Multi-Day Tour of Istanbul Ephesus and Pamukkale

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to hotel
2 stops
1
Istanbul Airport
Upon arrive in Istanbul we will meet you at the exit of the GATE 14 and transfer to hotel in Old city location of Istanbul-Sultanahmet
1 hour • Admission ticket included
2
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
Upon arrive in Istanbul we will meet you at the exit of the GATE 13 and transfer to hotel in Old city location of Istanbul-Sultanahmet
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Old city day tour by walk
6 stops
3
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
**Hagia Sophia** Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the world’s most significant architectural and historical landmarks. Originally constructed as a cathedral by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD, it served as the largest cathedral in the world for nearly 1,000 years. Following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it was converted into a mosque and remained a mosque until 1935 when it was turned into a museum by the Turkish Republic. In 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque. The building is famous for its massive dome, which was an engineering marvel at the time, and its stunning mosaics, which depict Christian iconography and were uncovered after the building's conversion to a mosque. Hagia Sophia stands as a symbol of both Christian and Islamic heritage, attracting millions of visitors annually for its historical and architectural grandeur. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
4
TopkapI Palace
**Topkapi Palace** Topkapi Palace, located in Istanbul, Turkey, was the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, from the 15th to the 19th century. It was commissioned by Sultan Mehmed II after the conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The palace is a sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and grand buildings, showcasing the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Key features of the palace include the **Harem**, where the sultan’s family resided, and the **Treasury**, which houses priceless jewels and artifacts, including the famous **Topkapi Dagger**. The **Imperial Kitchens** and **Sacred Relics Room**, which contains relics of the Prophet Muhammad, are also notable. Today, Topkapi Palace is a museum, attracting millions of visitors with its rich history, exquisite architecture, and impressive collections. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle and power of the Ottoman sultans.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
5
Blue Mosque
**Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)** The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Built between 1609 and 1616, it was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and remains an active place of worship today. Known for its stunning blue tiles that decorate the interior, the mosque features six minarets, a large central dome, and several smaller domes. The Blue Mosque is an excellent example of Ottoman architecture, showcasing intricate tilework, calligraphy, and decorative motifs. It can accommodate thousands of worshippers, offering both historical and spiritual significance. The mosque's serene and majestic atmosphere, along with its rich cultural heritage, make it a must-visit destination for tourists and religious visitors alike.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
6
Hagia Irene Museum
**Hagia Irene** Hagia Irene is an ancient church located in Istanbul, Turkey, within the grounds of Topkapi Palace. Built in the 4th century during the reign of Emperor Constantine, it is one of the oldest Byzantine churches still standing today. Unlike many other churches in Istanbul, Hagia Irene was never converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of the city in 1453, and it remains a Christian structure. The church is notable for its large, open interior, which is free of supporting columns. It features beautiful Byzantine architecture with impressive arches and mosaics, although most of its original decorations were lost over time. Hagia Irene also served as the imperial church and hosted important events, including the First Council of Constantinople in 381 AD. Today, Hagia Irene is part of the Topkapi Palace Museum and is occasionally used for concerts and cultural events, attracting visitors for its historical significance and serene atmosphere.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
7
Hippodrome
**Hippodrome of Constantinople** The Hippodrome of Constantinople, located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, was an ancient chariot racing arena and one of the most important social and political centers of the Byzantine Empire. It was built by Emperor Septimius Severus in the 3rd century AD and expanded by Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century. The Hippodrome could hold up to 100,000 spectators and was used for various events, including chariot races, festivals, and public gatherings. Today, only a few remnants of the Hippodrome remain, such as the **Obelisk of Theodosius**, the **Serpent Column**, and the **Walled Obelisk**. These monuments, along with the layout of the Hippodrome, give visitors a sense of the grandeur of the venue. The Hippodrome also played a significant role in the political life of the empire, with factions supporting different chariot teams often influencing imperial politics.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
8
Grand Bazaar
**Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı), Istanbul** The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey. Established in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, it spans over 30,000 square meters and contains more than 4,000 shops. The bazaar is a maze of narrow streets and passageways, offering a vast array of goods, including jewelry, textiles, carpets, spices, ceramics, and antiques. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, the Grand Bazaar is not only a major shopping destination but also a cultural experience. Visitors can explore its intricate architecture, including domed ceilings, arched passageways, and beautiful courtyards. It's a bustling marketplace where locals and tourists alike haggle for unique items. The Grand Bazaar remains a symbol of Istanbul's rich commercial and cultural heritage, attracting millions of visitors each year.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Istanbul to Izmir by plane / Ephesus day tour /Overnight in Kuşadası
4 stops
9
Ancient City of Ephesus
