Espanol7-Day Turkey Adventure: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus Bus Tour Package from Istanbul
Discover the essence of Turkey on this 7-day tour starting from Istanbul, taking you through the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, the natural wonders of Pamukkale, and the historic marvels of Ephesus. This comprehensive bus tour package offers an immersive experience, highlighting Turkey's rich culture, history, and breathtaking scenery.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in the Enchanting City of Istanbul
Welcome to the vibrant city of Istanbul! Upon your arrival at either Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, a friendly member of our team will warmly greet you. Our staff will facilitate your comfortable transfer from the airport to your hotel, ensuring a seamless start to your journey. Once you arrive at the hotel, you can check in and settle into your accommodations. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, explore the local surroundings, or simply unwind after your travels. Enjoy an overnight stay in Istanbul and prepare for the exciting adventures that await.
Day 2: Immersive Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour - Night Bus to Cappadocia
- Morning Pick-up (08:00 - 09:15): Your exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks begins with a personalized hotel pick-up between 08:00 and 09:15, ensuring a smooth start to your day.
- Hagia Sophia: Start your journey with a visit to Hagia Sophia, the “Church of Divine Wisdom.” Once a Christian basilica, then an imperial mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia stands as a breathtaking fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman artistry.
- Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque): Be captivated by the majesty of the Blue Mosque, a stunning structure famous for its six minarets and striking blue Iznik tiles. This architectural marvel leaves visitors in awe with its grand interior and serene courtyard.
- Hippodrome and Obelisk: Walk through Hippodrome Square—once a grand arena for chariot races and ceremonies. Marvel at ancient relics like the Obelisk of Theodosius, which speaks of Istanbul’s rich Roman heritage.
- Grand Covered Bazaar (Kapali Carsi): Step into the enchanting Grand Bazaar, the world’s oldest and largest covered marketplace. Here, you can browse countless shops offering unique handicrafts, spices, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Lunch: Enjoy a delightful lunch in the heart of Istanbul, savoring traditional Turkish dishes.
- Topkapi Palace: Discover the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire. As the residence of sultans and the center of administration, it housed government offices, kitchens, gardens, and sacred relics, encapsulating the empire’s opulence.
Around 5:00 PM, we’ll conclude the tour and return you to your hotel to relax before the next leg of your journey. In the evening, we’ll email your bus e-ticket and travel details for your night journey to Cappadocia. The bus departs from Istanbul Esenler Bus Station at 9:00 PM—please arrive 30 minutes before for a smooth departure. Enjoy a restful overnight journey as you look forward to the magic of Cappadocia.
Day 3: Enchanting Cappadocia Discovery - Overnight Stay in Cappadocia
- Arrival and Introduction: Upon arriving at the Cappadocia bus station, our friendly team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to our local office. Here, you’ll meet your knowledgeable tour guide and prepare for an unforgettable journey through Cappadocia’s magical landscapes.
- Devrent Valley: Start your adventure in the surreal landscapes of Devrent Valley, where the remarkable fairy chimneys create an otherworldly view. These natural formations will transport you to a scene unlike any other.
- Monks Valley (Pasabag): Next, visit the unique Monks Valley, also known as Pasabag or "Pasha’s Vineyard," renowned for its spectacular three-headed fairy chimneys. The valley's striking rock formations make it one of Cappadocia’s must-see locations.
- Avanos: Travel to the charming town of Avanos, famous for its ancient pottery tradition that dates back to 3000 BC. Visit a pottery workshop nestled in the hillsides and learn about this centuries-old art form firsthand.
- Goreme Open Air Museum: Step back in time at the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as a vital Christian center in the early Middle Ages. Explore its monasteries, churches, and chapels adorned with stunning frescoes and unique architecture.
- Uchisar Castle: End your day at the captivating Uchisar Castle, Cappadocia’s highest point. Carved out of a massive rock formation, Uchisar offers a panoramic view over Cappadocia’s valleys and the distant Mount Erciyes.
By 5:00 PM, we’ll conclude the tour and return you to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind for the night, filled with the memories of Cappadocia’s unique beauty.
Optional Experience: For those interested in experiencing Cappadocia from a new perspective, we can arrange a hot air balloon tour early on Day 4. Soar above the valleys and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views as the sun rises over this remarkable landscape.
Day 4: Northern Cappadocia Exploration - Overnight Bus Journey to Pamukkale
- Morning Start: Begin your day with a delicious breakfast, energizing you for a full day exploring Northern Cappadocia. At 09:30 AM, our team will pick you up from your hotel to kick off the day’s adventures.
- Kizilcukur Valley: Discover the secluded Kizilcukur Valley (Red Valley), hidden behind Urgup. Known for its stunning red rock formations and ancient, rock-carved churches, Kizilcukur offers a glimpse into the simple, historic lifestyle of small village communities.
- Cavusin Village: Next, visit Cavusin, one of the region’s oldest settlements. Located just 2 km from Goreme, you’ll explore the 5th-century Church of St. John the Baptist and enjoy scenic views of this ancient village.
