6 Day Antalya, Fethiye, Pamukkale, Ephesus Tour

Exploring Turkey’s stunning Aegean and Mediterranean coasts in just over a week sounds ambitious, but this 6-day tour from Paphlagonia Travel makes it surprisingly manageable—and memorable. Designed for those who crave cultural richness, natural beauty, and a taste of history, this journey covers key highlights like Antalya’s beaches, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the breathtaking calcium terraces of Pamukkale, all with the comfort of guided tours and organized logistics.

What really stands out are the seamless flights connecting Istanbul to Antalya and Izmir; the well-curated stops at ancient cities like Perge and Side; and the chance to swim in thermal pools that have been attracting visitors for centuries. The tour’s structure offers a compelling balance of guided sightseeing and free time, making it suitable for travelers who want a broad overview without feeling rushed.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the busy schedule—covering so many sites in six days means early mornings and long travel days. It’s best suited for those comfortable with quick transitions and multiple transfers. If you’re eager for culture, stunning vistas, and efficient planning, this tour could be a great fit.

Good To Know

• Efficient Itinerary: Combines major sights of the Aegean and Mediterranean coast with internal flights.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides ensure you get historical insights and local tips.
• Comfortable Accommodations: 4-star hotels provide a good base after busy days.
• Balance of Organized and Free Time: Some sightseeing with opportunities to relax or explore independently.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit ancient ruins, thermal springs, and iconic landmarks like the Virgin Mary House.
• Value for Money: All major site tickets, some meals, and transfers included, making it a convenient package.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: What to Expect from This 6-Day Turkish Adventure

This tour promises a whirlwind journey through Turkey’s most iconic sites, starting from Istanbul and whisking you down the coast to explore some of the most photogenic and historically rich locations in the country. We love the way this trip combines flying between major regions—saving travel time—and carefully selecting destinations that showcase Turkey’s diverse appeal, from ancient ruins to natural wonders.

Three things stand out in this experience: the thoughtfully planned itinerary, the inclusion of expert guides who bring each site alive, and the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine and scenic views along the way. The one potential drawback? The schedule is quite packed, so if you prefer slow-paced travel, this might feel a bit rushed.

This adventure suits travelers eager to tick off multiple bucket-list sites with the convenience of organized transport and guided commentary. It’s a smart choice for first-timers in Turkey or those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of the country’s highlights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival and Flight to Antalya

Starting from your hotel in Istanbul, you’ll be transferred to the airport for a flight to Antalya. Flights are generally scheduled in the late afternoon, around 4:30 or 5:00 pm, depending on the season. Once in Antalya, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel—a comfortable base to start your exploration.

Travel tip: Check the flight times ahead of booking, as they can vary. Early arrivals might allow for a quick walk around Antalya’s lively old town, Kaleiçi, with its narrow cobbled streets and historical charm.

Day 2: Relaxing in Antalya or Optional Boat Trip

The second day offers flexibility. You can choose to unwind at Antalya’s renowned beaches or join an optional boat trip. The boat cruise promises plenty of chances to swim in clear bays and capture stunning coastal views. Many reviews appreciate the relaxing pace this optional activity offers after a travel-heavy start.

Highlight: The boat trip is a favorite for those wanting to see the coast from a different perspective while taking a break from sightseeing.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Day 3: Ancient Cities of Perge, Aspendos, and Side

This full day is a deep dive into Turkey’s ancient past. The group begins with Perge, where remnants of a Roman stadium, gates, and baths paint a vivid picture of Roman life. Next, the spectacle of Aspendos’ theater, still in remarkably good condition, leaves visitors in awe—its acoustics are said to be perfect even today.

In the afternoon, Side’s classical ruins and Temple of Apollo showcase Greece and Rome’s legacy. Reviewers highlight the guide’s storytelling, which brought the history alive and helped visualize these sites as bustling ancient cities.

Pro tip: Bring your camera for the panoramic views from Aspendos and the temple ruins in Side.

Day 4: Pamukkale and Hierapolis

Traveling about 2.5 hours from Antalya, you arrive at Pamukkale, famous for its stunning calcium terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. The sight of snow-white, natural pools cascading down the hillside is truly picture-perfect.

You also visit Hierapolis, an ancient city with ruins of baths, necropolis, and gates. The thermal waters of Pamukkale are a highlight—many travelers mention the pleasure of soaking in warm springs with stunning views. An optional swim in the thermal pool (at extra cost) is often the most memorable part of this day.