**Ephesus Ancient City** Ephesus, located near Selçuk in Turkey, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a thriving Greek and later Roman city, it was a major center for commerce, culture, and religion. Ephesus is home to remarkable landmarks such as the **Library of Celsus**, **Temple of Artemis** (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), the **Great Theatre**, and the **Temple of Hadrian**. The city offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient civilizations with its marble streets, intricate mosaics, and grand architectural remains. Ephesus also holds religious significance as it is believed to have been visited by the Virgin Mary and Saint John. A walk through this fascinating archaeological site takes you back thousands of years, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
10
Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House)
**House of Virgin Mary, Selçuk** The House of Virgin Mary, located near Selçuk, Turkey, is believed to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary. According to Christian tradition, Mary was brought here by the Apostle John after the crucifixion of Jesus. The site is considered a place of pilgrimage and has both religious and historical significance. The small stone house, nestled on the slopes of Mount Koressos, was discovered in the 19th century, and its authenticity is widely accepted by both Christian and Muslim communities. Visitors can explore the house, the surrounding gardens, and a chapel, and many come to pray or light candles in honor of Mary. The House of Virgin Mary is also located near the ancient city of Ephesus, making it a popular stop for tourists in the area.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
11
The Temple of Artemis
**Temple of Artemis, Selçuk** The Temple of Artemis, located in Selçuk, Turkey, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built around 550 BCE in honor of the goddess Artemis, it was an enormous and grand structure, measuring 115 meters long and 55 meters wide. The temple was renowned for its impressive size and beautiful marble sculptures. Although it was destroyed and rebuilt several times, only a few remnants of the temple remain today, including one standing column. Despite this, the site still attracts visitors for its historical significance and its connection to one of the most famous ancient wonders. The temple was also a major religious and cultural center in ancient Ephesus.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
12
Isa Bey Mosque
**İsa Bey Mosque, Selçuk** İsa Bey Mosque, located in Selçuk near Ephesus, is a striking example of 14th-century Seljuk architecture. Built in 1375 by the architect Ali bin Mushimish for İsa Bey of the Aydinid Dynasty, the mosque features an asymmetrical design with intricate stone and marble work. Its courtyard, decorated domes, and elegant calligraphy reflect the artistic and cultural achievements of the era. Though partially ruined, the mosque remains an active place of worship and a significant historical site. Visitors admire its blend of Byzantine and Islamic architectural styles, as well as its serene atmosphere. Situated near other landmarks like the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis, İsa Bey Mosque is a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Pamukkale day tour/ Flight back to Istanbul and transfer to hotel
3 stops
13
Pamukkale
**Pamukkale** Pamukkale, located in southwestern Turkey, is a natural wonder known for its stunning white travertine terraces. These terraces are formed by the calcium-rich thermal waters flowing down the hillside, creating a breathtaking landscape that resembles frozen waterfalls. Pamukkale, meaning "Cotton Castle" in Turkish, has been a popular destination for centuries due to its therapeutic hot springs. Adjacent to the terraces is the ancient city of **Hierapolis**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features Roman ruins, including a theater, temples, and a necropolis. Visitors can also swim in the **Cleopatra’s Pool**, a thermal spring filled with ancient columns believed to have healing properties. Pamukkale offers a unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
14
Hierapolis & Pamukkale
**Hierapolis Ancient City** Hierapolis, located near Pamukkale in Turkey, is an ancient city founded in the 2nd century BCE and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as a spa city during the Roman period, it was built around natural hot springs believed to have healing properties. The city's highlights include a well-preserved **Roman theater**, **temples**, **necropolis** (cemetery), and the **Plutonium**, a sacred cave dedicated to the god Pluto. One of the most notable features is **Cleopatra’s Pool**, a thermal pool filled with ancient marble columns, offering a unique swimming experience. Hierapolis was a center for health and religion, attracting visitors from across the Roman Empire. Today, Hierapolis combines historical ruins with stunning natural beauty, offering visitors the chance to explore its rich history while enjoying the therapeutic waters of Pamukkale’s travertine terraces. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking relaxation.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
15
Cleopatra Pools
**Cleopatra’s Pool, Pamukkale** Cleopatra’s Pool, located in Pamukkale, Turkey, is a natural thermal spring famous for its warm, mineral-rich waters and submerged ancient ruins. Legend has it that the pool was a gift from Mark Antony to Cleopatra, contributing to its romantic allure. The water temperature remains around 36°C (96°F) year-round, making it perfect for relaxation. The pool is filled with fragments of ancient marble columns, believed to have fallen during an earthquake in antiquity, adding a historical charm to the swimming experience. The mineral waters are thought to have therapeutic properties, benefiting the skin and overall health. Set against the stunning backdrop of Pamukkale’s white travertine terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis, Cleopatra’s Pool offers a unique blend of history, nature, and relaxation. It’s a popular destination for visitors looking to unwind in a setting steeped in both beauty and legend.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 5
Transfer to airport
2 stops
16
Istanbul Airport
Pick up from hotel and transfer to airport according to your flight time.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
17
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
Pick up from hotel and transfer to airport according to your flight time.
2 hours • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

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