Istanbul & Ephesus: A Solo Food & History Journey
8 days · 8 suggested stays
Day 1 — Arrival in Istanbul, settle in, and start exploring the historic Sultanahmet area.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Sultanahmet Square
Central square surrounded by iconic monuments.
Hagia Sophia
Magnificent former church and mosque, now a museum.
Blue Mosque
Famous for its blue tiles and six minarets.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable hotel in the historic center.
Day 2 — Dive into Ottoman history at Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Topkapi Palace
Opulent palace of Ottoman sultans.
Grand Bazaar
Vast covered market with thousands of shops.
Basilica Cistern
Ancient underground water reservoir.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable hotel in the historic center.
Day 3 — Cruise the Bosphorus and explore the vibrant Galata area.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Bosphorus Cruise
Scenic boat ride between two continents.
Galata Tower
Medieval tower with panoramic views.
Istiklal Avenue
Lively pedestrian street with shops and cafes.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable hotel in the historic center.
Day 4 — Visit the majestic Suleymaniye Mosque and Spice Bazaar, then fly to Izmir.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Suleymaniye Mosque
Grand mosque with stunning views.
Spice Bazaar
Aromatic market with spices and sweets.
Transfer to Izmir
Flight to Izmir (approx 1 hour)
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
—
Visit site
Luxury hotel on the Aegean coast.
Day 5 — Day trip to Ephesus, exploring its ancient ruins and history.
(overnight: Selcuk)
Library of Celsus
Iconic ancient library facade.
Great Theatre of Ephesus
Huge ancient theater with seating for 25,000.
Terrace Houses
Well-preserved Roman residential villas.
Villa Dreams Ephesus
—
Visit site
Luxury hotel on the Aegean coast.
Day 6 — Explore Izmir's vibrant markets and waterfront, then enjoy local cuisine.
(overnight: Izmir)
Izmir Clock Tower
Historic clock tower in Konak Square.
Kemeralti Bazaar
Historic bazaar with shops and eateries.
Kordon Promenade
Seaside walkway with cafes and views.
Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir
—
Visit site
Luxury hotel on the Aegean coast.
Day 7 — Fly back to Istanbul and explore the Chora Church and Galata Bridge.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Transfer to Istanbul
Flight to Istanbul (approx 1 hour)
Chora Church (Kariye)
Mosaic and fresco masterpiece.
Galata Bridge
Bridge with fishing views and restaurants.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable hotel in the historic center.
Day 8 — Last day: enjoy a final Turkish breakfast and depart.
(overnight: Istanbul)
Dolmabahce Palace
Lavish 19th-century palace on the Bosphorus.
Ortakoy Mosque
Picturesque mosque by the water.
Transfer to Airport
Private transfer to IST airport.
Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
Comfortable hotel in the historic center.
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