Embark on an unforgettable 2-day private tour from Istanbul to explore the UNESCO-listed wonders of Ephesus and Pamukkale. Discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including the iconic Celsus Library and grand Theater. Then, marvel at the breathtaking travertine terraces of Pamukkale. With included meals, comfortable accommodations, and a professional local guide, this personalized journey promises an enriching adventure. But the real question is, what hidden gems will you uncover along the way?
Key Points

- A 2-day private tour from Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the travertine terraces of Pamukkale, with a professional licensed local guide and private transportation.
- Includes breakfast, lunch, and one-night stay with bed and breakfast, as well as domestic flight tickets from/to Istanbul.
- Flexible schedule for personalized exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites, focusing on individual interests.
- Entrance fees to museums not included, and additional costs for gratuities, personal expenses, and dinner.
- Tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available, and a seamless booking process for a hassle-free journey.
Tour Overview

This private 2-day tour from Istanbul takes travelers to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the stunning natural wonder of Pamukkale.
The tour includes breakfast, lunch in the countryside, and one-night stay with bed and breakfast.
With a professional licensed local guide and private air-conditioned transportation, visitors have a personalized experience to discover these two UNESCO World Heritage sites at their own pace.
The flexible schedule allows guests to focus on what interests them most, ensuring an optimal learning and interaction with the guide throughout the journey.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Istanbul
Highlights of the Tour
Visitors can expect to explore two of Turkey’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites on this private 2-day tour.
The first day will be spent discovering the ancient ruins of Ephesus, a remarkably preserved archaeological site that was once a thriving Greco-Roman city.
Key highlights include:
- Walking through the Celsus Library, one of the best-preserved ancient structures in the world
- Marveling at the grand Theater, which could seat 25,000 people
- Visiting the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The second day will be dedicated to the dazzling white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, a unique natural wonder known as the "Cotton Castle."
Inclusions and Logistics

The 2-day tour includes a professional licensed local tour guide, authorized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, who’ll accompany the group throughout the journey.
Private transportation is provided in an air-conditioned, non-smoking van with a separate driver. Hotel pick-up and drop-off from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen Airport are included, as well as all parking fees.
The guide can arrange tickets for the sites visited. Entrance fees to museums, however, aren’t included in the tour price.
Domestic flight tickets from/to Istanbul are part of the package.
Personalized Experience

Why settle for a one-size-fits-all experience when you can have an exclusive private tour tailored to your interests? This private tour ensures you have the guide’s undivided attention, allowing for a personalized experience:
-
Flexible schedule that adapts to your preferences and pace, so you can focus on what matters most to you.
-
Dedicated guidance and insights from an expert, providing optimal learning and interaction.
-
Seamless logistics with no waiting for large groups, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.
With this private tour, you’ll enjoy a truly immersive and memorable exploration of Ephesus and Pamukkale at your own pace.
Additional Costs and Considerations

While the private tour offers a personalized experience, there are a few additional costs and considerations to keep in mind. Gratuities for the guide and driver, personal expenses, dinner, entrance fees to museums, and beverages during lunch are not included in the package price. Plus, domestic flight tickets from/to Istanbul are part of the tour cost. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility. Visitors should also note the tour’s accessibility details, as it is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and near public transportation.
| Additional Costs | Included |
|---|---|
| Gratuities | No |
| Personal Expenses | No |
| Dinner | No |
| Entrance Fees | No |
| Beverages (Lunch) | No |
| Accessibility | Available |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair | Yes |
| Stroller | Yes |
| Public Transportation | Yes |
Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Istanbul
Accessibility and Booking Information

Wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, and near public transportation, this tour caters to a wide range of visitors.
Infant seats are available, allowing families to join with ease. Most travelers can participate, ensuring an inclusive experience.
To book this tour:
- Confirmation is received at the time of booking
- Contact the team to confirm the pick-up location for a stress-free experience
- Pricing starts from €921.00 per person, varying by group size
With these accessibility features and seamless booking process, this Ephesus and Pamukkale tour from Istanbul provides a truly personalized and hassle-free experience.
Exploring Ephesus

