Cappadocia to the Mediterranean: 9-Day Tour from Ancient Ruins to Scenic Beaches
The 9-day journey begins in Cappadocia where you will experience its magical scenery before moving to the Mediterranean shoreline. The tour provides an exclusive experience which unites historical sites with cultural attractions and natural wonders for an unforgettable journey. Your travel begins in Istanbul where Eastern and Western cultures unite while you discover historical landmarks before taking a hot air balloon ride above Cappadocia's dreamlike rock landscapes. Your journey will continue to Antalya which offers you the chance to explore Roman archaeological sites, experience the beautiful beaches and peaceful atmosphere of Turkey's Mediterranean coastline. The tour provides an ideal combination of relaxation and exploration through its private tours which include knowledgeable guides who lead guests through a thoughtfully designed schedule. The entire city of Istanbul presents itself through its historic landmarks while Antalya offers its visitors the peaceful experience of spending time at its Mediterranean coastline.
What's included
Itinerary
Your unforgettable journey begins in the heart of Istanbul, where East meets West and ancient traditions blend with modern energy. Upon your arrival at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen, your private driver will be waiting to escort you to your hotel in the center of this vibrant city. After you have settled into your new environment and taken some time to rest you can start your relaxed yet engaging evening. A private Bosphorus cruise awaits you to experience the unique sensation of crossing between Europe and Asia while taking in the breathtaking views of palaces, mosques and bridges that line the horizon.
Your expert guide will provide you with fascinating historical insights about the city while showing you the empires which formed its structure during your Bosphorus boat tour. The tour will show you the historical accounts of Ottoman sultans and Byzantine emperors while you explore the wooden houses and palace buildings which face the strait. You should walk along the waterfront after your cruise departure to discover either a lively neighborhood or experience the enchanting city ambiance before you go back to your hotel. Your guide will provide local tips and offer suggestions for dining, shopping and exploring in the coming days.
*Inclusions: Private airport pick-up and transfer to your hotel, 3–4 hour Bosphorus evening cruise with an Expert guide*
**Exclusions: Meals and beverages, Personal expenses and gratuities**
Start your exploration of Istanbul with a full-day guided tour of the city’s most iconic sites. Meet your guide in the morning and take a short walk or transfer to Sultanahmet Square, the epicenter of Istanbul’s ancient heart. Your first stop will be the stunning Hagia Sophia, which has stood for over 1,500 years as both a church and a mosque. Here, you’ll explore its impressive mosaics, soaring domes and learn about its religious and architectural significance in both Byzantine and Ottoman history.
Next, you’ll visit the magnificent Blue Mosque, famous for its beautiful blue-tiled interior and stunning domes. Then, continue your tour to the ancient Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine social life where chariot races and imperial ceremonies took place. From there, descend into the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel supported by hundreds of ancient columns.
After a leisurely lunch at a recommended local restaurant, you’ll have the opportunity to explore either the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, depending on your preferences. Wander through the bustling lanes and vibrant stalls, where your guide will help you navigate the best shopping spots for textiles, ceramics, spices, sweets and local treasures. This day promises to be a deep dive into the rich layers of Istanbul’s history, culture and shopping scene.
*Inclusions: 7–8 hour private guided tour, Hotel pick-up and drop-off (by foot or vehicle, depending on location), Entrance fees to Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and other Old Town sites*
**Exclusions: Meals and beverages, Personal expenses and gratuities**
The vibrant streets of Istanbul lead to Cappadocia which offers its visitors an otherworldly environment with its distinctive geological rock structures. Your private driver will take you from your Istanbul hotel to the airport after breakfast for a domestic flight which will bring you to Cappadocia. Your local guide will welcome you at the arrival point to lead you to your cave hotel which is located in Göreme or Uçhisar or Ürgüp.
Once you’ve checked in and taken some time to relax, you’ll set off on a short excursion to a panoramic viewpoint to witness the beauty of Cappadocia’s famous fairy chimneys, rock pinnacles and valleys. Depending on the time of day, this will be a perfect spot to catch the stunning sunset over the landscape. Your guide will introduce you to the region’s fascinating geology and rich history. Afterward, return to your hotel to unwind or enjoy a leisurely dinner at a nearby restaurant.
*Inclusions: Private airport transfers to and from Cappadocia, Sunset excursion to a scenic viewpoint in Cappadocia*
**Exclusions: Meals and beverages, Domestic flight ticket (Istanbul–Cappadocia), Personal expenses and gratuities**
Today, experience Cappadocia from both the ground and the sky. Your day begins with an early-morning hot air balloon ride (subject to weather and availability), where you’ll float gently over the breathtaking landscape as the sun rises. Your flight above valleys and rock formations and historic villages will reveal to you one of the most breathtaking sights which exists globally. After your arrival you should take time to drink a toast before you head back to your hotel for your morning meal.
