Pamukkale / Hierapolis Tour from Istanbul

Istanbul - Begin your adventure with a convenient hotel pick-up or meet directly at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen Airport for your flight to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport.

Cardak - Upon arrival at Denizli Çardak Airport, Ephesus Travel Agency will warmly welcome you. Your private guide and driver will lead you on an unforgettable journey through Hierapolis / Pamukkale. With a private guide, you gain expert insights into must-see attractions, discover exquisite traditional handicrafts, receive valuable safety tips, and enjoy insider recommendations for a seamless and enriching experience.

Hierapolis & Pamukkale - Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a breathtaking natural wonder located in Denizli, southwestern Turkey. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning white travertine terraces, created over thousands of years by carbonate-rich thermal waters flowing down the hillside.

These shimmering pools are not only visually spectacular but are also celebrated worldwide for their healing properties, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. A visit to Pamukkale offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and wellness, making it a must-see destination in Turkey.

Cleopatra Pools - Unlike the dazzling white waters of Pamukkale’s lower pools, the Antique Pool, favored by Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt, features crystal-clear warm waters. Once crowned by a Roman Temple dedicated to Apollo, its ornate roof was supported by Doric columns, creating a setting of unmatched grandeur in its glory days.

Although the temple is now in ruins, the Antique Pool remains no less spectacular. Immerse yourself in the therapeutic waters, wading carefully around fallen columns and ancient Roman artifacts. As you relax, imagine Cleopatra herself enjoying this legendary pool’s healing properties, connecting you to the rich history and splendor of the past.

Pamukkale Thermal Pools - The Pamukkale Travertines, known as “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, are a stunning natural wonder located in Denizli, Turkey. These dazzling white terraces, formed by the flow of calcium-rich thermal waters over thousands of years, cascade down the hillside in a surreal display of nature’s artistry. Visitors can walk barefoot on the warm, mineral-rich formations while admiring the crystal-clear thermal pools that have been celebrated for their healing properties since ancient times.

Kusadasi - After exploring the wonders of Hierapolis and Pamukkale, you will embark on a scenic drive to the charming district of Kuşadası, nestled along the stunning shores of the Aegean Sea. Here, you’ll unwind and rejuvenate in preparation for the exciting adventures that await you the next day.

Ephesus and its surrounding tour from Kusadasi

Kusadasi - Ephesus Travel Agency will warmly greet you once again in your hotel lobby, ensuring another memorable and personalized day. With a private guide, you benefit from expert insights into must-see attractions, discover the finest traditional handicrafts, receive valuable safety tips, and enjoy insider recommendations for a seamless and enriching experience.

Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House) - The House of the Virgin Mary, located near Ephesus, is a revered Christian pilgrimage site, believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final days and was assumed into heaven. According to tradition, Apostle John brought Mary to Ephesus after the Resurrection of Christ, seeking refuge following the martyrdom of James and other apostles.

Built on the foundation of her home, the church has been affirmed by visits from three popes: Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2006. Their gifts to the shrine, displayed as symbols of its sacred importance, underscore its spiritual and historical significance.

This tranquil site continues to inspire faith and devotion, offering a profound connection to Christian history and the life of the Virgin Mary. It remains a must-visit destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.

The Temple of Artemis - The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was a monumental dedication to Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt and moon. Constructed around 650 BC on a site sacred to Cybele, the Anatolian Mother Goddess, the temple was funded by the King of Lydia and ingeniously built on marshy ground to withstand earthquakes.

The temple also witnessed significant historical events, including the murder of Arsinoe IV, Cleopatra’s sister, in 41 BC under Mark Antony’s orders. Although only a few columns and ruins remain today, the temple’s architectural legacy and cultural significance continue to captivate visitors. Its grandeur and historical prominence rival that of the Parthenon, making it a must-visit site for those exploring ancient wonders.

Ancient City of Ephesus - Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, invites visitors to step back in time. Dating to the Greek and Roman eras, its streets, still marked by chariot wheels, connect a wealth of stunning landmarks.

Marvel at the Great Theater, a colossal venue seating over 20,000, where gladiatorial battles and public events once captivated audiences. Visit the Public Agora, where St. Paul preached, and discover its role as a hub for Anatolian handicrafts, celebrated for their quality. Stroll along Marble Street to the Celsus Library, the third-largest library of the ancient world, famed for its beautifully restored façade.

Other highlights include the Temple of Hadrian, Trajan Fountain, Domitian Temple, one of the first temples dedicated to a human, and the Odeon, a venue for music. Ephesus reflects the grandeur and innovation of ancient civilizations, making it a must-visit destination in Turkey.

Izmir - At the end of the tour, you will be transferred privately back to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport for your flight back to Istanbul. During your tour, enjoy a curated journey exploring must-see attractions and uncovering the best of traditional Turkish handicrafts. With expert guidance from your local guide, gain valuable insights, safety advice, and personalized tips to make the most of your visit. Discover exquisite handmade treasures while immersing yourself in the cultural richness of the region.

Istanbul - Upon arriving in Istanbul, you will be warmly greeted by our team for a smooth and hassle-free experience. To ensure you easily locate your greeter, we will share a detailed WhatsApp video message prior to your arrival, guiding you to the exact meeting point. Your greeter will assist you in finding your private transfer, ensuring a comfortable journey back to your hotel. This personalized service guarantees a stress-free end to your adventure.

• LUNCH IN THE COUNTRYSIDE, Enjoy a peaceful meal with authentic flavors in a serene rural setting.
• TO SKIP TICKET LINES, ask your guide to arrange tickets; pay the fee in cash to your guide.
• PARKING FEES, all parking fees are included in the tour price, for your convenience
• PROFESSIONAL, LICENSED LOCAL TOUR GUIDE, Authorized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture
• PRIVATE TOUR, ensures a more personalized and exclusive experience tailored to your preferences
• Lunch
• Breakfast
• HOTEL PICK-UP & DROP-OFF, convenient service as detailed in the itinerary.
• DOMESTIC FLIGHT TICKETS, round way ticket from/to Istanbul
• ONE-NIGHT STAY, with bed and breakfast included, a perfect blend of convenience and relaxation
• PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION, travel with separate driver in an air-conditioned, non-smoking van.

• Gratuities for the guide and the driver
• Personal Expenses
• Dinner
• Entrance Fees to the Museums and any Sites
• Beverages During Lunch

Embark on a 2-day private tour from Istanbul to explore the marvels of Ephesus and Pamukkale, combining history, nature, and cultural heritage.

Day 1: Start with an early morning transfer to Istanbul Airport for a flight to Denizli. Upon arrival, travel to the stunning Pamukkale, known as the “Cotton Castle,” where you can enjoy the calming thermal waters and visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After the tour, transfer to Kuşadası for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, and visit the sacred House of the Virgin Mary, a cherished pilgrimage site. At the end of the day, transfer to Izmir Airport for an evening flight back to Istanbul, followed by a hotel transfer.

This tour provides a seamless, personalized experience, making it ideal for history and nature enthusiasts.

• After booking your tour, please contact our team to confirm and arrange your pick-up location by reproviding your meeting point informations. This information will help us to prevent any delays and to make sure you have stress free experience from the beginning. If you encounter any difficulties finding a suitable time option, we will gladly assist you to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.