Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Imperial Cities

Arrive 3 hours in advance at Tocumen International Airport to board Turkish Airlines flight TK 800 departing at 18:45hrs. Overnight on board.

Arrival at Istanbul International Airport, the third largest airport in the world, at 15:30hrs. Welcome to Türkiye, a country full of culture, history and unique experiences, where the differences between East and West blend together. Get ready to enjoy an extraordinary vacation.

After disembarking, passing through immigration and collecting your luggage, you must proceed to our meeting point at exit gate 8. Following this, meet our drivers for the transfer to the hotel. Accommodation.

Note: In case you do not find our representatives at the meeting point, you must contact our emergency number.

Breakfast. Full-day excursion PEARLS OF THE GOLDEN HORN AND BOSPHORUS

Departure at approx. 08:00 (schedule to be confirmed by the guide) (includes lunch at a traditional food restaurant)

Visit the old Jewish neighborhood in Balat, the Greek neighborhood in Fener and admire the magnificent views of the “Golden Horn”; afterwards visit St. George’s Cathedral, the main patriarchate of the Greek Orthodox Church; continue to the Suleymaniye Mosque, designed by the Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan and featuring the largest dome of all the mosques in Istanbul.

We head to the Spice Bazaar, a place with a special charm due to its color and aroma, the ideal place to purchase teas, herbs, dried fruits, traditional sweets and of course spices; ending with a boat ride through the Bosphorus, the strait that divides the city between Europe and Asia, where we will appreciate the wonderful views of Ottoman fortresses, palaces, villas and the bridges connecting both sides of this metropolis. Return to the hotel. Accommodation

Note: The order of the excursion days in Istanbul may be reversed, according to operational conditions, such as number of participants, weather, traffic or monument closing days.

Breakfast. Departure for Safranbolu. On the way, we will make a stop for a walk through the streets of Yoruk village, an ancient Ottoman village with magnificent views. Continue to Safranbolu, arrival and stop at Hıdırlık Hill, a panoramic viewpoint of the city. Free time for lunch (Not included) in the old town of the city. Return to the hotel. Dinner at the hotel. Accommodation.

Breakfast. On the way to Cappadocia, you will be able to admire Salt Lake, where a stop will be made to take photographs at this spectacular place, followed by a visit to a Caravanserai, a lodging place from the Silk Road era. Dinner at the hotel. Accommodation.

We suggest taking the OPTIONAL HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE EXCURSION (subject to weather and meteorological conditions).

➤ Approx. 2 Hours duration / Spanish-Speaking Assistance / Transfers from and to the hotel *The operation of this ride will depend on weather conditions. In case of cancellation, the excursion may be moved to the following day according to availability, replaced with the Hot Air Balloon excursion in Pamukkale and/or excursion combo, or receive a full refund*.

Departure is around 5:30 in the morning in order to arrive in good time because the balloons can only fly during the early hours of the day, allowing you to appreciate the beautiful sunrise and avoid air currents. The capacity of each basket depends on the balloon, but they accommodate 20 to 24 people. Once at the site (6:00 in the morning), you can watch the balloon preparation. It is something beautiful to see, how the balloon lying on the ground begins to fill with air through the burners. Once the balloon is ready and after having breakfast, everyone boards the basket.

Breakfast.

Departure at approx. 08:00hrs to visit this wonderful region with its fascinating and original landscape formed by volcanic lava more than 3 million years ago. Starting with the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a monastery with chapels carved into volcanic rock and decorated with frescoes from the 13th century. Continuing toward the impressive valleys of the region with their “otherworldly” landscapes, you will be able to appreciate views of the symbols of the region’s geological formations, the famous “Fairy Chimneys.” A stop will be made to enjoy the incredible and extensive panoramic view of some of the famous volcanic rock valleys with spectacular formations. Lunch en route (Not included). Return to the hotel. Dinner at the hotel. Accommodation.

Optional visit to an underground city in Cappadocia, one of the many impressive engineering works built by ancient local communities to protect themselves from attacks throughout history. At the end of the tour, visit a carpet center to learn about the artisanal production of these pieces that are true treasures, and a precious stone center, featuring jewelry with exclusive designs from the region.

Breakfast. Departure toward Ankara for a panoramic visit of the capital of Türkiye and the Atatürk Mausoleum, founder of the Republic. Arrival in Istanbul. Accommodation.

Breakfast. Free day for personal activities. Room check-out at 12:00m.

(Passengers may leave their luggage in storage until the time of transfer to the airport).

At the appropriate time, transfer to the airport to take flight TK 1037 to Budapest departing at 19:05hrs. Arrival at Budapest International Airport at approximately 19:15hrs, where a Spanish-speaking representative will meet you for your transfer to the hotel. Accommodation.

