depending on your preference.

	The first place we will visit is Hagia Sophia, which became the center of Christian sacred teachings.
	This structure was built in 537 by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. It is of great importance to Christianity because the First Ecumenical Council was held here, and the Nicene Creed was adopted.
	After our visit to Hagia Sophia, we head to the Basilica Cistern, located very close to this area. The illuminated spaces highlight the cistern's mystical atmosphere, almost like an art gallery. Also known as the "Basilica Cistern," this massive underground structure was built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century to meet the city's water needs.
	It covers an area of approximately 9,800 square meters and is supported by 336 columns rising vertically from the ground. One of the most impressive features of the Basilica Cistern is the massive Medusa heads located deep within the cistern.
	After the lunch break, we proceed to visit Topkapi Palace and Hagia Eirene. Built in 324, this church was dedicated by Constantine as the first church in Istanbul and made an important contribution to the religious heritage of the Byzantine Empire.
	Additionally, the Second Ecumenical Council, held here in 381, was a significant turning point in Christian history. We will have dinner at the hotel.

After breakfast, we visit the Chora Museum and the Tekfur Palace. Both the Tekfur Palace and the Chora Museum are important stops that should not be missed for those wishing to explore Istanbul's Byzantine heritage.

	Tekfur Palace is one of the rare examples of civil architecture from the Byzantine period that has survived to the present day. Another name for the palace is the Porphyrogenitus Palace. This structure was built during the final years of the Byzantine Empire and was primarily used as a residence for emperors. The palace, likely built during the reign of Michael VIII Palaiologos in the 13th century, is part of the Blachernae Palace complex.
	The word "Tekfur" is derived from the title used for Christian lords or princes during the Ottoman period, and the building began to be referred to by this name. The Tekfur Museum is worth seeing.
	The Chora Museum is an important religious structure from the Byzantine period. Originally named the Church of Chora, the building was constructed in the 11th century and adorned with mosaics and frescoes in the 14th century. These decorations are among the finest examples of Byzantine art. After the conquest of Istanbul, it was converted into a mosque, and in 1945, it became a museum. In 2020, it was converted back into a mosque. The Chora is a highly significant structure, famous for its mosaics, both artistically and historically.
	After departing from here, we head to the historic Egyptian Bazaar, built during the Ottoman Empire. This market was established to sell local and exotic products such as spices, dried fruits, Turkish delight, teas, and various traditional Turkish sweets. The bazaar, where you can feel the authentic atmosphere of the 1400s, also houses shops selling traditional jewelry, carpets, and textiles.
	After lunch, we embark on a yacht tour on the Bosphorus. This unique strait, stretching between Asia and Europe, offers a scenic view that blends natural beauty with historical landmarks.
	On our yacht tour, the first view you will encounter is the silhouette of Istanbul laid across the mesmerizing waters of the Bosphorus. As you gaze at both the Asian and European continents simultaneously, historical palaces, mansions, and waterfront villas will come into view. The coastline of the Bosphorus resembles an open-air museum, with magnificent structures such as the Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, and Küçüksu Pavilion.

We provide transfers from Istanbul Airport to Sabiha Gökçen Airport. We then bid you farewell as you travel to Cappadocia. On the first day in Cappadocia, we give you free time.

Cappadocia is a region formed millions of years ago when the soft layers created by the lava and ash erupted from Mount Erciyes, Hasandağı, and Göllüdağ were eroded by rain and wind over millions of years. The name Cappadocia is first seen in Persian sources from the 6th century BC. The source of the name, "Katpatuka," is unclear. Some experts have suggested that it means "Low Country" in the Luwian language. However, later research shows that the adverb "katta," meaning "down, below," is Hittite in origin, while the Luwian equivalent is "zanta."

	We will travel to Kayseri or Nevşehir Airport and then proceed to Cappadocia. * For those who wish (optional), they can start their day by watching the sunrise with a Balloon Tour the next morning.
	After breakfast, we will visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum, where we will see the magnificent Christian frescoes inside the rock churches.
	Next, we head to Avanos, known for its pottery and ceramic masters. Here, we will visit the pottery workshops while enjoying the panoramic view of the sacred Kızılırmak River.
	After lunch at a local restaurant, we will head to the Zelve Valley, which is home to many monasteries.
	Our overnight stay and dinner will be in Cappadocia.

On the final day, we will transfer you to Kayseri or Nevşehir Airport and bid you farewell as you depart for your flight to Istanbul.