Excellent
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
Travelling with children or prefer being on your own, see our private version of this tour.
Tour Overview
Duration
8 daysStarts
IstanbulEnds
IzmirRange
HandpickedTour Guide
Yes, for all included sightseeingGroup Size
Min 2 / Max 28Minimum age
15 yrs, accompanied by an adultDeparts
FridaysHotel Rating
4-5 starCountries
TurkeyArrival Transfer
Yes - from IST or SabihaDeparture Transfer
Yes - to Izmir Airport or Kusadasi PortMeals included
Breakfast: 7, Lunch: 2, Dinner: 4Excellent
4.4 out of 5 based on
275 reviews
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
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 Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Istanbul (From price)
Double
Twin
Single
Post-Tour Accommodation - Izmir (From Price)
Double
Twin
Single
Hotels
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
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Our customers say
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4.4 out of 5 based on 275 reviews