Breakfast. Tour exploring the beauties of Budapest. Budapest, often called the “Pearl of the Danube,” is divided in two by the majestic river. Buda, on a hill, is home to Buda Castle and offers panoramic views of the city, while Pest, on the plain, is the bustling center of nightlife and cultural life. We will embark on a panoramic tour of Budapest, a city that perfectly combines its imperial past with a vibrant present. We will begin at the imposing Heroes’ Square, a monument commemorating the leaders of the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary. Then, we will pass by the splendid Hungarian Parliament, one of the largest legislative buildings in the world, with its impressive Neo-Gothic façade dominating the banks of the Danube.

St. Stephen’s Basilica, the largest religious building in Budapest, will also be part of the tour. In the afternoon, we will have the freedom to choose between exploring the city more deeply or simply relaxing in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths, such as the Széchenyi Bath, a rejuvenating experience that has been part of Hungarian culture for centuries. Accommodation.

We suggest taking the OPTIONAL GUIDED TOUR TO DISCOVER THE PARLIAMENT AND THE JEWISH QUARTER

A tour designed to discover the Parliament, one of Budapest’s most outstanding monuments. (includes entrance and visit with audio guide). Then we continue with a tour of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, allowing you to discover Jewish history and culture in Hungary. You will visit the Great Synagogue, the second largest in the world, and learn about the local Jewish community, its tragic history during the Holocaust and its rebirth in modern times. The neighborhood is also full of street art, modern cafés and vibrant nightlife. We will continue toward the Carl Lutz Memorial, which pays tribute to the Swiss diplomat who saved many Jews, and then to the Ángel Sanz Briz mural, which commemorates the Spanish diplomat who saved 5,000 people. Afterwards, we will explore the Status Quo Synagogue, designed by Otto Wagner, and visit the last remnant of the ghetto on Király Street. Before finishing, we will make a stop at Vásárcsarnok (Market Hall) and walk along Váci Street. We will also head to the majestic Buda Castle. Finally, we will conclude the tour in front of the majestic Budapest Opera House as a panoramic stop, where we will learn about its history and admire its imposing façade.

OR We suggest taking the OPTIONAL NIGHT CRUISE ON THE DANUBE TO ADMIRE THE ILLUMINATED CITY.

A magical experience that will allow you to admire Budapest’s architectural gems from the Danube River. As the sun sets, the buildings light up, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The Parliament, the Chain Bridge and Buda Castle are reflected in the waters, offering an unforgettable view of the city at night.

OR We suggest taking the OPTIONAL GYPSY NIGHT EXCURSION

We invite you to enjoy our “Gypsy Night,” a Hungarian folklore show celebrating the rich culture of the Gypsies in Hungary. In a welcoming atmosphere, we will taste traditional Hungarian dishes, beginning with the famous goulash soup and delicious meats that will provide an unforgettable gastronomic experience. In addition, you will have the opportunity to taste the famous Hungarian wines, both red and white, which will be available without limit on our menu. During dinner, you will be able to enjoy live Gypsy music while watching traditional Hungarian folk dances performed by artists in typical clothing. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Hungarian culture through its music, dance and gastronomy.

Breakfast.

We will leave Budapest to head toward the capital of Austria, Vienna.

On the way, possibility of taking the OPTIONAL EXCURSION TO BRATISLAVA.

The small but charming capital of Slovakia. In Bratislava, you will be able to enjoy a walk through the historic center, where modern sculptures and medieval monuments blend harmoniously. Highlights include St. Martin’s Church, a Gothic building that was once the coronation site of Hungarian kings, and St. Michael’s Gate, one of the few city gates that has survived intact.

Arrival in Vienna, the elegant capital of Austria, on a journey that will allow us to admire the Central European countryside. Upon arrival, we will have the option of enjoying a panoramic visit in the afternoon. Vienna, a city steeped in imperial history, is famous for its refined architecture, such as that found along the Ringstrasse. Here, monuments such as the State Opera and Parliament will take your breath away. The city was the center of Habsburg power for centuries and its legacy can be felt on every corner. In the Hofburg Imperial Area, you will be able to imagine royal life as you explore the ancient halls where decisions were made that changed the course of history. Free afternoon. Accommodation.

We suggest taking the OPTIONAL IMPERIAL PALACES TOUR

We will explore the impressive residences of the Habsburg dynasty on this fascinating tour. We will begin at Hofburg Palace, where we will make a panoramic stop to enjoy its architectural diversity and learn about the famous Spanish Riding School. Then, we will head to Schönbrunn Palace, known as the “Beautiful Spring.” Here, we will enjoy admission to explore its beautiful gardens and climb up to the Gloriette to admire magnificent views.

