Ephesus & Pamukkale Tour 2 Days 1 Night from Istanbul by Plane (Discounted)

Istanbul E-pass includes discounted 2 Days 1 Night Pamukkale & Ephesus Tour from Istanbul with English speaking professional guide. Discounted tours can be used out of pass validity days.

*Price per person means 1 visitor price from the minimum party of 2. Stay in the Dbl room.
**Price Single means a single visitor stays in a single room.

Sample Itinerary for 2 Days 1 Night Pamukkale & Ephesus Tour

Day 1
Pick up early in the morning (around 3-4 a.m) from your hotel in Istanbul
Private transfer to the airport for flight to Pamukkale tour
Meet at the airport and transfer to the tour starting point.
Pamukkale & Hierapolis visit (Hierapolis (Sacred City) - Necropolis (Tumulus, sarcophagus, and house-shaped tombs) - Domitian Gate - The Main Street - Byzantium Gate - Temple of Apollo – Plutonium Theatre – Travertines - Cleopatra’s Pool)
Accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi

Day 2
Pick up around 08:30-09:00 am for Ephesus Tour
Ephesus Ancient City visit (Temple of Artemis - The Library of Celsus - The Great Theatre - The House Of Virgin Mary)
Transfer to Izmir Airport
Flight to Istanbul
Private transfer to your hotel in Istanbul

• Hierapolis (Sacred City)
• Necropolis (Tumulus, sarcophagus, and house-shaped tombs), Domitian Gate, The Main Street, Byzantium Gate, Temple of Apollo, Cleopatra’s Antique Pools (Entrance is extra)
• Ephesus Ancient City
• Virgin Mary House

Price Includes

• 2 Domestic flight tickets
• 2 Private airport transfers in Istanbul
• 1 Regular group shuttle from Denizli Airport to Pamukkale
• 2 Lunch during the tour
• 2 Days Regular Pamukkale & Ephesus Tour with English-speaking guide
• 1 Night Accommodation in Kusadasi or Selcuk 3* hotel
• Transportation with AC minibus during the tours
• Entrance Fees

Price Excludes

• Beverages during lunch
• Dinner
• Cleopatra’s Antique Pools Entrance in Pamukkale
• Personal Expenses
• Tips (Optional)

Pamukkale

Pamukkale Travertines consists of many large and small pools. The harmony of water resources of different sizes with each other creates a visual feast. People living in the area built functional and ostentatious baths in the region back in the day.

Hierapolis

18 km from Denizli province. The ancient city of Hierapolis, located to the north of the city, is referred to as the Holy City in the archaeological literature. This name comes from the presence of many temples and other religious structures known in the city. Hierapolis adhered to Hellenistic urbanization principles until the great earthquake during the reign of Roman Emperor Nero and therefore preserved its unique structure.

Ephesus

The Ancient City of Ephesus, one of the 7 wonders of the world, is located in Izmir. Unique architectural works found in Ephesus. It is one of the most important cities of the Ancient Age. The city has been standing for thousands of years. There are symbols of high-level urbanization, architecture, and religious history in the Ancient City of Ephesus. The city contains artifacts from many different civilizations, especially Hellenistic and Roman.

Where Are Ephesus and Pamukkale Located in Turkey?

Ephesus and Pamukkale are two of Turkey’s most iconic destinations, located in the western part of the country. Ephesus, an ancient city, is situated near the town of Selçuk in the İzmir province, roughly 70 kilometers south of İzmir city. This archaeological site lies near the Aegean coast, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring Turkey’s coastal regions.

Pamukkale, famous for its white travertine terraces and thermal springs, is located in Denizli province, approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Ephesus. These two destinations are often paired in travel itineraries due to their proximity and complementary appeal.

Why Are Ephesus and Pamukkale Popular Tourist Destinations?

Both Ephesus and Pamukkale attract millions of visitors annually because of their historical, cultural, and natural significance.

• Ephesus offers a glimpse into ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, with its well-preserved ruins and landmarks like the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theater.
• Pamukkale captivates visitors with its stunning white travertine terraces, filled with thermal waters, and the ancient city of Hierapolis, which combines history with natural beauty.

Their combined appeal makes these sites must-visit destinations for those interested in Turkey’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.

What Is the Historical Importance of Ephesus?

Ephesus is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, showcasing the grandeur of ancient civilizations. It served as a major trading hub and cultural center in antiquity, thanks to its strategic location near the Aegean Sea.

The city is closely linked to the spread of early Christianity; it was mentioned in the Bible and hosted Saint Paul during his missionary journeys. Ephesus was also home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which highlights its religious importance.

Who Built Ephesus, and How Did It Evolve Over Time?

The origins of Ephesus date back to the 10th century BCE when it was established by the ancient Greeks. It later flourished under Roman rule, becoming one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire. During this period, many iconic structures were built, including the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Hadrian.

Over the centuries, Ephesus underwent several transformations due to invasions, natural disasters, and shifts in trade routes. By the Byzantine era, it had lost much of its prominence but remained an important religious site. Today, its ruins stand as a testament to its rich and layered history.

What Are the Must-See Landmarks in Ephesus?

When visiting Ephesus, there are several landmarks you shouldn’t miss:

• Library of Celsus: A grand facade that once housed thousands of scrolls, symbolizing the city’s intellectual achievements.
• Grand Theater: A massive amphitheater that could hold up to 25,000 spectators, showcasing the city’s cultural and social life.
• Temple of Artemis: Although only ruins remain, this site represents the grandeur of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• Terrace Houses: Luxurious residential areas that provide insight into the daily lives of Ephesus’s wealthy citizens.
• Curetes Street: A well-preserved street lined with ancient columns and sculptures, connecting several key landmarks.

Exploring these sites with a guided Ephesus tour enhances the experience by providing historical context and insights.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Ephesus and Pamukkale?

The best time to visit Ephesus and Pamukkale is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These months offer pleasant weather, making it comfortable to explore the open-air ruins and travertine terraces.

Summer (July to August) can be extremely hot, especially in Ephesus, where there is limited shade. If you plan to visit during this period, early morning or late afternoon tours are recommended. Winter (December to February) is cooler, but occasional rain can affect your plans, especially in Pamukkale.

For an unforgettable experience, consider visiting during sunrise or sunset, particularly in Pamukkale, when the travertines are beautifully illuminated.

Final Word

Visit these natural and ancient places, learn the history and see the beauty of Western Turkey with the Istanbul E-pass.