9 Days Private Ottoman & Seljuk Heritage Turkey Tour / Visits: Cappadocia – Konya – Bilecik – Bursa – Istanbul

This captivating journey through Turkey combines the wonders of ancient civilizations, breathtaking natural beauty, and a deep dive into the heartland of Anatolian history, focusing on the rich Seljuk and Ottoman legacies.

Cappadocia: Begin your adventure in Cappadocia, where you’ll witness the surreal landscapes of fairy chimneys, explore underground cities like Kaymaklı, and enjoy breathtaking views from Uchisar Rock Castle.

Konya: The Land of the Whirling Dervishes: Explore the mystical city of Konya, home to the Mevlana Museum, and delve into the history of Sufism.

Bursa & Bilecik: Ottoman Heartland: Discover the historical sites of Bursa, including the Green Mosque and the Osman Gazi Tomb, and explore the early Ottoman capital of Bilecik, visiting the Ertuğrul Gazi Tomb and the Söğüt Castle.

Istanbul: A Blend of Cultures: Conclude your journey in Istanbul, exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace, experiencing the vibrant blend of Byzantine and Ottoman history.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the best of Turkey, from its ancient civilizations and stunning landscapes to its vibrant culture and warm hospitality.

Itinerary 

Day 1 – Arrival to Istanbul – Domestic Flight To Cappadocia

After arriving at Istanbul Airport International Terminal and collecting your luggage, you will transfer to the Domestic Terminal for your flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival in Kayseri or Nevsehir, our team will meet you. And drive to your hotel (approx. 1 hour). Overnight stay and dinner will be in Cappadocia.

Meal : D

Hotels : Mustafa Resort Cappadocia – Misty Cave Hotel – Gamirasu Cave Hotel

Day 2 – Cappadocia 

After enjoying your breakfast, you will meet your knowledgeable guide at Lobby at approximately 09:00 AM. Together, you will depart from the hotel at around 09:30 AM to begin your exciting tour.

Visiting Points :

Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley): Explore the unique rock formations, including the “Camel Rock” and other fascinating shapes.

Avanos Town: Visit a traditional pottery workshop and witness the ancient art of pottery making.

Pasabag (Monk’s Valley): Marvel at the “fairy chimneys” with their distinctive mushroom-like shapes.

Love Valley: Enjoy the scenic beauty of this unique valley with its phallic-shaped rock formations.

Ortahisar Castle Viewpoint: Enjoy panoramic views of the Cappadocian landscape, including the Ortahisar Rock Castle.

We will return to the hotel after the tour. Overnight stay and dinner will be in Cappadocia.

Meals : B – L – D

Hotels : Mustafa Resort Cappadocia – Misty Cave Hotel – Gamirasu Cave Hotel

Day 3 – Cappadocia

After enjoying your breakfast, you will meet your knowledgeable guide at Lobby at approximately 09:00 AM. Together, you will depart from the hotel at around 09:30 AM to begin your exciting tour.

Visiting Points :

Esentepe: Start your day with breathtaking panoramic views of the Cappadocian landscape.

Uchisar Castle View Point: Explore this historic fortress and marvel at the ancient tunnels and chambers.

Pigeon Valley: Discover the unique dovecotes carved into the cliffs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Kaymaklı Underground City: Embark on a journey underground and learn about the history and daily life of the people who once lived here.

Red Valley: Hike through the stunning red rock formations and admire the ancient churches carved into the cliffs.

Following the completion of our tour, we will return to the hotel. Your overnight stay and dinner will be provided in Cappadocia.

Meals : B – L – D

Hotels : Mustafa Resort Cappadocia – Misty Cave Hotel – Gamirasu Cave Hotel

Day 4 – Cappadocia – Konya ( Approximately 260 km.)

Following an early morning breakfast, you will meet your knowledgeable guide at the hotel lobby. At approximately 8:30 AM, you will depart from the hotel with your luggage, commencing a comfortable and safe 4-hour journey to the historic city of Konya.

Visiting Points :

Sultanhan Caravanserai: Explore the historic Sultanhan Caravanserai, a significant resting place for merchants and travelers on the Silk Road.

Mevlana Museum: Visit the tomb of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi and delve into the mystical world of the Mevlevi order.

Karatay Madrasa: Explore the Karatay Madrasa, a prime example of Seljuk architecture, and learn about the educational institutions of the period.

Alaaddin Mosque: Visit the Alaaddin Mosque, one of Konya’s oldest mosques, and experience the grandeur of Seljuk architecture.

After the visits, we will stay overnight and have dinner in Konya.

Meals : B – L – D

Hotels : Bablin Hotel or similar

Day 5 – Konya – Bilecik – Bursa

After an early breakfast, you will meet your guide at the hotel. We will depart from Konya at approximately 8:30 AM and head towards Bilecik. After a pleasant and safe journey of approximately 380 km and 4.5 hours, We will arrive in Söğüt.

Visiting Points :

Ertuğrul Gazi Tomb: Visit the tomb of Ertuğrul Gazi and learn about the early days of the Ottoman Empire.

Söğüt Ertuğrul Gazi Museum: Discover the history of the Ottoman Empire through the artifacts on display at the museum.

