Day Istanbul Pamukkale Ephesus Cappadocia By Plane Popular
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Description
Embark on a 10-day adventure through Turkey’s most iconic destinations — from the vibrant streets and timeless charm of Istanbul to the surreal white terraces of Pamukkale, the ancient grandeur of Ephesus, and the dreamlike valleys of Cappadocia.
Discover Turkey's Iconic Trio: 10 Days Exploring Istanbul, Pamukkale, Ephesus & Cappadocia by Plane
Embark on an immersive 10-day, 9-night adventure through Turkey's most celebrated destinations: the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul, the surreal white terraces of Pamukkale, the ancient grandeur of Ephesus, and the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia. This meticulously planned itinerary, with guaranteed departures everyday, combines the convenience of domestic flights with comfortable ground transportation, ensuring a seamless and enriching exploration of these must-see regions. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, this tour offers a comprehensive and unforgettable Turkish experience.
What Awaits You on This 10-Day Turkish Odyssey:
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Seamless Arrival and Departure Airport Transfers: Enjoy stress-free transfers to your hotel upon arrival in Istanbul and a comfortable transfer back to the airport for your departure.
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Convenient Domestic Air Travel: Travel efficiently between key destinations with included domestic flights from Istanbul to Denizli (for Pamukkale), Izmir (near Ephesus) to Kayseri (for Cappadocia), and Kayseri back to Istanbul, saving valuable travel time.
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Comfortable Hotels with Daily Breakfast: Enjoy well-selected accommodation throughout your journey, with a delicious breakfast included each morning to start your day of exploration.
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Immersive Istanbul Exploration: Discover the historical and cultural heart of Turkey with 2 Full Day Istanbul Tours, led by expert guides to showcase the city's most iconic attractions.
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Scenic Bosphorus Cruise: Experience Istanbul from a unique perspective with a relaxing Half-Day Bosphorus Cruise Tour, gliding along the legendary strait that divides Europe and Asia.
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Unveiling the Wonders of Cappadocia: Immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes and ancient history of Cappadocia with 3 Full Day Cappadocia Tours, led by knowledgeable local guides to explore its unique valleys and cave dwellings.
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Journey to Ancient Ephesus: Step back in time with a dedicated 1 Full Day Ephesus Tour, exploring the remarkably preserved ruins of one of the Mediterranean's most important ancient cities.
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Marvels of Pamukkale: Witness the stunning white terraces and thermal pools of Pamukkale and explore the adjacent ancient city of Hierapolis on a comprehensive 1 Full Day Pamukkale Tour.
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Expert Guidance Throughout Your Trip: Benefit from the knowledge and insights of a licensed, professional English-speaking tour guide who will accompany you throughout your entire 10-day adventure, enriching your understanding of Turkey's history and culture.
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Comfortable Transportation for Local Tours: Travel in comfort and safety aboard a modern, fully air-conditioned, and non-smoking coach for all local tours and transfers within each region.
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All-Inclusive Transport Charges: All carpark fees, gasoline costs, and highway and bridge tolls related to the tour transportation are included in the price.
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Hassle-Free Entrance to Attractions: Enjoy seamless access to museums and historical sites with all necessary entrance fees included in your tour package.
What is Not Included in Your Turkish Experience:
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Beverages: All types of drinks consumed during meals or at any other time are not included in the tour price.
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Gratuities: Tips for your knowledgeable and attentive guide and the skilled driver are not included but are always greatly appreciated for their excellent service.
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Personal Expenses: Any personal costs you may incur, such as souvenirs, snacks, or other personal items, are not included.
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Optional Excursions: Any additional tours or activities not explicitly mentioned in the detailed itinerary are considered optional and are not included in the base tour price.
Highly Recommended Experiences to Enhance Your Cappadocia Adventure:
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Hot-Air Balloon Flight in Cappadocia: (€295 per adult, cash payment preferred, no child reduction) An iconic and unforgettable experience offering breathtaking panoramic views of Cappadocia's unique valleys and fairy chimneys at sunrise.
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Hot-Air Balloon Watching Photo Tour by Taxi: (€60 per person, no child reduction) Capture stunning photographs of the mesmerizing sight of dozens of colorful hot-air balloons soaring over the Cappadocian landscape.
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Whirling Dervishes Show: (€40 per person) Witness a captivating and spiritually enriching cultural performance showcasing the mystical Sufi tradition.
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Turkish Night: (€80 per person) Immerse yourself in Turkish culture with traditional folk dances, mesmerizing belly dancers, unlimited local drinks, a delicious 3-course meal, and convenient hotel transfers.
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Turkish Baths (Hamam): (€80 per person) Indulge in a traditional Turkish bathing experience for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
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Horseriding: (€60 per person for 1 hour) Explore the stunning and unique landscapes of Cappadocia from a different perspective on horseback.
