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Private Tour to Mesopotamia and Cappadocia 9 Days

Private Tour to Mesopotamia and Cappadocia 9 Days

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tourhub | Bien Cappadocia Travel | Private Tour to Mesopotamia and Cappadocia 9 Days | 695220 | Map

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9 Days From

~~$6819~~

$6625

Private Tour to Mesopotamia and Cappadocia 9 Days

9 Days Starting in Istanbul, Türkiye and ending in Istanbul

Visiting: Cappadocia, Gaziantep, Sanliurfa, Mount Nemrut, Mardin, Istanbul

Tour operator:

Bien Cappadocia Travel

Tour code:

695220

Group Type:

Private

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 8

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

0-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Jain, Halal

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish

Interests:

Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $6819 $6625 (USD) Tourhub's Discount: -$194

NB: Prices correct on 26-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 9-day private tour through the heart of Turkey, exploring the enchanting regions of Cappadocia and Mesopotamia. This journey begins in Istanbul, whisking you away to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where you'll stay in a unique cave hotel and explore the fairy chimneys and ancient rock formations. Discover the rich history of the region with visits to the Goreme Open Air Museum and the underground city of Kaymakli. As you travel to Mesopotamia, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Gaziantep, savoring its renowned baklava, and explore the ancient sites along the Euphrates River. Experience the spiritual allure of Sanliurfa and the historical treasures of Mardin, including the Monastery of Deyr-az-Zaferan and the ancient city of Dara. With luxurious accommodations and a knowledgeable local guide, this tour offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.

Highlights

We offer you the chance to visit the two most fascinating main points of Turkey, Cappadocia and Mesopotamia, in a single tour
While this unforgettable experience will take you on a journey in history, it will also introduce you to today's authentic world
Thanks to your local guide and itinerary, you can establish deeper bonds with people and taste the different flavors of the wonderfully delicious Turkish cuisine

Places You'll See

annieduduc

Cappadocia, Turkey

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

Itinerary

tourhub | Bien Cappadocia Travel | Private Tour to Mesopotamia and Cappadocia 9 Days | 695220 | Route Map

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Day 1 : Fly to Nevşehir

Cappadocia, Turkey

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation: Hotel

Istanbul to Cappadocia
Fly to Cappadocia from Istanbul at desired hour.
You will meet your driver at airport ( Kayseri or Nevsehir) and tranfer to your hotel.
Overnight in a Cave Hotel in Cappadocia

Day 2 : Goreme

Cappadocia, Turkey

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Lunch

Cappadocia
Optional Hot air balloon flight at sunrise. Please do not forget to ask for reservation. You will return to the hotel around 08:00am
Our professional guide and the driver will pick you up at your hotel at 10:00. The first stop is Esentepe, the impressive panoramic viewpoint overlooking Goreme. Here your guide will give you information on the history of Cappadocia and the unique rock formations.
We visit the beginning of Rose Valley for an easy one-hour hike through fairy chimneys, orchards and vineyards.
Our next stop is the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your guide will explain the meanings of the frescoes in the cave churches, decorated with scenes of the Old and New Testaments dating back to the 10th century. The site has been used as a monastery since the first years of Christianity.
Monk’s Valley with the famous mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys as well as St. Simeon’s monk cell carved into the rock.
Devrent’s animal-shaped rock formations are really interensting Cappadocia phenomenon.
k. Day one concludes in Avanos, a picturesque town on a river that supplies clay for the 4000 year-old Avanos tradition of pottery. A kick-wheel demonstration by a local potter and your chance at trying this ancient custom brings our day to an end. You will arrive back at your hotel around 5pm.
Overnight in a Cave Hotel

Day 3 : Derinkuyu

Cappadocia, Turkey

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Lunch

Cappadocia
Our professional guide and the driver will pick you up from your hotel at 9:30. Our first stop is the amazing Kaymakli Underground City. It is the first and most popular underground city in Cappadocia. This complex carved underground is used for hundreds of years by locals to hide from Romans, Persians and Arabs.
After departing Kaymakli, we will drive further south to the magnificent verdant Ihlara Valley. We walk alongside the Melendiz River for about 1 hour which winds its way through the Ihlara gorge, stopping for lunch in a restaurant on the river in the village of Belisirma.
After lunch, we continue to the Selime Monastery, the largest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia with a large cave cathedral and breathtaking views over the area.
On our way back to Goreme we stop at the spectacular vista point overlooking Pigeon Valley. Our final stop will be at a local onyx factory to see a demonstration on carving and shaping onyx. We will then drive back to your hotel arriving around 6pm.
Overnight in a Cave Hotel

