My husband and I chose Inca Tour for our honeymoon and we are so glad we did. The boutique hotel selection was beautiful and the Bosphorus dinner cruise was so romantic. Thank you for making our trip special!
From Aksaray
Aksaray City Day Tour – Sultanhani, Hasan Mountain & Ihlara
Explore Aksaray’s Rich Heritage in One Day
Embark on a fully guided daily excursion that whisks you from the heart of Aksaray to some of Central Anatolia’s most captivating sites. With a comfortable air‑conditioned coach, an English‑speaking guide, and a tasty Turkish lunch, this 7‑hour day tour offers a perfect blend of history, nature and culture, all within a single, relaxed itinerary.
- Sultanhani Caravanserai – a monumental Seljuk stopover that resembles a fortified palace, featuring an ornate portal and a spacious courtyard surrounded by vaulted rooms.
- Ulu Mosque – the 15th‑century masterpiece designed by the renowned architect Firuz, showcasing exquisite Seljuk stonework.
- Hasan Mountain – a striking volcanic peak rising to 3,000 m, offering panoramic views and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Ihlara Valley – a lush gorge carved by the Melendiz River, dotted with centuries‑old rock‑cut churches and frescoes.
- Historic city centre – free time to wander Aksaray’s bustling streets, taste local delicacies and soak up the everyday atmosphere.
The journey begins at your hotel in Aksaray, where you’ll be welcomed by our driver and escorted to the first marvel – the Sultanhani Caravanserai. Built along the ancient Silk Road, this caravanserai served as a safe haven for merchants and travelers. Its massive stone gateway, intricate geometric patterns and surrounding arcades reveal the ingenuity of Seljuk architecture and the importance of trade routes that once linked East and West.
Just a short drive away lies the Ulu Mosque, a spiritual landmark commissioned in the 1400s. Architect Firuz blended traditional Seljuk motifs with early Ottoman influences, creating a sanctuary that still resonates with worshippers today. Inside, you’ll notice the delicate stone carvings and the lofty prayer hall that has stood for over five centuries.
After a leisurely lunch featuring regional specialties, the tour heads toward Hasan Mountain. This extinct volcano dominates the skyline between Aksaray and Niğde and is famed for its three natural ski areas. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a mountain‑biker, or simply a lover of breathtaking vistas, Hasan offers a refreshing contrast to the historic sites you’ve already explored.
The final highlight is the Ihlara Valley, a verdant canyon that shelters an impressive collection of rock‑cut churches dating back to the Byzantine era. As you stroll along the riverbanks, your guide will point out frescoes that tell stories of early Christian communities who sought refuge in these hidden sanctuaries. The valley’s cool microclimate and towering cliffs create a serene backdrop for reflection and photography.
Practical notes: the tour runs from 8 am to approximately 3 pm, includes all entrance fees listed in the itinerary, and provides a comfortable, non‑smoking coach. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces, and bring a light jacket for the higher altitude at Hasan Mountain. This daily tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal addition to any Aksaray stay.
Quick facts
| Tour type | Private · day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 7 Hours |
| Price | From €210 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | Licensed guide in your language |
| Stops | 5 |
| Entrance fees | Included |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours · TÜRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Tour Programme
Your full day programme — click to see every stop.
Aksaray City Highlights ▾
Pick‑up at 8:00 am from your Aksaray hotel. The day opens with a short drive to the Sultanhani Caravanserai, where the guide explains its role on the Silk Road and points out the intricate portal and surrounding arcades. Next, we visit the 15th‑century Ulu Mosque, admiring Firuz’s stone craftsmanship and learning about its religious significance. After the cultural immersion, we return to Aksaray for a delicious Turkish lunch featuring local dishes such as testi kebab and gözleme. Post‑lunch, you have free time to explore the city centre at your own pace, perhaps sampling a cup of Turkish tea in a traditional café. In the early afternoon we set off for Hasan Mountain, where the guide highlights the volcano’s geological formation, its three ski resorts and the opportunities for hiking, mountain‑biking and winter sports. Finally, we descend into the Ihlara Valley, strolling along the Melendiz River while discovering the hidden rock‑cut churches, their frescoes and the story of early Christian hermits. The tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, leaving you with lasting memories of Aksaray’s diverse heritage.
What's Included
✓ Included
- Professional English‑speaking guide
- Fully guided tour in English
- Lunch (Turkish cuisine)
- Air‑conditioned, non‑smoking coach
- Hotel pick‑up and drop‑off
- All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
- Guided Aksaray City tour
✕ Not Included
- International or domestic flights
- Travel insurance
- City tax
- Turkey entry visa
- Personal expenses (extra meals, souvenirs, etc.)
- Tips for guide and driver
- Any other expenses not listed in the included section
Your Route Across Turkey
Aksaray → Aksaray Highlights → Aksaray Sultanhani → Hasan Mountain → Ihlara
Our Tour Vehicles
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles — the same fleet we use on your tour.
👥 54 Seats
👥 37 Seats (2+1 VIP)
👥 55 Seats
👥 54 Seats
👥 50 Seats
👥 50 Seats
👥 50 Seats
👥 46 Seats
👥 37+2 Seats
👥 37 Seats
👥 35 Seats
👥 16+1 Seats
👥 16+1 Seats
👥 12+1 Seats
👥 6+1 Seats
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What Our Travellers Say
Real, verified reviews from travellers who explored Turkey with us.
It was important for us to have a guide who spoke Russian, and Ender was wonderful. He explained every detail at Dolmabahce Palace. The Princes Islands day trip was a beautiful break from the busy city.
Our guide Ender was incredibly knowledgeable about Turkish history. The hot-air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia was the highlight of our trip. Everything was perfectly organized — from airport pick-up to the last d...
Ender was our Italian-speaking guide and we felt like family. He took us to local spots tourists never see. The hotel choice in Sultanahmet was perfect for walking everywhere.
10+ years later we still talk about our Cappadocia balloon ride and the Bosphorus sunset cruise. Some memories are timeless. Thank you Inca Tour!












