Turkey Highlights: Istanbul, Ephesus & Pamukkale

7 days · 6 suggested stays

Day 1 — Arrive in Istanbul and explore Sultanahmet district (overnight: Istanbul)

Hagia Sophia
Visit the historic Byzantine cathedral
Blue Mosque
Stunning Ottoman mosque with blue tiles
Grand Bazaar
Historic covered market with 4000+ shops
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel — Visit site
Central hotel in historic district

Day 2 — Istanbul city tour and transfer to Izmir (overnight: Izmir)

Topkapi Palace
Ottoman sultans' palace with harem
Bosphorus Cruise
Scenic boat ride between continents
Flight to Izmir
Domestic flight from Istanbul to Izmir
Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir — Visit site
Modern hotel near Kordon promenade

Day 3 — Travel to Kusadasi and visit Ephesus (overnight: Izmir)

Drive to Kusadasi
Transfer from Izmir to Kusadasi
Library of Celsus
Iconic ancient library facade
Great Theatre of Ephesus
Massive ancient theatre holding 25k
Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir — Visit site
Return to Izmir hotel for evening

Day 4 — Sirince village and drive to Pamukkale (overnight: Izmir)

Sirince Village
Charming Greek-style wine village
Drive to Pamukkale
Long drive from Izmir to Denizli
Hierapolis Ruins
Ancient Roman spa city above terraces
Charisma De Luxe Hotel — Visit site
Luxury hotel near Pamukkale site

Day 5 — Pamukkale terraces and Cleopatra's Pool (overnight: Izmir)

Pamukkale Travertines
White calcium carbonate terraces
Cleopatra's Pool
Roman pool with Medusa heads columns
Drive to Izmir
Return drive from Denizli to Izmir
Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir — Visit site
Evening relaxation in Izmir

Day 6 — Izmir city exploration and free time (overnight: Izmir)

Izmir Clock Tower
Historic tower overlooking Konak Square
Kemeralti Bazaar
Traditional bazaar with spices and textiles
Kordon Promenade
Waterfront walk with cafes and views
Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir — Visit site
Final night in Izmir

Day 7 — Departure from Izmir (overnight: Izmir)

Transfer to Airport
Taxi or shuttle to Izmir airport
Alsancak Historic Quarter
Trendy neighborhood with cafes

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