Istanbul & Ephesus Tour

The fine arts, the sciences, and philosophers such as Heraclitus and Thales, flourished and developed in Ephesus. The cities of Ionia showed strong religious characteristics from the beginning, and became politicallywell-organised. Every city was selfgoverning. Ephesus has always been a city under two influences; indeed it is difficult to separate these two influences from each other; and one has alwas been the cause of the other or the result of it.

Day 1
Upon arrival in Istanbul, you will be met by our representative and get transferred to your hotel for overnight. Welcome dinner will be within walking distance in one of the local favorites.

Day 2
Start the day by visiting the legendary Blue Mosque, named for the beautiful blue Iznik tiles that decorates its interior. Then stroll around the historical Hippodrome where once chariot races and professional sports events were taking place. Continue to Hagia Sophia, the first Christian Basilica built by the emperor Justinian in the 6th century,building its reputation with having the biggest and the highest dome of the world then. Later converted in to a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. Visit Topkapi Palace, legendary residence and also the state headquarters of the Ottoman Sultans. Enjoy free time to explore the exhilarating covered bazaar of Istanbul with its labyrinth streets. Return to your hotel for overnight.

Day 3
Visit the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, dating to 1665. Afterwards, board the regular ferry which crosses the Bosphorus, visiting both European and Asian piers en route giving the opportunity to take photos of this breathtaking pass. Drive by coach via the Intercontinental Bosphorus Bridge to Kadikoy on the Asian side to witness the picturesque view of Istanbul. Visit theBeylerbeyi Palace, the summer residence of Ottoman Sultans from the age of modernization, with its original furniture and magnificent gardens. Return to hotel after our visits.

Day 4
Early morning departure to the Istanbul airport for our short flight to Izmir. Transfer to Selcuk, once where the great metropolis of Ephesus was settled. Visit the excavation site and Roman ruins. Following lunch visit St John Basilica and finish the day at the House of Mary. Overnight in our Kusadasi hotel. Dinner at hotel.

Day 5
Following breakfast transfer to the Izmir airport for our Istanbul flight. Connect with departure flight back to home.

All transfers upon arrival and at departure.

4 nights BB accommodation in hotels mentioned in itinerary.

Welcome dinner, lunch and dinner on Ephesus day.

Domestic flights in/out of Ephesus.

All entrance fees to the museums and sites named in itinerary.

English speaking professional guidance throughout the tour.

Travel & Health Insurance.

Local (VAT) and additional taxes.