Overview
This immersive 6-day guided group tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through Turkey’s most captivating destinations. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Istanbul and transferred to the airport for your morning flight to Konya, where your expert guide will lead the group through the spiritual heart of the Whirling Dervishes, including the renowned Mevlana Museum. From there, travel onward to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, where two full days of exploration reveal fairy chimneys, ancient underground cities, and rock-carved monasteries — including the fascinating Zelve Open Air Museum and the breathtaking Ihlara Valley. An evening flight whisks you to the Aegean coast, where you’ll join fellow travelers to discover the legendary ruins of Ephesus and the iconic Library of Celsus. Your final day brings you to the dazzling white travertine terraces of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis, before an evening flight returns you to Istanbul. With comfortable accommodations, expert-guided sightseeing, and seamless transfers throughout, this tour delivers Turkey’s greatest highlights in one remarkable itinerary.
Highlights
- Explore the Zelve Open Air Museum's rock-cut churches
- Discover Cappadocia's fairy chimneys and surreal valleys
- Discover the ancient Derinkuyu Underground City in Cappadocia
- Visit the Mevlana Museum in historic Konya
- Walk the marble-paved streets of ancient Ephesus
- Marvel at the iconic Library of Celsus facade
- Soak in the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale
- Explore the ancient ruins and theatre of Hierapolis
- Experience five iconic Turkish destinations in five days
Detailed Itinerary
Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Istanbul around 4:00 AM and transfer to Istanbul Airport for your domestic flight to Konya, scheduled between 6:00 – 8:00 AM (approximately 1.5 hours). Upon arrival at Konya Airport, meet your guide and join fellow travelers for a half-day tour of this historic Seljuk capital.
The tour begins at the Mevlana Museum, home to the tomb of the great poet and mystic Rumi and one of Turkey’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Next, visit the elegant Sultan Selim Mosque, an impressive Ottoman-era structure overlooking the museum complex. Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant before continuing the tour.
Your guide will lead the group along Mevlana Caddesi towards Alaettin Hill, crowned by the Alaaddin Mosque — over a thousand years old, once frequented by Rumi himself, and housing the tombs of several Seljuk sultans. Descending the hill, catch a glimpse of the remnants of the Seljuk sultan’s palace and admire the intricate portal of the Great Karatay Madrasa. The sightseeing concludes at the Mosque and Tomb of Shams-i Tabrizi, Rumi’s closest companion and spiritual mentor.
Around 4:00 PM, transfer to Konya bus station for the intercity coach to Cappadocia — a scenic journey of approximately 235 km (around 4 hours). Upon arrival in Göreme, our representatives will greet you at the bus station and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Cappadocia: Heaven Cave House, Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel, Zula Cave House, or Kismet Cave House.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast, around 9:30 AM your guide will lead the group for a full-day Green Tour of Cappadocia. The morning begins at Esentepe, a panoramic viewpoint offering sweeping views across Göreme Valley — an ideal spot to photograph the region’s extraordinary landscape of rock formations and cave dwellings.
From here, the group descends into the remarkable Derinkuyu Underground City, one of the deepest subterranean complexes in Cappadocia. Dating back to the Hittites and later expanded by early Christians, this multi-level city features an intricate network of stables, kitchens, living quarters, ventilation shafts, and even a chapel — a fascinating window into centuries of underground life and survival.
Next, join fellow travelers for a scenic 4-kilometer hike through the lush Ihlara Valley, following a meandering stream past rock-carved churches adorned with early Christian frescoes. After working up an appetite, enjoy a relaxing lunch in Belisirma Village, set along the riverside.
The afternoon continues with a visit to the striking 13th-century Selime Monastery, the largest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia. The final stop is Yaprakhisar, renowned for its dramatic panoramic views and its appearance as a filming location for the “Star Wars” movies. Around 4:00 PM, transfer back to your hotel with the rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Cappadocia: Heaven Cave House, Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel, Zula Cave House, or Kismet Cave House.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
For an additional option, you can book an early morning hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys and valleys of Cappadocia. This popular experience offers spectacular aerial views of the region’s dramatic landscape. Please note that this activity is available at an extra cost and should be pre-booked.
After breakfast, around 9:30 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel to begin a full-day guided tour of North Cappadocia. Your first stop is Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley, where wind-sculpted rock formations resemble animals and other figures amid a landscape of striking fairy chimneys. Next, continue to Pasabag Valley (Monks Valley) to see its iconic mushroom-shaped rock pinnacles, some of which once served as hermit dwellings.
