4-Day Turkey Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Istanbul's historical wonders
    10 minutes (3.1 km) from Ataturk International Airport

    Start this trip with a visit to Hagia Sophia which was once one of the greatest churches in the world, it is now a museum with fascinating mosaics and an interesting history. Next, head to the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture. Afterward, enjoy the Topkapi Palace, and soak in Turkey's impressive history with its fine Ottoman arts, manuscripts, and palace kitchens.

  2. Day 2: Bursa
    3 hours 20 minutes (237 km) from Istanbul

    Take a day trip to Bursa and explore this stunning city near the Sea of Marmara. The city is home to the Green Mosque with its intricate designs and fascinating history Visitors can explore the bustling markets and enjoy trying different local foods. Take the time to enjoy a relaxing traditional Turkish bath, a historic cultural experience of the area.

  3. Day 3: Antalya City
    2 hours 50 minutes (230 km) from Bursa

    The stunning Antalya City offers everything from historic landmarks to breathtaking natural landscapes. Begin at the Hadrian's Gate, then enjoy a relaxing morning at the Duden Waterfalls, and afterward head to the Kaleici Old Town for shopping or walking through the narrow streets or head to Lara Beach, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

  4. Day 4: Cappadocia's spectacular views
    3 hours 45 minutes (255 km) from Antalya

    Spend an entire day exploring the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia. Begin your day at the Goreme Open-Air Museum showcasing some of the most stunning examples of Byzantine art and architecture. Followed by a hot air balloon flight for a unique perspective of the landscape. Afterward, explore the Derinkuyu Underground City, a vast subterranean city, built by early Christians in the region.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hagia Sophia (1-2 hours, TRY 100)
  • Blue Mosque (1 hour, free entrance)
  • Topkapi Palace (1-2 hours, TRY 120)
  • Bursa (6-8 hours, TRY 500)
  • Green Mosque (1 hour, TRY 20)
  • Duden Waterfalls (2 hours, TRY 35)
  • Kaleici Old Town (2 hours, free entrance)
  • Lara Beach (4-5 hours, free entrance)
  • Goreme Open-Air Museum (2-3 hours, TRY 150)
  • Hot air balloon flight (1 hour, TRY 1000)
  • Derinkuyu Underground City (2-3 hours, TRY 30)
  • Total estimated costs: TRY 2095

Useful tips

If you have more time, visit the ancient city of Ephesus, situated in modern-day Selcuk, it is one of the largest Roman ruins outside of Rome. Additionally, visit Pamukkale, famous for its stunning white travertine terraces that are often referred to as the "Cotton Castle"

If you have less time, skip the visit to Bursa and add an extra day in Istanbul to explore more sights and museums, or you can remove the hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia to save some money.

0