- Hospital Monastery: Step into history at Hospital Monastery, one of Cappadocia’s oldest monasteries. Here, you’ll experience the spiritual life of ancient monastic communities and see how they once lived and thrived.
- Underground City: Descend into the mysterious Underground City, where an intricate labyrinth of tunnels and rooms await. Marvel at the city’s complex design and impressive architecture as you learn about the lives of the ancient people who once called this underground haven home.
- Pigeon Houses and Rock Formations: Visit the picturesque pigeon houses nestled within Cappadocia’s iconic rock formations. These unique structures and natural sculptures form a stunning part of the region’s cultural and natural heritage.
- Evening Transfer: After a fulfilling day, we’ll transfer you to the bus station for your overnight journey to Pamukkale. Your bus departs at 8:30 PM, so settle in and enjoy a relaxing trip as you make your way to the next destination.
Day 5: Explore Pamukkale & Transfer to Selcuk - Overnight Stay in Selcuk
Arrival and Freshen-Up: Arriving in Pamukkale, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for a brief rest and freshen-up, preparing you for an exciting day of exploration.
Pamukkale's Ancient Treasures: Begin your visit at Hierapolis, an ancient city brimming with historical significance and cultural wonders:
- Temple of Apollo: Uncover the mystique of the Temple of Apollo, an impressive relic dedicated to the god of prophecy and the arts.
- Theater: Marvel at the grand ancient theater, an architectural masterpiece that once hosted audiences in the thousands.
- Necropolis: Wander through the Necropolis, the “City of the Dead,” where you’ll encounter remarkable tombs and monuments from bygone eras.
- Great Baths of Hierapolis: Step into history as you explore the Great Baths, renowned as the place of St. Philip’s martyrdom and a crucial early Christian site with profound significance in the region.
Calcium Terraces and Pools: Finish your tour with a visit to Pamukkale’s iconic calcium terraces and mineral-rich pools, a natural wonder that has captivated travelers for centuries.
Note: Entrance to Cleopatra’s Pool is optional and not included in the tour. Guests interested can pay the entrance fee on-site.
Transfer to Selcuk: After a day immersed in history and natural beauty, you’ll be transferred to Selcuk. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and unwind, enjoying the warm hospitality and comfort of your accommodations for the night.
Day 6: Discover the Ancient Wonders of Ephesus & Overnight Bus to Istanbul
Morning Exploration: Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the remarkable ancient city of Ephesus, where history comes alive in every corner. Highlights include:
- Temple of Artemis: Step back in time at the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Dedicated to the goddess Artemis, this former pilgrimage site has been an attraction since antiquity, drawing visitors fascinated by its rich legacy.
- The Ruins of Ephesus: Walk along the ancient colonnaded streets of Ephesus, marveling at the grandeur of historical landmarks such as the concert hall, bustling marketplaces, intricately carved temples, fountains, the Library of Celsus, the impressive theater, and the renowned Arcadian Way.
- Lunch Break: Take a relaxing lunch break to recharge before continuing your exploration of Ephesus.
- The House of the Virgin Mary: Visit the revered House of the Virgin Mary, where she is believed to have spent her final years. This site holds deep historical and religious importance, attracting visitors from around the world.
Evening Transfer: Concluding the tour, you'll be taken to Kusadasi bus station for your overnight journey back to Istanbul. Settle in for a comfortable ride, marking the end of a captivating journey through Turkey's extraordinary ancient and cultural landscapes.
Day 7: Morning Arrival in Istanbul
Arrive at Istanbul Otogar early in the morning, concluding your enriching 7-Day Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus Tour. This unforgettable journey through Turkey's diverse landscapes and historic wonders comes to an end, leaving you with lasting memories and stories to cherish.
What's Included in the Tour
- Private Transportation: Round-trip private transfers between Istanbul Airport (or Sabiha Gokcen Airport) and your hotel.
- Bus Tickets: Istanbul to Cappadocia, Cappadocia to Pamukkale, Ephesus to Istanbul.
- Accommodation: 1 Night in Istanbul with Breakfast
- Accommodation: 1 Night in Cappadocia with Breakfast
- Accommodation: 1 Night in Selcuk with Breakfast
- Full-Day Istanbul City Tour with transportation, guidance, and lunch included.
- 2 Full-Day Cappadocia Tours including transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum tickets.
- Full-Day Pamukkale Tour with transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum tickets.
- Full-Day Ephesus Tour with transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum tickets.
What's Not Included in the Tour
- International Flights: Package does not include flights to and from Turkey; travelers arrange their own airfare.
- Personal Travel Insurance: Recommended for protection against trip cancellations, medical needs, or lost luggage.
- Visa for Turkey: Travelers are responsible for securing the necessary visa before arrival.
- Personal Expenses: Costs for souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities not included.
- Museum Entrance Fees: Entrance fees for certain museums (e.g., Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia) are not included; optional tickets available through us to bypass lines.
Pick-up and Drop-off Details
- Istanbul Airports: Istanbul International Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport for airport transfers.
- Selcuk Bus Station: Transfer following the Ephesus tour.