4-Day itinerary for Traveling Turkey

  1. Day 1: Istanbul
    20 minutes from Istanbul Airport (IST)
    Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia Museum (1 hour), followed by lunch at the Turkish Food Center (1 hour). Head to the Grand Bazaar for some shopping (2 hours), and end the day with a visit to the Blue Mosque (1 hour).
  2. Day 2: Cappadocia
    1 hour flight from Istanbul to Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR)
    Start the day with a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia (1 hour). After breakfast, explore the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2 hours). Take a walking tour of the Kaymakli Underground City (1 hour) and end the day with sunset at the Pigeon Valley (1 hour).
  3. Day 3: Pamukkale
    4.5-hour drive from Cappadocia
    Start the day with a visit to the Pamukkale Thermal Pools, a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site (2 hours). Go for a dip, take pictures of the stunning view and of course relax. Visit the Hierapolis Ancient City (2 hours). Explore ancient ruins, and breathtaking views from the amphitheater.
  4. Day 4: Antalya
    Overnight Bus (8-10 hours) from Pamukkale to Antalya
    Start the day with a refreshing swim at the Konyaalti Beach (1 hour), followed by lunch at the Kaleici Marina (1 hour). Visit Hadrian's Gate (1 hour) and explore the old town for souvenirs. End the day at the Antalya Aquarium (2 hours) with a stunning view of the fish and shark species of the Mediterranean.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hagia Sophia Museum (1 hour) - 40 TL ($5.25)
  • Turkish Food Center (1 hour) - 60 TL ($7.85)
  • Grand Bazaar (2 hours) - free
  • Blue Mosque (1 hour) - free
  • Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia (1 hour) - 1200 TL ($157)
  • Goreme Open Air Museum (2 hours) - 45 TL ($5.85)
  • Kaymakli Underground City (1 hour) - 50 TL ($6.50)
  • Pamukkale Thermal Pools (2 hours) - 100 TL ($13)
  • Hierapolis Ancient City (2 hours) - 70 TL ($9.10)
  • Konyaalti Beach (1 hour) - free
  • Kaleici Marina (1 hour) - 60 TL ($7.85)
  • Hadrian's Gate (1 hour) - free
  • Antalya Aquarium (2 hours) - 85 TL ($11)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 1710 TL ($223)

Useful Tips

If you have more time in Istanbul, consider taking a Bosphorus Cruise or visiting the Topkapi Palace. If you have less time in Cappadocia, opt for either the hot air balloon ride or visit the Goreme Open Air Museum. If you have more time in Pamukkale, you can explore the Cotton Castle's natural beauty further or relax at a hot spring. And if you have less time in Antalya, you can forego visiting attractions and opt for a walk in the old town and along the marina for a more relaxed day.

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