Ephesus Pergamon Pamukkale 4 Days

DAY 1: ISTANBUL – IZMIR – KUSADASI
Take the flihgt from Istanbul to Izmir. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Kusadasi.

DAY 2: EPHESUS, HOUSE OF VIRGIN MARY AND ARTEMIS TEMPLE
09.00 Departure. Today we tour Ephesus, which was one of the largest and most interesting ancient cities of Asia Minor. The tour of Ephesus includes the Library of Celsius, Temple of Hadrian, Agora and fantastic Greco-Roman theater. (Terrace Houses are optional and extra). We will also view the Isabey Mosque which is a beautiful example of Selcuk architecture. In the afternoon will visit the carpet cooperative weaving center to see how the Turkish carpets are made by hand and also see a fashion show at a leather outlet center. Finally, we visit the house where the Virgin Mary allegedly spent her last days, and the remains of the Temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Overnight in Kusadasi. (B.)

DAY 3: PERGAMON
8.00 Departure. We will visit the Pergamon Acropolis, where the ruins of Zeus Altar can still be seen today. The Acropolis is situated high above the plain and has a unique panoramic view. The very narrow and steep theater on the hillside could seat up to 10,000 people. Parchment paper was first produced in Pergamon. We will visit the remains of the Great Library, which rivaled one of Alexandria in Egypt, the palaces of the kings, and the temple of Trajan. Visit the Asclepion, which was known as the first place of medical science. Galen, who originated from Pergamon and became the most famous doctor of his time, treated his patients here. Overnight in Kusadasi. (B.)

DAY 4: PAMUKKALE AND HIERAPOLIS – DENIZLI – ISTANBUL
8.30 Departure. We will drive through the Meander Valley and arrive in Pamukkale, which has been a thermal spa center since before the Roman era. We visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, which is said to have been founded by King Eumenes II of Pergamon. We visit the great Roman baths, the Temple of Apollo, the well-preserved theater and the fascinating Necropolis. St. Phillip is associated with Hierapolis. We will also visit the calcium terraces and pools for which Pamukkale is named “Cotton Castle”. It is possible to bathe in the sacred Roman thermal pool with ancient columns (an extra fee is due) or you will have some free time at the terraces or to explore more on your own. Transfer to Denizli airport and take the evening flight to Istanbul. (B.)