Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 81 travelers

Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya

Friday, September 1: Istanbul

Start your trip in Istanbul by visiting the iconic Hagia Sophia in the morning. Marvel at its stunning architecture and historical significance. In the afternoon, explore the Grand Bazaar, a vibrant market offering a variety of goods. End the day with a relaxing Bosphorus boat tour, taking in the beautiful views of the city.

  • Hagia Sophia: Cost estimate: $14 (entrance fee), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Grand Bazaar: Cost estimate: Varies (shopping expenses), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Bosphorus Boat Tour: Cost estimate: $15-25, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 2: Cappadocia

Begin your day in Cappadocia with a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, offering breathtaking views of the unique landscape. In the afternoon, explore the ancient underground city of Kaymakli or Derinkuyu, experiencing the fascinating history. Conclude the day with a hike through Love Valley, known for its surreal rock formations.

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Cost estimate: $150-200, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Underground City (Kaymakli or Derinkuyu): Cost estimate: $5-10 (entrance fee), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Love Valley Hike: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 3: Cappadocia

Spend your morning exploring the Göreme Open-Air Museum, home to numerous churches and monasteries carved into the rocks. In the afternoon, take a pottery-making class to learn about the traditional art form. Enjoy the evening with a Turkish folk dance and music performance.

  • Göreme Open-Air Museum: Cost estimate: $10-15 (entrance fee), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Pottery-Making Class: Cost estimate: $20-30, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Turkish Folk Dance and Music Performance: Cost estimate: $10-20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, September 4: Antalya

Arrive in Antalya and spend the morning exploring the ancient city of Perge, known for its well-preserved ruins. In the afternoon, visit the Antalya Aquarium, offering a fascinating underwater world. End the day by strolling through the picturesque Old Town, known as Kaleici, and enjoying a traditional Turkish dinner.

  • Perge: Cost estimate: $5-10 (entrance fee), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Antalya Aquarium: Cost estimate: $15-20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Old Town (Kaleici): Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 5: Antalya

Start your day by visiting the ancient Roman theater of Aspendos, renowned for its remarkable acoustics. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful Konyaalti Beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Enjoy the evening with a visit to the Antalya Museum, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts from the region.

  • Aspendos: Cost estimate: $10-15 (entrance fee), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Konyaalti Beach: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Antalya Museum: Cost estimate: $5-10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 6: Istanbul

Return to Istanbul and start the day by visiting Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Spice Bazaar, famous for its aromatic spices and Turkish delights. End the day with a relaxing cruise along the Golden Horn, enjoying the beautiful Istanbul skyline.

  • Topkapi Palace: Cost estimate: $10-15 (entrance fee), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Spice Bazaar: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Golden Horn Cruise: Cost estimate: $10-15, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, September 7: Istanbul

On your last day, start with a visit to the beautiful Blue Mosque, an architectural gem. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating history at the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir. End your trip by taking a relaxing stroll along the vibrant Istiklal Street, known for its shops, cafes, and street performances.

  • Blue Mosque: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Basilica Cistern: Cost estimate: $5-10 (entrance fee), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Istiklal Street: Cost estimate: Varies (shopping and dining expenses), Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Istanbul, don't miss out on visiting the less crowded Süleymaniye Mosque, a magnificent architectural masterpiece. In Cappadocia, take a detour to the lesser-known Ihlara Valley, where you can hike along the Melendiz River surrounded by stunning cliffs. In Antalya, discover the Düden Waterfalls, a picturesque natural wonder that will enchant the whole family.

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version