3-Day Pamukkale, Ephesus & Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

Journey Through Turkey’s Natural & Historical Marvels: Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Cappadocia

Overview

This 3-day, 2-night guided tour offers a unique combination of natural wonders and ancient history. Begin with the stunning terraces of Pamukkale, explore the iconic ancient city of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary, and finish with the fairy chimneys, open-air museums, and rock castles of Cappadocia. Perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Highlights

• Pamukkale: Red Spring Water, Hierapolis, Roman Baths, Antique Pool

• Ephesus: Temple of Artemis, Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, Great Theater

• Cappadocia: Devrent Valley, Pasabag, Avanos, Goreme Open Air Museum, Uchisar Castle

• Licensed English-speaking guides

• Comfortable hotels, all transfers, and included meals

• Full day sightseeing with historical insights

Detailed 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Istanbul → Denizli | Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour | Overnight in Kuşadası or Selçuk

Early Morning

• 04:30 – Pick-up from your Istanbul hotel and private transfer to the airport.

• 06:40 – Flight from Istanbul to Denizli (Pamukkale Airport).

• 09:30 - 10:00– Meet your licensed English-speaking guide and begin your Pamukkale adventure.

Pamukkale & Hierapolis Highlights

• Karahayit Red Spring – Famous for its naturally hot, mineral-rich red waters believed to have healing properties.

• Hierapolis Ancient City – Walk among well-preserved Roman ruins including the Roman Baths, the Necropolis, and the Plutonium, once considered an entrance to the underworld.

• Cleopatra’s Antique Pool – Optional swim in a thermal pool scattered with submerged marble columns (entrance fee extra).

• Pamukkale Travertines – Stroll barefoot across the stunning white calcium terraces created by thousands of years of flowing thermal water.

Evening

• Scenic drive (approx. 3 hours) to Kuşadası or Selçuk. Hotel check-in around 19:00–20:00.

• Free time to enjoy dinner by the Aegean coast or explore the lively marina district.
  Overnight in Kuşadası or Selcuk.

Day 2 – Ephesus Highlights Tour | Flight to Cappadocia | Overnight in Cappadocia

Morning

• 08:15 – Depart from the hotel for a full-day exploration of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities of the Mediterranean.

Ephesus Tour Stops

• Temple of Artemis – Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

• Ephesus Ancient City – Marvel at the Great Theater (25,000 seats), Celsus Library, and beautifully paved marble streets.

• House of the Virgin Mary – A peaceful pilgrimage site believed to be the last residence of Mary, mother of Jesus.

• Isa Bey Mosque – A 14th-century Seljuk masterpiece reflecting early Ottoman architecture.

• Şirince Village – Wander through cobblestone lanes, sample local fruit wines, and experience authentic Aegean village life.

Evening

• 16:00–16:30 – Transfer to Izmir Airport.

• 20:40 – Flight from Izmir to Kayseri Airport (Cappadocia region).

• 22:15 – Arrival in Kayseri and private transfer to your cave-style hotel.
  Overnight in Cappadocia.

Day 3 – Cappadocia Full-Day Tour | Return to Istanbul

Morning

• 09:45–10:00 – Pick-up from hotel for a full day in the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia.

Cappadocia Tour Highlights

• Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) – Surreal rock formations shaped like animals and objects.

• Paşabağ (Monks Valley) – Home to the iconic “fairy chimneys,” towering volcanic rock pillars.

• Avanos – Visit local pottery workshops and watch traditional ceramic techniques along the Kızılırmak (Red River).

• Göreme Open-Air Museum – A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes dating back to the 10th–12th centuries.

• Uçhisar Castle – Climb to the natural rock fortress for panoramic views of the valleys.

Evening

• 16:30–17:00 – Transfer to Kayseri Airport for your flight back to Istanbul.

• Upon arrival in Istanbul, private transfer to your hotel.
  End of tour services.

Insider Tips

• Optional hot-air balloon ride in Cappadocia: For those who wish to join a sunrise flight, request early booking (extra fee).

• Comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket are recommended; some sites involve uneven terrain and early morning temperatures can be cool.

Why Book This Tour

This 3-day Pamukkale, Ephesus & Cappadocia itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to cover Turkey’s top UNESCO sites efficiently and in comfort—all flights and transfers included, no planning stress.

Includes

What’s Included in the 3-Day Pamukkale, Ephesus & Cappadocia Tour

To ensure a smooth and memorable travel experience, our package covers every essential service:

• 2 Nights Accommodation – 1 night in Kuşadası and 1 night in Cappadocia, carefully selected for comfort and local charm.

• Domestic Flights – All internal flights included: Istanbul → Denizli, Izmir → Kayseri, Kayseri → Istanbul.

• Guided Sightseeing Tours – Explore Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Cappadocia with professional, licensed English-speaking guides.

• Meals – Daily breakfast and lunch during tours, offering authentic Turkish flavors.

• Entrance Fees – All museum and site entry fees mentioned in the itinerary.

• Private Transfers – Comfortable, air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicles for all airport and hotel transfers.

What’s Not Included

For full transparency, please note the following are not part of the package price:

• Personal Expenses – Shopping, extra drinks, or services not mentioned in the itinerary.

• Optional Activities – Any tours or experiences outside the program.

• Tips – Gratuities for guides and drivers.

• Cleopatra’s Antique Pool – Entrance fee is not included.

• Dinners & Beverages – Evening meals and drinks during lunch.

Hotels

Hotel & Accommodation Options

For your 3-Day / 2-Night Pamukkale, Ephesus & Cappadocia Tour, we have carefully selected hotels to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay throughout your journey:

Kusadasi (Day 1 Night):

• Derici Hotel – Modern rooms with premium facilities and central location

• Alternative: Similar standard hotel if Derici is unavailable

Cappadocia (Day 2 Night):

• Heaven Cave House Hotel – Spacious rooms with authentic Cappadocian ambiance and high-quality amenities

Room Options & Supplements:

• Double Room: Price per person

• Single Room Supplement: +40%

• Triple Room Discount: -10%

Please note: If the listed hotels are unavailable at the time of booking, a similar property of equal standard will be provided to guarantee comfort and quality.