Welcome to Turkey & the Selcuk Region!

Upon your arrival in Selcuk, you will be transferred to your accommodation, where you can relax and settle in before your exciting journey begins.

Selçuk is the gateway to Ephesus, home to rich history, ancient ruins, and cultural landmarks. Whether you choose to explore the town, enjoy a traditional Turkish meal, or unwind at your hotel, this marks the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.

📍 Rest well and get ready to explore the wonders of Ephesus, Pamukkale, Pergamon, and beyond!

Today, your journey takes you through Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, followed by visits to the legendary Temple of Artemis, the sacred House of the Virgin Mary, and the historic Isa Bey Mosque.

📍 Tour Highlights

🏛 Ancient City of Ephesus
Once a thriving metropolis, Ephesus was home to a vast population, drawing traders, scholars, religious figures, and merchants from across the world.
The Harbor Ruins – Though the sea has now receded 7 km away, the former bustling port remains intact.
Marble Street – The main thoroughfare, leading visitors past grand structures and everyday buildings.

📚 Library of Celsus
One of Ephesus’ most iconic landmarks, this grand library once held thousands of scrolls, books, and literary treasures.
Scholars, poets, and researchers from across the ancient world came here in search of knowledge and wisdom.

🏛 Public & Private Buildings
Walk past homes, public latrines, bathhouses, and even an ancient brothel, offering a glimpse into daily life in ancient Ephesus.

🏛 Temple of Artemis – A Wonder of the Ancient World
Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis was described as outshining even the greatest monuments of the era.
Built on an impressive scale, its foundations and towering pillars still stand today as a reminder of its grandeur.
The temple was both an architectural masterpiece and a revered place of worship, drawing pilgrims and scholars alike.

⛪ House of the Virgin Mary
A modest stone cottage, believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary.
The structure consists of:
✅ A simple altar for prayer.
✅ A modest food and living area.
✅ A private well, an unusual luxury for the time.
A site of Christian pilgrimage, visited by popes and religious leaders throughout history.

🕌 Isa Bey Mosque
A magnificent Seljuk-era mosque, built for a regional leader, reflecting the grandeur of Islamic architecture.
Features:
✅ Twin entrances and fountains, still intact today.
✅ Once had twin minarets, but only one remains standing, with the other partially destroyed.
✅ Spacious open prayer hall, designed to accommodate large congregations.

🏨 Overnight Stay in Selcuk or Kusadasi
After a full day of historical exploration, unwind in Selcuk or Kusadasi, where you can enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine, coastal views, and a peaceful night’s rest.

🌟 Why Take This Tour?
✅ Explore one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities
✅ Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
✅ Step into the sacred home of the Virgin Mary
✅ Marvel at the architectural beauty of a Seljuk-era mosque
✅ Enjoy a seamless, guided experience with expert insights
📍 Book your Ephesus tour today and immerse yourself in Turkey’s incredible history and culture!

Today, your journey takes you to Pamukkale, one of Turkey’s most breathtaking natural wonders, followed by a visit to the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This day offers a unique blend of natural beauty and fascinating history, making it an unforgettable experience.

📌 Tour Itinerary
🚍 Morning Departure to Pamukkale
Travel through stunning countryside on a 3-hour scenic journey to Pamukkale.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the rolling hills, small villages, and farmlands along the way.
🍽 Buffet Lunch in Pamukkale
Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing buffet lunch, allowing you time to unwind before exploring.

🌊 Pamukkale – The Cotton Castle
Walk along the famous white travertine terraces, naturally formed by mineral-rich waters.
The flowing thermal water has shaped these fluffy-looking rock formations, giving the area its name, Pamukkale (Cotton Castle).
The warm, calcium-rich waters were believed to have healing properties, attracting visitors for centuries.
Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.

🏛 Hierapolis Ancient City – A Spa City of the Ancient World
Hierapolis, built near Pamukkale’s healing waters, was once a thriving Greco-Roman city known for its baths, temples, and grand structures.

🎭 Theatre of Hierapolis
A massive, well-preserved amphitheater, originally built in two stages.
The first structure was destroyed by an earthquake, leading to the second version being hewn directly into the hillside for better stability.
Walk among the seating areas, still showcasing different styles of seating that once reflected social class.

