Discover imperial Istanbul, Ottoman Bursa and the surreal valleys of Cappadocia on one exclusive, privately guided journey through the heart of Türkiye — history, culture, architecture and unforgettable scenery in a single unforgettable itinerary.
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Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors, used under Creative Commons licenses.
Experience the extraordinary diversity of Türkiye on an unforgettable 9-day private Turkey tour package covering Istanbul, Bursa and Cappadocia. From the magnificent imperial monuments of Istanbul to the historic Ottoman heritage of Bursa and the surreal volcanic landscapes of Cappadocia, this carefully arranged private journey brings together history, culture, architecture, spirituality, scenery and authentic Turkish experiences into one remarkable itinerary.
Your adventure begins in Istanbul, the legendary city positioned between Europe and Asia, where centuries of Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history unfold through landmarks including the Roman Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern and the Grand Bazaar. The journey continues to Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, where elegant mosques, historic Ottoman complexes, traditional markets, mountain scenery and the UNESCO-listed village of Cumalıkızık reveal another fascinating chapter of Turkish history.
Finally, travel to Cappadocia, one of Türkiye's most extraordinary destinations, to explore fairy chimneys, ancient cave settlements, underground cities, dramatic valleys, historic monasteries and panoramic viewpoints on private North and South Cappadocia tours. For guests seeking an unforgettable memory, the itinerary also offers an optional hot-air balloon flight over Cappadocia, subject to weather and availability.
This is more than a sightseeing holiday — it is a private journey through some of Türkiye's most iconic historical and cultural landscapes, arranged entirely around your own pace, comfort and interests.
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Istanbul
Once Constantinople and capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, Istanbul is a living museum stretched across two continents. Roman hippodromes, Byzantine cathedrals, Ottoman palaces and mosques, and centuries-old bazaars sit side by side along the Bosphorus, making it one of the richest historic city centers anywhere in the world.
Bursa
Set against the slopes of Uludağ (the historic Mount Olympus), Bursa was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and remains one of Turkey's most atmospheric historic cities. Its Green Mosque and Green Tomb, silk-trading hans, Ottoman baths and the UNESCO-listed village of Cumalıkızık offer an intimate, less-crowded counterpoint to Istanbul's grandeur.
Cappadocia
Millions of years of volcanic eruption and erosion carved Cappadocia's surreal landscape of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings and underground cities. Private North and South Cappadocia tours reveal Byzantine rock-cut churches, dramatic canyons and — for early risers — the world-famous view of hot-air balloons drifting over the valleys at sunrise.
Every day of this private itinerary is arranged around your own pace, with a private vehicle, driver and — on scheduled sightseeing days — a professional English-speaking guide. Tap any day to see the full description of that day's places and timings.
Your unforgettable Turkish journey begins with arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) — where Europe and Asia meet. After collecting your luggage, you will meet your representative from The History Travel Agency for a private, stress-free transfer to your Istanbul hotel.
Private Airport Meet & Greet. Look for The History Travel Agency welcome sign at the arrivals hall, meet your representative, and enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned private transfer straight to your hotel.Meeting instructions and driver details are shared with you before arrival.
Hotel Check-In & Free Time. Settle into your Istanbul hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, or simply rest and adjust after your flight.
Optional: Whirling Dervish Ceremony (Sema). Depending on your arrival time and schedule, you may have the opportunity to attend a traditional Sema ceremony rooted in the Mevlevi tradition and the teachings of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi — a peaceful, atmospheric introduction to Türkiye's spiritual heritage.
Istanbul
08:30 Meet your private guide at your hotel for a full walking day through the historic heart of Istanbul — all principal sites lie within comfortable walking distance of one another in the Old City.
Roman Hippodrome. Once the spectacular center of public life in Constantinople, hosting chariot races and imperial ceremonies. Its surviving monuments still offer an atmospheric link to the Byzantine capital.
