12 Days Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale and Bodrum By Plane Popular
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Description
This comprehensive 12-day small group tour offers an immersive exploration of Turkey's most iconic destinations, seamlessly connected by domestic flights. Beginning in the vibrant city of Istanbul, the itinerary includes guided tours of its historical and cultural highlights and a scenic Bosphorus cruise. Travelers will then fly to Cappadocia to discover its unique fairy chimneys, underground cities, and captivating landscapes. The journey continues to the historical region near Ephesus, including a visit to the ancient city itself and the House of the Virgin Mary.
Discover Turkey's Treasures: 12-Day Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale & Bodrum by Air
Immersive 12-Day Turkey Adventure: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale & Bodrum by Domestic Flights
Tour Style : Intimate Small Group Exploration
Duration : 12 Days / 10 Enchanting Nights
Departures : Available Throughout the Year – Guaranteed to Depart
Your Comprehensive Journey Includes:
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Seamless Airport Transfers & Ground Transportation: Enjoy stress-free travel from the moment you arrive until your departure with all airport transfers and comfortable ground transportation arranged for all local sightseeing tours.
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Convenient Domestic Air Travel: Maximize your exploration time with included round-trip domestic flights efficiently connecting the vibrant city of Istanbul with the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia (Kayseri), the historical wonders near Ephesus (Izmir), and the Aegean allure of Bodrum back to Istanbul.
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Comfortable & Welcoming Accommodation: Relax and rejuvenate in our carefully selected, comfortable hotels, where a delightful breakfast is included each morning, providing the perfect start to your day's adventures.
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Expert-Led Guided Tours & Engaging Activities:
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Discover the historical and cultural tapestry of Istanbul on two comprehensive full-day guided tours, complete with delicious lunches showcasing local flavors.
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Glide along the iconic Bosphorus Strait on a captivating half-day cruise tour, offering stunning panoramic views of Istanbul's majestic skyline and charming waterfront districts (lunch not included on this tour).
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Immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes and ancient history of Cappadocia with two enriching full-day guided tours, including delightful lunches amidst the region's unique scenery.
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Witness the breathtaking natural wonder of Pamukkale's white travertine terraces and explore the fascinating ancient city of Hierapolis on a dedicated full-day guided tour, complete with a satisfying lunch.
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Experience the vibrant coastal charm and historical significance of Bodrum on two engaging full-day guided tours, each including a delicious lunch.
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Insightful Professional Guidance: Benefit from the expertise of a licensed professional English-Speaking Guide who will accompany you on all local tours, providing invaluable insights, historical context, and local perspectives, enriching your understanding of Turkey's rich heritage.
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Comfortable & Convenient Transportation: Travel in comfort and style aboard modern, fully air-conditioned, and strictly non-smoking coaches for all your local sightseeing excursions, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable journey between destinations.
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All Essential Fees Included: Your tour price transparently includes all applicable government taxes, entrance fees to museums, and admission costs to all the historical and cultural attractions outlined in the itinerary, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Kindly Note: The Following Are Not Included:
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Your Personal Expenses & Optional Enhancements: Please be aware that personal expenses such as beverages, customary tips for your knowledgeable guides and attentive drivers (which are always appreciated), and any optional tours or activities you may choose to participate in to further personalize your adventure are not included in the package price.
Highly Recommended Experiences in Cappadocia:
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Unforgettable Hot-Air Balloon Flight: Ascend into the serene Cappadocian skies at dawn for an unparalleled panoramic view of the region's unique landscapes bathed in the soft morning light. Price: 295 EUR per adult (cash payment preferred, regrettably no child discounts are applicable for this premium experience).
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Sunrise Spectacle: Hot-Air Balloon Watching Photo Tour by Taxi: Capture breathtaking, postcard-perfect photographs of the multitude of colorful hot-air balloons gracefully dotting the Cappadocian horizon during the magical sunrise. Price: 60 EUR per person (this exclusive photo opportunity has no child discount).
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Mesmerizing Spiritual Journey: Whirling Dervishes Show: Witness the captivating and culturally significant Sema ceremony, a profound spiritual expression through the mesmerizing movements of the Whirling Dervishes. Price: 40 EUR per person.
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An Evening of Turkish Culture: Turkish Night Entertainment: Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Turkey with captivating folk dances, mesmerizing belly dancing performances, unlimited local beverages, a delicious three-course Turkish meal, and convenient round-trip hotel transfers. Price: 80 EUR per person.
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Traditional Relaxation: Turkish Bath Experience (Hamam): Indulge in the age-old tradition of the Hamam, a rejuvenating and culturally enriching cleansing ritual that will leave you feeling refreshed. Price: 80 EUR per person.
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Equestrian Exploration: Horseback Riding Through Cappadocia's Valleys: Discover the unique and stunning valleys of Cappadocia from a different perspective on a scenic and leisurely horseback ride. Price: 60 EUR per person for a one-hour experience.
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Thrilling Off-Road Adventure: ATV / Quad Bike Tour: Embark on an exhilarating off-road adventure, navigating the lunar-like terrain and hidden trails of Cappadocia on a powerful ATV. Price: 55 EUR for a one-hour adrenaline-pumping ride.