Your private guide will meet you for a complete day of discovering Northern Cappadocia's main attractions. The Göreme Open Air Museum stands as a UNESCO-listed site which features rock-cut churches and chapels that display their walls with colorful frescoes. The village of Çavuşin follows as your next destination because it contains historic cave dwellings before you reach Avanos which is recognized for its pottery studios that run along the Kızılırmak River. Stop at scenic viewpoints such as Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) and Pasabağ (Monks Valley), where you’ll marvel at the region’s extraordinary natural rock formations.
A delicious local lunch will be served at a nearby restaurant, where you can try traditional Cappadocian dishes. The rest of the day is yours to continue exploring or return to your hotel for some leisure time.
*Inclusions: Approx. 6 hour private guided tour, Early-morning shared or private balloon flight with hotel transfers, Entrance fees to Göreme Open Air Museum and other sites*
**Exclusions: Meals and beverages, Balloon flight fee (if not included in package), Personal expenses and gratuities**
Explore the secret treasures of Cappadocia by entering one of its historic underground cities. Your guide will escort you to one of these underground wonders which include Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı after you finish your breakfast. The underground spaces served as hiding places for entire communities who needed to escape from invading forces. The site contains a network of narrow passageways which lead to storage areas, cooking facilities and religious sanctuaries.
The Ihlara Valley awaits you for its peaceful river, its cliffs which reach high into the sky and its churches that were carved directly into the rocks. Take a relaxed walk through the riverbanks while you observe the paintings and scenic views which appear during your journey. Your guide will tailor the walk to your comfort level, with plenty of opportunities to take breaks and enjoy the surroundings. Stop for a delicious riverside lunch, then continue your journey with scenic stops at Pigeon Valley and other viewpoints before returning to your hotel.
*Inclusions: Approx. 9 hour private excursion, Hotel pick-up and drop-off, Entrance fees to underground city and valley areas*
**Exclusions: Meals and beverages, Balloon flight fee (if not included in package), Personal expenses and gratuities**
Fly to the Mediterranean coast and the charming city of Antalya. After breakfast, take a private transfer from your Cappadocia hotel to the airport, where you’ll catch a flight to Antalya. Upon arrival, your guide will take you to your hotel in the city center.
In the afternoon, explore the fascinating old town of Kaleiçi. Walk through narrow streets lined with well-preserved Ottoman houses, boutique hotels and charming cafés. Tourists should visit Hadrian’s Gate, the clock tower and ancient harbor to discover Antalya's historical significance. The tour ends at the harbor where visitors can unwind while they observe the Mediterranean Sea sunset which provides a beautiful view of the Taurus Mountains.
Enjoy a leisurely evening in Antalya, with your guide offering restaurant recommendations for seaside or old town dining.
*Inclusions: Approx. 2-hour guided walking tour of Kaleiçi, Private airport transfers to and from Antalya*
**Exclusions: Meals and beverages, Domestic flight ticket (Cappadocia–Antalya), Personal expenses and gratuities**
The tour today will take you to the hinterlands of Antalya where you will discover its most significant ancient archaeological sites and natural attractions. The first stop should be Perge which features ancient ruins with its broad colonnaded streets, its historic bathhouses and its large stadium that hosted gladiatorial contests in the past. Your guide will bring the ruins to life, explaining how this once-thriving Roman city functioned.
Next, head to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. You’ll have the chance to stand on the stage or sit in the tiers, imagining the ancient performances that once filled this incredible venue. After a lunch break at a local restaurant, visit either Düden or Kurşunlu Waterfalls for a refreshing nature walk, taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Return to Antalya in the late afternoon, with plenty of time to relax at your hotel or enjoy the lively atmosphere of the old town.
*Inclusions: Approx. 9-hour private excursion, Hotel pick-up and drop-off, Entrance fees to Perge, Aspendos, and waterfall parks*
**Exclusions: Meals and beverages, Domestic flight ticket (Cappadocia–Antalya), Personal expenses and gratuities**
Spend a full day relaxing by the Mediterranean on one of Antalya’s beautiful beaches. You can choose between the long pebble stretch of Konyaaltı Beach or the sandy shores of Lara Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing or simply enjoying the view. The short boat tour from the old harbor provides additional adventure for visitors who want to explore the coastline while visiting hidden beaches for swimming.
Private transfers will be arranged to take you to and from your chosen beach or harbor, ensuring a great day of relaxation.
*Inclusions: Private transfers to/from the beach or harbor, Local assistance for your beach day*
**Exclusions: Meals and beverages, Beach club entrance fees, loungers, and food/drink, Optional boat tour costs, Personal expenses and gratuities**
As your adventure comes to a close, enjoy a smooth transfer from your hotel to Antalya Airport for your flight back to Istanbul, where you’ll catch your onward international flight home. If time permits, take a short comfort stop along the way.
Although this particular adventure is coming to an end, your diverse memories of busy, historic bazaars, the tranquility of high valleys, the complexity of ancient streets and the motivation to explore further places with Tailored by Locals, will always be ready to inspire your next experience.
