Istanbul & Ephesus: A Taste of History
7 days · 7 suggested stays
Day 1 — Arrive in Istanbul, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, then explore the Grand Bazaar.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Hagia Sophia
A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, now a mosque.
Blue Mosque
Famous for its blue Iznik tiles and six minarets.
Grand Bazaar
One of the world's oldest covered markets, perfect for souvenirs.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable stay in the heart of the old city.
Day 2 — Discover Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and the Spice Bazaar.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Topkapi Palace
Ottoman sultans' residence with stunning courtyards and treasures.
Basilica Cistern
Ancient underground water reservoir with atmospheric columns.
Spice Bazaar
Aromatic market with spices, sweets, and Turkish delight.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable stay in the heart of the old city.
Day 3 — Take a Bosphorus cruise and explore the Ortakoy area, then visit the Galata Tower.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Bosphorus Cruise
Scenic boat ride between two continents.
Ortakoy Mosque
Baroque-style mosque by the Bosphorus with a lively square.
Galata Tower
Medieval tower with panoramic city views.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable stay in the heart of the old city.
Day 4 — Fly to Izmir, then drive to Selcuk to visit the ancient city of Ephesus.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Flight to Izmir
Domestic flight from Istanbul to Izmir.
Ephesus Ancient City
Walk the marble streets of this Roman capital.
Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir
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Visit site
Luxurious stay in Izmir with easy access to Ephesus.
Day 5 — Explore more of Ephesus including the Terrace Houses and the House of the Virgin Mary.
(overnight: Kusadasi)
Terrace Houses
Well-preserved Roman villas with intricate mosaics.
House of the Virgin Mary
Shrine believed to be Mary's final home.
Sirince Village
Charming hillside village known for wine and olive oil.
Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir
—
Visit site
Luxurious stay in Izmir with easy access to Ephesus.
Day 6 — Fly back to Istanbul, spend the afternoon at the Suleymaniye Mosque and Istiklal Avenue.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Flight to Istanbul
Domestic flight from Izmir to Istanbul.
Suleymaniye Mosque
Magnificent Ottoman mosque with stunning views.
Istiklal Avenue
Pedestrian street with shops, cafes, and historic tram.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable stay in the heart of the old city.
Day 7 — Visit the Chora Church and the Istanbul Archaeological Museums before departure.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Chora Church (Kariye)
Byzantine church with exquisite mosaics and frescoes.
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Rich collection of artifacts from various eras.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable stay in the heart of the old city.
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