8 Day Best of Turkey: Istanbul, Ephesus & Pamukkale Tour
|8 Days, 6 Destinations |Starts from Izmir
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Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
Earn €20 in travel credits
Duration

8 days

Max Group Size

30

Departure Type

Guaranteed

Guiding Method

Partially guided

Physical level

easy

Operated In

English

Age Requirement

11 - 99 Ages

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Turkey’s most iconic destinations, blending ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Start in Istanbul, where the legacies of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires come to life through stunning architecture and rich traditions. Cruise the Bosphorus at sunset, explore the famous Egyptian Bazaar, and wander through charming districts like Balat and Pierre Loti.

Continue to the Aegean coast, visiting the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, the sacred House of the Virgin Mary, and the beautiful village of Sirince, known for its local wines. Witness the surreal white travertines of Pamukkale and explore the ancient city of Hierapolis before returning to Istanbul for more cultural delights.

This tour is the perfect blend of history, nature, and Turkish hospitality, offering a seamless and enriching experience for every traveler.

DiscoveryHistoricalIn-depth CulturalExplorerPhotographySolo TravelSightseeing

Route

Starts from

Izmir

Ends in

İstanbul

Pickup Location

Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport

Dropoff Location

Istanbul Airport

Tour route map

Highlights

Istanbul’s Byzantine & Ottoman Relics – Explore Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern on a guided walking tour. Bosphorus Dinner Cruise – Enjoy a magical evening with dinner, live entertainment, and stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline. Ephesus & The House of Virgin Mary – Walk through the ancient ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities, and visit the sacred House of the Virgin Mary. Sirince Village & Kusadasi – Experience the charm of Sirince, a picturesque village famous for its wine and local crafts. Pamukkale & Hierapolis – Marvel at the white travertine terraces and explore the ancient Roman spa city of Hierapolis. Egyptian Bazaar & Bosphorus Cruise – Discover Istanbul’s spice-scented market and take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus. Balat, Pierre Loti & Istiklal Street – Stroll through colorful Balat, enjoy panoramic views from Pierre Loti Hill, and experience the lively atmosphere of Istiklal Street.

Itinerary

Arrive at Izmir Airport and private transfer to the hotel. You’ll have free time after check-in. Stroll along the seaside in Alsancak and Kordon, and enjoy the Izmir evening in stylish cafes and restaurants. Accommodation in Izmir.  beauty.

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Today, we discover İzmir, Şirince & Kuşadası – A Perfect Aegean Getaway!
We Start our tour in Izmir by exploring the bustling Kemeraltı Bazaar, the ancient ruins of Agora, and the historic Kızlarağası Hanı, perfect for a traditional Turkish coffee break.
After Izmir Sightseeing, head to the charming Şirince Village, famous for its stone houses for 300 years, fruit wines, and cosy streets filled with handmade crafts. Wine test on the different wine houses.Lunch break with local dishes in Sirince Village. Visit Isabey Mosque, St. John Church, and Isabey Mosque in Selcuk.
After a scenic drive, you arrive in Kuşadası, a lively seaside town where you can relax by the Aegean Sea, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak in the beautiful sunset. While strolling in Kusadasi, see Okuz Mehmet Pasha Caravanserai and Pigeon Island. Accommodation in Kusadasi.

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Arrive in Pamukkale after a pleasant journey through the fertile Aegean plains, where you will see olive, orange, and vegetable gardens and charming villages.
Pamukkale is a UNESCO World Heritage Site named for its white travertine terraces. These natural formations were formed by the hardening of calcium carbonate from hot springs over time. With their dazzling whiteness and stepped structure, travertines resemble cotton piles. Visitors can walk in the hot water pools and enjoy the natural thermal waters.
Have lunch in the local Restaurant. Hierapolis, located right next to Pamukkale, is an ancient Roman city. Founded by the Kingdom of Pergamon in the 2nd century BC, it has become famous as a health centre, mainly due to its thermal waters. The main structures in Hierapolis are the Antique Theater, Temple of Apollo, Necropolis (Cemetery), Cleopatra Pool, Frontinus Gate, and Frontinus Street Cleopatra Pool You can swim in this ancient pool of thermal water. ( Extra Payment) .Accommodation in Kusadasi.

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
After breakfast, you will arrive at Selcuk, 20 km from Kusadasi. Ephesus tour blends history, spirituality, and local culture, making it a must-experience journey in Turkey!
Ephesus is on the World Heritage list and one of the best-preserved Greek-Roman cities. Visit the ancient Ephesus, home to the impressive Library of Celsus, the Grand Theater, and the Marble Streets, which showcase the grandeur of the Roman era. Terrace Houses entrance fee extra.
The House of the Virgin Mary is a sacred pilgrimage site believed to be the Virgin Mary's final residence. Continue to the St. John Church, built over the tomb of St. John the Apostle and offering breathtaking views of Selçuk. Lunch break in a Local restaurant. Explore the ruins of the legendary Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Upon request, a short break for souvenir shopping and a fashion show at the leather clothing Outland store will end our tour. Accommodation in Kusadasi. 

(Breakfast and Dinner included)
After breakfast, stroll on the Kusadasi shore and visit Pigeon Castel Okuz Mehmet Pasha Caranserai.
Transfer to Izmir Airport Fligt Istanbul. Free time for the rest of the day in Istanbul. 

