Visit the iconic Blue Mosque and marvel at its intricate blue tiles dating back to the early 17th century. Then head to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world, with over 4000 shops selling everything from jewelry to Turkish rugs. Finish the day at Spice Bazaar, a colorful market where you can find a variety of spices and teas.
Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which contains the finest of the rock-cut churches, with beautiful frescoes (wall paintings) whose colors still retain all their original freshness. Then explore the Kaymakli Underground City, an ancient multi-level underground city where early Christians hid from persecution.
Take a dip in the hot springs of Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning white travertine terraces filled with thermal water. Visit the Hierapolis, an ancient Greco-Roman city built around natural hot springs, where you can see the well-preserved ruins of the ancient theater and the Necropolis.
Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Walk through the impressive Library of Celsus, the towering Great Theater, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Continue to House of Virgin Mary, where Mary was believed to have spent her last days.
Visit the ancient city of Perge, a well-preserved Roman city with impressive ruins including a stadium, Roman baths, and a theater. Then explore the Antalya Museum, which has exhibits from the Paleolithic era to Ottoman times. Finish the day at the Konyaalti Beach Park, a beautiful beach with stunning views of the mountains and the sea.
Visit Topkapi Palace, the center of the Ottoman Empire and the residence of the sultans for almost 400 years. Then take a boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia, and enjoy stunning views of Istanbul's skyline. Finish the day at Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul, which is home to many shops, restaurants, and cafes.