Aegean Dream : Travel to Pamukkale, Laodicea, Ephesus, Kusadasi

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Istanbul Old City Tour / Flight to Denizli / Overnight in Pamukkale
10 stops
1
Istanbul
Your driver will pick you up from your hotel or, if parking is available, from your Airbnb address and transfer you to the starting point of the Istanbul Old City Tour.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
2
Sultanahmet District
You’ll meet your licensed tour guide and embark on a small-group (up to 10 participants) walking tour exploring the highlights of Sultanahmet, the historic heart of Istanbul. Today’s tour includes visits to Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, the Grand Bazaar, the Hippodrome, Sultanahmet Square, German Fountain, . The meeting point for today’s tour is the German Fountain in Sultanahmet. Your tour guide will be waiting for you at the meeting point, and from there, you’ll begin your walking tour of Istanbul’s Old City. The tour is entirely on foot, so no transportation service is required or included.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
3
German Fountain
The German Fountain, located at the northern end of Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, across from the Mausoleum of Sultan Ahmed I, is a striking gazebo-style structure. Built to commemorate the second anniversary of German Emperor Wilhelm II’s 1898 visit to Istanbul, the fountain was constructed in Germany, transported in pieces, and assembled on-site in 1900. Designed in the Neo-Byzantine style, it features an octagonal dome supported by eight marble columns, with its interior adorned in stunning golden mosaics.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
4
Hippodrome
The Hippodrome of Constantinople, now known as Sultanahmet Square, was once the grand chariot racing arena and a key social and sporting hub of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Today, it stands in modern-day Istanbul as a public square, renowned for its rich history and the surviving remnants of its ancient structures.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
5
Sultanahmet Square
After a short walk through Sultanahmet Square, you’ll continue to Hagia Sophia, the next stop on your tour.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
6
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Visit the Hagia Sophia with pre-booked tickets and experience one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, deeply rooted in Greek Orthodox history. Discover how this magnificent structure was transformed into a mosque following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Marvel at the unique blend of architectural elements from both a mosque and a church, coexisting harmoniously. Take in the grandeur of its soaring dome, towering minarets, intricate mosaics, vivid paintings, and ancient Roman columns. Learn about the addition of exquisite İznik tiles over the years, the craftsmanship behind the Virgin Mary mosaic, and the Ottoman tradition of burying their sultans in the courtyard.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
7
Basilica Cistern
Walk on the wooden walkways over the water until the famous upside-down Medusa head. The Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir in Istanbul, features stunning columns and a mysterious ambiance, reflecting the city's rich history and architectural brilliance. The cistern was known in Byzantium as thebasilica Cistern, Justinian was the founder of the largest underground cistern, built after the Nika Revolt in 532. A must-visit marvel.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included
8
Grand Bazaar
Grand Bazaar / Kapalı Çarşı One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world with over 4,000 shops with colorful products of ceramic, leather, rugs, carpets, handicrafts, clothes, silver, and gold.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
9
Sultanahmet
After completing your Istanbul Old City tour, we will transfer you direct yıto airport for your flight to Denizli/Pamukkale.
1 hour 20 minutes • Admission ticket free
10
Pamukkale
Once you arrive at Denizli Cardak Airport, another driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals terminal exit, holding a sign with your name. From there, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Pamukkale, located about an hour’s drive away.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Laodicea, Hierapolis & Pamukkale Tour / Overnight in Kusadasi
6 stops
11
Laodicea
Archaeological discoveries at the site date back to around 3500 BC, spanning the Late Chalcolithic and Early Bronze Age periods. The city was named Laodicea by the Seleucid ruler Antiochus II in the 3rd century BC in honor of his wife, Laodice. After later coming under the rule of Pergamum, the city was transferred to the Roman Empire and experienced another period of prosperity between the 4th and 6th centuries. Its religious significance eventually led to its recognition as one of the Seven Churches of Revelation.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
12
Hierapolis & Pamukkale
Step into the ancient world at Hierapolis, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites of the region. Explore its impressive Necropolis, Roman Baths, Domitian Gate, Frontinus Street, Agora, Byzantine Gate, Cathedral, Temple of Apollo, Plutonium, Theater. You’ll also discover fascinating remains such as the ancient Latrina, Oil Factory, and Triton Fountain along the way.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
13
Hierapolis Arkeoloji Muzesi
Explore the Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, housed within the ancient Roman baths, where remarkable sculptures, sarcophagi, and artifacts reveal the rich history, artistry, and cultural heritage of Hierapolis and the surrounding region.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
14
Pamukkale Thermal Pools
After visiting the ancient city of Hierapolis, enjoy approximately 60–75 minutes of free time to explore the stunning travertine terraces of Pamukkale at your own pace. Take memorable photos of the spectacular white terraces and, if you wish, enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural thermal pools of Pamukkale. After your free time, meet your guide at the designated meeting point inside the park, and continue your visit together. Your guide will inform you of the meeting point and time in advance, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
15
Pamukkale
After exploring Hierapolis and the travertine terraces, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant in Pamukkale town. After lunch, visit a traditional handcraft workshop and learn about the special stones and metals found in the Pamukkale region. Your hosts will introduce you to these natural materials and explain the traditional techniques used to work with them.
1 hour 15 minutes • Admission ticket free
16
Kusadasi
After your tour, you will continue to Kusadasi, where you will stay.
