Exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia is a dream for many travelers. This 2-day tour from Istanbul by overnight bus offers a convenient way to experience the region’s captivating rock formations, ancient cave dwellings, and historic churches. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and ample time to discover the highlights, it’s an efficient yet immersive way to uncover the wonders of this unique destination. But what surprises await as you explore the enchanting world of Cappadocia?
Key Points
- 2-day Cappadocia tour from Istanbul with an overnight bus journey priced from £251.03 per person.
- Includes optional hotel pickup, English-speaking guide, and accommodation in a unique cave hotel.
- Departs from Istanbul at 8:30 PM for an 11-hour bus ride with 3 rest breaks, arriving in Göreme.
- Day 1 features a North Cappadocia Tour visiting Devrent Valley, Pasabag Monk’s Valley, Avanos, rock-cut churches, and Uchisar.
- Day 2 includes a South Cappadocia Tour exploring Red Valley, Güllüdere Valley, Çavuşin, and the Oz Konak Underground City before returning to Istanbul.
Tour Overview
This Cappadocia tour from Istanbul is a 2-day excursion that starts with an overnight bus journey from the city. Priced from £251.03 per person, the tour includes optional hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can expect a regular group tour experience, with an 11-hour bus ride to Göreme and a mix of guided tours and free time to explore Cappadocia’s natural wonders and cultural sites.
Accommodation is provided in a cave hotel, enhancing the unique experience of this tour.
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Itinerary Details
The 2-day Cappadocia tour begins with an overnight bus journey from Istanbul, departing at 8:30 PM.
The 11-hour trip includes 3 rest breaks along the way. Upon arrival in Goreme, guests will be transferred to their cave hotel.
The North Cappadocia Tour includes visits to:
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Devrent Valley’s unique rock formations
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Pasabag Monk’s Valley to see the famous "fairy chimneys"
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Avanos, known for its pottery
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Rock-cut churches in Zelve or Goreme
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Uchisar, the highest point in Cappadocia
Guests will spend the night in a cave hotel before embarking on the South Cappadocia Tour the next day.
Day 1: Departure From Istanbul
The tour begins with an overnight bus journey from Istanbul, departing at 8:30 PM.
Travelers embark on an 11-hour trek to Goreme, with 3 rest breaks along the way.
This unaccompanied journey allows them to rest and prepare for the exciting adventures that await in Cappadocia.
The bus ride covers the distance between the bustling city of Istanbul and the unique, otherworldly landscapes of this renowned region.
The journey traverses the expanse from Istanbul’s vibrant cityscape to Cappadocia’s captivating, otherworldly terrain.
As the sun sets, the group settles in for the long haul, anticipating the arrival in Cappadocia the next morning.
Day 2: Arrival in Cappadocia and North Cappadocia Tour
Upon arriving at the Goreme bus station, the group transfers to their hotel, ready to embark on the North Cappadocia Tour.
The tour begins with a visit to the otherworldly Devrent Valley, featuring unique rock formations. Next, they explore the Pasabag Monk’s Valley, home to whimsical "fairy chimneys."
Avanos, known for its pottery workshops, is the following stop. The tour then takes them to the ancient rock-cut churches of Zelve or Goreme.
Finally, they reach the Uchisar Castle, offering panoramic views of the region’s dramatic landscapes.
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Devrent Valley
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Pasabag Monk’s Valley
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Avanos pottery workshops
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Rock-cut churches of Zelve or Goreme
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Uchisar Castle
Day 3: South Cappadocia Tour and Return to Istanbul
After enjoying a hearty breakfast at their cave hotel, the group embarks on the South Cappadocia Tour.
They explore the stunning Red Valley, known for its vibrant red-pink hues. Next, they visit the Güllüdere Valley, a picturesque region with rock-cut churches and dwellings.
In the historic village of Çavuşin, they admire the abandoned rock houses. The tour continues to Pigeon Valley, where ancient dovecotes dot the landscape.
Finally, they venture underground to discover the Oz Konak Underground City, a fascinating subterranean complex.
At the end of the day, they transfer to the bus station for the overnight journey back to Istanbul.
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Highlights and Activities
This Cappadocia tour offers a wealth of natural wonders and cultural highlights.
Travelers will be captivated by the region’s twisted tufa landscape, fairy chimneys, and lunar-like scenery.
The tour includes visits to:
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Devrent Valley’s whimsical rock formations
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Pasabag Monk’s Valley, home to distinctive "mushroom" shaped pinnacles
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The ancient rock-cut churches of Zelve or Göreme
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Çavuşin’s abandoned rock houses, remnants of an early Christian settlement
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The expansive Güllüdere and Red Valleys, perfect for scenic hiking.
The highlight is an overnight stay in a cozy cave hotel, providing a truly unique Cappadocian experience.
Inclusions
The Cappadocia tour from Istanbul includes all transfers as per the itinerary, with overnight intercity coach and local bus tickets provided.
Travelers will enjoy 1 night’s stay in a cave hotel, including breakfast. Meals during the tour include breakfast and lunch as mentioned.
Entrance fees, parking, gas, highway and bridge fees are also covered. Local taxes and service charges are included, but tips, drinks with meals (except breakfast), and hotel drop-off are not.
Customer Feedback
Reviewers have given the Cappadocia tour from Istanbul an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 3 reviews.
The guide was highly rated at 4.5/5, while the transportation received a 2/5 score. Participants felt the tour provided good value for money, rating it 3/5.
Key positive feedback included:
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Friendly and helpful guide
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Efficient agency
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Well-organized tour
However, some issues were reported with transportation assistance, though the guide resolved them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code for this tour. Comfortable, practical clothing suitable for the weather and activities is recommended. Layers are advised as temperatures can vary. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for the hiking involved.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the bus. The tour allows passengers to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the journey. However, alcoholic drinks are not permitted.
Is Wifi Available on the Overnight Bus?
The overnight bus doesn’t provide WiFi, according to the tour details. Passengers will need to rely on their own mobile data or hotspot during the journey, as no onboard internet connectivity is mentioned.
How Much Free Time Do We Have During the Tour?
The tour provides limited free time, with the majority of the 2-day itinerary scheduled for guided activities and sightseeing. Travelers will have some time to explore on their own during the lunch breaks and hotel stays.
Can I Book Additional Activities or Extensions to the Tour?
Yes, you can book additional activities or extensions to the tour. The agency offers optional extras like hot air balloon rides, private tours, and extended stays in Cappadocia, which you can add to your package.
The Sum Up
This 2-day Cappadocia tour from Istanbul by overnight bus offers a chance to experience the region’s breathtaking landscapes and iconic rock formations. With comfortable transportation, guided tours of top sites, and a stay in a unique cave hotel, it’s an efficient way to explore Cappadocia’s highlights. The itinerary provides ample opportunity to take in the region’s natural and cultural wonders before the return journey to Istanbul.
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