3 Days – Cappadocia and Ephesus Tours Flights & Accommodations Included

Discover an efficient way to explore Turkey’s two most iconic destinations in just three days. This small-group tour, priced at $1,060 per person, includes domestic flights, hotel accommodations, most meals, and guided visits to Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and Ephesus’ ancient ruins. With a limit of 15 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience that balances immersive sightseeing with convenience.

Travelers who value seamless logistics and comprehensive packages find this tour especially appealing. While the schedule is packed—starting with pre-dawn pickups and early morning flights—the experience delivers stunning views, expert guides, and a glimpse into Turkey’s celebrated historical sites. An optional hot-air balloon ride in Cappadocia adds a memorable touch, at an extra cost of around 250 to 320 EUR. This tour works well for those eager to see both Cappadocia and Ephesus in a short span, with the understanding that the itinerary involves early starts and busy days.

Key Points

• All-inclusive 3-day package covering flights, hotel stays, guided tours, and most meals
• Small group size of no more than 15 travelers for a more personal experience
• Highlights include Göreme Open Air Museum, Pasabag, Underground City, House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ruins, and more
• Optional hot-air balloon ride available for an extra fee, offering panoramic views of Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys
• Efficient schedule with early pickups, multiple sightseeing stops, and flights between cities
• Suitable for travelers who want to see Turkey’s top sites with minimal planning and organized logistics

From Istanbul to Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from your Istanbul hotel between 03:30 and 04:00 am. You are transferred to the airport for a domestic flight to Cappadocia, arriving at Cappadocia Airport where the tour team welcomes you with a sign displaying your name. From there, the guide leads you to the tour zone for a full-day exploration of Northern Cappadocia, covering Göreme Open Air Museum, Devrent Valley, Pasabag (Monks Valley), and the Three Beauties.

This day offers a perfect introduction to Cappadocia’s famous fairy chimneys and rock formations. The admission tickets to these sites are included, and at the end of the day, the group transfers to your hotel in Cappadocia. The itinerary is designed to showcase Cappadocia’s most photogenic spots and impressive geological features.

Balloon Ride or Scenic Views in Cappadocia

On the second day, the tour offers a hot-air balloon ride option, which must be booked separately for around 250 to 320 EUR. Travelers interested in this experience should advise the team after booking, as availability varies. Without the balloon, the morning provides free time to enjoy Goreme Panorama.

Later, the guide takes you on a Southern Cappadocia tour, visiting the Underground City, Uchisar Castle, and the Valleys—Meskendir, Rose, Red Valley, Pigeon Valley, and Love Valley. This day captures Cappadocia’s geological diversity and offers opportunities for spectacular views and photo stops. After the sightseeing, you transfer to the airport for a flight to Izmir, where a transfer to Kusadasi completes the day.

Exploring Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary

The third day begins with breakfast at the hotel in Kusadasi. The full-day tour includes visits to the Ancient Ruins of Ephesus, where the well-preserved theatre, Library of Celsus, and Street of Curetes await. The House of Virgin Mary is also on the itinerary, offering a spiritual and historical perspective. The Temple of Artemis, Ispabey Mosque, Basilica of St. John, and Selcuk Castle are panoramic viewpoints included in the tour.

The admission tickets to these sites are included, and the guide provides context throughout the visit. Around 16:00 to 17:00, the group heads back to the airport for the flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, the team greets you with a sign at the domestic terminal, then transfers you back to your original hotel.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour ensures smooth airport transfers and transportation during sightseeing, with all flights between Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Izmir included. The small-group format, limited to 15 people, fosters a more intimate atmosphere and personalized attention from guides. Pick-up and drop-off services are available from hotels in Sultanahmet and Taksim, key areas in Istanbul.

Travelers staying outside these zones can arrange their own transportation to and from the airport. The team also requests passport copies upon booking to secure flight bookings, emphasizing the importance of timely documentation.

Hotel Accommodations and Meals

Guests stay two nights—one in Cappadocia and one in Kusadasi—with breakfast included at each hotel. Most lunches are included during the tours, but drinks during lunch are not, giving travelers flexibility to choose their beverages.

The itinerary keeps things straightforward with most meals covered, allowing focus on sightseeing. Hotels are selected to complement the itinerary, providing comfortable bases in both regions.

Optional Hot-Air Balloon Experience

The hot-air balloon ride offers panoramic views of Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and valleys, regarded as a highlight for many. The price range of 250 to 320 EUR per person reflects the premium nature of this experience. It is important to note that children under 7 are not permitted to fly, due to safety regulations.

Availability can vary, so travelers should communicate with the team after booking to confirm the option. The balloon ride’s timing aligns with the early morning, and the experience adds a special dimension to the tour but is not included in the base price.

The Experience with Guides and Pacing

According to reviews, knowledgeable guides such as Inci and Fatima deliver engaging explanations and help manage the busy schedule. The tour’s pacing is energetic, with early starts and packed days, but designed to maximize sightseeing opportunities.

Travelers mention that the tour offers good value for money, given the comprehensive inclusions like flights, hotels, and guided visits, and the small group size enhances the experience.

Review Highlights and Tour Strengths

Feedback highlights the smooth organization, responsive guides, and stunning views. Guides are praised for their friendly demeanor and local expertise, making the sites more meaningful.

The tour’s seamless logistics and carefully planned itinerary allow travelers to see Turkey’s top attractions without the stress of planning each detail themselves. The inclusion of most meals and entrance tickets adds further value.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a busy schedule, early mornings and multiple flights may be taxing for some. The hot-air balloon ride is optional and at an extra cost, with limited availability. Travelers should also be aware that the itinerary involves a lot of walking and outdoor activity at uneven sites.

Plus, cancellation is non-refundable, so travelers need to be certain about their plans before booking. The tour is best suited for those comfortable with a fast-paced, guided experience.

The Sum Up: A Concise, Organized Look at the 3-Day Tour

This 3-day tour of Cappadocia and Ephesus delivers a well-organized, all-inclusive experience that covers Turkey’s most famous sights with minimal hassle. It’s especially suitable for travelers short on time who want a rundown of both regions, including hotels, flights, and guided tours.

While the schedule is tight, the small-group size and expert guides make for a more personalized and engaging trip. The optional hot-air balloon ride provides an unforgettable perspective of Cappadocia’s landscapes, adding to the overall value.

Travelers who appreciate organized logistics, local insights, and visiting multiple highlights in a few days will find this tour offers great convenience and rich experiences. It’s a practical choice for those seeking to maximize their time in Turkey without sacrificing comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers return flights from Istanbul, 2 nights of hotel accommodations, airport transfers, guided tours, admission tickets to key sites, and most meals.

Are flights between cities included?
Yes, the domestic flights between Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Izmir are included in the package.

Can I book a hot-air balloon ride?
The balloon ride is optional and can be added for approximately 250 to 320 EUR, subject to availability. It must be advised after booking.

What are the hotel accommodations like?
The tour includes hotel stays in Cappadocia and Kusadasi, with breakfast included at each location.

What if I stay outside the pickup zones in Istanbul?
You can arrange your own transportation to the designated pickup points or handle transfers independently.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 7 are not allowed to participate in the hot-air balloon ride, but the overall tour is suitable for most ages that can handle early mornings and outdoor activity.

How large are the tour groups?
The group size is limited to 15 travelers, fostering a more personal experience.

Is meals are included?
Most lunches are included during the tours, but drinks during lunch are not included.

What is the cancellation policy?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

How do I confirm my booking?
After booking, the team requests passport copies to reserve flights and confirm your participation.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins with pickup from hotels in Sultanahmet or Taksim in Istanbul and ends back at the Istanbul Airport after the final flight.