Tour Details
Experience the essence of Turkey in this 5-day tour from Istanbul, featuring a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus, marvel at the Pamukkale thermal pools, and explore the cultural heritage of Konya. Finally, discover the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, renowned for its fairy chimneys and hot air balloon rides. With flights for ease and guided tours, this package offers a seamless journey through Turkey's most iconic destinations.
Day 1: Journey to Izmir – Explore the Ancient Ephesus and Overnight in Kusadasi
- Step into the ancient world and uncover the wonders of Ephesus. Begin your day early with a 05:00 AM hotel pickup, followed by a transfer to the airport for your flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, meet your expert guide and embark on an immersive journey through the ancient city of Ephesus.
- Temple of Artemis: Explore the remains of this ancient marvel, once listed among the Seven Wonders of the World. Learn about its historical significance as a key pilgrimage site dedicated to Artemis.
- Ephesus Ruins: Walk through the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including its majestic theater, temples, fountains, and the grand Library of Celsus. Feel the pulse of history beneath your feet as you wander its colonnaded streets.
- Lunch: Pause to savor a delicious meal at a local restaurant, preparing for more discoveries ahead.
- House of Virgin Mary: Visit this revered site, believed to be the final home of Virgin Mary. With deep religious significance, it’s a place of reflection and reverence.
- As the day draws to a close, we’ll transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay in Kusadasi, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s historical wonders.
Day 2: Discover Pamukkale’s Natural Wonders – Bus Ride to Konya and Overnight Stay
- After a delightful breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your exciting adventure to Pamukkale, where ancient history blends seamlessly with nature's marvels.
- Hierapolis: Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, including the Temple of Apollo, the grand Theater, and the vast Necropolis. Learn about the significant connection to St. Philip, who was martyred here, giving the city a rich spiritual and historical backdrop.
- Calcium Terraces and Pools: Be mesmerized by the unique beauty of Pamukkale’s calcium terraces and thermal pools. The stunning white formations, shaped over centuries by mineral-rich waters, create a breathtaking natural spectacle, often referred to as the "Cotton Castle."
- After exploring the beauty and history of Pamukkale, embark on a scenic 5.5-hour bus ride to Konya. As you travel through picturesque landscapes, relax and enjoy a comfortable transition to Konya, a city known for its spiritual significance.
- Arrive in Konya and check in to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay, ready to continue your exploration of Turkey’s cultural treasures.
Day 3: Konya's Cultural Treasures, Journey to Cappadocia, Overnight Stay in Cappadocia
- Kick off your day with a delightful breakfast, then meet your expert tour guide at 10:00 AM to explore the rich Islamic heritage of Konya. Prepare to uncover the spiritual and cultural gems of this historic city.
- Mevlana and Dervishes Cultural Centre: Dive deep into the teachings of Mevlana, the renowned Islamic mystic and philosopher. Explore the Dervishes Cultural Centre to gain insights into the mystical traditions of Sufism and the Whirling Dervishes.
- Karatay Tile Museum: Marvel at the stunning craftsmanship of Seljuk-era tiles at the Karatay Museum, showcasing the intricate and artistic beauty of Seljuk Empire designs.
- Ince Minare: Be amazed by Ince Minare, a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture, featuring remarkable wood and stone carvings that display the era's grandeur.
- Alaaddin Hill and Mosque: Visit Alaaddin Mosque, the oldest historic structure in Anatolia from the Seljuk period, perched atop Alaaddin Hill. The mosque and nearby palace offer a glimpse into the architectural marvels and power of the Seljuk Empire.
- After exploring Konya, enjoy a traditional lunch and experience the city's authentic, conservative lifestyle. Your knowledgeable guide will share captivating stories about Mevlana's philosophy and his impact on both Islam and global culture.
- Following your cultural tour, we'll head to the bus station for a 3-hour scenic journey to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel, where you'll settle in for a magical night in the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia.
Day 4: Explore the Enchanting Cappadocia, Overnight Stay
- Kick off your morning with a delightful breakfast before beginning your Cappadocia adventure at 09:30 AM. Get ready to uncover some of the most stunning landscapes and historical marvels in this fascinating region.
- Devrent Valley: Begin your exploration in Devrent Valley, where the otherworldly landscape filled with fairy chimneys will leave you mesmerized. This dreamlike setting feels like stepping into another world.
- Monks Valley (Pasabag): Continue to Monks Valley, where you'll witness the most impressive three-headed fairy chimneys. Known also as Pasha's Vineyard, the rock formations here are a breathtaking sight to behold.
