Tour Details
Discover the best of Turkey with our 5 Days Turkey Package Tour, exploring the stunning highlights of Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus, all while traveling comfortably by bus from Istanbul. Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, the thermal pools of Pamukkale, and the ancient ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world. This tour offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and rich history, making it an unforgettable journey through Turkey. Join us for an adventure that covers Turkey's top destinations in just 5 days!
Day 1: Overnight Travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia by Bus
- Start your Cappadocia adventure with an exciting overnight bus ride from Istanbul. After receiving your e-ticket and bus information, prepare for an unforgettable journey. The departure from Istanbul’s Esenler Bus Station is scheduled for 21:00, so be sure to arrive 30 minutes in advance to ensure a smooth boarding process. Rest on your way to Cappadocia, one of the most iconic destinations in Turkey.
Day 2: Full Day Cappadocia Exploration – Overnight Stay in Cappadocia
- Upon arriving at the Cappadocia bus station, our welcoming team will be ready to assist with your transfer to our office, where you’ll meet your expert tour guide to kick off your Cappadocia exploration. Get ready for an exciting day as we uncover the wonders of this magical region.
- Devrent Valley: Begin your adventure in Devrent Valley, a truly enchanting landscape famous for its fairy chimneys. The otherworldly scenery will captivate you with its unique rock formations and natural beauty.
- Monks Valley: Next, head to Monks Valley, also known as Pasabag. This area is renowned for its stunning three-headed fairy chimneys and surreal rock formations, offering a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable memories.
- Avanos: Continue to Avanos, a charming town famous for its rich history in terra cotta pottery dating back to 3000 BC. Visit a traditional pottery workshop nestled in the hills and gain insight into the area’s vibrant artistic traditions.
- Open Air Museum: Explore the fascinating Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an essential Christian center during the early Middle Ages. Marvel at the historic monasteries, churches, and chapels adorned with intricate frescoes and ancient artwork.
- Uchisar: End your day with a visit to Uchisar, a unique troglodyte town set within Cappadocia’s surreal landscape. Famous for its massive rock formation, which once served as a castle, Uchisar offers breathtaking panoramic views of the region and the towering Erciyes Mountain.
- As the tour concludes around 5:00 PM, you will be transferred back to your hotel for a restful overnight stay, reflecting on the spectacular sights of the day. Rest up, as tomorrow promises even more adventures!
Day 3: Full Day North Cappadocia Exploration – Overnight Bus Journey to Pamukkale
- Begin your day with a hearty breakfast to energize you for an exciting exploration of North Cappadocia. At 9:30 AM, our team will pick you up from your hotel to start the day’s adventure.
- Kizilcukur: Your first stop is Kizilcukur, a peaceful valley hidden behind Urgup, known for its remarkable rock formations and ancient rock-carved churches. Wander along scenic trails connecting traditional villages, offering a unique insight into local life.
- Cavusin: Next, visit Cavusin, one of Cappadocia's oldest villages, located just 2 km from Goreme. Explore the Church of St. John the Baptist, a 5th-century marvel, and enjoy panoramic views of this historical village, steeped in heritage.
- Hospital Monastery: Immerse yourself in the ancient history at the Hospital Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the region. This significant site offers a window into the spiritual practices of the past, making it a key stop in your Cappadocia journey.
- Underground City: Next, embark on an extraordinary adventure beneath the earth’s surface at the Underground City. Explore its fascinating tunnels, rooms, and chambers, revealing the ingenious underground architecture that once protected ancient inhabitants.
- Pigeon Houses and Rock Formations: Conclude your day by visiting the stunning pigeon houses and the striking rock formations of Cappadocia. These natural wonders create a breathtaking landscape, providing the perfect end to your day of exploration.
- After an enriching day of discovery, we will transfer you to the Cappadocia bus station for your overnight bus journey to Pamukkale, departing at 9:00 PM. Rest and relax as you travel to your next amazing destination!
Day 4: Full Day Pamukkale and Hierapolis Exploration – Transfer to Selcuk and Overnight Stay
- Upon arrival at the Pamukkale bus station, our team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for a quick rest and freshen-up before your day of exploration. After a short break, you'll be driven to the ancient city of Hierapolis to begin your adventure.