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ATV/Quad Ride: (€55 per person for 1 hour) Embark on an adventurous off-road exploration of Cappadocia's valleys and rock formations.
Discover Traditional Arts and Crafts in Turkey – Perfect Gifts and Cherished Souvenirs:
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Carpets and Kilims: Cappadocia is renowned for its exquisite handmade carpets and kilims, crafted using traditional techniques and natural wool dyes. You can often witness free demonstrations of this ancient art form.
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Ceramic and Pottery: With a rich history dating back to the Hittite era, Cappadocia's ceramics and pottery are highly esteemed. The finest examples are found and sold in the town of Avanos.
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Onyx and Semi-Precious Stones: The Cappadocia region is home to high-quality onyx mines, and skilled local artisans create beautiful and unique jewelry using onyx, various semi-precious stones, silver, and gold.
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Leather Goods: As a leading producer of leather goods globally, Turkey, and particularly the Cappadocia region, offers a wide selection of high-quality leather products.
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Spices: During your time in Istanbul, be sure to visit the historic Istanbul Spice Market, a vibrant and aromatic hub that was once the largest spice trading center in the medieval world, offering a fascinating glimpse into global trade and local flavors.
Highly Recommended Experiences to Enhance Your Turkish Adventure:
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Istanbul Sunset Cruise on a Luxury Yacht – (€100) Conclude your days in Istanbul with an unforgettable sunset cruise along the legendary Bosphorus on a luxury yacht, offering breathtaking views of the city's iconic landmarks bathed in the warm hues of twilight.
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Paragliding in Pamukkale – (€100) Add an exhilarating dimension to your Pamukkale visit by soaring above the stunning white terraces and the ancient ruins of Hierapolis for a truly unique and unforgettable aerial perspective.
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Paragliding in Fethiye – (€125) Extend your adventure to the stunning southwestern coast and experience the thrill of paragliding in Fethiye, renowned as one of the world's top paragliding destinations, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and the iconic Ölüdeniz Beach.
Hotels, Prices, and Booking Your Unforgettable Turkish Journey:
To explore the carefully selected hotel options for each destination on this 10-day tour, view the specific prices based on your travel dates and preferences, and to proceed with securing your booking for this incredible Turkish adventure, simply click on the designated booking option located at the top of the page. You will find comprehensive details and instructions to plan your unforgettable exploration of Istanbul, Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Cappadocia.
Highlights
Ephesus: Ancient Ruins
Pamukkale: Cotton Castle
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque
Cappadocia: Fairy Chimneys, Goreme Open-Air Museum
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your boutique hotel located in the historic Sultanahmet district. You will have the remainder of the day at leisure to begin exploring this captivating city. Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 2 – Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
At 08:30, you will be picked up from your hotel for a full-day guided tour of Istanbul’s Old City. Today’s itinerary includes some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You will visit Hagia Sophia, the largest cathedral of the Byzantine Empire, which was converted into a mosque in 1453 by the Ottomans and today functions as a museum showcasing both Christian and Islamic elements. Next, you will explore the Sultanahmet Imperial Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, notable for being the only mosque in Istanbul with six minarets. Built by Sedefkar Mehmet Aga in the early 17th century for Sultan Ahmed I, it remains a masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture. You will then walk through the Hippodrome, once the sporting and political heart of the Eastern Roman Empire. The tour continues with a visit to the Grand Covered Bazaar, a world-famous market offering an extensive range of goods including carpets, jewelry, leather, and souvenirs. Finally, you will explore Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of the Ottoman sultans and the administrative center of the empire for over 400 years, built by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror between 1475 and 1478. After the tour ends around 17:30, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 3 – Half-Day Bosphorus Cruise (Without Lunch)
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
At 08:30 , you will be picked up from your hotel for a half-day tour across two continents. You will begin your day with a visit to the Spice Bazaar, where you can experience the vibrant aromas of various spices and browse stalls selling fruits, vegetables, dried fish, caviar, and more. You will then embark on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, the waterway that separates Europe and Asia. During the cruise, you will enjoy views of historical marble palaces, wooden Ottoman villas, and elegant modern homes. You will also cross the Bosphorus Bridge, a unique opportunity to travel from one continent to the other in just two minutes. Your tour concludes at Camlica Hill, the highest point in Istanbul, offering panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait. In the evening, you will take a flight to Pamukkale. Overnight stay in Pamukkale.
Day 4 – Pamukkale Tour at 09:45
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
After breakfast, you will be picked up at 08:30 for a full-day guided tour of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis. You will witness the magnificent Cotton Cliffs, a stunning natural formation created by deposits of calcareous salts from thermal spring waters. You will also explore the extensive ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city known for its basilica, grand theatre, and Roman baths. After the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kusadasi, arriving around 19:00. Overnight stay in Kusadasi.
