Itinerary
- Day 1
Istanbul to Izmir
You'll arrive at Istanbul Airport and get transferred to your hotel in Izmir. This first day is pretty relaxed, so take time to get settled, grab dinner somewhere nearby, and start getting a feel for the city. Nothing's scheduled, which gives you flexibility to walk around the neighborhood or just rest up before the guided tours begin.
Optional Activities
- Explore Izmir on your own
- Day 2
Ephesus
A full day exploring Ephesus with a guide. You'll start at the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, then move through the ancient city itself where you'll see the theaters, fountains, and old buildings that are still in pretty good shape. By late afternoon, you'll head to the House of Mother Mary, the spot believed to be where Mary spent her final years with St. John. Bring comfortable shoes and water for this one.
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch
Included Activities
- Guided tour of Temple of Artemis
- Guided tour of ancient city of Ephesus including theaters and fountains
- Visit to House of Mother Mary
Landmarks Temple of Artemis Ephesus House of Mother Mary - Day 3
Pamukkale
Today takes you to Pamukkale, which is known for its thermal spring waters and the white travertine terraces that look like cotton piles (that's actually how it got the name 'Cotton Castle'). You'll walk around these mineral formations and then head to Hierapolis, the ancient city nearby. There's an old necropolis with over 1200 gravestones to see, and you can swim in the sacred pool where thermal waters mix with Roman ruins scattered around. It's a long day with lots of walking on uneven surfaces, so wear good shoes.
- Meals
- Breakfast, Dinner
Included Activities
- Explore Pamukkale travertines and cascading water terraces
- Visit Hierapolis ancient city and necropolis
- Visit the sacred pool with thermal waters
Landmarks Pamukkale Hierapolis 
- Day 4
Izmir to Istanbul
Your tour ends today with a transfer to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul. Once you land, the tour operator's responsibility finishes here. If you want to stay longer in Istanbul, reach out to them about booking accommodation, but that's separate from this itinerary.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Arrange post-tour accommodation in Istanbul