- Hierapolis: Start your journey at Hierapolis, home to the majestic Temple of Apollo. Explore the fascinating Theater, a masterpiece of ancient architecture, and visit the Necropolis, an ancient burial site that provides valuable insight into the burial customs of the time. Make sure to see the grand baths of Hierapolis, which hold historical significance as the place where St. Philip was martyred, marking an important chapter in the early Christian history of the region.
- Calcium Terraces and Pools: Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking calcium terraces and pools of Pamukkale. Known for their stunning beauty and therapeutic benefits, these natural formations have drawn visitors for centuries. Enjoy the serene landscape and, if you wish, take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the thermal pools.
- After a day rich in history and natural wonders, we will drive you to Selcuk, where you’ll check into your hotel for a restful overnight stay, ready for the next day’s adventures.
Day 5: Full Day Ephesus Ancient City Exploration – Night Bus to Istanbul
- After a delicious breakfast, meet your expert tour guide and set off on a captivating journey to Ephesus, where you'll unravel the mysteries of this ancient city.
- Temple of Artemis: Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This iconic temple, located in Ephesus, is famous for its religious significance as a major pilgrimage site in antiquity. While the exact location of the temple has been debated, its legacy remains a symbol of the ancient cult of Artemis. The temple was renowned for its grand celebrations, where an entire month was dedicated to religious ceremonies in honor of the goddess.
- The Ruins of Ephesus: Continue your journey through the remarkable ruins of Ephesus. Explore the ancient concert hall, bustling marketplaces, majestic colonnaded streets, stunning temples, and the grand library, which once housed one of the most important collections of ancient texts. Don’t miss the theater and the Arcadian Way, each site offering fascinating glimpses into the grandeur of Ephesus.
- Lunch: Enjoy a well-deserved break with a delicious lunch, recharging your energy for the rest of the tour.
- The House of Virgin Mary: After lunch, visit the House of Virgin Mary, a site of great religious significance. It is believed that the Virgin Mary lived in Ephesus in her later years, making this location an important pilgrimage destination. The specifics of her passing remain uncertain, but her connection to the city is remembered through the vision of Anne Catherine Emmerich.
- As your final day in Turkey draws to a close, we’ll arrange your transfer to the bus station for your night bus journey back to Istanbul, bringing your Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus tour to an unforgettable end.
Essential Travel Tips: Information for Your Trip
- Add a Hot Air Balloon Ride to Your Cappadocia Adventure: Take your Cappadocia tour to new heights by adding a hot air balloon ride to your itinerary. Drift above the iconic fairy chimneys and rock formations, and witness the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia from a unique aerial perspective. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will offer you breathtaking views of one of Turkey's most extraordinary regions. The balloon ride is available for an additional cost and promises to be a highlight of your adventure. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your journey in Cappadocia!
- Cleopatra Pool Entrance Fee: Please note that the entrance fee for the Cleopatra Pool is not included in the Pamukkale tour package. Guests who wish to experience the Cleopatra Pool can do so by paying the entrance fee separately at the site. This unique thermal pool offers a rejuvenating experience, surrounded by ancient ruins, making it a wonderful addition to your visit to Pamukkale.
What's Included
- Bus Tickets: Comfortable transportation by bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia, Cappadocia to Pamukkale, and Ephesus to Istanbul.
- Accommodation:
- 1 Night in Cappadocia with breakfast included.
- 1 Night in Selçuk with breakfast included.
- Cappadocia Tour: Two full days exploring Cappadocia, including transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum tickets.
- Pamukkale Tour: A full day of exploration in Pamukkale, with transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum tickets.
- Ephesus Tour: A full day tour of the ancient city of Ephesus, featuring transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum tickets.
What's Not Included
- International Flights to Turkey: The tour package does not include international flights. Travelers are responsible for booking their own flights to and from Turkey.
- Personal Travel Insurance: We recommend securing personal travel insurance to cover unforeseen events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage for peace of mind during your travels.
- Visa for Turkey: Travelers must obtain a visa for entry into Turkey. Ensure you have the necessary travel documents well in advance. Check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country for specific visa requirements.
- Personal Expenses: While the package includes several services, please budget separately for personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and any optional activities or excursions not included in the itinerary.
Meeting Location
- Pick-up: You will be picked up directly from your hotel in Istanbul at the designated time, ensuring a smooth start to your tour.
- Drop-off: After your return from Pamukkale, you will be dropped off at your hotel in Istanbul, completing your journey comfortably.