From there, your guide will lead the group to the charming town of Avanos, renowned for its centuries-old pottery and ceramics tradition, where you will stop for lunch. After lunch, visit the Zelve Open Air Museum, a fascinating abandoned rock-cut settlement featuring carved caves, ancient churches, and a mosque hewn directly into the stone — offering a compelling glimpse into the region’s monastic and communal past.
Your final stop is a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Uchisar Castle, where you will have about 15 minutes to photograph the towering rock citadel from the outside. By approximately 4:00 PM, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is free to relax or join optional activities such as a two-hour ATV tour, horseback riding through the valleys, a one-hour Whirling Dervish show, or a Turkish Night dinner featuring traditional music and folk dances — all available at extra cost. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Cappadocia: Heaven Cave House, Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel, Zula Cave House, or Kismet Cave House.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast and hotel check-out, your guide will meet you at approximately 9:30 AM to begin your South Cappadocia tour. The morning starts with a visit to the Red Valley, where you’ll explore remarkable rock-cut churches before hiking approximately 5 km through the Rose Valley (Güllüdere Vadisi), admiring its soft pink-hued rock formations along the way.
Next, the group continues to Çavuşin Village, known for its ancient stone houses and early Christian churches carved into the cliffs. Around noon, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to Pigeon Valley for panoramic views over the dramatic landscape dotted with dovecotes carved into the rock face. In the afternoon, descend into Kaymakli Underground City or Ozkonak Underground City, where early Christians carved multi-level refuges deep beneath the surface.
Around 4:00 PM, the tour concludes and you’ll transfer to Kayseri or Nevşehir Airport for your evening flight to Izmir (approximately 1.5 hours, connecting via Istanbul). Upon arrival at Izmir Airport, a representative will greet you and assist with the transfer to your hotel in Kusadasi, roughly a 1-hour drive south along the Aegean coast. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Kusadasi: Efe Boutique Hotel, Derici Hotel, Neopol Hotel Deluxe, or Marina Hotel.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast at your hotel, around 8:30 AM your guide will lead the group for a full-day exploration of Ephesus. This ancient Greek city was once a thriving cultural and commercial hub, and today it stands as one of the most remarkably preserved archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Walk along marble-paved streets as you discover the Temple of Hadrian, adorned with intricate reliefs depicting mythological scenes, and the magnificent Great Theater, which once seated up to 25,000 spectators and offers sweeping views across the ancient city. You’ll also admire the Trajan Fountain, a monumental structure built in honor of Emperor Trajan.
After lunch at a local restaurant, the group continues to the House of the Virgin Mary, a serene pilgrimage site set in the wooded hills above Ephesus where it is believed Mary spent her final years. Following this, make a brief stop at the site of the Temple of Artemis, once counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though only scattered fragments remain, the site still conveys the former grandeur of this ancient marvel.
The day concludes with a visit to the historic Isa Bey Mosque, one of the oldest and most impressive mosques in the region, showcasing elegant Seljuk architectural details and fine stonework. Around 4:00 PM, transfer back to your hotel in Kusadasi with the rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Accommodation in the Hotels Below (or Similar, Depending on Availability at the Time of Booking):
In Kusadasi: Efe Boutique Hotel, Derici Hotel, Neopol Hotel Deluxe, or Marina Hotel.
The quoted price for this tour includes accommodations in the hotels mentioned above or similar quality hotels.
If you prefer a higher quality hotel, we offer two options:
- Option 1: We can upgrade your hotel at an additional cost, which will be added to the total price of the standard package tour.
- Option 2: You can arrange your own accommodation during the tour. We will provide a new package tour price excluding the hotel accommodation cost. In this case, all other services included in the package tour will still be provided, except for hotel accommodation.
Please let us know your preferred option when making the tour request so we can adjust the price accordingly. If no change in hotels is needed and you wish to proceed with the hotels included in our package tour at the quoted price, you may book the tour directly online.
After breakfast around 7:30 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel in Kusadasi and transferred to Selçuk to join the group for the Pamukkale tour. The drive departs from Selçuk at approximately 8:30 AM, reaching Pamukkale after a scenic 3-hour journey with a brief restroom stop along the way.
Upon arrival at approximately 11:45 AM, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before beginning your guided tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis around 1:00 PM. Marvel at the stunning Cotton Cliffs, a remarkable natural wonder formed by calcareous salt deposits cascading down the mountainside. Continue with a guided exploration of the ancient city of Hierapolis, including the well-preserved Hierapolis Theatre, the Roman Baths, and the historical basilica. During some free time, you may choose to swim in the Cleopatra Antique Pools (entrance at your own expense). Your guide will specify a meeting point for regrouping.
