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 51 travelers

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Turkey

Friday, May 31: Istanbul

Start your trip in Istanbul, the cultural and historical heart of Turkey. In the morning, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its stunning architecture. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, admiring the beautiful views of Istanbul's skyline.

  • Hagia Sophia: Cost estimate: $15. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Grand Bazaar: Cost estimate: Varies based on purchases. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Bosphorus Cruise: Cost estimate: $20. Time spent: 2 hours.
Saturday, June 1: Cappadocia

Fly to Cappadocia, a unique region known for its surreal landscapes and cave dwellings. In the morning, take a hot air balloon ride to witness the breathtaking views of the fairy chimneys and rock formations. In the afternoon, explore the ancient underground cities of Derinkuyu or Kaymakli. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner while watching a mesmerizing whirling dervish performance.

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Cost estimate: $150. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Derinkuyu Underground City: Cost estimate: $10. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Dinner and Whirling Dervish Performance: Cost estimate: $30. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Sunday, June 2: Pamukkale

Continue your journey to Pamukkale, a natural wonder renowned for its terraces of white mineral-rich thermal waters. In the morning, visit Hierapolis, an ancient city with well-preserved ruins and a fascinating theater. Afterward, relax and rejuvenate in the rejuvenating thermal pools of Pamukkale. In the evening, watch the sunset over the terraces, creating a stunning visual spectacle.

  • Hierapolis: Cost estimate: $10. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Pamukkale Thermal Pools: Cost estimate: $20. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Watch Sunset at Pamukkale: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Monday, June 3: Ephesus

Travel to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. In the morning, explore the impressive ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater. Afterward, visit the nearby House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site believed to be the final resting place of Mary. In the afternoon, relax at the beautiful beaches of Kusadasi and enjoy some local cuisine.

  • Ephesus: Cost estimate: $15. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
  • House of the Virgin Mary: Cost estimate: $10. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Kusadasi Beach: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Tuesday, June 4: Antalya

Head to Antalya, a stunning coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and ancient ruins. In the morning, explore the well-preserved Roman architecture at the ancient city of Perge. In the afternoon, visit the Antalya Museum to learn more about the region's rich history. As the evening approaches, take a relaxing stroll along the charming streets of the old town and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Perge: Cost estimate: $10. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Antalya Museum: Cost estimate: $5. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Old Town: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Wednesday, June 5: Bodrum

Travel to Bodrum, a vibrant coastal town known for its lively nightlife and ancient sites. In the morning, visit the magnificent Bodrum Castle, which houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine beaches or take a boat tour to explore the turquoise waters and hidden coves. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting the popular bars and clubs in the city.

  • Bodrum Castle: Cost estimate: $10. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Beach Relaxation or Boat Tour: Cost estimate: Varies. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Nightlife in Bodrum: Cost estimate: Varies. Time spent: Evening.
Thursday, June 6: Istanbul (Return)

Return to Istanbul for your departure. In the morning, take a relaxing Turkish bath experience to unwind before your flight. In the afternoon, indulge in some last-minute shopping at the trendy boutiques of Istiklal Avenue. As your trip comes to an end, savor a farewell dinner with traditional Turkish cuisine and reminisce about your wonderful journey through Turkey.

  • Turkish Bath Experience: Cost estimate: $30. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Istiklal Avenue Shopping: Cost estimate: Varies. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Farewell Dinner: Cost estimate: $30. Time spent: Evening.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Turkey, make sure to visit the lesser-known gem of Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Another local favorite is the ancient city of Termessos, nestled in the Taurus Mountains, offering stunning views and a sense of secluded tranquility. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Turkish tea at a local tea garden, where you can relax and immerse yourself in the local culture.

For checking 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