Welcome to Turkey!

Your journey begins the moment you arrive in this enchanting land where East meets West. Upon landing, you will be warmly greeted and seamlessly transferred to your accommodation in the heart of Istanbul—a city that bridges continents and cultures.

Prepare to be captivated by centuries of history, bustling bazaars, and breathtaking landscapes. From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the vibrant energy of the Grand Bazaar, Turkey offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure filled with rich traditions, world-renowned cuisine, and breathtaking sights. Welcome to Turkey—where every moment is a story waiting to be told!

Wonders of Istanbul

After a restful night and a delightful breakfast at your accommodation, get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

Today’s Highlights

Your adventure begins with a guided tour of Istanbul’s extraordinary sights:

• Hagia Sophia – A breathtaking fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, standing as a testament to centuries of history.
• Blue Mosque – Famous for its stunning blue-tiled interior and majestic domes, a true masterpiece of Islamic art.
• Topkapi Palace – The lavish residence of Ottoman sultans, home to incredible treasures and historical relics.
• Hippodrome – Once the social and sporting hub of the Byzantine Empire, featuring ancient monuments like the Egyptian obelisks.
• Grand Bazaar – A mesmerizing maze of over 4,000 shops, offering everything from intricate carpets to fragrant spices.

With our expert tour guide, you’ll gain deeper insights into the rich history and culture behind each landmark, making this a truly immersive experience.

Our Recommendation

For a sensory adventure, we highly recommend visiting the Spice Bazaar—a lively marketplace bursting with colors, aromas, and flavors. While this stop is not included in the guided tour, you’ll have ample free time to explore at your own pace before returning to your hotel.

Important Notes

• 🏛️ Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
• 🕌 Blue Mosque is closed for entry during Friday prayers.
• 🎟️ Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.

Pickup Information

🚗 We provide hotel pickups from central areas, including Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, and Taksim. If your accommodation is outside these areas, additional charges may apply—please contact our team for assistance.

🌙 Overnight in Istanbul.

Sights Visited

Morning Flight to Izmir
🌅 Start your day early as we pick you up from your accommodation in Istanbul and transfer you to the airport for your domestic flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, our team will warmly welcome you and escort you to the Ephesus region, where an unforgettable journey through ancient history awaits.

Tour of Ephesus
Step into the ancient city of Ephesus, a once-thriving metropolis and one of the most significant cities of the ancient world. As you walk through the grand ruins, history comes to life:

🏛️ Harbor Street – Once a bustling trade route connecting Ephesus to the sea, now a silent reminder of its maritime past.
🛤️ Marble Street – A well-preserved pathway leading to the city’s most iconic landmarks.
📚 Library of Celsus – One of the most spectacular structures of antiquity, this breathtaking library once housed thousands of manuscripts. Though only its intricately reconstructed façade remains, it stands as a testament to Ephesus’ intellectual and architectural grandeur.

The Temple of Artemis
Visit the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Once a magnificent sanctuary, its scale and beauty were said to rival Mount Olympus. While only its foundations and scattered ruins remain today, its historical significance is immeasurable.

The Home of the Virgin Mary
Journey into the nearby hills to discover the Humble Home of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful sanctuary believed to be her final place of residence. This modest stone cottage, with its simple yet sacred atmosphere, invites quiet reflection. Outside, a sacred spring offers a glimpse into the tranquil life Mary may have led in her final years.

Isabey Mosque
Conclude your day with a visit to the Isabey Mosque, an architectural masterpiece from the Seljuk era. Built by the renowned architect Ali, its grand crown-style doors, elegant calligraphy, and Ottoman influences make it a true cultural gem.

Overnight in the Ephesus Region
After an enriching day of exploration, settle into your accommodation in either Selcuk or Kusadasi, both offering convenient access to the historical sites. Rest and recharge for another exciting day ahead!

Sights Visited

Morning Travel to Pamukkale
🌄 Begin your day with a scenic journey to Pamukkale, a three-hour drive through the picturesque Turkish countryside. Along the way, enjoy views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and sprawling landscapes before arriving at one of Turkey’s most mesmerizing natural wonders.
🍽️ Upon arrival, indulge in a delicious Turkish buffet lunch, fueling up for an exciting day of exploration.

Pamukkale – The Cotton Castle
Prepare to be amazed by Pamukkale, a breathtaking natural wonder often called “The Cotton Castle.” 🌿🏞️
These dazzling white travertine terraces were formed over thousands of years as mineral-rich thermal waters cascaded down the slopes, leaving behind surreal, cotton-like rock formations. The result? A stunning landscape that looks like a dreamlike frozen waterfall. As you stroll along the terraces, take in the unparalleled beauty of this geological masterpiece.

Ancient Hierapolis – A Glimpse into Antiquity
Just beyond Pamukkale lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich history, scholarly influence, and healing thermal waters.

🏛️ Grand Library – Once a thriving center of learning, its vast collection of scrolls and manuscripts attracted scholars and intellectuals from across the ancient world.

♨️ Thermal Waters & Healing Legacy – In ancient times, Hierapolis was famous for its therapeutic hot springs, drawing visitors who sought relief and rejuvenation. The city’s connection to Pamukkale’s healing waters made it a hub for wellness and spiritual retreat.

⚰️ The Necropolis – City of the Dead – Just outside Hierapolis, explore one of the largest and most fascinating ancient cemeteries. This sprawling Necropolis contains an array of burial sites, from simple tombs for commoners to elaborate sarcophagi and grand mausoleums for the wealthy and influential.

End of Tour & Return to Istanbul
As your journey through Pamukkale and Hierapolis comes to an end, you will be transferred to Denizli Airport for your flight back to Istanbul.
🛫 This marks the conclusion of your unforgettable Istanbul & Western Highlights Tour.

Need Further Assistance?
📌 If you have any additional questions or need help planning more adventures in Turkey, our team is always happy to assist!

Sights Visited