Blue Mosque. One of Istanbul's most recognizable landmarks, celebrated for its elegant domes, graceful minarets and richly tiled interior — a masterpiece of Ottoman religious architecture, still an active place of worship.
Hagia Sophia. One of the world's most famous monuments, originally a Byzantine imperial church that later became a mosque, a museum, and a mosque again — its layered history mirrors Istanbul itself.The Hagia Sophia entrance fee is excluded from the package.
Topkapi Palace. The legendary Ottoman palace overlooking the Bosphorus, and for centuries the seat of imperial administration and court life. Its courtyards, chambers and treasury collections offer fascinating insight into the world of the sultans.
Basilica Cistern. Descend beneath the city to this atmospheric underground reservoir, supported by hundreds of columns — a striking demonstration of ancient Constantinople's engineering.
Grand Bazaar. End the day exploring one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, a maze of shops filled with carpets, textiles, jewelry, ceramics and traditional Turkish handicrafts.
17:30 End of tour and private transfer back to your hotel.
Istanbul
08:30 Private pickup from your hotel for a day that combines Ottoman architecture, panoramic viewpoints, spiritual heritage, local markets and a cruise on the Bosphorus.
Dolmabahçe Palace. A magnificent 19th-century Ottoman palace on the European shore of the Bosphorus, its grand architecture and lavish interiors reflecting the later imperial period.
Çamlıca Hill. Cross to the Asian side of Istanbul for panoramic views across the city and the Bosphorus — an excellent vantage point to appreciate a city spanning two continents.
Istanbul City Walls. The monumental Byzantine defensive walls that once protected Constantinople, whose surviving sections offer a striking glimpse into the city's military history.
Pierre Loti Hill & Cable Car. An atmospheric viewpoint above the Golden Horn, reached by a memorable cable car ride.
Eyüp Sultan Mosque & Tomb. One of Istanbul's most spiritually significant sites, offering a quieter side of the city away from the busiest tourist districts.
Bosphorus Cruise (approx. 1.5 hours). Experience Istanbul from the water as waterfront palaces, historic neighborhoods, bridges and hills create an unforgettable panorama along the strait separating Europe and Asia.
Spice Bazaar & Rüstem Pasha Mosque. Finish in Eminönü's fragrant Spice Bazaar, then visit Rüstem Pasha Mosque, celebrated for its exquisite Iznik tile decoration.
17:30 End of tour and transfer to your hotel.
Istanbul
08:30 Private pickup from your Istanbul hotel and travel toward Bursa, a historic city surrounded by mountain landscapes and deeply connected to the origins of the Ottoman Empire.
Cable Car (one way). An elevated perspective over Bursa and its surrounding mountains.
Historic 600-Year-Old Tree & Uludağ. Visit a striking centuries-old tree, then continue toward Uludağ — historically associated with Mount Olympus — for a dramatic natural contrast to the city below.
Green Mosque & Green Tomb. Bursa's architectural jewel, an early Ottoman masterpiece renowned for its artistry, alongside the striking Green Tomb nearby.
Historic Turkish Bath. Experience the atmosphere of a traditional hamam and learn about the role of bathing culture in Ottoman society.
Silk House & Ottoman House Museum. Discover Bursa's historic relationship with silk production, then explore a preserved Ottoman house for insight into traditional domestic life.Some items at the Silk House can be relatively expensive — compare prices before purchasing.
17:00 Transfer to your Bursa hotel.
Bursa
08:30 Private pickup from your Bursa hotel to continue discovering the city's religious monuments, commercial centers, viewpoints, museums and villages.
Grand Mosque of Bursa & Koza Han. One of the city's most important Ottoman monuments, followed by the historic silk-trading courtyard of Koza Han.
Tophane Clock Tower, Irgandı Bridge & a Waterfall. Enjoy sweeping city views, cross the distinctive Irgandı Bridge, and pause at a scenic waterfall for a refreshing natural break.
Muradiye Complex & Osman Gazi Türbesi. An important Ottoman religious ensemble, followed by the tomb of Osman Gazi, founder of the Ottoman dynasty.
Cumalıkızık Village — UNESCO Heritage. Wander the narrow lanes of this beautifully preserved Ottoman village, part of Bursa's UNESCO World Heritage listing.
Flight to Cappadocia. 16:00 transfer toward the airport · 19:00 departure from Istanbul · 20:25 arrival and transfer to your Cappadocia hotel.
Cappadocia
04:30–05:00 optional hotel pickup, light snacks before flight, then transfer back to your hotel for breakfast. The balloon flight is optional and not included in the package price; availability depends on weather and aviation conditions, so early booking is recommended.
09:30 Private pickup from your hotel for a day revealing the extraordinary landscapes and cultural heritage of northern Cappadocia.
Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley). Unusual rock formations here often resemble animals and other figures — one of Cappadocia's most visually fascinating landscapes.
Paşabağ (Monks Valley). Dramatic multi-headed fairy chimneys, among the most recognizable geological formations in the region.
Göreme Open-Air Museum. A UNESCO World Heritage complex of rock-cut churches and monastic spaces preserving extraordinary Byzantine frescoes and Christian heritage.
Esentepe Viewpoint & Uçhisar Castle. Panoramic views across the Cappadocian landscape, followed by Uçhisar Castle — an enormous natural rock formation shaped by centuries of human habitation.
Avanos. A town famous for its centuries-old pottery tradition, closely tied to the region's clay and the Kızılırmak River.
17:00 End of tour and transfer to your hotel.
Cappadocia
09:30 Private pickup from your hotel to explore the dramatic southern landscapes of Cappadocia, where underground architecture, valleys and ancient religious sites tell a fascinating story.
Derinkuyu Underground City. One of Cappadocia's most extraordinary subterranean settlements, with interconnected chambers demonstrating remarkable ancient ingenuity for shelter and protection.
Ihlara Valley. A spectacular volcanic canyon combining natural beauty with rich religious heritage, including rock-cut churches and historic settlements.
Belisırma Village. A peaceful riverside village within the Ihlara Valley, offering a gentle contrast to the surrounding dramatic rock formations.
Selime Monastery. One of Cappadocia's most spectacular rock-cut complexes, carved directly into the volcanic landscape.
17:00 End of tour and transfer to your hotel.
Cappadocia
09:30 Private airport transfer after breakfast. 12:00 departure from Kayseri · 13:45 arrival in Istanbul, where you'll be met and transferred to your hotel.
Free Afternoon in Istanbul. Relax, explore independently, shop for souvenirs, enjoy Turkish cuisine, or simply take in the city's atmosphere before your international departure.
Istanbul
Enjoy your remaining time in Istanbul at leisure. Your private airport transfer will be arranged approximately 4–5 hours before your international departure, and your driver will take you to the airport in comfort.
As your aircraft departs, take with you the memories of Istanbul's imperial skyline, Bursa's Ottoman heritage and Cappadocia's unforgettable valleys and fairy chimneys. We hope to welcome you again to Türkiye.
Suggestions to help you get the very most out of this itinerary, based on how travelers typically experience each part of the journey.
Don't treat Istanbul only as a checklist of monuments — build in time to enjoy the waterfront, markets and neighborhood atmosphere between sights.
The Bosphorus cruise is one of the best ways to appreciate Istanbul's waterfront palaces and skyline, best seen from the deck of a boat rather than the shore.
For first-time visitors to Cappadocia, the optional sunrise hot-air balloon flight can become the single most memorable moment of the whole trip.
Silk House items can be relatively expensive — compare a few shops and prices before committing to a purchase.
Early mornings can be cold outside summer — pack warm layers and comfortable footwear for balloon pickups and valley walks alike.
After several intense sightseeing days, use the free afternoon in Istanbul for relaxed exploration, shopping, Turkish coffee, or a Bosphorus-side dinner.
Comfortable temperatures and blooming scenery — one of the best times to combine all three destinations.
