From Istanbul: Istanbul & Ephesus 5-Day Guided Tour

Set out on a captivating journey through the vibrant heart of Turkey with the "From Istanbul: Istanbul & Ephesus 5-Day Guided Tour." This immersive experience allows travelers to uncover the rich tapestry of the nation’s history and culture, from the iconic landmarks of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus. With seamless logistics, including round-trip airport transfers, boutique hotel accommodations, and skip-the-line access, the tour offers an effortless way to explore the country’s remarkable heritage. As you explore the remarkable sights and local flavors, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse wonders that await.

Key Points

• This 5-day guided tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s historical and cultural landmarks, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar.
• The tour includes a day trip to the ancient city of Ephesus, home to the Temple of Artemis and the House of the Virgin Mary.
• Accommodations are in boutique hotels, and the tour includes round-trip airport transfers, guided tours, and free time for independent exploration.
• The tour offers skip-the-line access to attractions, ensuring an efficient and seamless experience.
• The tour is priced starting from $1,199 per person and includes a cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Istanbul & Ephesus 5-Day Guided Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of two of Turkey’s most iconic destinations. Priced from $1,199 per person, this 5-day tour provides a hassle-free experience with private or small group options, professional guides, and flexible scheduling.

Travelers can enjoy the convenience of round-trip airport transfers, accommodations in boutique hotels, and a mix of guided tours and free time. The itinerary covers the highlights of Istanbul, including the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar, as well as the ancient ruins of Ephesus.

With a cancellation policy that allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour ensures a seamless and customizable journey for visitors to Turkey.

Itinerary Breakdown

The 5-day itinerary for the Istanbul & Ephesus Guided Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Turkey’s most iconic destinations.

On the first day, guests arrive in Istanbul and are transferred to their hotel.

The next two days are dedicated to extensive sightseeing in Istanbul, covering Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar.

On day four, the tour moves to Ephesus, where visitors marvel at the Artemis Temple, the ancient ruins, and the House of Virgin Mary.

The final day involves departure, with guests checking out of the hotel and being transferred to the airport.

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW), a private transfer awaits guests to whisk them away to their hotel for the night.

After a long journey, travelers can look forward to a comfortable and relaxing first day in the vibrant city of Istanbul.

The private transfer ensures a seamless start to the tour, allowing guests to settle into their accommodations and rest up before embarking on the remarkable journey through Istanbul and Ephesus over the next few days.

With all the arrangements taken care of, guests can focus on enjoying the upcoming sights and experiences that await.

Day 2: Full Day Istanbul Tour

Guests kick off their full-day Istanbul tour with a visit to the iconic Topkapi Palace, once the principal residence of the Ottoman Sultans. They’ll marvel at the opulent interiors and vast courtyards of this magnificent complex. Next, they’ll explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, now a museum showcasing the city’s rich history. Continuing on, guests will witness the stunning Blue Mosque, renowned for its striking blue tiles and six minarets. The day culminates with a visit to the bustling Grand Bazaar, where they can enjoy the vibrant sights and sounds of this renowned marketplace.

Attraction	Highlights
Topkapi Palace	– Opulent interiors – Vast courtyards – Former residence of Ottoman Sultans
Hagia Sophia	– Former Byzantine cathedral – Former Ottoman mosque – Now a museum
Blue Mosque	– Striking blue tiles – Six minarets
Grand Bazaar	– Vibrant sights and sounds – Renowned marketplace

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Day 3: Full Day Istanbul Tour

On the third day, guests embark on another full-day exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

They begin by visiting the vibrant Spice Bazaar, a bustling marketplace filled with the aromas of exotic spices, dried fruits, and Turkish delights.

Next, they board a boat for a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, taking in the stunning views of the city skyline, historic palaces, and bridges that connect Europe and Asia.

In the afternoon, guests descend underground to the eerie and awe-inspiring Basilica Cistern, an ancient Byzantine water reservoir.

After a full day of sightseeing, they return to their hotel in Istanbul for another overnight stay.

Day 4: Istanbul to Ephesus Tour

With the excitement of Istanbul’s captivating sights behind them, the tour journeys onwards to the ancient city of Ephesus.

Travelers depart Istanbul in the morning for a flight to Izmir, where they’ll visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Next, they’ll explore the remarkably preserved ruins of Ephesus, including the iconic Grand Theater and the stunning Celsius Library.

After a local handicrafts center lunch, the group travels to the House of the Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site.

The day concludes with a return flight to Istanbul for an overnight stay, as the tour continues to uncover the rich tapestry of Turkey’s history and culture.

Day 5: Departure

After the captivating journey through Istanbul’s historical sites and the wonders of Ephesus, the final day has arrived.

The tour culminates with a private transfer to either Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, depending on the traveler’s departure details. This seamless transfer ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing participants to focus on their onward journey.

With a wealth of memories and insights gained from the comprehensive itinerary, the 5-day guided tour of Istanbul and Ephesus comes to a close.

Travelers depart with a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry and remarkable historical landmarks that define this captivating region of Turkey.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a comprehensive suite of services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for travelers.

These inclusions cover professional licensed tour guides, 4 nights’ accommodations in boutique hotels with daily breakfast, private airport transfers, and transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle.

Plus, all entrance fees to the itinerary sites, a domestic roundtrip flight between Istanbul and Izmir, and a BBQ lunch in Ephesus are covered.

However, the exclusions encompass personal expenses, drinks, and meals not mentioned in the inclusions.

Guests can enjoy the benefits of skip-the-line access at the attractions, ensuring a more efficient and enjoyable tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to meet the traveler’s preferences. The tour operator offers flexible options, allowing clients to modify the itinerary and activities based on their interests and needs.

Do the Tour Guides Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants?

The tour guides provide recommendations for local restaurants that offer authentic Turkish cuisine. They’re knowledgeable about the best spots for traditional dishes and can suggest options based on the group’s preferences and dietary requirements.

Is There an Option to Extend the Stay in Istanbul or Ephesus?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the stay in Istanbul or Ephesus. Travelers can add extra nights at their own expense and request assistance from the tour operator to arrange additional accommodations and activities based on their preferences.

What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour includes transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the itinerary. This includes transfers to and from the airports, as well as transportation between the various sites and activities in Istanbul and Ephesus.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour provider offers discounts for group bookings, though the specific discount percentages aren’t stated. Customers should inquire about group rates when making their reservation to see if they qualify for any savings.

Recap

This 5-day guided tour offers an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Travelers can expect seamless transportation, skip-the-line access, and a local BBQ lunch, all while gaining insights into Turkey’s remarkable history and culture. With round-trip airport transfers and boutique hotel accommodations included, this tour provides a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for discovering the rich tapestry of Turkey.

You can check if your dates are available here: