9-Day Itinerary for Turkey

1. Day 1: Istanbul Old City
   Estimated time from Istanbul Airport to Old City is 30 minutes (20 km)

   Explore the historic landmarks of Istanbul, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

2. Day 2: Pamukkale
   Estimated time from Istanbul to Pamukkale is 10 hours (663 km)

   Marvel at the stunning natural pools and terraces of Pamukkale and Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Day 3: Ephesus
   Estimated time from Pamukkale to Ephesus is 3 hours (190 km)

   Discover the well-preserved ancient Greek city of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus, the Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis.

4. Day 4: Cappadocia
   Estimated time from Ephesus to Cappadocia is 10 hours (710 km)

   Experience the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, including the fairy chimneys, underground cities, and hot air balloon rides at sunrise.

5. Day 5: Konya
   Estimated time from Cappadocia to Konya is 3 hours (241 km)

   Visit the Mevlana Museum, honoring the founder of the Whirling Dervishes, and explore the nearby Selimiye Mosque.

6. Day 6: Antalya
   Estimated time from Konya to Antalya is 5 hours (379 km)

   Relax on the beaches of Antalya, explore the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos, and wander through the old town of Kaleici.

7. Day 7: Olympos
   Estimated time from Antalya to Olympos is 1 hour (83 km)

   Hike through the scenic forest to reach the ancient city of Olympos and explore the Lycian ruins.

8. Day 8: Fethiye
   Estimated time from Olympos to Fethiye is 3 hours (202 km)

   Sail on a gulet boat through the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean and visit the famous Blue Lagoon.

9. Day 9: Istanbul Grand Bazaar
   Estimated time from Fethiye to Istanbul is 10 hours (803 km)

   Shop at the vibrant and historic Grand Bazaar in Istanbul and taste delicious Turkish street food before departing back home.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Hagia Sophia (2 hours, 100 Turkish lira)
• Pamukkale Natural Pools (2 hours, 50 Turkish lira)
• Ephesus Ancient City (3 hours, 75 Turkish lira)
• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride (1 hour, 750 Turkish lira)
• Mevlana Museum (1 hour, 40 Turkish lira)
• Antalya Old Town (2 hours, free)
• Olympos Ancient City (2 hours, 30 Turkish lira)
• Fethiye Gulet Tour (6 hours, 200 Turkish lira)
• Grand Bazaar Shopping (2 hours, prices vary)
Total Estimated Costs: 1265 Turkish Lira

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider extending your stay in Cappadocia for hot air balloon rides and exploring the underground cities of Derinkuyu. If you have less time, skip Konya and head straight to Antalya and Fethiye for beach activities and boat tours.