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 67 travelers

Exploring the Wonders of Turkey - 7-Day Itinerary

Wednesday, December 6: Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul, the vibrant city that bridges Europe and Asia. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former church and mosque with stunning Byzantine architecture. In the afternoon, explore the historic Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman sultans. As the evening arrives, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, a maze of shops offering everything from spices to carpets.

  • Hagia Sophia: Entrance fee - $15, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Topkapi Palace: Entrance fee - $10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Grand Bazaar: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 7: Cappadocia

Fly to Cappadocia, a surreal region known for its unique rock formations and ancient cave dwellings. Start your day with an early morning hot air balloon ride to witness the stunning sunrise over the fairy chimneys. In the afternoon, explore the ancient underground city of Derinkuyu, carved into the volcanic rock. As the day ends, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner in a cave restaurant.

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Price varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Derinkuyu Underground City: Entrance fee - $5, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Dinner at a Cave Restaurant: Cost varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, December 8: Pamukkale

Head to Pamukkale, famous for its terraces of white mineral-rich thermal waters. In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis, an ancient Roman city with well-preserved ruins and an impressive theater. Afterward, take a dip in the rejuvenating hot springs of Pamukkale and enjoy the picturesque views. In the evening, relax in one of the thermal spa hotels.

  • Hierapolis: Entrance fee - $10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Pamukkale Hot Springs: Entrance fee - $10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Thermal Spa Hotel: Cost varies, Time spent - Overnight
Saturday, December 9: Ephesus

Travel to Ephesus, an ancient Greek city renowned for its well-preserved ruins. In the morning, explore the magnificent Library of Celsus and the grand Theater of Ephesus. During the afternoon, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be where Virgin Mary spent her final years. As the day ends, stroll through the charming streets of the nearby town of Selcuk and savor traditional Turkish cuisine.

  • Ephesus: Entrance fee - $15, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • House of the Virgin Mary: Entrance fee - $5, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Town of Selcuk: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 10: Antalya

Fly to Antalya, a coastal city known for its stunning beaches and ancient Roman ruins. Spend your morning exploring the impressive archaeological site of Perge, with its well-preserved theater and stadium. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful Konyaalti Beach and take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea. As the evening approaches, wander through the charming streets of the historic Old Town and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner.

  • Perge: Entrance fee - $10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Konyaalti Beach: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Old Town: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, December 11: Bodrum

Travel to Bodrum, a popular resort town known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Start your day by exploring the ancient ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful beaches of Bodrum and indulge in water sports activities. As the evening sets in, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Bar Street, filled with bars, clubs, and live music.

  • Mausoleum at Halicarnassus: Entrance fee - $5, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Beach Activities: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Bar Street: Free entry, Time spent - Evening
Tuesday, December 12: Istanbul

Return to Istanbul for your final day in Turkey. Spend your morning exploring the stunning Blue Mosque, known for its beautiful blue tiles. In the afternoon, visit the Spice Bazaar, a colorful market filled with aromatic spices and traditional Turkish delights. As the evening arrives, take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus, admiring the illuminated skyline of Istanbul.

  • Blue Mosque: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Spice Bazaar: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Bosphorus Cruise: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Turkey, make sure to visit the picturesque town of Kas on the Mediterranean coast. Known for its crystal-clear waters, charming streets, and authentic Turkish atmosphere, Kas offers a peaceful retreat away from the bustling tourist crowds. Don't miss the chance to experience a traditional Turkish hammam (bath) in Istanbul for a truly rejuvenating and cultural experience.

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