Myths of the Aegean : Travel to Pamukkale, Ephesus, Kusadasi
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2d
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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About this experience
Embark on a memorable 2-day journey to explore Turkey’s ancient wonders. Visit the stunning Pamukkale terraces and the ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city. Continue to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities, and marvel at the Celsus Library and Great Theater. Conclude with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a spiritual site near Ephesus. Stay in Kuşadası for two nights, offering a perfect base for relaxation and easy access.
⭐️ ADVANTAGE OF CONNECTING YOUR TRIP TO CAPPADOCIA : This travel package also provides a seamless connection to Cappadocia, ideal for further exploration.
⭐️ SEMI-PRIVATE GUIDED TOURS (UP TO 10 GUESTS): This travel package provides daily guided tours with a guarantee of no more than 10 guests per group, providing a personalized and thorough exploration of historical sites and stunning landscapes.
Available options
Bronze Package
Accommodation: Carina Boutique Hotel in Kusadasi<br/>Departures: from Denizli airport and hotels in Pamukkale by private car<br/>Flight Tickets: EXCLUDED<br/>Daily Tour Level: The guided daily tours of this travel package will be organized as a semi-private tour, with a maximum of 10 guests per group<br/>Pickup included
Gold Package
Accommodation: Charisma De Luxe Hotel in Kusadasi<br/>Departures: from Istanbul by flight and from Antalya, Fethiye, Marmaris, Bodrum by private car<br/>Flight Tickets: INCLUDED - Istanbul to Denizli and Izmir to Istanbul. OR Izmir to Cappadocia if preffer connect this trip to Cappadocia<br/>Daily Tour Level: The guided daily tours of this travel package will be organized as a semi-private tour, with a maximum of 10 guests per group<br/>Pickup included
Silver Package
Accommodation: Carina Boutique Hotel in Kusadasi<br/>Departures: from Istanbul by flight and from Antalya, Fethiye, Marmaris, Bodrum by private car<br/>Flight Tickets: INCLUDED - Istanbul to Denizli and Izmir to Istanbul. OR Izmir to Cappadocia if preffer connect this trip to Cappadocia<br/>Daily Tour Level: The guided daily tours of this travel package will be organized as a semi-private tour, with a maximum of 10 guests per group<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Advantage of connecting this trip to Cappadocia by plane (Except Bronze Package)
Hotel / Airport pick-up & drop-off services
Semi-private guided tours with a maximum of 10 guests per group
Lunch
If you preffer start from Antalya, Fethiye, Marmaris, Bodrum, pick-up transfer by private car
1 night hotel accommodation including breakfast
Breakfast
Domestic flights: Istanbul → Denizli, Izmir → Istanbul or Izmir → Cappadocia (Except Bronze Package)
What's not included
Dinner and Drinks
Paraglading Experience in Pamukkale
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults. If you will be 1 adult + 1 child, the local tour operator can request & charge the amount of 2 adults.
The package prices apply to accommodations in double or triple rooms. (with your family / friends) If you wish to add a single room to your booking, there may be an additional fee. However, solo travelers will not incur any extra charges, as they will automatically be assigned to single rooms.
For your accommodation in Kusadasi during this trip, the pre-planned hotels are "Carina Boutique Hotel" - "Charisma De Luxe Hotel." When booking, you can select either one. If these hotels do not have availability for standard or superior rooms on your travel dates, the local tour operator may substitute them with equivalent hotels.
⭐️ ADVANTAGE OF CONNECTING YOUR TRIP TO CAPPADOCIA : If you would like to connect this trip to Cappadocia instead of return to Istanbul, this option is available for all booking options except the "Bronze Package". Also, the arrival airport transfer will be provided by the local tour operator in Cappadocia. If you preffer connect this trip to Cappadocia, you will not have any 3rd flight ticket right (from Cappadocia to Istanbul).
SILVER PACKAGE & GOLD PACKAGE : These booking options includes pick-up from Istanbul Airports, Bodrum Airport, Antalya Airport or hotels in Istanbul, Antalya, Fethiye, Marmaris, Bodrum, and drop-off at Istanbul Airports or hotels in Istanbul, Cappadocia. Please note that maximum 2-ways flights are included on this trip package. The valid flights are Istanbul to Denizli, Izmir to Istanbul, or Izmir to Cappadocia. The flight of Istanbul to Denizli will be excluded and you will get a transfer by private car to Pamukkale district for departure, if you preffer start this trip from Bodrum Airport, Antalya Airport or hotels in Antalya, Fethiye, Marmaris, Bodrum.
BRONZE PACKAGE : This booking option includes pick-up from Denizli Airport or hotels in Pamukkale/Karahayit, and drop-off at Izmir Airport or hotels in Izmir, Selcuk, or Kusadasi. Please note that flights and transfers in Istanbul are excluded. This option allows you to seamlessly connect this trip package with your independent travel itinerary.
SEMI-PRIVATE GUIDED TOURS: This tour operator offers daily guided tours during this travel package with groups capped at 10 guests, allowing for an intimate and detailed exploration of historic sites and stunning sceneries.
The local tour operator will email your e-tickets for domestic flights three days prior to your departure. You won’t need to print the tickets for domestic flights. Your passport and the reservation number on the tickets will be sufficient for check-in.