Day 4 : Gaziantep

Location: Gaziantep

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Cappadocia to Gaziantep
After breakfast, departure from your hotel at 08:00. We will stop along the way for lunch. Arriving to Gaziantep around 14:00 and continuing on to visit the world famous Gaziantep Mosaic Museum. This museum exhibits superb mosaics discovered at the Roman site of Belkis-Zeugma before the Birecik Dam flooded most of the site.
We will visit the old city castle which is located in the center of the city and copper bazaar. This bazaar is one of the most special and oldest bazaars in Turkey. You can find a variety of copper handcrafts. We will also have the chance to taste famous baklava; a sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey (Baklava is originally from Gaziantep). After visiting the city, drive to the hotel and check-in. Your guide will recommend/escort you (if you wish) to dinner to taste some of the world famous cuisine of Gaziantep!
Overnight in Gaziantep

Day 5 : Gaziantep

Location: Sanliurfa

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Gaziantep to Sanlıurfa
After breakfast, check-out from our hotel and today we will explore the ancient settlements that lived along the Euphrates river. The main three settlements that used to be along this beautiful river are the; twin settlements that made Zeugma, Halfeti the partially submerged town, and Rumkale the statically important river fortress.
After lunch on the river, we continue to Sanliurfa which has been occupied since the Babylonians followed by the Hurrites, Hittites, Assyrians, Greeks.
We will visit the Urfa Archaeological Museum. This museum exhibits a huge collection, founded from Harran and Gobeklitepe Area.
We will also visit the holy sites at the Ainzelha, a lake with millions of domesticated fish.
While in Urfa we will visit the cave where the prophet Abraham was born. Then, walk through the local covered bazaar of Sanliurfa. Walk through the town to discover the many hidden treasures.
Overnight in Sanlıurfa

Day 6 : Harran

Location: Mount Nemrut

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Sanlıurfa to Adıyaman
After breakfast at the hotel we will visit nearby Harran and see the incredible beehive houses. Harran- according to the Bible- was the site where prophet Abraham spent a few years with his family before moving on to Israel, the Promised Land. There are exceptional photo opportunities in this area.
In the afternoon drive to Kahta city. On the way, you will see Gobeklitepe, a hilltop sanctuary erected on the highest point of an elongated mountain ridge some 15 km northeast of the town of Urfa. What makes Gobeklitepe unique in its class is the date it was built, which is roughly twelve thousand years ago, circa 10,000 BC.
Arsameia on the Nymphaios is an ancient city located in Old Kâhta in Kâhta district, Adıyaman Province, Turkey. The site is near Kâhtaçay, known in ancient times as Nymphaios. Arsameia was a royal seat of the kingdom of Commagene. It is best known for the Hierothesion of King Mithridates I Kallinikos, built for him by his son and heir Antiochos I.
We will cross over the still functioning Cendere Bridge (Septimius Severus bridge) dating all the way back to the 3rd century
We will see the Karakuş Tumulus (also Karakush) is a funerary monument—a hierothesion—for Queen Isias and Princesses Antiochis and Aka I of Commagene, built by Mithridates II of Commagene in 30–20 BCE, near the modern village of Çukurtaş in Kâhta District, Adıyaman Province, Turkey.
We will hike to the summit of mount Nemrut (one of the most popular UNESCO world cultural heritage sites), watching the sunset, be amazed by the colossal heads and statues of ancient deities, as you step into mythology. This extraordinary landmark rests at an elevation of 8000 ft. The mountain top complex is composed of two flattened areas strewn with statues and separated by a false peak of crushed rock. Antiochus built the entire complex approximately 2000 years ago as a monument to his divine ancestry. After visiting Nemrut, drive to the hotel.
Overnight in Adıyaman