BOSPHORUS DINNER CRUISE 20:00 - 24:00
Menu: Grill fish or meatballs or chicken, cold and hot appetisers,
Beverages.; Unlimited soft and alcoholic ( Raki, Beer, Wine, vodka)
Program: Music, Folklore performance, Whirling Dervishes show, Traditional wedding ceremony, Oriental belly dancer Show, and more.
Transfer: Return transfer from the hotel. 19:30 – 24:00
Accommodation in Istanbul.  

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Meet your guide at the hotel at 08:30, and we’ll start the day's tour.
Hagia Sophia: Visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia Cathedral, built by Emperor Justinian between 532 and 537. St. Sophia is one of humanity's greatest shared treasures, known as the Church of Divine Wisdom. Topkapi Palace served as the Ottoman Empire's administrative and legislative centre for over 400 years. Its magnificent craftsmanship, tile decoration, and vast garden are worth a visit. The Treasury houses the golden throne of the Sultans, weapons and clothes decorated with precious stones and diamonds, and the holy relics of the Prophet Muhammad. Take a lunch in a local restaurant (included)
Hippodrome Square is where horse-chariot races and other events were held during the Byzantine Empire. Here, we can see the Serpent Column from Delphi in Greece, the Egyptian Obelisk, the German Fountain of Wilhelm ll, and the tombs of Ottoman sultans and princes.
Blue Mosque (extra Payment), also known as Sultanahmet Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1617 by Sedefkar Mehmet ağa, the Architect. It is best known for its six minarets and blue Iznik tiles, which lend the mosque its name.
Grand Bazaar, the world's oldest and largest covered bazaar, comprises 61 covered streets. It is home to over 4000 shops selling anything, from carpets, jewellery, leather, and souvenirs to garments, bags, decorations, spices, and home textiles. In an exotic and unique atmosphere, it is always bustling with locals and tourists.
End of the tour, return to your hotel.  Accommodation in Istanbul. 

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Istanbul's daily group tour with English guide 08:30 – 13:00 Today, explore Istanbul's vibrant culture and historical charm with this unforgettable tour covering the Egyptian Bazaar, Bosphorus Cruise, Balat, Pierre Loti Hill, and Istiklal Street.
Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar), where you can experience the rich aroma of spices, Turkish delights, and local delicacies. Visit Rustem Pasha Mosque, one of the most beautiful examples of Ottoman architecture, decorated with blue Iznik tiles. Fallow city walls and Golden Horn embark on a Cruise Boat.
Bosphorus  BoatTour offers an excellent opportunity to familiarise yourself with Istanbul. Enjoy the captivating scenery along the magnificent Bosphorus, which divides Asia from Europe. At the same time, you can view Istanbul's landmarks, such as the Maiden's Tower, the Bosphorus Bridge, the Dolmabahçe Palace, and the wooden mansions.
Lunch break in a local restaurant Balat: Discover the colourful streets of Balat, a historic district known for its Ottoman-era houses, antique shops, and vibrant street art. Next, take a cable car to Pierre Loti Hill, where you can relax at a traditional café while enjoying breathtaking Golden Horn views.
End your day on Istiklal Street, Istanbul’s most famous pedestrian avenue. This avenue has shops, restaurants, historic buildings, and the nostalgic tram. This tour perfectly combines history, culture, and scenic beauty, offering an authentic Istanbul experience! Accommodation in Istanbul 

(Breakfast included)
Transfer to Istanbul Airport flight to your country. Hope to see you on another Turkiye Holiday

Trip includes

Included

1 nights hotel in Izmir  - Park Inn by Radisson  
3 nights hotel in  Kusadasi - Odelia Resort Hotel
4 nights hotel in Istanbul  - Central Palace Hotel
PS: If This hotel list not available at the time of your booking then we will arrange smilar other hotel for your group. If you prefer a Different category hotel, there might be an additional cost

Hotel

Professional English - speaking tour guides

Guiding Method
Partially guided

English

7 open buffet breakfasts
5 Local Lunch
6 local dinners at the hotels

Vegetarian Halal Meat

All Tour Airport Transfers in the Program
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking coach All parking, highway, bridge fees

Coach / BusMini-coachPrivate Vehicle

Guided Izmir, Sirince Village Tour
Guided Pamukkale, Hierapolis Tour
Guided Ephesus, The House of Virgin Mary Tour
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
Guided Old Town Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Walking Tour Tour
Guided Egypt Bazaar, Bosphorus Cruise, Balat, Pierre Lotti, Istiklal Street Tour
All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
Hotel service fees and city taxes
VAT  - City Tax

Good to Know Before You Go:

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–November) for pleasant weather.
  • Accommodation: 4-star & 5-star hotels with daily breakfast.
  • Transport: Domestic flights, private vehicles, and Bosphorus cruise included.
  • Guides: Expert English-speaking guides at all major sites.
  • Activities: Historical sightseeing, cultural tours, scenic cruises, and vibrant market visits.
  • Packing Tips: Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, sunglasses, and a camera for stunning photo opportunities.

Why Choose This Tour?

 Covers Turkey’s top cultural and historical highlights in just 8 days.
 Includes UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ephesus & Pamukkale.
Features two unique Bosphorus experiences – a day cruise & a dinner cruise.
Perfect mix of ancient history, breathtaking nature, and vibrant city life.
Guided by local experts for an in-depth Turkish experience.

Book now and explore the best of Turkey in just 8 days! 

Excluded

Domestic flight ticket from Izmir to Istanbul

Travel insurance  

Personal expenses
Travel insurance  
Beverages during lunch and dinners
Tips for the guides and drivers

Availability

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