8-Day Cultural & Historical Tour | İzmir – Pamukkale – Konya – Cappadocia

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Turkey’s cultural and natural treasures. Starting in the coastal city of İzmir, this enriched itinerary includes the ancient marvels of Ephesus and Pergamon, the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, the spiritual center of Konya, and the magical landscapes of Cappadocia.

From marble ruins of ancient empires to mystical valleys and underground cities, this tour is designed for those who seek to deeply experience Anatolia’s essence. You'll explore sacred sites like the House of the Virgin Mary and the Mevlana Museum, stand atop the acropolis of Pergamon, and hike along the serene Ihlara Valley.

Each day blends insightful guiding, comfortable accommodations, and scenic transfers, giving you the perfect balance between exploration and relaxation. Whether you're a history lover, spiritual seeker, or nature enthusiast, this tour offers a meaningful journey through the soul of Turkey.

Ancient cities, holy places, surreal landscapes, and warm hospitality await you.

🗓️ Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrival in İzmir – City Tour

• Arrival at İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport
• Transfer to hotel and check-in
• Afternoon guided tour:
• Konak Square & Clock Tower
• Kemeralti Bazaar
• Asansör (panoramic elevator)
• Optional sunset at Kordon promenade
• Overnight stay in İzmir

Day 2: Pergamon – Full-Day Ancient City Tour

• Breakfast and departure for Bergama (ancient Pergamon)
• Guided visit to:
• Acropolis of Pergamon (Theater, Temple of Trajan, Library ruins)
• Asclepion (ancient medical center dedicated to Asclepius)
• Red Basilica (one of the Seven Churches of Revelation)
• Lunch in Bergama
• Return to İzmir and overnight stay

Day 3: Ephesus & Selçuk – Transfer to Pamukkale

• Breakfast and hotel check-out
• Full-day guided tour to:
• Ancient City of Ephesus (Library of Celsus, Theater, Marble Road)
• House of the Virgin Mary (optional)
• Basilica of Saint John in Selçuk
• Afternoon drive to Pamukkale
• Check-in at hotel and overnight stay in Pamukkale

Day 4: Pamukkale – Hierapolis – Transfer to Konya

• Breakfast and hotel check-out
• Guided visit to:
• Pamukkale Travertines
• Hierapolis Ancient City (Theater, Necropolis, Cleopatra Pool – optional swim)
• Lunch break
• Scenic drive to Konya through the Taurus Mountains
• Check-in and overnight stay in Konya

Day 5: Konya – Sille Village – Ihlara Valley – Arrival in Cappadocia

• Breakfast and check-out
• Visits:
• Mevlana Museum (Mausoleum of Rumi)
• Sille Village (historic Greek Orthodox town)
• Transfer to Cappadocia via Aksaray
• Stop at Ihlara Valley – short hike along the Melendiz River
• Arrival and check-in at hotel in Uçhisar (Nevşehir)
• Overnight stay in Cappadocia

Day 6: North Cappadocia Tour (Red Tour Highlights)

• Optional: Hot Air Balloon Flight at sunrise (extra cost)
• Breakfast at hotel
• Visits include:
• Göreme Open Air Museum
• Paşabağ (Monks Valley)
• Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
• Çavuşin Village
• Avanos Ceramic Workshop (live demo)
• Return to hotel and overnight in Uçhisar

Day 7: South Cappadocia Tour (Green Tour Highlights)

• Breakfast at hotel
• Visits include:
• Mustafapaşa (Sinasos – historic Greek village)
• Ürgüp city center & wine tasting (optional)
• Church of Saint John the Russian
• Ortahisar Castle & Lavender Panorama
• Pigeon Valley & Uçhisar Castle surroundings
• Return to hotel and overnight in Uçhisar

Day 8: Kayseri Tour & Departure

• Breakfast and hotel check-out
• Transfer to Kayseri city center
• Panoramic tour: Sahabiye Medrese, Grand Bazaar (optional shopping)
• Airport transfer for departure flight

7 nights accommodation with breakfast

All land transfers between destinations in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles

Professional licensed English or Greek-speaking tour guide

All entrance fees to museums and historical sites

Local taxes and service charges

Dinner (Everyday you will have the chance to try the local cousine)

Comfortable walking shoes

Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen

Light jacket for evenings

Swimwear (for Cleopatra Pool if desired)

Personal medications and camera