Day 7 : Mardin

Location: Mardin

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Adıyaman to Mardin
After breakfast, departure to Mardin. We will reach Mardin around 11:00 and visit this old, historical city. Mardin is very unique with lovely old-Arabic style houses. The houses are often decorated with intricate carvings. This is a very lively trading center with people coming from surrounding villages to buy and sell. We will have a fantastic view of the Plain of Mesopotamia. It is a city that played an important role in the early development of Christianity.
We will visit Forty Martyrs Church (Kirklar Kilisesi). This church dates back to the 4th century, and was renamed in the 15th century to commemorate Cappadocian martyrs, now remembered in the fine carvings above the entrance.
Then, we will visit Zinciriye Madrasah (Zinciriye Medresesi). This theological school was built by Melik Necmeddin Isa in 1385. Spend the afternoon walking in its busy streets and bazaars, and admire the stonework all around the town.
Overnight in Mardin

Day 8 : Alimli

Location: Mardin

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Mardin
After breakfast we will visit the Monastery of Deyr-az-Zaferan just outside of town, founded in 762 A.D. It was the seat of the Syrian Orthodox Patriarch for almost 800 years.
Continue onto the ancient city of Dara. This historical ancient city, known as the Ephesus of Mesopotamia, is an important settlement on the Silk Road. The remains of the ancient city of Dara are spread over a large area of 9 km and mostly carved into rocks. Around the village, visitors can see the cave houses carved into the rock. Additionally, a church, a palace, a bazaar and related storage facilities, a dungeon, a cannon foundry, and the aqueduct are still extant. Back to Mardin early afternoon for the last shopping and soaking in ancient Mesopotamia.
Overnight in Mardin

Day 9 : Istanbul

The Blue Mosque, Istanbul

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

Istanbul

Ariel view of Istanbul

Mosque in Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Mardin to Istanbul
Transfer to Mardin Airport for flight to Istanbul

What's Included

Lunch
All transportation with luxruy vehicles
Domestic Flight Tickets
Entrance Tickets to Museums and Sights
Accomodation with Breakfast
Licensed and Experienced Tour Guide

What's Not Included

All Taxes
Personal Expenses
Beverages at Lunch
Dinners

Know Before You Go

Public Transportation Nearby
Passport Required

Please Note

Not wheelchair accessible
Not stroller accessible
Not suitable for pets
Infants must not sit on laps
Infant seats unavailable

Accommodation

3 to 5 Star Hotels

Check out our Q&As

Are airport transfers included in this tour?

All transfers included
Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

We will share all the details of the itinerary
Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

The tour have a tour leader as a proffesional licensed tour guide.
Is the tour coach air conditioned?

Yes all transfer and tour vans are modern and with air conditioning.
What is the maximum group size?

12

Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

Yes, please contact with us.
Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

Yes
Are all entrance fees included in the price?

Yes
Are flights included in this tour?

Domestic flights rountrip included
What documents will I receive before I travel?

More than the documents you have recived from tourhub, we will prove you your domestic flight tickets and required confirmations and informations.
How long has the tour company been trading?

Since 2020, We are a professional team that got together for one idea, which is providing the best exclusive tailor made travel options for everyone. Our team consists of one businessman currently managing a hotel in cappadocia and also flying with a hot air balloon as a pilot and one professional nationwide tour guide who is experienced for more than a decade.
What policies are in place for Covid-19?

Currently, as the situation surrounding COVID is not a significant concern, we want to assure you that we do not have any specific COVID policies in place. However, we remain vigilant and closely monitor the situation to adapt our practices accordingly. Your health and comfort are of utmost priority, and we are committed to providing a worry-free travel experience. Rest assured, any necessary measures will be implemented should the need arise, ensuring your journey with us remains both enjoyable and secure.
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

If you wish to change your holiday dates, please contact us first, and we will do our best to offer you the utmost flexibility. Otherwise, our cancellation policies will apply.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Yes, we collaborate with hotels that boast the best reputations and meet our premium standards

Reviews of this operator

Loyren O

Increíble

13-Jul-2022

Saygu es un guía increíble! Desde el primer momento nos sentimos cómodos con el! Es muy gracioso, inteligente, atento y educado! La información que da es muy concreta, fácil de entender y aprender! Lo recomiendo para cualquier tour que tenga disponible.

https://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g293974-d23985327-Reviews-Bien_Cappadocia_Travel-Istanbul.html

Ricky S

New Friends in Turkey

14-Dec-2022

These people has very good understanding of a tourist mind. I had a day trip from Istanbul to SAnlıurfa and ıt was amazing. Deffinetly will be back for Cappadocia and balloons

https://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g293974-d23985327-Reviews-Bien_Cappadocia_Travel-Istanbul.html

sigrid o

Great fun, lots learned!

