Highlights of Istanbul & Cappadocia

After landing, proceed through immigration and baggage claim. Once you exit through Gate 14, head to the M55 meeting signboard, located just outside the arrival hall. Look for a staff member holding your name and our voucher code. After meeting your driver, you will transfer to your hotel in the Sultanahmet district — the journey typically takes around 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. Upon arrival at your hotel, check-in and the rest of the day is entirely at your discretion. Choose to unwind with tea or a light supper in your hotel or nearby, but the focus is on rest. The journey ahead spans multiple cities and experiences, so this first night is about recovery and calm. There’s no agenda tonight — simply arrive, settle in, rest deeply and prepare for your journey through Istanbul and beyond.

After an early breakfast, your guide will collect you from your hotel at 08:30 AM. You will then make your way to the legendary Spice Market (Mısır Çarşısı) in Eminönü. Wander through aisles of spices, nuts, teas and sweets while learning about the centuries-old trade heritage of this market. Around late morning you board a ferry for the scenic crossing over the Bosphorus to the Asian side of Istanbul — ferry tickets (round-trip) are included. Upon arrival in Kadıköy, embark on a private food walking tour where you’ll sample authentic Turkish delicacies in markets, cafés and artisan food shops, learning about local food customs, neighbourhood life and hidden gems off the beaten path. The tour wraps approximately 17:00, with hotel drop-off included. The remainder of the evening is at your leisure — relax with dinner nearby or continue exploring Kadıköy’s nightlife or return to the European side for a quieter evening. Start / Finish: Hotel pickup 08:30 / Finish approx. 17:00 Inclusions: Hotel pickup & drop-off Guided visit to the Spice Market Round-trip ferry crossing across the Bosphorus (Europe ↔ Asia) Private food walking tour in Kadıköy with tastings