- Avanos: Next, visit the town of Avanos, famed for its terra cotta pottery tradition that dates back to 3000 BC. Take a trip to a traditional pottery workshop nestled in the hills and see the ancient art that gives this town its rich cultural heritage.
- Goreme Open Air Museum: Head to the Goreme Open Air Museum, a crucial Christian center from the early Middle Ages. Marvel at the monasteries, churches, and chapels adorned with detailed iconography and architectural splendor, reflecting the region's deep religious history.
- Uchisar: Conclude your day with a visit to Uchisar, a troglodyte town at the heart of Cappadocia. Uchisar, named after its colossal rock formation used as a castle, offers a panoramic view of Cappadocia's breathtaking landscapes and the towering Erciyes (Argeus) Mountain.
- As the day's explorations come to a close, you'll be fully immersed in the enchanting beauty and rich history of Cappadocia. By 05:00 PM, return to your hotel to relax and prepare for another magical evening in this unique region.
Day 5: Final Cappadocia Excursion, Flight to Istanbul, Hotel Transfer
- Begin your morning with a satisfying breakfast and get ready for your final day in Cappadocia. We'll pick you up from your hotel at 09:30 AM to explore the captivating highlights of North Cappadocia.
- Kizilcukur (Red Valley): Start your day at Kizilcukur, an isolated valley behind Urgup, renowned for its stunning rock formations and hidden rock-carved churches. Traverse the intricate paths connecting small villages and experience the traditional Cappadocian lifestyle.
- Cavusin: Next, explore Cavusin, one of the oldest settlements in the region, located just 2 km from Goreme. Visit the Church of St. John the Baptist, dating back to the 5th century, and enjoy a panoramic view of the village and surrounding scenery.
- Hospital Monastery: Step back in time at the Hospital Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Cappadocia. Gain insight into the spiritual and healing practices that once thrived in this ancient complex.
- Underground City: Embark on an extraordinary journey through the Underground City, an ancient architectural wonder. Navigate its labyrinthine tunnels and chambers, uncovering the history and secrets beneath the surface.
- Pigeon Houses and Rock Formations: Conclude your tour with a visit to the charming pigeon houses and admire the unique rock formations scattered across the Cappadocian landscape, capturing the region's natural beauty.
- After a day of enriching experiences, we'll transfer you to Kayseri or Nevsehir Airport for your flight back to Istanbul, departing at 8:30 PM. Upon arrival in Istanbul at 9:30 PM, our team will meet you and transfer you to your hotel, wrapping up your 5-day journey through some of Turkey's most iconic destinations.
Essential Travel Tips: Information for Your Trip
- The entrance fee to Cleopatra Pool is not included in the tour. Guests who wish to experience the pool's therapeutic waters can purchase tickets separately.
- For a truly memorable experience, we can arrange an early morning hot air balloon ride on Day 2. You'll float above Cappadocia's stunning landscapes, capturing breathtaking views from the skies.
What's Included
- Private Transportation: Enjoy seamless and comfortable transfers between the airport, hotel, and all tour destinations.
- Domestic Flight Tickets: Your package includes round-trip flights from Istanbul to Izmir and from Cappadocia to Istanbul.
- Bus Tickets: Experience scenic and comfortable bus rides from Pamukkale to Konya and from Konya to Cappadocia.
- Accommodation: Stay in comfortable hotels, including:
- 1 Night in Kusadasi with breakfast.
- 1 Night in Konya with breakfast.
- 2 Nights in Cappadocia with breakfast.
- Ephesus Tour: Includes transportation, a professional guide, lunch, and museum tickets to explore Ephesus in depth.
- Pamukkale Tour: Enjoy transportation, a guided tour, lunch, and access to the museum at Pamukkale.
- Konya Tour: Includes transportation, expert guidance, lunch, and museum tickets for a deep dive into Konya’s history.
- Cappadocia Tours: Two full-day Cappadocia tours, each including transportation, a guide, lunch, and museum tickets to explore the region's fascinating landscapes and history.
What's Not Included
- International Flights: This package does not include international flights. Travelers are responsible for their flights to and from Turkey.
- Travel Insurance: It's advised to secure personal travel insurance to cover unforeseen events such as cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
- Visa Requirements: Travelers must obtain a visa to enter Turkey. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents in advance by checking with the Turkish embassy or consulate.
- Personal Expenses: While many services are covered, budget separately for personal expenses such as souvenirs, extra meals, and optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
Meeting Location
- Pick-Up: Your adventure begins with an early pick-up at 05:00 AM from your hotel in Istanbul.
- Drop-Off: After a day full of discoveries, we'll drop you off at your hotel in Istanbul at 10:00 PM