Day 5 – Ephesus Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Following breakfast, you will depart at approximately 08:30 for a full-day tour of Ephesus. Your first stop will be the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You will then visit the Greco-Roman city of Ephesus, renowned as the most well-preserved ancient city in the world. After exploring this awe-inspiring site, you will enjoy a lunch break. In the afternoon, you will visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be where she spent her final days. This revered site is considered holy by both Christians and Muslims. After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your evening flight to Kayseri. Overnight stay in Cappadocia.
Day 6 – Fairy Chimneys Tour at 09:30
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Today, your guided exploration of Cappadocia begins with a tour of the region’s most iconic landscapes. Your first stop will be Devrent Valley, located on the northern slopes of Aktepe, near Pasabaglari and Avanos. This area features surreal fairy chimneys with tall, pointed caps, spread across three valleys. Next, you will explore Love Valley, home to remarkable three-headed fairy chimneys and unique rock formations, particularly around Pasabag, the Pasha’s Vineyard. Your journey continues to Avanos, a historic town known for its terra cotta art that dates back to 3000 BC. Here, you will visit a traditional pottery workshop where clay from the Red River is still used to produce handmade ceramics. The final stop is Uchisar, a picturesque troglodyte village dominated by a massive rock formation that once served as a fortress. It is the highest point in Cappadocia and offers panoramic views of the entire region and Mount Erciyes. After the tour concludes at around 17:30, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Overnight stay in Cappadocia.
Day 7 – Rose Valley and Underground City Tour at 09:30
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
You will be picked up from your hotel for a full-day tour of South Cappadocia. Your first destination is Kizilcukur (Red Valley), a remote and scenic area behind Urgup, known for its vibrant rock formations and hidden rock-cut churches. The area is crisscrossed by numerous trails connecting small villages through vineyards and gardens, and it is common to meet local villagers offering seasonal fruits such as grapes, apples, and apricots. You will then visit Cavusin, one of the region’s oldest settlements, located near Goreme. Here, you will see the Church of St. John the Baptist, dating back to the 5th century and offering panoramic views of the village. This church once featured a large courtyard, now partially eroded. The tour continues with a visit to one of Cappadocia’s largest and deepest underground cities, with eight levels, some of which are open to visitors. Lastly, you will stop at the famous pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. After the tour ends around 17:30, you will return to your hotel. Overnight stay in Cappadocia.
Day 8 – Derinkuyu Underground City and Ihlara Valley Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
You will depart from your hotel to visit Derinkuyu Underground City, an extensive subterranean refuge used by early Christians to escape persecution. From there, you will travel to the stunning Ihlara Valley, once known as Peristerema. You will explore its rock-cut churches and hike approximately 4 kilometers through this lush canyon. On the return journey, you will visit the monasteries of Selime Village. In the evening, you will take a flight back to Istanbul. Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 9 – Princes’ Island Tour
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
Departing at 08:30 , you will enjoy a full-day excursion to the charming Princes’ Islands. You will take a ferry to Buyukada, the largest of the island chain, passing four other islands along the way. These islands are renowned for their mild climate, lush greenery, and elegant Ottoman-era mansions. Motor vehicles are banned, and transportation is provided by horse-drawn carriages known as phaetons. You will take a leisurely carriage ride around the island, passing beautiful houses draped in vibrant bougainvillea. It’s an idyllic escape from the city, evoking a more graceful, slower-paced era. Lunch will be served at one of the island’s traditional seafood restaurants, with views of the Asian side of Istanbul across the water. Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel are included. Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 10 – Istanbul / Departure
25 May 2025, 04:45 AM
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel by 12:00 . You will be transferred to Istanbul Ataturk Airport according to your flight details. This marks the end of your tour and services. If you wish to extend your stay in Istanbul with additional nights, please inform us in advance.
Includes & Excludes
9 nights of accommodation in boutique and standard hotels
Domestic flights (Istanbul to Pamukkale, Izmir to Kayseri, and Cappadocia to Istanbul)
All airport transfers and transportation by air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking professional tour guide during all guided tours
Entrance fees to all museums and historical sites mentioned in the itinerary
International flights to and from Turkey
Travel insurance
Personal expenses and tips for guides and drivers
Beverages during meals and any meals not specified in the itinerary
Optional activities such as hot air balloon rides or Turkish night shows
Gallery
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, all internal flights within Turkey mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour package.
Absolutely! Extra nights or modifications can be arranged upon request prior to your arrival.
While the tour involves some walking on uneven surfaces, we can tailor the experience to suit mobility needs. Please inform us in advance.
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Explore the most iconic and vibrant areas of Istanbul and Turkey! From the historic Sultanahmet district to the lively streets of Beyoğlu, our tours take you to the must-see spots that showcase the beauty and culture of the region.