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Discover Authentic Turkish Arts, Crafts & Cherished Souvenirs
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World-Renowned Textiles: Carpets & Exquisite Kilims: Explore the globally acclaimed handmade carpets and intricately woven kilims originating from the Anatolian heartland, including the famed region of Cappadocia. Learn about the traditional weaving techniques and the use of natural wool dyes, and even witness captivating live demonstrations of this ancient art form.
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Further Enhance Your Turkish Experience (Highly Recommended Options)
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Romantic Istanbul Sunset Cruise on a Luxury Yacht: 100 EUR. Elevate your Istanbul experience with an unforgettable sunset cruise aboard a luxurious yacht gliding along the iconic Bosphorus Strait. Witness the breathtaking transformation of the city's skyline as iconic landmarks like the majestic Blue Mosque, the enigmatic Maiden's Tower, and the charming Ortaköy Mosque are bathed in the warm, golden hues of twilight.
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Thrilling Aerial Adventure: Paragliding in Pamukkale: 100 EUR. For the adventurous at heart, paragliding over the surreal white travertine terraces of Pamukkale and the fascinating ancient city of Hierapolis offers an exhilarating and unparalleled perspective of this unique natural and historical site.
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World-Class Aerial Views: Paragliding in Fethiye: 125 EUR. Extend your Turkish adventure with a breathtaking paragliding flight over the stunning natural beauty of Babadağ Mountain and the world-renowned Ölüdeniz Beach in Fethiye, consistently ranked among the top paragliding destinations across the globe for its stunning scenery and ideal flying conditions.
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Explore Your Options: Hotels, Pricing Details & Secure Booking
For comprehensive details regarding our carefully selected hotels, transparent pricing information tailored to your travel dates, and to proceed with your secure online booking, please simply click on the prominent booking option conveniently located at the top of this page.
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Centuries of Craftsmanship: Ceramics & Unique Pottery: The Cappadocia region boasts a rich heritage of distinctive ceramics and pottery, dating back to the ancient Hittite civilization. Explore the exquisite craftsmanship and unique designs, often available for purchase in Istanbul and other major cities throughout Turkey.
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Gleaming Treasures: Onyx & Semi-Precious Stone Creations: Discover the natural beauty of onyx sourced from the mines of Cappadocia, where skilled local artisans craft exquisite jewelry featuring onyx, a variety of other precious and semi-precious stones, as well as intricate settings in silver and high-carat gold.
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Finely Crafted Leather Goods: Turkey is globally renowned for its high-quality leather products. Explore a wide selection of beautifully crafted leather goods, from stylish clothing and accessories to durable bags and footwear, particularly in the town of Uchisar, nestled within the captivating Cappadocian landscape.
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Aromatic Delights: The Vibrant Istanbul Spice Market: Immerse yourself in the sensory explosion of the historic Istanbul Spice Market, once the medieval world's grandest hub for spice trading, offering a dazzling array of exotic aromas, vibrant colors, and unique edible treasures.
Booking and Contact: Your Unforgettable Turkish Adventure Awaits!
Ready to embark on this immersive 12-day journey through the captivating highlights of Turkey, from the historical grandeur of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, the ancient wonders near Ephesus, the natural beauty of Pamukkale, and the Aegean charm of Bodrum? Click on the secure booking link situated at the top of this page to effortlessly check real-time availability and confirm your reservation. Should you have any inquiries, require more detailed information about the itinerary, or wish to discuss any specific aspects of your travel arrangements, please do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team of travel experts using the comprehensive contact information readily available on our website. We are committed to providing you with all the assistance you need to plan and enjoy an absolutely unforgettable Turkish experience.