2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Ephesus Ancient City & Nearby Highlights Tour / Overnight in Kusadasi
6 stops
17
Ephesus Archaeological Site
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, we will pick you up from your hotel and then drive to Ephesus Archaeological Site.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
18
Ancient City of Ephesus
Ephesus was one of the most important harbor cities in antique world and also it is mentioned in the book of Revelations as one of the seven churches. Also Celsus Library and theater in Ephesus are the other highlights. You will see and visit the Celsus Library, Temple of Hadrian, the fountain of Trajan, Grand Theater, Hercules Gate, Odeon, Ancient Toilets and many important historical buildings in this UNESCO-listed ancient city.
1 hour 45 minutes • Admission ticket included
19
Ephesus Experience Museum
Ephesus Experience Museum, where you will travel back in time and immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of the ancient world. With innovative approach of this amazing museum, we offer an entirely mesmerizing experience where time breaks free from its static confines and dances in perpetual motion, bringing historical artifacts to life and presenting interactive visual spectacles that will leave an indelible imprint on your memory.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
20
Selçuk
Enjoy lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant, followed by a visit to a local handicraft cooperative. Here, you can discover the traditional arts and craftsmanship of Turkish villages and learn about the techniques and cultural heritage behind these unique handmade creations.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
21
Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House)
The next visit of your tour will be the last home of the Virgin Mary. Once you arrive there you will be thrilled by the natural beauty that surrounds the monument. The House of Virgin Mary is located on the Aladag Mountains 5 miles away from Ephesus. At the third Ecumenical Council on 431 AD in Ephesus, it was claimed that Mary came to Ephesus with St. John in 37 A.D. and lived there until her death in 48 A.D. After the discovery of the house, the Archbishop of Izmir declared there as a place of pilgrimage in 1892. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited this place and prayed there.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included
22
The Temple of Artemis
Another visit of your tour is Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, standing today next to Ephesus ancient city.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Wine Tasting & Gourmet Lunch, Sirince Village Tour / Overnight in Kusadasi
2 stops
23
Discover the art of winemaking at 7 Bilgeler Winery & Vineyards, a distinctive vineyard estate nestled in the scenic countryside of the Aegean region. Enjoy a guided wine-tasting experience featuring carefully crafted wines, learn about the region’s winemaking heritage, and savor the unique character of each selection. Complete this refined culinary experience with a delightful lunch at the winery’s restaurant, where regional flavors meet the elegance of fine wine. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and tranquil landscapes, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience the authentic tastes and sophisticated wine culture of the Aegean.
2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
24
Sirince Koyu
This pretty old Orthodox village, 12 km away from Ephesus and 30 km from Kusadasi, was once Cirkince ("ugly"). Indeed its habitants gave this name on purpose as they did not want to be bothered by foreigners nor to share the beauty of their village. Still after years, visitors understood that the village was not ugly at all and called it Sirince ("pretty"). As the village is located on the top of a mountain, you will enjoy the impressive wine yards' and peach trees' views on his way. You will find wines made from apples, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, peaches, melons, watermelons, cherries and many other sorts of fruits.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Priene, Miletus, Temple of Apollo (Didyma) Tour / Flight Back to Istanbul OR ⭐ Continue to Cappadocia by Plane
9 stops
25
Dilek National Park
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, we will pick you up and drive along the scenic coastline near Dilek Peninsula–Büyük Menderes Delta National Park, enjoying views of the surrounding natural landscapes along the way.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free
26
Priene Antik Kenti
Priene originally lay along the Maeander River’s mouth, but about 350 bc the citizens built a new city farther inland, on the present site. The new city’s main temple, of Athena Polias, was dedicated by Alexander the Great in 334. The little city grew slowly over the next two centuries and led a quiet existence; it prospered under the Romans and Byzantines but gradually declined.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
27
Eski Doganbey Koyu
The old village of Doganbey, formerly known as Domatia, was inhabited by Greeks until the 1924 population exchange. Following this, the village was settled by Turks but was eventually abandoned after some time. Today, the village serves as an open-air museum, showcasing exquisite examples of both Turkish and Greek architecture and reflecting the legacy of past civilizations. It features several original buildings, including the Information and Visitor Center, as well as a chapel and a church.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
28
Karina Palmiye Restaurant
You will stop at a local seafood restaurant for your lunch. Today’s lunch is included during guided tour.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
29
Miletus was an ancient Greek city located on the western coast of Anatolia, near the mouth of the Maeander River, in the region known as Ionia. Prior to the rise of Persian dominance in the 6th century BC, Miletus was renowned as one of the most prosperous and influential cities in the Greek world.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included
30
Temple of Apollo
Didyma Apollo Temple, one of the most important prophecy centers of the ancient world. It was the sanctuary of the ancient city of Miletus, to which the Temple of Apollo, which was the prophecy center of important cities such as Ephesus and Priene, which constituted the city states of Ion, was originally connected. Didyma is not actually an ancient city, but a holy place. The first written source about Didyma is Herodot. As Herodotus said; Alexander the Great, who gave the temple management to the city of Miletos after Alexander the Great took Miletos, was declared as the son of Zeus by the local people because of this behavior.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included
31
İzmir
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to the Izmir airport for your included domestic flight back to Istanbul. **Flexible Flight Option:** Instead of returning to Istanbul, you may choose to fly to Cappadocia at no additional airfare cost. This option replaces your included return flight to Istanbul. The transfer from the airport to your hotel in Cappadocia will be provided by us. Accommodation, tours, and other services in Cappadocia are not included.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
32
Istanbul
Upon your arrival at the airport in Istanbul, your driver will be waiting to meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
1 hour 20 minutes • Admission ticket free
33
Cappadocia
If you wish to continue your journey to Cappadocia instead of returning to Istanbul, you may choose to fly from Izmir to Cappadocia.. Once you arrive at Cappadocia Airport, another driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals terminal exit, holding a sign with your name. From there, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Cappadocia, located about an hour’s drive away.
1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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