Sacred Stones of Cappadocia: A Christian Heritage Journey

Everyday Guarantee Departures

1 Day

2 City

0 Reviews

Places to Visit

From IstanbulGoreme Open Air MuseumSt. Basil’s MonasteryKeslik MonasteryDerinkuyu Underground CityMonks ValleyUchisar CastleCappadocia

Tour Details Tour ID 984

Featured Details

Walk in the Footsteps of the Faithful in the Heart of Cappadocia

Step into the spiritual past of Cappadocia with a day trip designed for those interested in early Christianity. After a morning flight from Istanbul, visit Göreme Open Air Museum and its rock-cut churches with exquisite Byzantine frescoes, explore the serene St. Basil’s Monastery, and wander through the peaceful Keslik Monastery. Descend into the fascinating Derinkuyu Underground City, where early Christians once found refuge. Marvel at the otherworldly formations in Pasabag (Monks Valley) and take in panoramic views from Uchisar Castle.

Inclusions:

✅ Private guide with Christian historical expertise
✅ All entrance tickets to sites mentioned
✅ Private vehicle and driver
✅ All airport transfers in Istanbul and Cappadocia
✅ Small group tour

Exclusions:

❌ Meals and drinks
❌ Accommodation (already booked by you)
❌ Roundtrip flight fares of Istanbul-Cappadocia-Istanbul
❌ Personal expenses
❌ Hot air balloon flight *Not possible, because balloon flights are only available early morning, while you depart from Istanbul*

*Let us know if you would like to take a hot air balloon tour with this program. For the balloon ride, you must take an earlier flight before midnight (23:55) from Istanbul.

Departures : Everyday

Starting Point : Pick up from hotels in Istanbul

Duration : 1 Day

Language : English

✂ If you like to add balloon tour in your package you can add in the booking form, but your flight from Istanbul will be at 01:00 AM (if you don't book, it will be 07:00 am flight) and after you arrive Cappadocia you will have to wait in Balloon office around 2-3 hours. It can be very fatiguing. Becasue balloon flights are operated only 05:00 - 06:00 am

Tour Program

Schedule

Early Morning: You will be picked up from your Istanbul hotel at 04:00 AM and transferred to the airport for your flight at **06:55 AM to Cappadocia.

Morning: Upon arrival in Cappadocia, you will be greeted by our guide and transferred to Goreme, where your exciting adventure begins.

Approximately 09:00 AM: Start your first day of the tour, exploring the enchanting Fairy Chimneys and Rock Churches that define the unique beauty of Cappadocia.

** Not okay with early flight? This flight picked for you to experience Cappadocia in real depth, but if you don't mind skipping some of places in the itinerary we can put you on later flights such 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM or even afternoon. We give you flexibilty do not worry, please let us know in the booking form so we will make the arrangement accordingly.

Your tour typically starts around 09:00 and concludes by 16:00 at the latest.

Highlights of the day:

Visit Göreme Open Air Museum
Explore rock-cut churches adorned with well-preserved Byzantine frescoes in this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit St. Basil’s Monastery
Discover the history of St. Basil the Great, one of Cappadocia’s most important Christian figures, in this tranquil site.
Visit Keslik Monastery
Experience the peace of this hidden cave monastery, surrounded by nature and decorated with ancient frescoes.
Explore Derinkuyu Underground City
Venture deep into the largest excavated underground city in Cappadocia, once a refuge for early Christians.
Walk through Pasabag (Monks Valley)
Stroll among the region’s famous fairy chimneys and learn about the lives of the hermits who once lived here.
Climb Uchisar Castle
Enjoy panoramic views of the Cappadocian landscape from the region’s highest natural point.
17:30 – Transfer to the airport
19:00 – Flight to Istanbul
20:30 – Arrival in Istanbul and hotel drop-off
If you are not staying overnight in Cappadocia, we will provide a transfer to the airport.
If you are staying overnight, we will transfer you to your hotel in Cappadocia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is lunch included in the tour?
A: No, lunch is not included. However, there will be time for a lunch break at a local restaurant.

Q: Are flights from Istanbul included?
A: No, flights are not included. You must arrange round-trip flights between Istanbul and Cappadocia separately.

Q: How physically demanding is the tour?
A: The tour involves moderate walking, some stair climbing, and entering underground spaces. It’s recommended for those with average physical fitness.

Q: Will we have a Christian-focused guide?
A: Yes, the guide is experienced in Cappadocia’s Christian history and will provide detailed insights into the sites.

Q: Can the itinerary of the tour be customized?

A: The itinerary may not be fully customizable for a 1 Day Tour, but visitors may have some input on specific sites they would like to visit within the given timeframe.

Q: Is the tour suitable for families with children?

A: Yes, the tour is suitable for families with children, but it is important to let the tour operator know the ages of your children in advance so they can plan an appropriate itinerary. Note that some of the sites visited may require a lot of walking or climbing, so be sure to bring appropriate shoes and clothing for children.