The local tour operator may request some passport details to book your flight tickets. If you do not provide the requested information, your domestic flight tickets may not be booked and you can not join to this tour. If you do not provide the requested information until 4 days prior to your trip or if you refuse to provide the requested information, you should cancel your reservation. Otherwise, the local tour operator may apply the cancellation and refund policies for this tour because of the necessary missed details on booking.
You are allowed 15kg luggage + 8kg cabin bag per person for each domestic flights. If you need more luggage capacity, please let the local tour operator know. Additional charges may apply for exceeding the 15 kg luggage limit.
Airport transfers in Istanbul are valid between hotels or Airbnb addresses and Istanbul airports. If you request an additional stop during the transfer service (such as picking up something from any location en route), the local tour operator reserves the right to charge an extra fee.
If your pick-up or drop-off point are located inside of the same airport with the departure / return airport, the local tour operator will not provide any hotel pick-up or drop-off services. This is about the traffic procedures of the airport managments.
Pick-up and drop-off times indicated in the tour descriptions are approximate and subject to change by about +/- 45 minutes due to seasonal and flight timing variations on your travel dates.
If you choose to cancel or skip any part of this travel package, please note that the local tour operator will apply the standard cancellation and refund policy. As a result, no refunds will be issued for any service which cancelled or skipped by you.
All the information provided above forms part of the terms and conditions for this travel package. You have been confirmed your acceptance of these when you book the travel package. The local tour operator clearly specifies the details in the program, explanations, and reservation options, and is responsible only for the services indicated. That's why, please read those details while booking this travel package.
Important notes
Tour guide will give the entrance tickets to the guests before entry to the museums and ancient ruins and religious places.
About Selçuk
Selçuk is a charming town in Turkey's Aegean Region, renowned as the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and proximity to stunning natural sites, Selçuk offers a unique blend of archaeological wonders and authentic Turkish hospitality.
Top Attractions
Ephesus
Ephesus is one of the most famous ancient cities in the world, known for its well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis.
Historical
Half to full day
Moderate (Entrance fee around 20 USD)
Selçuk Basilica
The Selçuk Basilica is an ancient Christian church with well-preserved mosaics and architectural details, offering insights into the region's early Christian history.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
İsa Bey Mosque
İsa Bey Mosque is a 14th-century Ottoman mosque with beautiful Seljuk architecture, featuring intricate tile work and a serene courtyard.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Şirince Village
Şirince is a picturesque village known for its traditional stone houses, local wines, and olive oil. It's a great place to experience authentic Turkish village life and sample local produce.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore, budget for food and wine tastings
Ephesus Museum
The Ephesus Museum houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Ephesus, including sculptures, mosaics, and coins.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate (Entrance fee around 5 USD)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Çökertme Kebap
A traditional dish made with minced lamb or beef, onions, and spices, cooked on a skewer over an open flame.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be spicy
Karnıyarık
A stuffed eggplant dish made with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and peppers, topped with a rich tomato sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be spicy
Şakşuka
A traditional dish made with green peppers, tomatoes, and onions, cooked with minced meat and topped with a yogurt sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be spicy
Midye Dolma
Stuffed mussels filled with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and spices, served with a lemon wedge.
Snack
Contains seafood, can be spicy
Popular Activities
Hiking in the surrounding countryside
Horseback riding
Mountain biking
Beach relaxation in Kuşadası
Spa treatments in Pamukkale
Wine tasting in Şirince Village
Exploring ancient ruins
Visiting local museums
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit Selçuk is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are manageable. These seasons offer ideal conditions for exploring the ancient sites and enjoying the local cuisine.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Turkish
- Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Selçuk is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging.
- • Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- • Be wary of fake petitions or surveys, as they may be a distraction for thieves.
Getting there
By air
- Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport • 80 km
By train
Selçuk Railway Station
By bus
Selçuk Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Selçuk, connecting the town center to major attractions and nearby towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: BiTaksi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Ephesus Area
Şirince Village
Day trips
Pamukkale
150 km • Full day
Pamukkale is a natural wonder known for its white travertine terraces and thermal springs. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular day trip from Selçuk.
Kuşadası
20 km • Half day
Kuşadası is a popular coastal town known for its beaches, nightlife, and shopping. It's a great day trip for those looking to relax on the beach or explore the town's many shops and restaurants.
Priene, Miletus, and Didyma
50-60 km • Full day
Priene, Miletus, and Didyma are ancient cities located near Selçuk, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history. These sites are less crowded than Ephesus and offer a unique opportunity to explore ancient ruins.
Festivals
International Selçuk Ephesus Culture and Art Festival • May
International Selçuk Ephesus Jazz Festival • July
Selçuk Wine Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit the ancient city of Ephesus early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Try the local specialties, such as Çökertme Kebap and Şakşuka, at traditional restaurants like Dünyayla Otel Restaurant or Selçuk Pidecisi.
- Explore the charming village of Şirince for a glimpse into traditional Turkish village life, with its stone houses, local wines, and olive oils.
- Take a day trip to Pamukkale to experience the natural wonders of the travertine terraces and thermal springs.
- Visit the Ephesus Museum to learn more about the ancient city and its rich history, with a collection of artifacts that includes sculptures, mosaics, and coins.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