Long daylight hours for sightseeing, though Istanbul and Cappadocia afternoons can be hot — stay hydrated.
Mild weather and fewer crowds make this another excellent window for the full itinerary.
A quieter, atmospheric season — Cappadocia under snow is a striking and very different experience.
Three empires, one walkable Old City.
Ottoman imperial life, past and later era.
Istanbul's skyline from the water.
Bursa's Ottoman architectural jewel.
A preserved Ottoman-era village.
Sunrise over Cappadocia's valleys.
Byzantine rock-cut churches.
Ancient subterranean engineering.
Hotel categories, room types, exact flight numbers and any optional experiences (including the balloon flight) are confirmed at the time of booking, subject to availability.
| Package | Price | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Private Tour Per person, based on 2 travelers sharing | €1,200 | Hotels, private guide, transfers, 2 domestic flights, selected meals & entrance fees |
Our guide in Istanbul made history come alive at every stop, and having a private driver for Bursa and Cappadocia meant we never felt rushed. The Bosphorus cruise and the Göreme Open-Air Museum were absolute highlights.
9-Day Istanbul, Bursa & Cappadocia TourBursa was a wonderful surprise — Cumalıkızık village and the Green Mosque were much quieter than Istanbul but just as impressive. Everything from the airport pickup to the domestic flights was handled smoothly.
9-Day Istanbul, Bursa & Cappadocia TourBooked the optional balloon flight on the guide's advice and it was the best decision of the whole trip. Derinkuyu Underground City and Ihlara Valley the next day were equally unforgettable. Highly recommend going private.
9-Day Istanbul, Bursa & Cappadocia TourThis private Turkey tour lasts 9 days and 8 nights, covering Istanbul, Bursa and Cappadocia.
The package is priced at €1,200 per person, based on two travelers sharing a room.
Yes. The itinerary includes private guided tours, private transportation and private airport/hotel transfers throughout.
Yes. The package includes 4 nights in Istanbul, 2 nights in Bursa and 3 nights in Cappadocia, all with breakfast.
Yes, two domestic flights are included: Istanbul to Cappadocia, and Kayseri back to Istanbul.
Yes, a professional English-speaking guide accompanies the scheduled private tours in Istanbul and Cappadocia.
No, the hot-air balloon experience is optional and is not included in the package price.
Lunch is included on the scheduled private tour days in Istanbul and Cappadocia. Lunch in Bursa is not included.
No, the Hagia Sophia Mosque entrance fee is specifically excluded from the package.
Yes, the itinerary includes two days centered on Bursa, covering Ottoman landmarks, Uludağ, historic markets, museums and Cumalıkızık.
Devrent Valley, Paşabağ, the Göreme Open-Air Museum, Esentepe Viewpoint, Uçhisar Castle, Avanos, Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Belisırma Village and Selime Monastery.
Yes, a Bosphorus cruise of approximately 1.5 hours is included as part of Day 3 in Istanbul.
Have questions, or not ready to reserve yet? Send us a message and we'll reply within a few hours.
This itinerary is offered as a private tour. Select your tickets and provide your details — we'll confirm availability within a few hours.
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour date. Cancellations within 48 hours are non-refundable. Date changes are accommodated subject to availability.
More ways to experience Istanbul, Bursa and Cappadocia — as standalone private tours or shorter add-ons to this itinerary.
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar in one private day.
Explore TourDevrent Valley, Paşabağ, Göreme Open-Air Museum and Uçhisar Castle.
Explore TourSunrise over the fairy chimneys — the region's signature experience.
Explore TourThe first Ottoman capital and Cumalıkızık village, from Istanbul.
Explore TourYour journey should feel personal, comfortable and memorable from the moment you arrive in Türkiye. From your first airport welcome to your final departure transfer, this itinerary is built around private transportation, carefully arranged sightseeing and meaningful encounters with Türkiye's extraordinary historical and cultural heritage.
Travel through the centuries — from Byzantine Istanbul and Ottoman Bursa to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia.
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