We will also have time to visit the oldest zoo in Europe, located within the same palace. Finally, we will make a panoramic stop at Belvedere Palace, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, before returning to our hotel.

Breakfast. Free day for personal activities. Accommodation.

We suggest taking the OPTIONAL IMPERIAL MELODIES EXCURSION (Includes the visit to Mayerling, Seegrotte and Baden).

We will begin our journey through the Vienna Woods, the northeastern extension of the Alps. The first stop will be Liechtenstein Castle, a medieval fortress located high on a cliff, famous for its impressive Gothic architecture and panoramic views of the surroundings. This historic castle, restored in the 19th century, transports us into the past with its fairy-tale atmosphere and its connection to Austria’s noble history. We continue to Seegrotte, a former mine used by the Nazis during World War II, where we will enjoy a spectacular boat ride on the largest underground lake in Europe. We will continue through the magnificent forests outside Vienna until reaching the Mayerling Hunting Lodge, known for the Mayerling tragedy, and today converted into a monastery of Carmelite nuns. We will finish the tour with a visit to the charming spa town of Baden, which inspired Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. There, we will enjoy some free time before returning.

OR We suggest taking at night the DREAM MELODIES: CONCERT IN THE CITY OF MUSIC*.*

Get ready to experience an unforgettable night in Vienna, the capital of classical music. On this exclusive optional tour, you will enjoy a spectacular concert by the famous Vienna salon orchestra, which has placed the city on the world musical map. The event will feature impressive soloists who will captivate you with their talent, while the melodies of the waltzes will transport you to a world of elegance and sophistication. Every note and every chord will resonate in a magical atmosphere, turning the evening into a unique experience. After the concert, we will provide you with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, where you can reflect on the wonderful night filled with music and art.

Breakfast.

Departure toward Prague. After arrival in Prague, a panoramic tour through Prague’s historic center will give you the opportunity to admire the magnificent Old Town Square, with its famous Astronomical Clock, a medieval masterpiece that continues to keep time with impressive precision. Not far away, the Church of Týn, with its distinctive Gothic towers, dominates the skyline, while the majestic Charles Bridge, crossing the Vltava River, will offer you unforgettable views of the city.”

During your tour you will also see other historic sites such as Republic Square, home to the Powder Tower, one of the original entrances to the old city, and Wenceslas Square, the site of important historical events such as the Velvet Revolution. Prague’s Jewish Quarter is another fascinating point, with its rich history dating back centuries, and St. Nicholas Church, a sublime example of Baroque architecture. Known for its narrow streets, historic squares and fairy-tale buildings, Prague is a city where every corner is worthy of being photographed. You can choose to get lost in the charming Lesser Town (Malá Strana), stroll through the gardens of Prague Castle or simply sit in a traditional café and enjoy a Czech beer while watching life go by. Accommodation.

Breakfast. Free day for personal activities. Accommodation.

We suggest taking the OPTIONAL KARLOVY VARY EXCURSION

Just two hours from Prague, visiting Karlovy Vary is an experience you cannot miss. This city was one of Europe’s most famous health centers before the development of modern medicine. Our tour begins at the Karlsbad Plaza hotel, next to the Teplá River, from where we will begin to discover this charming city. We visit the famous “Lazne,” thermal water springs restored for public use, where you can taste these mineral-rich waters using the typical porcelain mugs sold in the city. As we walk, we will admire Karlovy Vary’s fascinating architecture and take photographs along the river. We conclude the tour at the other end of the main avenue. At the end, we will have free time to explore garnet and porcelain shops, known for their good prices and excellent quality compared with Prague.

Breakfast. Free day for personal activities. Accommodation.

We suggest taking the OPTIONAL DRESDEN EXCURSION

On our optional tour to Dresden, we will explore the charming capital of Saxony, known as the “Florence of the Elbe.” We will begin with a visit to Hof Cathedral, Zwinger Palace and the Semper Opera House. We will admire the Procession of Princes, made of German porcelain, the emblematic Frauenkirche, and the statue of Martin Luther. We will walk along Brühl’s Terrace, the historic Altmarkt Square and the commercial Prager Strasse. At the end of the walking tour, we will have free time for you to explore the city at your own pace.

Breakfast. Free day for personal activities. Room check-out at 12:00m.

(Passengers may leave their luggage in storage until the time of transfer to the airport).

At the appropriate time, transfer to the airport to take flight TK 1770 departing at 19:25hrs with destination to the city of Istanbul. Overnight on board.

Arrival at the international airport at 00:05hrs. (Approximate waiting time at the airport 8hrs). Then connect with flight TK 801 departing at 08:00hrs returning to Panama City (technical stop in Bogotá).