Istanbul: Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia 8-Day Trip by Plane

This 8-day guided tour explores Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia, ideal for travelers interested in history, culture, and natural wonders.

Highlights

• Explore Istanbul, the city where Asia meets Europe and former capital of three empires
• Walk ancient Greco-Roman roads in Ephesus and visit the House of Mary
• Discover Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys and rock-cut churches
• Tour underground cities to experience early Christian life
• Visit Hierapolis and swim in Pamukkale's thermal pools

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
Arrive at Istanbul Airport, transfer to your hotel for check-in. Overnight in Istanbul. (No meal)

Day 2: Treasures of Istanbul
Visit Hagia Sophia, the Byzantine religious center, followed by Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. See Hippodrome, the Roman-era civil center, then visit the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and grand dome. End the day exploring the Grand Bazaar with over 4,000 shops. Overnight in Istanbul. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise and Flight to Izmir
After breakfast and hotel check-out, visit the Spice Bazaar, known as the Egyptian Bazaar during the Ottoman period. Enjoy a Bosphorus cruise with views of historical sites and natural scenery. Fly to Izmir and transfer to Kusadasi for overnight. (Breakfast)

Day 4: Pamukkale Tour
Visit Pamukkale to see the terraces formed by warm mineral-rich waters at 35 °C. Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, including Anatolia’s largest necropolis with 1,200 gravestones. Overnight in Kusadasi. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 5: Ephesus Tour and Flight to Kayseri
Visit the House of Virgin Mary and the well-preserved classical city of Ephesus. See the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Fly to Kayseri and transfer to Cappadocia for overnight. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 6: Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia
Explore Goreme Open Air Museum with rock-cut churches and colorful frescoes. Visit Devrent Valley’s animal-shaped rocks, Pasabagi (Pacha’s Vineyard), and Avanos for a traditional Turkish lunch and pottery workshop. End at Goreme Panorama and Uchisar. Overnight in Cappadocia. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 7: Underground Cities and Flight to Istanbul
Visit Rose and Red Valley, Cavusin village, and Pigeon Valley. Explore the underground cities that once sheltered 15,000 Christians. Fly back to Istanbul for overnight. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 8: Departure
Transfer to Istanbul Airport according to your pick-up time. Tour ends. (Breakfast)

Includes

• 3 nights accommodation in Istanbul
• 2 nights accommodation in Kusadasi
• 2 nights accommodation in Cappadocia
• Economy class domestic flights (if option selected)
• Meals as specified in itinerary
• Airport transfers
• Land transportation in air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicles

Excludes

• Admission fees for all sightseeing attractions
• Beverages with meals
• Tips for guides and drivers (optional)

Important Information

• This tour combines individual transfers, domestic flights, and small group tours with local expert guides; no airport assistance is provided for flights
• Topkapi Palace closes on Tuesdays; Basilica Cistern will be visited instead. Grand Bazaar closes on Sundays
• Some sites may close during religious or national holidays. Contact us before booking to confirm accessibility for your dates
• Domestic flights include 25kg checked baggage and 8kg cabin luggage
• Children aged 8 and under enter historic sites free of charge
• Entrance tickets are not included
• Hot air balloon flights are not included; inform the provider if interested. Pricing and availability vary by season

Cancellation Policy

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

Booking Tip: Book flights and guided visits early, especially for hot air balloon rides, to ensure availability. Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and a camera. The best months to visit are April to October for optimal weather conditions.