The tour of Ephesus showcases the captivating ruins of this ancient Greco-Roman city, once a thriving commercial and religious center. Visitors explore the well-preserved Celsus Library, the impressive Great Theater, and the Terrace Houses, offering glimpses into the lives of the city’s elite. A highlight is the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The guide shares insights into Ephesus’ history and significance, enriching the experience.
| Site | Key Feature |
|---|---|
| Celsus Library | Well-preserved facade |
| Great Theater | Impressive size and acoustics |
| Terrace Houses | Elaborate mosaics and frescoes |
| Temple of Artemis | One of the Seven Wonders |
| Odeon | Small covered theater |
Discovering Pamukkale

After exploring the ancient wonders of Ephesus, the tour proceeds to the surreal landscape of Pamukkale. Known as the "Cotton Castles," this natural wonder features striking white travertine terraces and thermal pools.
Visitors can:
- Stroll along the well-preserved ancient city of Hierapolis, with its Roman amphitheater, necropolis, and historical baths.
- Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the travertine pools, enjoying a unique and rejuvenating experience.
- Hike up the white terraces, marveling at the striking, otherworldly scenery.
The tour provides an in-depth look at this UNESCO World Heritage site, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the mesmerizing natural beauty of Pamukkale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?
Yes, the tour is customizable. Travelers can work with the guide to tailor the itinerary and visit specific sites based on their interests, making the experience more personalized and meaningful.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. The private nature of the tour allows for a flexible schedule, enabling travelers to customize the itinerary and spend more time exploring the sites based on their interests.
How Can We Book the Tour if We Have a Large Group?
For larger groups, you can book the private 2-day Ephesus and Pamukkale tour through the tour operator directly. They’ll adjust the pricing and transportation to accommodate your group size, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Casual, modest attire that allows for easy movement and exploration of the historical sites is ideal. Sturdy walking shoes are also advised.
Can We Purchase Tickets to Sites on the Day of the Tour?
The guide can arrange the tickets for the sites, so you don’t need to purchase them separately. This ensures a seamless experience without having to wait in lines or deal with ticket sales.
The Sum Up
This 2-day private tour from Istanbul provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Ephesus and Pamukkale. Visitors will be guided by a local expert, explore ancient ruins, marvel at the travertine terraces, and enjoy seamless transportation and personalized experiences tailored to their interests – an enriching adventure that showcases the best of these UNESCO World Heritage sites.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Istanbul
- Morning Bosphorus Cruise with Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar
- Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Tour
- Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise with Turkish Breakfast
- Istanbul: Sultanahmet, Balat, & Bazaars Tour With Cruise
- Istanbul: Basilica, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque Tour & Cruise
- 3-Hour Boat Tour with 1 hour break on the Asian Side
More Tours in Istanbul
- Istanbul Religious Sites Tour w Lunch Eyup Sultan & More
- Istanbul: 2 Continents, 1 City: From Europe to Asia Tour
- Istanbul: Private Full Day Byzantine / Ottoman Relics Tour
- Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque Tour & Ticket + Optional Basilica
- Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Tour
- Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Tour
More Tour Reviews in Istanbul
- Morning Bosphorus Cruise with Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar
- Istanbul Religious Sites Tour w Lunch Eyup Sultan & More
- Istanbul: 2 Continents, 1 City: From Europe to Asia Tour
- Istanbul: Private Full Day Byzantine / Ottoman Relics Tour
- Magnificient Mosques of Istanbul
- Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque Tour & Ticket + Optional Basilica
Still browsing? Here are more Istanbul experiences we've covered recently
- 4 Best 4-Day Tours In Istanbul (With Reviews & Prices)
- Istanbul’s 14 Best Walking Tours: Which To Choose?
- 11 Top-Rated Istanbul Shopping & Market Tours
- 14 Best Historical Tours In Istanbul (With Prices)
- Istanbul’s 5 Top Coffee Tours
- We Rank The 14 Best Dining Experiences In Istanbul
- Which Istanbul Wine Tours To Choose? Our Best 4 Picks
- Istanbul’s 11 Top Workshops & Classes
- 14 Of The Best Tours In Istanbul
- What Are The Best Cooking Classes In Istanbul? Our Top 7 Picks
- Our Picks For The 14 Best Tours & Experiences In Istanbul
- 5 Fantastic Massage & Relaxation Services In Istanbul
