8-Day Itinerary for Exploring the Best of Turkey

  • Day 1: Hagia Sophia
    30 minutes from Istanbul Airport

    Hagia Sophia is a historic architectural marvel that has been a church, mosque, and now a museum. Its impressive dome and beautiful interiors make for an unforgettable visit. Don't miss the stunning Mosaics, and the beautiful architecture!

  • Day 2: Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace
    15 minutes from Hagia Sophia

    The beautiful Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. It was built in the 17th century and features unique architecture and exquisite interiors. Next, Visit the Topkapi Palace, which was the residence of Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years; its architecture, gardens, and rich history will take your breath away!

  • Day 3: Pamukkale Hot Springs
    1-hour and 15 minutes flight from Istanbul to Denizli, then 30 minutes from Denizli Airport to Pamukkale

    Pamukkale's hot springs, with their terraces of mineral-rich water and limestone, make for a unique and picturesque experience. Be sure to take a dip in the warm waters and enjoy the breath-taking view of Pamukkale white terraces.

  • Day 4: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride
    1-hour and 20 minutes flight from Denizli to Nevsehir, then a 20-minute drive from the airport to the hot air balloon location

    The surreal landscapes of Cappadocia are best experienced from a hot-air balloon ride. Get an early start to catch the sunrise and drift above the otherworldly landscapes, including cave dwellings, fairy chimneys, and other amazing geological features.

  • Day 5: Goreme Open Air Museum
    10 minutes from Cappadocia hot air balloon location

    Visit the ancient Byzantine rock-cut churches at Goreme Open Air Museum. With its extraordinary frescoes, this outdoor museum is an outstanding example of Byzantine art in the post-Iconoclastic era.

  • Day 6: Antalya Old Town and Harbor
    1-hour and 20 minutes flight from Nevsehir to Antalya

    The quaint cobblestone streets of Antalya's old town are filled with charming shops and restaurants in historic Ottoman-era buildings. While there, Visit the harbor on the Mediterranean, and enjoy picturesque views of the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean coastline.

  • Day 7: The Temple of Artemis
    4-hour drive from Antalya to Selcuk, alternatively fly 1 hour from Antalya to Izmir, then drive 1 hour from Izmir to Selcuk

    The Temple of Artemis is considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. While few ruins remain today, the spectacular historic site provides a glimpse into what was once a magnificent temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis.

  • Day 8: Ephesus Ancient City
    15 minutes from Selcuk

    Ephesus Ancient City was a prominent Greek city built in the 10th century BC. Today it is a major archaeological site with impressive ruins of public buildings, commercial, and private dwellings. Don't miss the Library of Celsus and the ancient amphitheater.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Hagia Sophia (1-2 hours, £12)
  • Blue Mosque (1-2 hours, Free)
  • Topkapi Palace (2-3 hours, £12)
  • Pamukkale Hot Springs (3-4 hours, £17)
  • Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride (1-1.5 hours, £90)
  • Goreme Open Air Museum (2-3 hours, £10)
  • Antalya's Old Town and Harbor (2-3 hours, Free)
  • The Temple of Artemis (1-2 hours, £14)
  • Ephesus Ancient City (3-4 hours, £20)

  • Total Estimated Costs: £195

Transportation:

Travellers can fly to Istanbul, Denizli, Nevsehir, and Izmir Airports, and take taxis or private drivers to the attractions. Alternatively, they can rent a car and drive between the sites.

  • Travel Costs:
  • Flights: (£120 - £160 per flight)
  • Taxis/Private Drivers: (£20 - £25 per ride)
  • Car Rentals: (£25 - £40/ day)

Useful tips:

To make the most of your trip, remember that every site has unique features you won't find elsewhere in Turkey. It's worth adding a day to your itinerary to fully explore the attractions. Also, some days like the Pamukkale trip require early starts, ensure to plan ahead and get a good night's sleep.

Airports:

Istanbul Airport (IST) is in the northwestern side of the city and approximately 32 kilometers from Istanbul's city center. Antalya Airport (AYT) is approximately 13 kilometers from Antalya's city center. Denizli Cardak Airport (DNZ) is 69 kilometers from Pamukkale, while Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) is 30 kilometers from Cappadocia's center. Finally, Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) is 65 kilometers from Selcuk.

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