Istanbul to Ephesus
Embark on a journey through the diverse landscapes of Turkey, commencing in the vibrant city of Istanbul. From there, explore captivating Cappadocia, where hidden underground cities, the Open Air Museum, and the natural fortress of Uchisar await your discovery. Continue your adventure by visiting Pamukkale and the historic city of Hierapolis. In Selcuk, pay homage to the ancient Temple of Artemis and meander through the picturesque village of Sirince. This tour promises a blend of history, culture, tasty food, and natural wonders.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Istanbul
Day 1 Welcome to Istanbul
Friday. Welcome to the vibrant city of Istanbul, the beginning of your exciting adventure. Upon your arrival, our friendly representative will be there to greet you and accompany you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 2 Tour of Istanbul
Day 2 Tour of Istanbul
Following breakfast at the hotel, your day in Istanbul begins with a guided tour that will take you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the exterior of St. Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Day 3 Bound for Cappadocia
Day 3 Bound for Cappadocia
Istanbul - Ankara - Cappadocia. Today our journey takes us to Ankara, where we'll pay a visit to the Mausoleum of Ataturk and its Museum. This sacred site serves as the final resting place of the esteemed national hero who played a pivotal role in the establishment of the modern Republic of Turkey.
From Ankara, our voyage continues towards Cappadocia. As we admire the picturesque landscapes, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the Salt Lake. Your day concludes with our arrival in Cappadocia, where you'll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 4 Captivating Cappadocia
Day 4 Captivating Cappadocia
This morning, you have the option to embark on an early morning adventure with an iconic Balloon tour, offering a view of Cappadocia's breathtaking landscapes from the skies.
Afterward, a full day of exploration in Cappadocia awaits, beginning with visits to an underground city, the Open Air Museum in Goreme, and the natural fortress in Uchisar.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and take the opportunity to discover the rich history behind local handicrafts, such as hand-made carpets, Turkish tiles, onyx, and potteries.
Tonight, you can opt to join our optional night tour featuring a mesmerizing Turkish show and dinner.
Day 5 Enroute to Pamukkale
Day 5 Enroute to Pamukkale
Cappadocia - Konya - Pamukkale. Your day begins with an early departure as we make our way to the stunning Pamukkale. En route, we'll explore the 13th-century Sultanhan Caravanserai.
Our journey then takes us to the historic city of Konya, where we'll visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana, an iconic spiritual site dedicated to the renowned Sufi mystic and poet, Rumi.
Continuing the journey, we'll arrive in Pamukkale, renowned for its unique terraces of white mineral-rich water. Here, you'll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 6 Hierapolis & The Temple of Artemis
Day 6 Hierapolis & The Temple of Artemis
Pamukkale - Izmir. Today we'll visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent Necropolis and the intriguing lime cascade. The Necropolis has remarkable tomb structures, and cascading terraces of white water.
From Hierapolis, we head to Selcuk, where you'll visit the Temple of Artemis, once celebrated as one of the "Seven Wonders of the Ancient World."
The day ends with our arrival in Izmir, where you'll enjoy a comfortable overnight stay and dinner.
Day 7 The ancient city of Ephesus
Day 7 The ancient city of Ephesus
Izmir - Ephesus - Sirince - Izmir. Enjoy a scenic drive to the ancient city of Ephesus. Here, you'll have the privilege of visiting its renowned library, grand theater, and captivating temples.
For lunch, we'll provide a unique experience in a nomadic tent in Selcuk, where you'll have the opportunity to try Turkish Gozleme, a traditional dish.
Our journey then continues to the charming village of Sirince, celebrated as one of the most beautiful villages in Turkey. Here, you enjoy the village's picturesque ambiance, do some shopping, and taste the delicious local wines that the village is famous for.
As the day draws to a close, we return to Izmir for the night.
Day 8 Goodbye
Day 8 Goodbye
Friday. Today marks the end of your Turkish adventure. Departure transfer is included to either the Kusadasi port for the ferry to Samos, an enchanting Greek island, or to Izmir airport.
Tour Highlights
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Prices & Dates
Hotels
One of Istanbul’s most popular hotels, Titanic City offers modern accommodation in a central location. Rooms are bright and comfortable offering state of the art technology and luxurious walk in rain showers. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available and the views from the trendy Compass Bar and Restaurant are simply stunning. Perfectly located in Taksim, the beating heart of Istanbul with lots of great shops, restaurants and bars.
MDC Cave Hotel is a luxury cave hotel located in Ürgüp's Old Town. It offers spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs and spa baths. The hotel features heated marble floors, stone fireplaces, and arched ceilings. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at the restaurant, relax on the sun terrace, or use the barbecue facilities in the garden. The hotel has a conference room, tour desk, and offers activities such as hot-air balloon rides and hikes in Cappadocia.
Fully restored in 2003, Yusuf Yigitoglu was a 19th century mansion tucked in to the caves of ancient Cappadocia. Guest rooms are cosy with comfortable furnishings and make guests feel like they truly are sleeping in an ancient cave. Complimentary wifi internet is available and there are a couple of bars on site where guests can enjoy a refreshing drink whilst taking in the unique surroundings that this stunning area has to offer. The hotel is centrally located in the town of Urgup.
Adempira Termal & Spa Hotel is ideally located just a short drive from the Pamukkale Travertines surrounded by mountains. Guest rooms are modern and comfortable equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning and satellite tv channels. There is a restaurant and bar onsite offering Turkish and international cuisine. The hotel features a Thermal Pool, Outdoor Swimming Pool, 2 Red Thermal Pools, Turkish bath and sauna as well as an array of luxurious spa treatments to indulge in after a day of sightseeing.
Kaya Prestige, ideally located in the heart of Izmir City Centre, offers a refined and comfortable retreat. The hotel boasts elegant rooms with city views from its rooftop terrace, and both WiFi and parking are complimentary. Each room features plush carpeted floors, flat-screen TVs, and a spacious seating area. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey at the on-site dining options, including Turkish delights at Sediv and Mediterranean cuisine at the Divan Restaurant, complemented by live music. The Merhaba Bar offers a selection of beverages along with breathtaking city vistas.
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