Discover Turkey: An 8-Day Adventure

1. Day 1: Istanbul
   Arrival at Istanbul airport

   Start your journey exploring the ancient city of Istanbul, visiting the historic Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Walk through the Grand Bazaar to experience the bustling markets filled with traditional Turkish treasures.

2. Day 2: Cappadocia
   1.5-hour flight from Istanbul

   Marvel at the unreal landscapes of Cappadocia with a hot-air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys. Explore the ancient underground cities and hike the picturesque Ilhara Valley.

3. Day 3: Pamukkale
   9-hour drive from Cappadocia or 1.5-hour flight from Kayseri

   Relax in the natural hot springs of Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the stunning white terraces. Visit the ancient ruins of Hierapolis and the Necropolis.

4. Day 4-5: Ephesus and Izmir
   3-hour drive from Pamukkale or 1-hour flight from Denizli

   Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Visit the Virgin Mary's House and Basilica of St. John in Selçuk. Enjoy the beautiful coastal city of Izmir for a day filled with Turkish food and sandy beaches.

5. Day 6: Antalya
   6-hour drive from Izmir or 1.5-hour flight from Izmir or İstanbul

   Relax in the stunning beaches of Antalya and hike in the picturesque Beydağları Coastal National Park. Explore the ancient ruins of Perge and the Hadrian's Gate in the old town. Experience the Düden Waterfalls and Hadrian's Wall for a great day out.

6. Day 7: Bodrum
   4-hour drive from Antalya or 1-hour flight from Antalya or İstanbul

   Explore the ancient city of Bodrum and visit Bodrum Castle, home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and the clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

7. Day 8: Istanbul
   1-hour flight from Bodrum

   Return back to Istanbul for a day filled with shopping and traditional Turkish food. Visit the Spice Market and Basılica Cistern. Spend the evening by Istanbul's historic peninsula for a relaxing farewell dinner or a Bosphorus River Cruise.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Hagia Sophia (1.5 hours, 72 TL)
• Blue Mosque (1 hour, free)
• Topkapi Palace (2-3 hours, 72 TL)
• Hot-air balloon ride in Cappadocia (1 hour, 450 USD)
• Entry to Pamukkale (2-3 hours, 120 TL)
• Entry to Ephesus (2-3 hours, 110 TL)
• Antalya beaches (4-5 hours, free)
• Bodrum Castle (1-2 hours, 65 TL)
• Total Estimated Costs (per person): $1,020 USD

Useful Tips

For an extended trip, visit other cities in Turkey such as Konya, situated on a vast plain in Central Anatolia. For a shorter trip, consider skipping Antalya and Bodrum and spend more time in Istanbul, visiting the Grand Bazaar, and Bosporus Cruise and more.