From Istanbul: Ephesus & Pamukkale 2-Day Trip with Flights

Istanbul Province, Istanbul



Explore Turkey's UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a 2-day tour with return flights from Istanbul. Visit Ancient Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary, the Temple of Artemis, Hierapolis, and Pamukkale.

This 2-day guided tour from Istanbul covers the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the thermal springs of Pamukkale, ideal for history and nature enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Visit Ancient Ephesus, a well-preserved city in the Eastern Mediterranean
  • See the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be where she spent her last days
  • Swim in Pamukkale's thermal springs and explore the ancient city of Hierapolis
  • Learn Roman and early Christian history

Description

Start with a hotel pickup in Istanbul, then take a 1.5-hour flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, meet your driver and travel to Selcuk for a full-day tour with your group, including a lunch break.

Visit the House of Virgin Mary, built over the supposed site where she spent her final days. Continue to Ephesus, an archaeological site featuring ancient streets, the Temple of Artemis, and other classical landmarks. End the day with a drive to Kusadasi for a 1-night hotel stay.

On day two, enjoy breakfast before checking out. Travel to Pamukkale to see its unique thermal pools, known as the Pools of Heaven on Earth. Explore Hierapolis, home to Anatolia’s largest necropolis and the Sacred Pool with thermal waters flowing over ancient ruins.

After the tour, transfer to Cardak Airport for your return flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, a driver will take you back to your hotel.

Includes

  • Guided group tour
  • 1-night accommodation in Kusadasi
  • Breakfast (at the accommodation)
  • 2 lunches
  • Baggage allowance: 15 kg checked + 8 kg hand luggage
  • Airport transfers to and from airports
  • Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Economy-class domestic flight tickets (included with Ticket Included option)
  • Transfers and lunch included in all options

Excludes

  • Admission fees to attractions
  • Drinks
  • Tips (optional)
  • Economy-class domestic flight tickets (excluded with Ticket Excluded option)

Important Information

  • Baggage allowance: 25 kg checked + 8 kg hand luggage
  • Entry tickets are not included; guides carry prepaid skip-the-line tickets. Pay your guide in cash (EUR, USD, or TRY) on site.
  • Airport transfers do not include assistant services. Drivers will drop you at the airport entrance; follow check-in instructions sent in advance. Upon arrival, drivers will meet you holding a sign with your name.
  • Flight options: Tours can be booked with or without domestic flight tickets. Contact the agency for recommended options if booking without flights.
  • After booking, send passenger details via email or WhatsApp using the contact on your ticket.

Cancellation Policy

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

Booking tip: Carry cash in EUR, USD, or TRY for entrance fees. The best time to visit Pamukkale is during spring or autumn for mild weather and manageable crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes Ancient Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary, Pamukkale's thermal springs, and the ancient city of Hierapolis.
You take a 1.5-hour domestic flight from Istanbul to Izmir as part of the guided trip.
Yes, the tour allows you to swim in Pamukkale's thermal spring pools.
After landing in Izmir, you will meet your driver at the airport before traveling to Selcuk.
Yes, hotel pickup in Istanbul is included at the start of the tour.
The tour covers Roman and early Christian history found at Ephesus and Hierapolis.
No, the domestic flights between Istanbul and Izmir are included in the tour package.
The tour operates year-round, but check the website for current availability and hours.
Yes, the House of Virgin Mary is one of the key stops visited during the day in Selcuk.
There is moderate walking required to explore the ruins and thermal springs, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

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