After the tour concludes around 4:00 PM, you will be transferred to Denizli or Izmir Airport for your evening flight back to Istanbul, departing between 7:00 and 10:00 PM.
Please note that transportation from Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) to your hotel in Istanbul is not included in the tour price. End of tour services.
Inclusions:
- Pick-up from European side city-center hotels in Istanbul and airport transfer.
- Domestic flight tickets (Istanbul - Konya, Kayseri - Izmir, Denizli - Istanbul).
- Intercity coach ticket from Konya to Cappadocia.
- 3 nights' accommodation in a boutique Cappadocian Cave Hotel (Breakfast included).
- 2 nights' accommodation in a 4-star hotel in Kusadasi (Breakfast included).
- Professional English-speaking tour guide.
- Meals as specified in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch).
- All entrance fees to the sites mentioned in the itinerary.
- Local taxes and handling fees.
Exclusions:
- Return transfer from Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) to your Istanbul hotel.
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses, souvenirs, and additional snacks
- Drinks during meals (except water where specified)
- Optional activities (Cappadocia hot air balloon ride, Turkish bath/hamam, whirling dervish show)
- Gratuities for guide, driver, and hotel staff
- Lunches and dinners not mentioned in inclusions
- Anything not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions
FAQs:
You can book this 5-day Konya, Cappadocia, Ephesus & Pamukkale tour directly on our tour page by selecting your preferred travel date and number of travelers — you’ll receive instant confirmation. If you have custom requests such as room preferences or dietary needs, feel free to reach out to us via email or phone, and our team will be happy to assist.
We accept major credit cards including Visa and Mastercard through our secure payment gateway. Bank transfer is also available for advance bookings, and we offer a deposit option so you can reserve your spot and pay the balance closer to your tour date.
You’ll receive an instant email confirmation with your booking details as soon as your reservation is completed. Your final tour voucher — including hotel addresses, pickup time from your Istanbul hotel, domestic flight details, and your guide’s contact information — will be sent 24-48 hours before the tour starts.
If you need to cancel or change your travel dates, please notify us at least 5 days before the tour starts. In this case, the cost of all flight and bus tickets—which are non-refundable—will be deducted from your paid balance, and the remaining amount will be refunded to you. For cancellations or date changes made less than 5 days before the tour, the full amount paid will be considered non-refundable, as a “no-show” policy will apply.
The hot air balloon ride is not included in the tour price, as it is an optional experience that operates independently based on weather conditions and availability. However, your guide can help you arrange a sunrise balloon flight on the morning of Day 2 or Day 3, typically priced between €280–€360 per person. It’s one of the most magical experiences in Cappadocia, so we highly recommend booking it in advance, especially during peak season.
The longest drive is from Konya to Cappadocia on Day 1, which is approximately 235 km (around 3 hours) through scenic Turkish countryside. Other transfers, such as the drive from Kusadasi to Pamukkale on Day 5, take roughly 3 hours as well. All ground transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned tour bus, so you can relax and enjoy the landscapes between destinations.
This tour includes 4 nights of comfortable accommodation. You will stay for 2 nights in an authentic cave hotel in Cappadocia, and 2 nights in a 4-star hotel in Kusadasi. Daily breakfast is included every morning at your hotels.
You are welcome to wade in designated sections of the travertine terraces—please note that shoes must be removed to protect the delicate white limestone. During the visit, your guide will give you approximately 1 hour of free time. You can use this time to explore at your own pace, take stunning photos, or swim in the warm mineral waters of the famous Cleopatra’s Antique Pool (additional entrance fee applies) before heading to the airport for your evening flight back to Istanbul.
The best time to visit these destinations is during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November), when temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing and crowds are more manageable. Summer months can be quite hot, especially at Ephesus and Pamukkale, while winter offers fewer tourists and a magical snow-dusted Cappadocia landscape, though hot air balloon flights may be cancelled more frequently due to weather.
Many nationalities can obtain an e-Visa online before traveling to Turkey through the official Turkish e-Visa website, which is a quick and straightforward process. Citizens of some countries may enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days, while others may need to apply at a Turkish consulate. We recommend checking the latest visa requirements for your nationality well in advance of your travel date to ensure a smooth arrival in Istanbul.
Write a Review
You must be logged in to post a comment.