💀 Necropolis – The City of the Dead
Since many visitors sought healing at Pamukkale, those who did not survive their ailments were buried in Hierapolis.
The Necropolis of Hierapolis holds a vast collection of tombs, reflecting the different social classes:
✅ Sarcophagi for the wealthy and influential.
✅ Simple graves for common citizens.
✅ Lavish tombs & mausoleums for the elite.

🏨 Overnight Stay in Selcuk or Kusadasi
After a day of exploring nature and history, return to Selcuk or Kusadasi for an evening of relaxation. Enjoy local cuisine, a seaside stroll, or a quiet night at your accommodation.

🌟 Why Take This Tour?
✅ Marvel at Pamukkale’s famous white thermal pools
✅ Walk through the ancient ruins of Hierapolis
✅ Learn about Roman water systems & burial traditions
✅ Capture breathtaking views from the theatre & natural terraces
✅ Enjoy a seamless, guided experience with expert insights
📍 Book your Pamukkale & Hierapolis tour today and witness the magic of Turkey’s natural and historical wonders!

Today, you will embark on a journey north to Pergamon, an ancient city that once rivaled Athens in its architectural grandeur and intellectual influence. This city, perched on a breathtaking hillside, offers stunning views and an immersive experience into the rich history of Greek and Roman civilization.

🚍 Morning Departure to Pergamon
Travel north to Pergamon, enjoying the scenic countryside along the way.
Prepare to explore one of the most influential cities of the ancient world.

🏛 Acropolis of Pergamon – The City on the Hill
Modeled after Athens, the Acropolis of Pergamon features a spectacular hilltop setting with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The city’s layout and architecture reflect the grandeur of Ancient Greece, making it one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Turkey.

📚 The Athenaeum Library – A Wedding Gift from Marc Anthony to Cleopatra
Once home to 200,000 volumes, the Athenaeum Library was one of the most important libraries of the ancient world.
The library’s collection was so vast and significant that Marc Anthony gifted it to Cleopatra, further adding to the prestige of the Library of Alexandria.

🏛 Temple of Trajan
This partially reconstructed temple was dedicated to Emperor Trajan, showcasing impressive architectural remains.
Many of the original pieces of the temple remain at the site, offering a fascinating look into the grandeur of Roman religious structures.

💦 Sanctuary of Asclepius – The Healing Center
Located at the base of the hill, the Sanctuary of Asclepius was one of the most famous healing centers in the ancient world.
Built around a natural spring, this sacred medical sanctuary contained:
✅ Baths and fountains, believed to have healing properties.
✅ A temple dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine.
✅ A dream incubation chamber, where the sick would receive visions guiding them to a cure.

🍽 Traditional Turkish Lunch
Enjoy a delicious meal of Turkish specialties, offering a moment to relax and discuss the fascinating sites you’ve explored so far.

🏺 Archaeological Museum of Pergamon
Explore historical artifacts and ancient relics from Pergamon, giving deeper insight into the city’s cultural and artistic achievements.
View original statues, inscriptions, and architectural fragments, preserved to showcase the life and beliefs of the people who once lived here.

🏨 Overnight Stay in Selcuk or Kusadasi
After a day of history and discovery, return to Selcuk or Kusadasi for a peaceful evening.
Enjoy the coastal views, local cuisine, and a relaxing night before continuing your journey.

🌟 Why Take This Tour?
✅ Walk through an ancient city modeled after Athens
✅ See one of the largest libraries of the ancient world
✅ Explore the healing sanctuary of Asclepius
✅ Marvel at the reconstructed Temple of Trajan
✅ Discover Pergamon’s history through its archaeological museum
📍 Book your Pergamon tour today and uncover the secrets of this ancient metropolis!

Today, your journey comes to an end as you are transferred to Izmir Airport or the Kusadasi Bus Station for your onward travels.

🚍 Drop-off Locations:
✅ Izmir Airport – For those flying to their next destination.
✅ Kusadasi Bus Station – For those continuing their travels by bus.

If you require any assistance with further travel arrangements, feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to help with:

• Domestic & international flights
• Bus or train tickets
• Accommodation recommendations
• Additional tours in Turkey

📍 Thank you for traveling with us! We hope to welcome you again on another adventure. Safe travels! ✨✈️🚍