Family Adventure in Ephesus, Turkey: A 3-Day Itinerary Itinerary

After breakfast at your hotel, set out for a day of adventure. Start with a visit to the Priene Ancient City, an ancient Greek city known for its well-preserved ruins. Then, head to the Miletus Ancient City, another ancient site with impressive architecture.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic at the Dilek Peninsula National Park, where you can take in the beautiful coastal scenery. Afterward, spend the afternoon exploring the park's trails and beaches, or take a boat tour to discover hidden coves and sea caves.

Return to Selcuk for dinner at Nur Restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious Turkish dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the town's charming streets before returning to your hotel.

Begin your day with a visit to the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, where you can learn more about the history and artifacts of the ancient city. Then, take a short drive to the Terrace Houses (The Houses of the Rich), where you can see the well-preserved remains of ancient Roman villas.

For lunch, head to Sirince Koftecisi for a taste of the local specialty, köfte. Afterward, visit the Basilica of St. John, built over the burial site of St. John the Apostle. Then, explore the nearby Isa Bey Mosque, an impressive example of Seljuk architecture.

End your day with a family dinner at Kaleici Meyhanesi, a traditional Turkish restaurant known for its meze and grilled dishes. Afterward, return to your hotel for a restful night's sleep.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Balikesir. Then, set out on a scenic drive to Ephesus, taking in the beautiful countryside along the way. Consider stopping at the Bergama Acropolis, an ancient site with impressive ruins, before continuing your journey.

Arrive in Ephesus in the afternoon and check into your hotel. After settling in, take a leisurely walk through the town to get a feel for the local atmosphere. Consider visiting the Selcuk Castle for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample traditional Turkish dishes. Afterward, return to your hotel for a restful night's sleep.

After breakfast at your hotel in Ephesus, check out and begin your journey to Istanbul. The drive will take approximately 7 hours, so plan for a few rest stops along the way. Consider visiting the Troy Ancient City or the Gallipoli Battlefields to break up the journey.

Arrive in Istanbul in the afternoon and check into your hotel. After settling in, take a walk around the neighborhood to get your bearings. If time allows, consider visiting the Topkapi Palace or the Hagia Sophia.

Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample traditional Turkish cuisine. Afterward, return to your hotel for a restful night's sleep.