Overview
The “Cappadocia Express II” offers an alternative yet equally immersive 2-day journey into the enchanting region of Cappadocia, tailored for those who prefer a morning departure from Istanbul. This tour provides a slightly different perspective on the region, beginning with a fascinating glimpse into the history of the legendary Silk Road. Upon arriving in Kayseri, your adventure starts with a visit to the Saruhan Caravanserai, a 12th-century roadside inn that once provided shelter to trading caravans, offering a tangible connection to the area’s commercial past. The itinerary is packed with explorations of Cappadocia’s unique valleys, including the Zelve Valley, a place where Muslims and Christians coexisted for centuries, and the imaginative landscapes of the Devrent Valley, famous for its animal-shaped rock formations. The second day mirrors the classic Cappadocian experience, featuring the UNESCO-listed Göreme Open Air Museum with its stunning rock-hewn churches and frescoes. You will also visit the troglodyte village of Uçhisar, see the iconic “fairy chimneys” in Pasabag Valley, and explore one of the incredible underground cities used as a sanctuary by early Christians. The tour thoughtfully includes cultural stops at a local pottery village and a traditional Turkish carpet workshop, ensuring a comprehensive and deeply memorable exploration of this extraordinary region.
Highlights
- Saruhan Caravanserai: Visit a 12th-century inn from the Seljuk era, offering insight into the historic Silk Road.
- Zelve Valley: Explore a valley where Muslims and Christians lived together until 1924.
- Devrent Valley: See the unique "fairy chimneys" and rock formations that resemble various animal shapes.
- Göreme Open Air Museum: Discover a complex of ancient rock-cut churches with beautifully preserved interior frescoes.
- Underground City: Descend into the Serhatli or Chardak underground city, a multi-leveled refuge.
- Avanos Pottery Village: Visit the town of Avanos, renowned for its local pottery traditions.
- Pasabag (Valley of the Monks): Witness the iconic mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys.