Highlights
Iconic Istanbul
Magical Cappadocia
Ancient Ephesus
Pamukkale’s Wonders
Beautiful Bodrum
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Upon arrival at Istanbul International Atatürk Airport, you will be met by a Yuki Tour representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, you will receive your room key and have the remainder of the day at leisure to begin exploring Istanbul at your own pace. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2: Istanbul City Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Your full-day Istanbul city tour will begin at 08:30. Today you will visit Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries, where you will see collections of crystal, silver, Chinese porcelain, sultans’ garments, imperial jewels, miniatures, and the Holy Mantle, which holds relics of the Prophet Mohammed. Next is the Sultanahmet Imperial Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque for its stunning interior adorned with blue Iznik tiles. Continuing to the Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine sports and politics, you will view the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine. You will also visit Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and the Rustem Pasa Mosque. After the tour, return to your hotel around 5:00 PM. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 3: Half-Day Morning Bosphorus Cruise – Evening Flight to Cappadocia
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Departure from your hotel will be at 08:30 for a half-day Bosphorus cruise. You will first visit the Spice Bazaar, where the air is rich with the aromas of various spices, fruits, flowers, and local delicacies. Then, you will enjoy a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, the strait that divides Europe and Asia. From the boat, you will admire Ottoman palaces, historic wooden mansions, and luxurious modern residences. You will also see the Rumeli Fortress from the water, a magnificent military structure built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452. The cruise concludes with a unique experience of crossing from one continent to another via the Bosphorus Bridge. In the evening, you will take a flight to Kayseri and transfer to your hotel in Cappadocia. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 4: Fairy Chimneys Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Your tour begins at 09:30 with a visit to Devrent Valley, located on the northern slopes of Aktepe. The valley is known for its surreal rock formations and pointed fairy chimneys. Next, you will see Love Valley, famed for its remarkable three-headed fairy chimneys. In Avanos, a town renowned for its pottery tradition dating back to 3000 BC, you will visit a local pottery workshop that uses red clay from the nearby Red River. The tour continues with a visit to Uchisar, a troglodyte town centered around a massive rock used as a fortress and offering panoramic views of Cappadocia and Mount Erciyes. The tour concludes around 5:00 PM with a return to your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia. (Lunch included)
Day 5: Rose Valley and Mazıköy Underground City Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Your day begins at 09:30 with a full-day tour of South Cappadocia. You will explore Kızılçukur, an isolated valley near Ürgüp known for its hidden rock-cut churches and picturesque vineyard paths. In Çavuşin, one of the region’s oldest villages, you will visit the Church of St. John the Baptist, which dates to the 5th century. You will then explore Mazıköy Underground City, one of Cappadocia’s largest and deepest subterranean complexes, with multiple levels and chambers. The final stop is Pigeon Valley, where you will see the ancient pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. After the tour, you will be transferred to Kayseri Airport for your evening flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, a Yuki Tour representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kusadasi. Overnight in Kusadasi. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
Day 6: Ephesus Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Your full-day tour begins at 09:00 with a visit to the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You will then proceed to Ephesus, the most well-preserved Greco-Roman city in the world, where highlights include the Celsus Library, Agora, Theatre, Odeon, Trajan Fountain, Temple of Domitian, and Roman Latrines. After lunch, you will visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the place where she spent her final days. Overnight in Pamukkale.
Day 7: Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour – Evening Bus to Bodrum
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
After breakfast, you will depart Kusadasi and drive to Pamukkale. Upon arrival, you will begin your guided tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis. Pamukkale, meaning "Cotton Castle" in Turkish, is a spectacular natural site formed by calcium-rich hot spring waters cascading over the cliffs for thousands of years. Hierapolis, founded in 190 BC, was a healing and cultural center of the Roman Empire. Highlights include the basilica, theatre, and Roman Baths. In the evening, you will take a bus to Bodrum. Overnight in Bodrum.
Day 8: Picnic Boat Trip in Bodrum
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Today, you will enjoy a full-day boat trip with lunch served on board. Departing around 11:00 AM, the cruise explores the crystal-clear waters of the Bodrum coastline. You will stop at several scenic bays for swimming and snorkeling or relaxing in the sun. At Black Island, you may bathe in a grotto known for its warm mineral waters. The tour concludes around 5:00 PM. Overnight in Bodrum. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Day 9: Dalyan (Caunos) Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Today’s tour begins at 08:30 with a journey to Dalyan, a peaceful town known for its unspoiled nature. You will take a 45-minute boat ride to reach Iztuzu Beach, a nesting ground for endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles. You will also visit the ancient city of Caunos, founded in the 9th century BC, which features impressive rock-cut tombs believed to be royal burial sites. The tour provides insight into local history, beliefs, and natural beauty. Overnight in Bodrum. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Day 10: Free Day in Bodrum – Flight to Istanbul
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Today is free for you to relax or explore Bodrum at your own pace. In the evening, you will take a flight to Istanbul. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 11: Princes’ Islands Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
At 08:30, you will depart for a full-day tour to Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands. En route, you will pass by four other islands known for their serene nature and historical charm. Motor vehicles are prohibited on the islands, so the traditional phaeton (horse-drawn carriage) remains the primary mode of transportation. You will enjoy a carriage ride through streets lined with elegant Ottoman mansions draped in bougainvillea. Lunch will be served at a waterfront seafood restaurant with views of Istanbul’s Asian shore. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 12: Departure
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
After breakfast, check out from your hotel. You will be transferred to Istanbul Airport for your departure flight. We hope you enjoyed your journey with us and look forward to welcoming you again. (Breakfast included)
Includes & Excludes
4- and 5-star hotel accommodations
Daily breakfast and selected meals
Professional English-speaking guide
Guided tours in each destination
Entrance fees to all listed attractions
Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks)
Optional activities (Hot air balloon ride, boat tours, etc.)
Dinners (unless specified)
Tips and extra services
International flights
Gallery
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, all domestic flights (Istanbul–Kayseri, Kayseri–Izmir, Bodrum–Istanbul) are included in the package.
No, this is a guaranteed departure tour and operates year-round with small groups. No minimum number is required.
Optional activities can be booked through your tour guide during the tour. Prices are fixed and payment is usually accepted in cash.
The hotels are 3- or 4-star standard accommodations, all located in or near city centers. Hotel names can be shared upon request.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Please check with the nearest Turkish consulate or official visa website prior to travel.
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