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

A Week in Turkey: City Experiences

Thursday, July 11: Istanbul

Start your trip in Istanbul, the vibrant capital of Turkey. In the morning, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural marvel that has served as a church and mosque. Afterwards, explore the historic Sultanahmet area, home to the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. In the afternoon, take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus Strait to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline. As the evening sets in, head to the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, to shop for unique souvenirs.

  • Hagia Sophia: ₺60, 2-3 hours
  • Blue Mosque: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Topkapi Palace: ₺100, 2-3 hours
  • Bosphorus Cruise: ₺25, 2-3 hours
  • Grand Bazaar: Free, 2-3 hours
Friday, July 12: Cappadocia

Hop on a morning flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia. Start your day exploring the unique rock formations and cave dwellings of Göreme National Park. Take a hot air balloon ride for a breathtaking aerial view of the region's fairy chimneys. In the afternoon, visit the ancient underground city of Derinkuyu and learn about the fascinating history of this subterranean complex. As the evening approaches, indulge in a traditional Turkish dinner and enjoy an enchanting whirling dervishes performance.

  • Göreme National Park: ₺40, 3-4 hours
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: ₺600, 1 hour
  • Derinkuyu Underground City: ₺40, 2-3 hours
  • Whirling Dervishes Show: ₺150, 1-2 hours
Saturday, July 13: Antalya

Take a morning flight from Cappadocia to Antalya, a stunning coastal city. Start your day by exploring the ancient ruins of Perge, which include a well-preserved Roman theater and a stadium. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful Konyaaltı Beach and take a dip in the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea. As the sun sets, visit Kaleiçi, the old town of Antalya, known for its charming narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, and vibrant nightlife.

  • Perge: ₺30, 2-3 hours
  • Konyaaltı Beach: Free, 2-4 hours
  • Kaleiçi: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunday, July 14: Bodrum

Take a morning flight from Antalya to Bodrum, a picturesque coastal town. Start your day by visiting the ancient Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the afternoon, relax on the stunning beaches of Bodrum and enjoy water sports activities like snorkeling or jet skiing. As the evening approaches, explore the vibrant marina area and indulge in delicious seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.

  • Mausoleum at Halicarnassus: ₺20, 1-2 hours
  • Bodrum Beaches: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Marina Area: Free, 2-3 hours
Monday, July 15: Izmir

Take a morning flight from Bodrum to Izmir, a vibrant city on the Aegean coast. Start your day by exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. In the afternoon, visit the Izmir Clock Tower, a symbol of the city, and stroll along the Kordon, a lively waterfront promenade. As the evening sets in, savor delicious seafood at the historic Kemeraltı Bazaar and immerse yourself in the local culture.

  • Ephesus: ₺80, 3-4 hours
  • Izmir Clock Tower: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Kordon: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Kemeraltı Bazaar: Free, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, July 16: Bursa

Take a morning flight from Izmir to Bursa, a city known for its rich history and natural beauty. Start your day by visiting the Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Turkey, and exploring the nearby historical sites like the Bursa Citadel. In the afternoon, relax in the famous thermal baths of Bursa and experience the healing properties of the mineral-rich waters. As the evening approaches, stroll through the vibrant Heykel district, known for its trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops.

  • Grand Mosque: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Bursa Citadel: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Thermal Baths: ₺60, 2-3 hours
  • Heykel District: Free, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, July 17: Ankara

Take a morning flight from Bursa to Ankara, the capital city of Turkey. Start your day by visiting the impressive Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating exhibits at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and learn about the rich history of the region. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll around Kizilay Square, the heart of Ankara, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

  • Anitkabir: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: ₺20, 2-3 hours
  • Kizilay Square: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When exploring Istanbul, don't miss the chance to visit the hidden gem of Chora Church, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. In Bodrum, head to the Bodrum Castle, which houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology and offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Locals in Antalya love to escape to the peaceful Düden Waterfalls, where you can relax amidst lush greenery and cascading water. In Izmir, venture to the nearby ancient city of Pergamon and marvel at its impressive ancient theater and library. Bursa is famous for its silk production, so don't forget to visit the Koza Han, a historic silk market, to witness the traditional craftsmanship.

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