Istanbul & Ephesus: A Journey Through Time
8 days · 3 suggested stays
Day 1 — Arrive in Istanbul, settle in, and enjoy an evening Bosphorus cruise.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Check-in and rest after your journey.
Bosphorus Cruise
Scenic cruise along the Bosphorus.
Galata Bridge
Iconic bridge with fishing views.
Day 2 — Explore the historic heart of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Hagia Sophia
Magnificent former cathedral and mosque.
Blue Mosque
Famous for its blue tiles and six minarets.
Topkapi Palace
Ottoman sultans' lavish residence.
Day 3 — Discover the Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, and Suleymaniye Mosque.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Grand Bazaar
One of the world's oldest covered markets.
Basilica Cistern
Ancient underground water reservoir.
Suleymaniye Mosque
Magnificent mosque with city views.
Day 4 — Fly to Izmir, drive to Ephesus, and explore the ancient city.
(overnight: Selcuk)
Flight to Izmir
Domestic flight from Istanbul to Izmir.
Library of Celsus
Stunning facade of ancient library.
Great Theatre of Ephesus
Huge ancient theater with great acoustics.
Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir
—
Visit site
Comfortable hotel in Izmir.
Day 5 — Continue exploring Ephesus, including Terrace Houses and the Temple of Artemis.
(overnight: Selcuk)
Terrace Houses
Well-preserved Roman villas with mosaics.
Temple of Artemis
Once one of the Seven Wonders.
Sirince Village
Charming hillside village with wine tasting.
Day 6 — Return to Istanbul, visit Chora Church and enjoy Istiklal Avenue.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Flight to Istanbul
Domestic flight from Izmir to Istanbul.
Chora Church (Kariye)
Byzantine church with stunning mosaics.
Istiklal Avenue
Lively pedestrian street with shops and cafes.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Check back in for final night.
Day 7 — Visit Dolmabahce Palace and the Spice Bazaar, with a relaxing evening.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Dolmabahce Palace
Opulent 19th-century palace on the Bosphorus.
Spice Bazaar
Aromatic market with spices and sweets.
Galata Tower
Panoramic views of Istanbul.
Day 8 — Leisure morning, last-minute shopping, and departure.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Sultanahmet Square
Historic square with obelisks.
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Rich collection of ancient artifacts.
Transfer to Airport
Private transfer to Istanbul Airport.
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