13-Jul-2023

What an amazing experience this was, and a big part of it was the great service provided by Bien Cappadocia - such nice and knowledgeable folks! Saygu, the tour guide, was kind and funny, ready to answer all your question! - book them! And also the price is better then other tour services!

https://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g293974-d23985327-Reviews-Bien_Cappadocia_Travel-Istanbul.html

ddikelly

I doubt you’ll find a better guide!

09-Sep-2022

My daughter and I spent 2 very full days touring the Cappadocia area with Saygu and driver Yusuf on a private tour. Both were excellent. Saygu seriously knows his stuff and I’ve no idea how he can remember so much. He’s amusing, chatty and an absolute pleasure to spend time with. His English is excellent (although I understand he speaks German just as fluently). Nothing is a silly question and he’s very happy to chat about anything you’re not understanding or are curious about. A real font of knowledge. I doubt you can find a better guide in Cappadocia. We hope to return and visit Istanbul and I’ll be sure to book him for this or any other tour of Turkish destinations.

https://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g293974-d23985327-Reviews-Bien_Cappadocia_Travel-Istanbul.html

Priya T

Awesome trip!

09-Jun-2023

Saygu and team were amazing! They truly organised everything down to the T and ensured that I was very well taken care of. Gobeklitepe was my goal and they ensured that I had enough time to spend there. They really took time to also ensure that I got to do all the things I wanted to. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and informative. I would highly recommend this tour.

https://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g293974-d23985327-Reviews-Bien_Cappadocia_Travel-Istanbul.html

ANGELES C

Tiempos pasados

01-Dec-2022

Se dice que aquí estuvo la primera universidad del mundo, las casas antiguas se hacían con una especie de adobe manteniendo la temperatura perfecta

https://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g293974-d23985327-Reviews-Bien_Cappadocia_Travel-Istanbul.html

Trek721369

Highly recommend!

23-Jul-2023

A truly amazing experience. Everything was planned for us and made very clear so there was no confusion, which was helpful considering we only had 2 hours of sleep between our flight and waking up for the hot air balloon tour pickup! If I ever go back to Cappadocia I would 100% go through Bien Cappadocia again to schedule my tours. You get dropped off in time to watch the hot air balloons get filled and then board the balloon. They provide some snacks and the balloon pilot was very knowledgeable of the area and kept the trip fun and enjoyable. Insanely beautiful sights and definitely worth the early wake up. Once you land they have a little toast with everyone to celebrate. Something I will never forget!!

https://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g293974-d23985327-Reviews-Bien_Cappadocia_Travel-Istanbul.html

jon s

Wonderful tour Ur - Gobekli Tepe

17-Aug-2023

We were truly cared for by Emine Yesim Bedlek. She guided us through the exhibits at Gobekli Tepe. She shared her in depth knowledge of which she has written several books. We had a wonderful lunch at a local restaurant and strolled thru the local market. Very much appreciated Emine Yesim Bedlek! We had a terrific time! Thank you!

https://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g293974-d23985327-Reviews-Bien_Cappadocia_Travel-Istanbul.html

yan

amazing experience

06-Jun-2022

The tour guide was very enthusiastic and professional and we had a great day. He also arranged airport pick up and drop off for us. He also helped us book a hot air balloon trip, there were hundreds of hot air balloons in the sky at sunrise, which was breathtaking. The caves are also amazing. The trip to Cappadocia is an unforgettable experience!

https://www.tripadvisor.com.tr/Attraction_Review-g293974-d23985327-Reviews-Bien_Cappadocia_Travel-Istanbul.html

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Tuesday - Wednesday

Apr 29, 2025 - May 07, 2025

~~$6819~~ $6625 (USD)