EspanolUnforgettable 6-Day Istanbul to Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale Tour by Bus
Experience Turkey’s iconic sites on this 6-day tour from Istanbul, covering the ancient cities of Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale. Travel through breathtaking landscapes and dive into Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. From Cappadocia’s unique rock formations to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the thermal terraces of Pamukkale, this journey offers unforgettable sights and deep historical insights. Join us for a memorable adventure!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Night Bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia
Begin your adventure with an overnight bus journey to Cappadocia. Your e-ticket and bus itinerary will be sent via email ahead of time. The bus departs from Istanbul Esenler Bus Station at 9:00 PM, so please make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure for a smooth start to your trip.
Day 2: Full-Day Cappadocia Exploration - Overnight in Cappadocia
Upon arrival at the Cappadocia bus station, our welcoming team will meet you, take you to our office, and introduce you to your knowledgeable tour guide. From here, your unforgettable Cappadocia adventure begins!
- Devrent Valley: Start your journey in Devrent Valley, a surreal landscape filled with fairy chimneys that conjure a dreamlike scene, perfect for a first taste of Cappadocia’s magic.
- Monks Valley (Pasabag): Discover the stunning views of three-headed fairy chimneys in Monks Valley, also known as Pasha’s Vineyard. This area is encircled by breathtaking natural rock formations.
- Avanos: Continue to Avanos, a town with a pottery tradition dating back to 3000 BC. Here, you’ll visit a traditional pottery workshop nestled in the hills and learn about the town’s rich heritage in terra cotta art.
- Goreme Open Air Museum: Dive into history at the Open Air Museum, an early Christian hub during the Middle Ages. This museum houses monasteries, churches, and chapels adorned with rare iconography and architecture.
- Uchisar: Wrap up the day in Uchisar, a charming troglodyte town crowned by a massive rock formation once used as a fortress. Uchisar’s vantage point offers stunning panoramic views of Cappadocia and Mount Erciyes.
The day winds down at approximately 5:00 PM when we’ll transfer you to your hotel, where you’ll relax and rest for another thrilling day in Cappadocia.
Note: For an added experience, we can arrange an early morning hot air balloon tour for you. Soar above the valleys and take in Cappadocia’s enchanting landscape from the skies.
Day 3: Full-Day North Cappadocia Tour - Transfer to Bus Station for Overnight Journey to Pamukkale
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast, setting the tone for a memorable exploration of North Cappadocia. At 9:30 AM, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and embark on an enriching journey through this captivating region.
- Kizilcukur Valley: Start in Kizilcukur, a secluded valley behind Urgup known for its stunning rock formations and hidden rock-carved churches. The intricate trails connecting small villages here provide a unique perspective on local life.
- Cavusin Village: Discover the ancient village of Cavusin, one of the region’s oldest settlements. Just 2 km from Goreme, this village boasts the Church of St. John the Baptist, dating back to the 5th century, offering a panoramic view over the village.
- Hospital Monastery: Step back in time at the Hospital Monastery, one of Cappadocia's oldest, where you’ll gain insight into the spiritual and community life of earlier civilizations.
- Underground City: Dive into the mysterious Underground City, where you’ll explore its intricate, multi-level design and marvel at the ingenuity of its architecture and purpose.
- Pigeon Houses and Rock Formations: Conclude your tour with a visit to the pigeon houses and distinctive rock formations that complete Cappadocia's surreal landscape.
Following this enriching day, we’ll arrange your transfer to the bus station for your 21:00 PM departure to Pamukkale. Get ready for the next chapter of your journey as you settle in for the overnight bus ride.
Day 4: Full-Day Tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis - Transfer to Selcuk for Overnight Stay
Upon arrival at Pamukkale Bus Station, you’ll be transferred to a nearby hotel for a short rest and freshen-up session. Afterward, get ready to experience the captivating sights of Pamukkale and Hierapolis.
- Hierapolis Ancient City: Discover the timeless wonders of Hierapolis, including the sacred Temple of Apollo, the grand Theater, and the remarkable Necropolis. Learn about the historical significance of St. Philip, a key figure in the early church, who was martyred in this ancient city.
- Roman Baths: Visit the extensive Roman Baths of Hierapolis, a testament to the cultural and architectural achievements of this ancient spa city.
- Calcium Travertines and Pools: Experience the famous calcium terraces and natural pools of Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning white travertine formations and turquoise pools.
After a day filled with ancient wonders, you’ll be driven to Selcuk for your overnight stay.
Note: Entrance to Cleopatra’s Pool is not included. Guests who wish to enjoy this unique thermal experience may do so by purchasing a separate entrance ticket.
Day 5: Full-Day Ephesus Ancient City Tour - Night Bus to Istanbul
Following breakfast, your guide will meet you for an enlightening journey to the ancient city of Ephesus. Here’s what awaits:
- Temple of Artemis: Begin with a visit to the legendary Temple of Artemis, one of the original Seven Wonders of the World. This site, dedicated to the goddess Artemis, made Ephesus an important pilgrimage destination in antiquity. Excavations have uncovered various potential locations of the temple, highlighting its long-standing significance.
- Ephesus Ruins: Discover the extensive ruins of Ephesus, including the Concert Hall, vibrant marketplaces, the colonnaded streets, and magnificent temples. Other highlights include the fountains, the Library of Celsus, the iconic theater, and the Arcadian Way—each revealing the grandeur of Ephesus’ past.
- Lunch Break: Enjoy a relaxing lunch in the scenic surroundings.
- House of Virgin Mary: Conclude your tour with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where she is believed to have spent her last years. This significant site has been recognized due to visions by Anne Catherine Emmerich and remains an important spiritual destination.
After the tour, we’ll provide comfortable transport to the bus station, where you’ll board your night bus to Istanbul, reminiscing on the ancient wonders of Ephesus.
Day 6: Morning Arrival in Istanbul
Arrive back at Istanbul Otogar in the early morning, completing your enriching journey through Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale. As you disembark, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable sites and experiences from the 6-Day Tour Package. We hope you depart with lasting memories and a deeper connection to Turkey's history and culture!
What's Included in the Tour
- Bus Tickets: Routes from Istanbul to Cappadocia, Cappadocia to Pamukkale, and Ephesus to Istanbul
- Accommodation:1 Night in Cappadocia with breakfast
- Accommodation:1 Night in Selcuk with breakfast
- 2 Full Day Cappadocia Tours: Includes transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum entrance fees
- Full Day Ephesus Tour: Includes transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum entrance fees
- Full Day Pamukkale Tour: Includes transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum entrance fees
What's Not Included in the Tour
- International Flights to Turkey: Travelers are responsible for arranging their own flights to and from Turkey
- Personal Travel Insurance: Highly recommended to cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage
- Visa for Turkey: Travelers are responsible for securing the appropriate visa in advance
- Personal Expenses: This includes souvenirs, additional meals, and any optional activities or excursions not included in the tour package
Pick-up and Drop-off Details
- Departure and return at Istanbul Bus Station Otogar.