From Istanbul: 2-Day Ephesus, Pamukkale, & Hierapolis Tour

Denizli Province, Istanbul



Travel to the archeological sites in Ephesus and Hierapolis with this 2-day tour with flights from Istanbul. Soak in the Pamukkale hot springs and enjoy lunches, breakfast, and a hotel stay.

Highlights

  • Swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, gifted by Marc Anthony to Cleopatra
  • Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis
  • See the remains of the Temple of Artemis, an ancient world wonder
  • Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, where she is believed to have spent her last days
  • Walk on the natural mineral terraces of Pamukkale

Description

This two-day trip from Istanbul explores the ancient cities of Ephesus and Hierapolis, perfect for history and nature enthusiasts. Visit Ephesus to see iconic ruins including the Temple of Artemis.

Enjoy the natural white terraces formed by mineral deposits at Pamukkale and stay overnight in Selcuk or Kusadasi. The trip includes hotel breakfast and authentic lunch at local restaurants.

Day 1

Start with pickup from your Istanbul accommodation and a flight to Izmir. Meet your guide and transfer to Selcuk for lunch at a local restaurant. Tour the Ephesus archaeological site, walking through ancient streets and visiting the Temple of Artemis, the Library of Celsus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and a Roman Amphitheater. End the day with hotel accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi.

Day 2

After hotel pickup, drive through the Turkish countryside to Pamukkale. After lunch, tour the Hierapolis ruins including a large Roman amphitheater and the Greek Temple of Apollo. Walk barefoot on the white travertine terraces and dip your feet in the natural hot springs. Swim in Cleopatra’s Pool among ancient temple ruins. Enjoy free time before returning to Izmir airport for the flight back to Istanbul and transfer to your accommodation.

Includes

  • Round-trip flight to Izmir
  • Round-trip airport transfers
  • Full travel insurance
  • Tour guide
  • Two lunches
  • Hotel accommodation
  • Hotel breakfast

Excludes

  • Dinners
  • Drinks
  • Tips

Important Information

  • Guests should be able to walk about half a mile barefoot on travertine terraces

Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Bring comfortable walking shoes and a swimsuit for swimming in Cleopatra’s Pool. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes visits to Ephesus ruins, the Temple of Artemis, the House of the Virgin Mary, Hierapolis, Cleopatra’s Pool, and Pamukkale’s mineral terraces.
Cleopatra’s Pool is located in Hierapolis and is known for its mineral-rich waters gifted by Marc Anthony to Cleopatra.
Yes, swimming is allowed in Cleopatra’s Pool as part of the Pamukkale and Hierapolis visit.
The tour includes transportation from Istanbul to Ephesus and Pamukkale, typically by flight or coach as arranged by the tour operator.
Pamukkale’s terraces are natural white calcium carbonate formations created by mineral-rich hot springs.
Yes, the House of the Virgin Mary is included as a key historical stop on the Ephesus leg of the tour.
The tour can be taken year-round, but spring and autumn offer milder weather for exploring outdoor sites.
Visitors usually should wear water-friendly shoes and be prepared to walk barefoot on the terraces to protect their natural formations.
Check the official websites or your tour provider for the most current opening hours before your visit.
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, though some walking and climbing may be required at the archaeological sites.

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