Istanbul & Ephesus: A Journey Through Time
7 days · 3 suggested stays
Day 1 — Arrival in Istanbul and exploration of the historic Sultanahmet area.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Check-in and settle into your Istanbul base.
Blue Mosque
Visit the iconic Blue Mosque with its six minarets.
Hagia Sophia
Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO site.
Sultanahmet Square
Stroll the square and enjoy the evening atmosphere.
Day 2 — Discover Ottoman opulence at Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Topkapi Palace
Tour the lavish palace of Ottoman sultans.
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
See artifacts from Greek, Roman, and Ottoman eras.
Grand Bazaar
Wander through the labyrinthine covered market.
Basilica Cistern
Descend into the ancient underground water reservoir.
Day 3 — Take a Bosphorus cruise and explore the vibrant neighborhoods.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Bosphorus Cruise
Sail along the strait separating Europe and Asia.
Galata Tower
Enjoy panoramic views from the medieval tower.
Istiklal Avenue
Walk the lively pedestrian street with shops and cafes.
Spice Bazaar
Browse stalls of spices, sweets, and Turkish delight.
Day 4 — Fly to Izmir and explore the ancient city of Ephesus.
(overnight: Ephesus)
Flight to Izmir
Domestic flight from Istanbul to Izmir.
Library of Celsus
Admire the grand facade of this ancient library.
Great Theatre of Ephesus
Explore the massive ancient theater with great acoustics.
Villa Dreams Ephesus
Check in to a charming hotel near Ephesus.
Day 5 — Continue exploring Ephesus and the surrounding area.
(overnight: Ephesus)
Terrace Houses
See well-preserved Roman villas with mosaics.
Curetes Street
Walk the main street of ancient Ephesus.
Temple of Artemis
Visit the ruins of one of the Seven Wonders.
Sirince Village
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in this charming village.
Day 6 — Visit the House of Virgin Mary and Basilica of St John, then return to Istanbul.
(overnight: Istanbul)
House of the Virgin Mary
Pilgrimage site believed to be Mary's final home.
Basilica of St John
Explore the ruins of this ancient basilica.
Flight to Istanbul
Fly from Izmir back to Istanbul.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Check back in for the final night.
Day 7 — Enjoy a relaxed morning and depart from Istanbul.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Chora Church (Kariye)
Visit the stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
Suleymaniye Mosque
Admire the grandeur of this Ottoman mosque.
Leisure Time
Free time for last-minute shopping or packing.
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