Söğüt Castle: Explore the medieval Söğüt Castle and experience the region’s rich history.

Sey Edebali Tomb: Pay your respects at the tomb of Seyyid Battal Hazretleri, a significant figure in the founding of the Ottoman Empire.

Following the visits, We will proceed to Bursa ( of approximately 150 km and 1,5 ) hours for overnight and dinner.

Meals : B – L – D

Hotels : Kayhan City Hotel or similar

Day 6 – Bursa – Istanbul

After enjoying a breakfast, please meet your guide in the hotel lobby. At the scheduled time, you will board a comfortable tour vehicle and depart from the hotel. Throughout the day, you will embark on a fascinating journey through Bursa’s historical landmarks and learn about its rich cultural heritage.

Visiting Points :

Grand Mosque of Bursa: Experience the grandeur of Ottoman architecture at the Grand Mosque with its 20 domes.

Koza Han: Explore the historic Koza Han and learn about the silk production and trade of the Ottoman era.

Cumalıkızık: Discover the traditional wooden Ottoman houses of Cumalıkızık, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and experience the traditional Bursa lifestyle.

Upon completion of our visits in Bursa, we will depart for Istanbul. The journey will cover our hotel and enjoy a dinner.

Meals : B – L – D

Hotels : Holiday Inn Istanbul – Old City, Aprilis Hotel , Grand Yavuz Hotel or similar

Day 7 – Istanbul

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, please meet your guide in the hotel lobby. At the scheduled time, you will board our tour vehicle and depart for a captivating exploration of the historic peninsula.

Visiting Points :

Topkapı Palace: Explore the magnificent Topkapı Palace, which served as the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Visit the Harem and admire the palace treasures.

Blue Mosque: Admire the intricate tilework and calligraphy of the Blue Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in the world.

Suleymaniye Mosque: Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture designed by Mimar Sinan. Explore the complex, including the mosque, madrasas, and tomb.

Grand Bazaar: Get lost in the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, and find unique souvenirs and handicrafts.

Following a day filled with cultural discoveries, you will return to your Istanbul hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meals : B – L – D

Hotels : Holiday Inn Istanbul – Old City, Aprilis Hotel , Grand Yavuz Hotel or similar

Day 8 – Istanbul

Are you ready for another amazing day in Istanbul? After breakfast, you will meet your guide and depart from the hotel.

Visiting points:

Bosphorus Cruise: Embark on a 2-hour cruise and admire the historic mansions, bridges, and palaces on both sides of the Bosphorus.

Rumeli Fortress ( From Bosphorus ) : Admire the Rumeli Fortress, a strategic fortification built to conquer Istanbul.

Ortaköy Mosque: Visit the Neoclassical Ortaköy Mosque and enjoy the breathtaking Bosphorus views.

Taksim Square and Istiklal Street: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Taksim Square and stroll down the pedestrian-only Istiklal Street.

You will be dropped off at the hotel after a wonderful day. In this evening, you will have a farewell dinner with your guide. Overnight stay in Istanbul.

Meals : B – L – D

Hotels : Holiday Inn Istanbul – Old City, Aprilis Hotel , Grand Yavuz Hotel or similar

Day 9 – Departure – Home

A private transfer will be arranged for you 4 hours prior to your international departure.

You and your guide will depart from the hotel and be transported to the international terminal. Upon arrival, the tour & services will conclude and you will bid farewell to your guide.

Meals : B

Details :

Domestic Flights: Domestic flights will be operated by leading Turkish airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AnadoluJet. You will have a 20 kg checked baggage allowance and an 8 kg carry-on, standard seat selection, and economy cabin catering. We will check you in online 48 hours prior to your flights.

Airport Transfers: Our team will meet you at the airport and escort you to your driver. You will be safely transported to your hotel in the shortest time possible, considering the distance between the airport and your hotel. For your departure flight, your driver will pick you up at least 3 hours before your flight and take you to the airport. A member of our team will accompany you during your transfers.

Daily Tours: Daily tours are typically scheduled between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. However, these times may vary depending on specific circumstances.

Lunch: We will carefully select local restaurants that offer Turkish cuisine for your lunch.

Dinner: Dinner will be served as an open buffet or a set menu with a variety of options at the hotels.

Breakfast: A rich breakfast buffet will be served at the hotels.

Transportation: Throughout the tour and for airport transfers, we will provide private transportation services tailored to your group size and luggage.

Guidance: A licensed, English-speaking, professional tour guide will accompany you throughout the tour for pick-ups and drop-offs.

Accommodation: You will stay in Superior or Deluxe sharing rooms ( Double or Triple ) at selected Boutique and 4 – 5 star hotels.

Inclusions and Exclusions: The program details the inclusions and exclusions. If you wish to make any changes, such as adding or removing items, we are happy to accommodate your request.

Meals: The program includes all meals as indicated: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), and Dinner (D).

Internet and Onboard Refreshments: All our vehicles are equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, each participant will receive a daily allowance of 0.5 liters of water.

Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for the duration of your trip. We can provide you with options to suit your needs.

International Flights: Flight tickets are not included in the package. However, we can assist you with booking your flights.

Group Size: Our prices are based on a group size of up to 20 people. For larger groups, please inquire about special rates.