Welcome to Istanbul! Visit the Blue Mosque and admire its stunning architecture that features intricate blue tiles. Then, head to Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has served as a church and mosque. Marvel at its towering structure and impressive interior.
Take a flight to Kayseri and drive to Cappadocia to explore the Göreme Open Air Museum with its Christian rock-cut churches and colorful frescoes. Afterward, hike in the Rose Valley and marvel at the ethereal fairy chimneys and rock formations that make this region so famous.
Drive to Konya, the city of Rumi, and visit the Mevlana Museum. Be mesmerized by the exhibits that narrate the life of the great Sufi philosopher and poet. Later, explore the Karatay Madrasah, a stunning historical landmark that boasts intricate tile work and architecture.
Drive to Antalya, a breathtaking coastal city that boasts sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and stunning natural phenomena. Start the day by visiting the Düden Waterfalls and taking a refreshing dip in its cool waters. Later, wander through the old town streets of Kaleici and explore the charming boutiques, restaurants, and hammams.
Drive to Pamukkale to visit the UNESCO-listed Hierapolis, an ancient city that features remarkable ruins, including a well-preserved theater, necropolis, and temple. Afterward, bathe in the Pamukkale Natural Thermal Pools, known for its healthy minerals and stunning white mineral formations.
Drive through the idyllic countryside to Aphrodisias, an ancient city known for its school of sculpture and fine arts. Admire the beautifully preserved ruins, including a stadium, theaters, and an early Christian basilica, and visit the Museum of Aphrodisias to see amazing works of art and sculptures.
Drive to Bodrum, a picturesque seaside town that offers stunning views and great nightlife. Start the day by visiting the Castle of Saint Peter, a medieval castle that today serves as a museum of underwater archaeology. Later, check out the Bodrum Amphitheater, a well-preserved ancient theater that was built during the Hellenistic era.
Drive to Fethiye, one of the most popular seaside resorts in Turkey. First, visit the Saklikent National Park, a gorge that is over 18 km long, with spectacular views of waterfalls, caverns, and natural pools. Then, head to the Butterfly Valley, a serene beach that is home to various species of butterflies and offers great snorkeling opportunities.
Drive to Oludeniz, a stunning gem that is famous for the Blue Lagoon and great outdoor activities. First, take a thrilling paragliding adventure over the Blue Lagoon and enjoy the panoramic views of the coast. Then, head to the nearby village of Kayakoy to explore its ruins, including the abandoned Greek village and the Church of Panayia.
Drive to Troy, an ancient city that was made famous by Homer's epic poem, the Iliad. Marvel at the ruins, including the legendary walls of Troy, the Temple of Athena, and the Trojan Horse. Learn about its rich history and importance as a crossroads of cultures.
Drive to Istanbul and stop by the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, a contemporary art museum that features exhibitions of Turkish and international artists. Later, take a walk across the Galata Bridge, a historical landmark that connects the old city to the modern business district.
End this incredible trip by visiting the Grand Bazaar, a bustling market that has been in operation since the 15th century. Shop for souvenirs, spices, and textiles, and taste some traditional Turkish sweets. Later, indulge in a traditional Turkish bath, also known as a hammam, and relax in the serene ambiance.
Travelers should rent a car to enjoy the trip at their convenience. The total distance covered is around 2200 km, so it is recommended to have a reliable car with GPS. Gas prices are around 6.87 TL per liter, and tolls cost around 50-70 TL. The total costs for gas and tolls are around 700-800 TL. Travelers can also use public transportation such as buses and trains, but they are less flexible and might have limited schedules or routes.
If you have more time, you can add a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus or the scenic town of Assos. You can also spend more time in Istanbul to explore its numerous mosques, palaces, and markets. If you have less time, you can skip some of the destinations or combine them to save time. You should also consider booking tickets and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid the hassle.
The main airports in Turkey are Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), both of which are located in Istanbul. IST is the largest airport that serves international and domestic flights, while SAW is a secondary airport that serves mainly low-cost airlines. Kayseri Airport (ASR) and Antalya Airport (AYT) are other major airports that serve domestic flights and some international flights.