Travel tip: Wear your swimsuit if you want to indulge in the thermal springs.

Day 5: From Pamukkale Back to Antalya

After breakfast and check-out, you’ll have some free time for quick exploration or photos in Pamukkale before heading back to Antalya by bus. The journey takes around four hours, giving you a chance to relax between site visits. Once back in Antalya, you can enjoy the evening at leisure.

Insight from reviews: Many travelers appreciate the smooth transfer and the chance to reflect on the day’s spectacular sights during the bus ride.

Day 6: Ephesus, Virgin Mary & Departure

This final day takes you to Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most significant ancient cities. You’ll walk among remarkably preserved ruins, including the Celsus Library and the Great Theatre. The House of Virgin Mary, a site of spiritual importance, is also included—believed to be where she spent her last days.

The tour concludes around 4 PM with transfers to Selçuk or Izmir, making it convenient for onward travel. Reviewers mention that guides provided detailed stories, making even the most archaeological sites engaging.

Optional: For those extending their stay, Izmir’s vibrant city life awaits just a short drive away.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour’s efficient use of internal flights significantly cuts down on travel time, allowing more time for sightseeing. The flights from Istanbul to Antalya and then from Izmir or Selçuk back to Istanbul are scheduled to maximize sightseeing and minimize fatigue.

Ground transportation during the tour is by comfortable coach, with dedicated pick-up and drop-off points, ensuring smooth transitions between sites. The group size is kept small or private options are available, making for more personalized interactions.

Hotels and Accommodation

Staying in 4-star hotels provides a comfortable retreat after busy days. Reviews mention clean, well-located hotels—often with nice amenities and friendly staff—adding value to the overall experience.

Guide and Group Experience

The guides are described as knowledgeable and engaging, often providing historical context and local anecdotes. Multilingual guides (English, Russian, Turkish) cater to diverse travelers, and small group sizes help keep the experience intimate and flexible.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers five nights in quality hotels, transfers, site tickets, and some meals if you chose that option. The guided tours add significant value, especially for travelers wanting expert commentary. However, lunches, dinners, drinks, and airport transfers are optional extras—so budget accordingly.

Reviewers note that the included sightseeing and hotel quality make this a good-value option for a comprehensive tour, especially compared to booking individual components separately.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This six-day experience offers a lot in a short span, and it’s perfect for first-time visitors to Turkey wanting a structured overview of the country’s highlights. The combination of historical sites, natural wonders, and scenic vistas appeals to culture lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Travelers who enjoy organized tours with expert guides will find this especially beneficial. The blend of guided sightseeing and free time allows for both educational and relaxing moments, although those seeking a very slow pace or deep immersion might find it a bit quick.

The included flights, comfortable hotels, and well-planned route make it a cost-effective way to see Turkey’s key attractions in a manageable timeframe. Just prepare for early mornings and long days—this is a busy but rewarding itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers who don’t want to walk much?
While the tour involves some walking, most sites have accessible paths. However, expect to walk around ancient ruins and outdoor areas, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are the flights included in the price?
Yes, flights between Istanbul and Antalya, as well as from Izmir/Sealçuk back to Istanbul, are part of the package.

Can I join this tour from other cities?
No, this specific tour starts from Antalya. If you’re elsewhere, you might need to organize separate transfers.

Is hotel accommodation in good areas?
Yes, the hotels are 4-star and located conveniently close to key sites or central areas, based on reviews.

Does the tour include meals?
Some meals are included if you opt for that. Otherwise, lunches and dinners are at your expense, giving you flexibility.

Are transfers between the airport and hotels provided?
Airport transfers are not included but are available as optional extras. The core transfers during the tour are organized.

How many people typically join the tour?
Small groups or private options are available, making for a more personalized experience.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Availability varies, so check with the provider. Spring and fall usually offer the best weather for sightseeing.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, some free time is included, especially in Antalya and Pamukkale, allowing for spontaneous exploration or relaxation.

What if I want to extend my stay in Turkey?
You can arrange additional accommodation or tours independently after the package ends, or discuss options with the provider.

To sum it up, this 6-day Turkish tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, natural beauty, and cultural insights. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable experience of Turkey’s highlights, with the convenience of guided tours, quality hotels, and internal flights helping to maximize sightseeing without exhausting travel days. Whether you’re marveling at Pamukkale’s terraces, exploring ancient Ephesus, or relaxing in Antalya’s beaches, this trip delivers a memorable snapshot of Turkey’s diverse charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: