Hierapolis
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FROM: USD $1,541 pp
Istanbul to Ephesus - 8 days  map

Embark on a journey through the diverse landscapes of Turkey, commencing in the vibrant city of Istanbul. From there, explore captivating Cappadocia, where hidden underground cities, the Open Air Museum, and the natural fortress of Uchisar await your discovery. Continue your adventure by visiting Pamukkale and the historic city of Hierapolis. In Selcuk, pay homage to the ancient Temple of Artemis and meander through the picturesque village of Sirince. This tour promises a blend of history, culture, tasty food, and natural wonders.

Inclusions
Itinerary
Prices & Dates
Hotels

Trip Highlights

Istanbul – Visit highlights of the Old City including the beautiful Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and imposing Topkapi Palace
Cappadocia - Opt to take a stunning balloon ride over the city, and explore the Underground City and Uchisar Castle
Ephesus - Explore the classic Roman city, one of the best-preserved examples in the whole of Europe
Ankara - Explore the Mausoleum of Ataturk and museum
Pamukkale - Visit the ancient Hierapolis and explore the magnificent Necropolis, graveyard, and the lime cascade
Selcuk - Take in the wonderous Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world

Included

Daily breakfasts, 2 lunches & 4 dinners
Airport arrival transfer on day 1 and departure transfer on day 8
English-speaking, degree qualified Turkish tour guide for all included sightseeing
Entrance fees for all included sightseeing
7 nights 4-5 star hotels
Guided sightseeing - Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Konya, Pamukkale, Izmir & Ephesus
Transportation for sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned touring vehicle/coach

Not Included

International flights and visas
Tipping Kitty: EUR€40-50pp, paid in EUR
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture

Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Istanbul

Friday. Welcome to the vibrant city of Istanbul, the beginning of your exciting adventure. Upon your arrival, our friendly representative will be there to greet you and accompany you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Overnight: Istanbul

Day 2

Tour of Istanbul

Following breakfast at the hotel, your day in Istanbul begins with a guided tour that will take you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the exterior of St. Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Overnight: Istanbul  |  Breakfast

Day 3

Bound for Cappadocia

Istanbul - Ankara - Cappadocia. Today our journey takes us to Ankara, where we'll pay a visit to the Mausoleum of Ataturk and its Museum. This sacred site serves as the final resting place of the esteemed national hero who played a pivotal role in the establishment of the modern Republic of Turkey.

From Ankara, our voyage continues towards Cappadocia. As we admire the picturesque landscapes, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the Salt Lake. Your day concludes with our arrival in Cappadocia, where you'll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Overnight: Cappadocia  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4

Captivating Cappadocia

This morning, you have the option to embark on an early morning adventure with an iconic Balloon tour, offering a view of Cappadocia's breathtaking landscapes from the skies.

Afterward, a full day of exploration in Cappadocia awaits, beginning with visits to an underground city, the Open Air Museum in Goreme, and the natural fortress in Uchisar.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and take the opportunity to discover the rich history behind local handicrafts, such as hand-made carpets, Turkish tiles, onyx, and potteries.

Tonight, you can opt to join our optional night tour featuring a mesmerizing Turkish show and dinner.
Overnight: Cappadocia  |  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5

Enroute to Pamukkale

Cappadocia - Konya - Pamukkale. Your day begins with an early departure as we make our way to the stunning Pamukkale. En route, we'll explore the 13th-century Sultanhan Caravanserai.

Our journey then takes us to the historic city of Konya, where we'll visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana, an iconic spiritual site dedicated to the renowned Sufi mystic and poet, Rumi.

Continuing the journey, we'll arrive in Pamukkale, renowned for its unique terraces of white mineral-rich water. Here, you'll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Overnight: Pamukkale  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6

Hierapolis & The Temple of Artemis

Pamukkale - Izmir. Today we'll visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent Necropolis and the intriguing lime cascade. The Necropolis has remarkable tomb structures, and cascading terraces of white water.

From Hierapolis, we head to Selcuk, where you'll visit the Temple of Artemis, once celebrated as one of the "Seven Wonders of the Ancient World."

The day ends with our arrival in Izmir, where you'll enjoy a comfortable overnight stay and dinner.
Overnight: Izmir  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7

The ancient city of Ephesus

Izmir - Ephesus - Sirince - Izmir. Enjoy a scenic drive to the ancient city of Ephesus. Here, you'll have the privilege of visiting its renowned library, grand theater, and captivating temples.

For lunch, we'll provide a unique experience in a nomadic tent in Selcuk, where you'll have the opportunity to try Turkish Gozleme, a traditional dish.

Our journey then continues to the charming village of Sirince, celebrated as one of the most beautiful villages in Turkey. Here, you enjoy the village's picturesque ambiance, do some shopping, and taste the delicious local wines that the village is famous for.

As the day draws to a close, we return to Izmir for the night.
Overnight: Izmir  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Goodbye

Friday. Today marks the end of your Turkish adventure. Departure transfer is included to either the Kusadasi port for the ferry to Samos, an enchanting Greek island, or to Izmir airport.
Breakfast

Prices & Dates

All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.

Extra Prices

Twin Share
Single Room

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

Avantgarde Levent Hotel, Istanbul

Our Category: Deluxe   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

The Avantgarde Hotel Levent offers a stylish and comfortable retreat for guests with well-appointed rooms and suites, complete with amenities such as air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can start their day with a delicious buffet breakfast and enjoy dining at two on-site restaurants serving international and Mediterranean cuisine. The hotel's spa facilities, including a fitness center, pilates studio, and indoor pool, provide relaxation and rejuvenation. Located in Istanbul's business district of Zincirlikuyu-Levent, the hotel is close to shopping malls and metro stations, making it an excellent choice for business and leisure travelers alike.

Titanic City Hotel, Istanbul

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

One of Istanbul’s most popular hotels, Titanic City offers modern accommodation in a central location. Rooms are bright and comfortable offering state of the art technology and luxurious walk in rain showers. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available and the views from the trendy Compass Bar and Restaurant are simply stunning. Perfectly located in Taksim, the beating heart of Istanbul with lots of great shops, restaurants and bars.

MDC Cave Hotel, Cappadocia

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

MDC Cave Hotel is a luxury cave hotel located in Ürgüp's Old Town. It offers spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs and spa baths. The hotel features heated marble floors, stone fireplaces, and arched ceilings. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at the restaurant, relax on the sun terrace, or use the barbecue facilities in the garden. The hotel has a conference room, tour desk, and offers activities such as hot-air balloon rides and hikes in Cappadocia.

Yusuf Yigitoglu Konagi, Cappadocia

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: Standard Boutique Hotel

Fully restored in 2003, Yusuf Yigitoglu was a 19th century mansion tucked in to the caves of ancient Cappadocia. Guest rooms are cosy with comfortable furnishings and make guests feel like they truly are sleeping in an ancient cave. Complimentary wifi internet is available and there are a couple of bars on site where guests can enjoy a refreshing drink whilst taking in the unique surroundings that this stunning area has to offer. The hotel is centrally located in the town of Urgup.

Adempira Termal & Spa Hotel, Pamukkale

Our Category: Deluxe   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

Adempira Termal & Spa Hotel is ideally located just a short drive from the Pamukkale Travertines surrounded by mountains. Guest rooms are modern and comfortable equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning and satellite tv channels. There is a restaurant and bar onsite offering Turkish and international cuisine. The hotel features a Thermal Pool, Outdoor Swimming Pool, 2 Red Thermal Pools, Turkish bath and sauna as well as an array of luxurious spa treatments to indulge in after a day of sightseeing.

Kaya Prestige Hotel, Izmir

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Kaya Prestige, ideally located in the heart of Izmir City Centre, offers a refined and comfortable retreat. The hotel boasts elegant rooms with city views from its rooftop terrace, and both WiFi and parking are complimentary. Each room features plush carpeted floors, flat-screen TVs, and a spacious seating area. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey at the on-site dining options, including Turkish delights at Sediv and Mediterranean cuisine at the Divan Restaurant, complemented by live music. The Merhaba Bar offers a selection of beverages along with breathtaking city vistas.

At a Glance

Range
Trip Type
Starts
Istanbul
Ends
Izmir
Departs
Fridays
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 28
Hotel Rating
4-5 star
Tour Guide
Yes, for all included sightseeing
Meals
Breakfast: 7, Lunch: 2, Dinner: 4
Countries
Minimum Age
15 yrs, accompanied by an adult
Arr. Transfer
Yes - from IST or Sabiha
Dep. Transfer
Yes - to Izmir Airport or Kusadasi Port
Sunset painting the sky orange in Istanbul
Sunset painting the sky orange in Istanbul
Sunset painting the sky orange in Istanbul
Hot air balloons floating over the stunning landscape of Cappadocia
Hot air balloons floating over the stunning landscape of Cappadocia
The salt encrusted pools at Pamukkale
Aerial view of the waterfront in Izmir
Aerial view of the waterfront in Izmir
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