6 Days Turkey Tour Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Gallipoli Troy

Discover the Highlights of Turkey in a 6-Day Small-Group Tour

This 6-day Turkey tour offers a comprehensive exploration of some of the country’s most iconic sites in a compact, well-organized package. Priced at $2,204.89 per person, it covers Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia with all-inclusive transportation, accommodations—including a cave hotel in Goreme—and guided tours. The tour departs from Istanbul and is designed for groups of no more than 15 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

A standout feature is the hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, a once-in-a-lifetime way to view the surreal landscape. The itinerary balances guided visits to ancient ruins and natural wonders with free time for personal exploration. Rated 5.0 out of 5 with 83 reviews, this tour is highly recommended, especially for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Turkey’s top attractions in under a week.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 15 travelers ensures personalized attention
• Includes all flights, transportation, and accommodations, saving hassle and expense
• Features a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia for breathtaking views
• Visits Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia highlights with guided tours
• All meals included—breakfasts and lunches—plus vegetarian options available
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind

From Gallipoli to Canakkale: A Powerful First Day

The tour begins early in Istanbul, with a pickup at 6:30 AM, and heads straight to the Gallipoli Peninsula. This journey takes around three hours by vehicle. Upon arrival, travelers will visit the historic Gallipoli Battlefields and Anzac Cove, where poignant memorials and trenches tell stories of the forces involved. The guide shares insights into the successes and failures of both sides, providing context to this significant war site.

After exploring Gallipoli, the group stops in Eceabat for lunch around noon. The day concludes with a transfer to Canakkale, where an evening free allows for rest or local exploration. The day’s highlights are the historical significance and the emotional impact of the battlefield visits, making for a meaningful start to the trip.

Visiting Troy and Pergamon: Ancient Cities Come Alive

On Day 2, the journey continues to Troy, where a 2-hour guided tour reveals the remains of the legendary city. Visitors see remnants that date back 3,700 years, including walls, the Odeon, and the Bouleuterion, along with a replica of the Trojan Horse. The guide explains the history behind these structures, bringing the ancient city to life.

In the afternoon, the tour heads to Pergamon, arriving around 1:30 PM. After a leisurely lunch, the group explores highlights such as the Library, Temple of Athena, Acropolis, and Alter of Zeus. The fully guided tour offers rich details about Pergamon’s significance as a cultural and religious hub. The day ends with a transfer to Kusadasi, setting the stage for the next day’s adventures.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis: Natural Pools and Ancient Ruins

Day 3 takes travelers to Pamukkale, a natural wonder famous for its white terraces of thermal pools. The journey from Kusadasi is about 3 hours with a guide providing background about the area. After a local lunch, the tour moves into Hierapolis, where visitors can walk among the ruins of a gymnasium and see the amphitheatre with a capacity of 15,000 people.

Later, the group explores the Temple of Apollo and other significant structures. The highlight is walking along Pamukkale’s thermal terraces, dipping feet into warm springs or swimming in the man-made hot baths. Guests should be prepared to walk approximately 0.5 miles over travertines without shoes, so comfortable footwear and sunscreen are advised. The day concludes back in Kusadasi with free time for relaxation.

Exploring Ephesus, Meryemana, and the Temple of Artemis

Day 4 involves a 3-hour guided tour of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Turkey. Visitors walk through the Magnesia Gate and explore key sites such as the Celsus Library, the Odeon, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theater, which once hosted 24,000 spectators. The guide provides historical context to each landmark, including St. Paul’s connection to the site.

Afterward, the tour visits Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House), an important pilgrimage site. The group then enjoys a Turkish lunch before visiting the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The day ends with a visit to Sirince, a charming old Greek village, before returning to the hotel in Kusadasi.

Cappadocia’s Unique Landmarks and Optional Hot Air Balloon

On Day 5, the tour transfers travelers from Kusadasi to Cappadocia via flight, included in the package. Upon arrival, the group starts with a South Cappadocia Tour, beginning at the Kaymakli Underground City with its eight levels open for exploration. This underground network showcases ancient inhabitants’ ingenuity in creating refuge and storage.

Next, the guide leads visits to Love Valley to see iconic phallic-shaped rock formations, then to Red Valley for its layered, red-hued cliffs. The day continues with stops at Rose Valley and Pigeon Valley, offering striking views of Cappadocia’s famed landscapes. The evening is free for rest or optional activities, including the chance to book a hot air balloon ride (contact required).

Discovering Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys and Cave Churches

Day 6 opens with a visit to Uchisar Castle, the highest point offering panoramic views of Cappadocia’s surreal terrain. The tour then continues to the Goreme Open-Air Museum, featuring ancient rock-cut churches with well-preserved frescoes.

Lunch takes place in Avanos, renowned for its pottery-making traditions. Afterward, the group explores Cavusin, where a pottery demonstration allows visitors to try their hand at traditional crafts. The tour concludes at Devrent Valley, known for animal-shaped rock formations, and Pasabag, famous for its fairy chimneys.

Finally, the group heads back to Kayseri Airport for the flight to Istanbul, where a transfer to the hotel awaits. Travelers can opt for a hot air balloon ride during the morning, a memorable highlight of Cappadocia’s landscape.

Practicalities, Inclusions, and Additional Details

This tour includes all airport transfers, flights with taxes, and accommodations—one night in Cappadocia’s cave hotel, three nights in Kusadasi, and one in Canakkale or Eceabat. All guided tours, entrance fees, and meals—breakfasts and lunches—are covered. Vegetarian meals are available upon request.

The tour’s group size of up to 15 travelers ensures a comfortable and intimate experience, with full travel insurance included for peace of mind. Tips and drinks are not included, and guests should budget for personal expenses.

This tour receives a perfect 5-star rating based on 83 reviews, with guests praising the knowledgeable guides and excellent customer service. The flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, adding confidence to the booking.

Uncover Turkey’s Treasures with a Well-Rounded Itinerary

This 6-day tour balances the exploration of Turkey’s historical sites, natural wonders, and cultural highlights. The carefully curated stops at Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia showcase the country’s diversity, from ancient ruins to otherworldly landscapes.

The inclusion of guided tours combined with free time allows for both structured learning and personal discovery. The hot air balloon ride, a built-in highlight, offers stunning views of Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and valleys, elevating the experience.

While the pace is brisk, the all-inclusive transportation, flights, and comfortable accommodations simplify logistics, making this tour suitable for those seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Turkey. Travelers who value small-group experiences, local guides, and fascinating sights will find this package highly satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all airport transfers, flights with taxes, accommodations, guides, entrance fees, and meals (breakfasts and lunches). Vegetarian options are available.

Is the hot air balloon ride included?
The tour includes an optional hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia. Guests must contact the provider to book this activity separately.

How large are the groups?
This tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
Guests stay in hotels in Kusadasi, Canakkale, and a cave hotel in Goreme in Cappadocia, all with breakfast included.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfasts and lunches are part of the package, with vegetarian options arranged upon request.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most stops require walking, including walking over travertines in Pamukkale and exploring ruins, so a moderate physical level is recommended.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The tour’s highlights include Gallipoli battlefield visits, tours of Troy and Ephesus, Pamukkale’s thermal pools, and Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and underground city.

How long do the flights between destinations take?
The flight from Kusadasi to Cappadocia and the return to Istanbul are included, with flights arranged by the provider. The transfer times are not specified but are part of the seamless logistics.

Is there any age restriction?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at certain sites like Pamukkale and ancient ruins.

This well-rounded 6-day tour offers a practical way to see Turkey’s most iconic sights comfortably, with expert guides and all logistics handled for a smooth experience.