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Seven Days in Türkiye: Bodrum’s Coast, Ancient Cities & Cappadocia’s Valleys
Discover Türkiye’s heritage and landscapes on this 7-day journey. Visit Pamukkale and Hierapolis, explore Bodrum, Stratonikeia, Lagina, and the Temple of Hecate, then continue to Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. In Cappadocia, explore Northern Cappadocia (Goreme, Cave Churches, Fairy Chimneys) and enjoy a horseback ride through its scenic valleys, then visit Kaymaklı Underground City and Keslik Monastery on a daily tour. An optional hot air balloon ride is available at booking. Domestic flights, hotel stays, 4 lunches, 6 breakfasts, and museum entrance fees are included. Groups are limited to 10 guests.
Highlights
⭐ Explore Pamukkale, Hierapolis, Ephesus, and the House of the Virgin Mary.
⭐ Discover Bodrum, Stratonikeia, Lagina, and the Temple of Hecate.
⭐ Ride horseback through Cappadocia’s valleys, visit Kaymaklı Underground City and Keslik Monastery, with an optional balloon ride.
What's Included
Lunch
Breakfast
Meeting and pickup
Guests will be picked up with their luggage from their hotels or, where parking and vehicle access permit, from their Airbnb addresses. At the end of the Istanbul Old City Tour, they will be transferred directly to the airport for their flights to Denizli (Pamukkale).
Start your tour from Istanbul with hotel pickup, airport transfer, and a domestic flight to Denizli included. If your hotel is not listed, please specify it in the “Special Requests” section during booking.
Itinerary
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1Istanbul
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 -
2Sultanahmet 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 -
3German 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 -
4Hippodrome
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 -
5Sultanahmet 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 -
6Hagia 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 -
7Basilica 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 -
8Grand 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 -
9Sultanahmet
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 -
10Pamukkale
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 -
11Lake Salda
Surrounded by scenic hills and untouched landscapes, Salda Lake is one of Türkiye’s most spectacular natural attractions. Known for its dazzling turquoise waters and distinctive white, mineral-rich shores, the lake offers a truly unique setting. During our visit, enjoy panoramic views, capture beautiful photographs, and discover the extraordinary natural beauty that makes Salda Lake such a special destination.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
12Hierapolis & 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 -
13Hierapolis 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 -
14Pamukkale 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 -
15Pamukkale
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 -
16Kusadasi
After your tour, you will continue to Kusadasi, where you will stay.
2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
17Ephesus 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 -
18Ancient 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 -
19Ephesus 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 -
20Selçuk
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 -
21Meryemana (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 -
22The 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 -
23Ephesus Museum
At this charming and well-organised museum, there are not only findings from the ongoing excavations at Ephesus archeological site, but also the artifacts from the Cukurici Mound, the basilica of St John, and the Temple of Artemis.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included -
24İzmir
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 -
25Istanbul
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 -
26Cappadocia
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
Istanbul Old City Tour / Flight to Denizli / Overnight in Pamukkale
Salda Lake, Hierapolis & Pamukkale Tour / Overnight in Kusadasi
Ephesus Ancient City & Nearby Highlights Tour / Flight Back to Istanbul OR ⭐ Continue to Cappadocia by Plane
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
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
- To arrange your domestic flights, the tour operator may require your passport details. Providing this information in advance will allow us to complete your flight reservations smoothly and avoid any potential issues.
- Your domestic flight e-tickets will be sent to you by the tour operator via email three days before departure. Printing your tickets is not required, as both the airline and the tour operator accept digital copies.
- Each traveler is allowed 15 kg of checked baggage and 8 kg of carry-on baggage on domestic flights. If you anticipate exceeding the checked baggage allowance, please notify the tour operator in advance. Additional charges may apply for excess baggage.
- ⭐ CONTINUE YOUR JOURNEY TO CAPPADOCIA: If you prefer to continue your journey to Cappadocia rather than return to Istanbul at the end of the tour, the tour operator offers this option at no additional cost. Your included return flight to Istanbul can be replaced with a flight to Cappadocia, saving you the cost of purchasing an additional flight ticket and allowing you to continue your journey through Türkiye more conveniently.
- ⭐ THE PERFECT START TO YOUR TÜRKİYE JOURNEY: Begin with the highlights every first-time visitor should experience, from Istanbul's must-see attractions to the Aegean's extraordinary archaeological and cultural heritage. Then continue your journey at your own pace, discovering the places that interest you most.
- ⭐ SEMI-PRIVATE GUIDED TOURS: The guided day tour(s) included in this package are conducted with a maximum of 10 guests, providing a more intimate and comfortable experience than traditional group tours. Smaller group sizes allow for more personalized attention, greater flexibility, and a better opportunity to fully enjoy Turkey’s remarkable landscapes, history, and cultural heritage.
- If you request any changes to your domestic flight(s) after the tickets have been issued, the tour operator may require you to pay for any additional costs associated with rebooking. Please be aware that once issued, domestic flight tickets are non-refundable and cannot be changed or amended.
- Accommodation is based on double or triple occupancy, depending on the number of travelers. Two guests will share a double room, while three guests will be accommodated in a triple room. For groups of four or more, rooms will be arranged in the most suitable combination of double and/or triple rooms. Solo travelers will receive a single room at no extra charge. If members of a group of two or more request separate single rooms, a single-room supplement may apply.
- Your hotel accommodation is determined by the booking option selected at the time of reservation. The hotel names corresponding to each booking option are clearly listed in the option descriptions, allowing you to review the available hotels before completing your booking. Please review the booking options carefully and select your preferred option. If the selected hotel is unavailable for your travel dates, the tour operator reserves the right to provide alternative accommodation of a similar quality and standard.
- If you choose not to use any of the services included in your package, or decide not to participate in scheduled activities, guided tours, airport transfers, or other included services, this will be considered a last-minute cancellation. Unfortunately, no refund will be provided for any unused services.
- Please inform the tour operator of any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking so that the necessary arrangements can be made in advance.
- A vegetarian meal option is available. Please inform the tour operator at the time of booking if you require a vegetarian meal.
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Cancellation Policy
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 3 full days before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 3 full days before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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