4-Day Istanbul & Ephesus Tour from Istanbul

Tour Style: Group Tour | Language: English | Group Size: 15–20
Transportation: Domestic Flight & Comfortable Bus | Tour Starts: Istanbul

Experience the best of Turkey’s cultural heritage in just four days. Begin in Istanbul, exploring iconic Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar. Fly to Izmir for a full-day excursion to Ephesus, one of the world’s best-preserved classical cities, and visit the House of the Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, and Isabey Mosque. Enjoy guided tours, seamless transfers, and 4★ hotel accommodations for a smooth, unforgettable journey.

Perfect for first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, and culture seekers—see the highlights of Turkey in comfort and style.

Tour Highlights

• Istanbul Old City – Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome

• Topkapi Palace – Ottoman sultans’ residence (Harem optional)

• Grand Bazaar – World-famous covered market with over 4,000 shops

• Ephesus Ancient City – Library of Celsus, Great Theater, Temple of Hadrian

• House of the Virgin Mary – Sacred Christian and Muslim pilgrimage site

• Temple of Artemis – One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (ruins)

• Isabey Mosque – Masterpiece of Seljuk architecture

• Domestic flights: Istanbul ↔ Izmir included

• Professional English-speaking guide during tours

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul | Airport Transfer & Free Day

• Arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) at any time.

• Meet your tour representative and transfer to your centrally located 4★ hotel in Istanbul.

• Free time to relax or explore the city at your leisure.
  Overnight: Istanbul

Day 2 – Istanbul Old City Tour

• Pickup at ~8:30 AM for a full-day guided tour.

• Explore Hagia Sophia, a Byzantine architectural masterpiece with rich Christian and Islamic heritage.

• Visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and beautiful Iznik tiles.

• Discover the Hippodrome, ancient arena featuring the Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpent Column, and German Fountain.

• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

• Tour the Topkapi Palace, former home of Ottoman sultans (Harem optional).

• Conclude the day at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world.

• Return to hotel; evening free.
  Meals: Breakfast + Lunch | Overnight: Istanbul

Day 3 – Flight to Izmir | Ephesus Tour | Return to Istanbul

• Early morning transfer to Istanbul Airport for flight to Izmir.

• Meet your guide and transfer to Selçuk for a full-day Ephesus Tour.

• Visit Ephesus Ancient City: Library of Celsus, Great Theater, Temple of Hadrian, Trajan Fountain.

• Lunch at a local restaurant.

• Tour the House of the Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis ruins, and Isabey Mosque.

• Evening transfer to Izmir Airport for your flight back to Istanbul.

• Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
  Meals: Breakfast + Lunch | Overnight: Istanbul

Day 4 – Departure from Istanbul

• Breakfast and hotel check-out (before 12:00 noon).

• Transfer to Istanbul Airport for your departure flight.

• End of tour and services.
  Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

✔ Arrival and departure airport transfers and all ground transportation
✔ Domestic flights: Istanbul → Izmir → Istanbul
✔ 3 nights in Istanbul at a 4★ hotel with breakfast
✔ Professional licensed English-speaking guide
✔ Meals as specified in itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch)
✔ Entrance fees to all sites mentioned
✔ Local taxes and service charges

Exclusions

✖ International flights
✖ Turkey entry visa fees
✖ Optional tours (extra cost)
✖ Dinner and drinks
✖ Personal expenses
✖ Travel insurance (recommended)

Important Notes

• Itinerary order may vary depending on flight schedules, site opening hours, and logistical considerations.

• Regular group tour; private tours available at additional cost.

• Shopping stops are included in group tours.

• Blue Mosque closed for visitors on Fridays; only exterior accessible.

• Topkapi Palace closed on Tuesdays.

• Grand Bazaar closed on Sundays; Spice Market may close during religious holidays.