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 of Relaxation in Turkey

Friday, December 8: Istanbul

Begin your itinerary by immersing yourself in the rich history of Istanbul. In the morning, visit the iconic Blue Mosque and marvel at its stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the Grand Bazaar in the afternoon, where you can find unique souvenirs and Turkish delights. As the evening sets in, enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus, taking in the beautiful cityscape and savoring a traditional Turkish dinner.

  • Blue Mosque: Entrance fee - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Grand Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Bosphorus Cruise: Estimated cost - $30-$50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 9: Pamukkale

Start your day by visiting the mesmerizing travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Take a dip in the thermal pools, known for their healing properties. In the afternoon, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can wander through well-preserved ruins and learn about the fascinating history of the region. As the evening approaches, relax in the warm waters of the Cleopatra Pool, surrounded by ancient Roman columns.

  • Pamukkale Travertines: Entrance fee - $25, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Hierapolis: Entrance fee - $10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Cleopatra Pool: Entrance fee - $20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 10: Cappadocia

Embark on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise to witness the magical landscape of Cappadocia from above. In the morning, explore the unique rock formations and cave dwellings of Göreme Open-Air Museum. Indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch in a cave restaurant. In the afternoon, take a guided hike through the Rose Valley, known for its stunning sunset views. As the evening sets in, relax in a cozy cave hotel and savor a delicious Turkish dinner.

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Estimated cost - $150-$250, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Göreme Open-Air Museum: Entrance fee - $15, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Rose Valley Hike: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Monday, December 11: Bodrum

Start your day by relaxing on the picturesque beaches of Bodrum. In the morning, visit the ancient Bodrum Castle, housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea in the afternoon. As the evening approaches, explore the vibrant Bodrum Marina, lined with charming cafes and restaurants.

  • Bodrum Castle: Entrance fee - $10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Bodrum Beaches: Free, Time spent - Relax as desired
  • Bodrum Marina: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 12: Antalya

Discover the natural beauty of Antalya's waterfalls and beaches. Start your day by visiting the stunning Düden Waterfalls. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy shores of Konyaaltı Beach or Lara Beach. As the evening sets in, stroll through the charming streets of Kaleiçi, the old town, and enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner in a cozy restaurant.

  • Düden Waterfalls: Entrance fee - $3, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Konyaaltı Beach or Lara Beach: Free, Time spent - Relax as desired
  • Kaleiçi: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 13: Bursa

Explore the historical and natural wonders of Bursa. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Grand Mosque and the nearby Grand Bazaar. In the afternoon, take a relaxing walk through the beautiful Bursa Botanical Park. As the evening approaches, unwind in one of the many traditional Turkish baths, known as hammams.

  • Grand Mosque: Entrance fee - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Grand Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Bursa Botanical Park: Entrance fee - $5, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 14: Izmir

End your week of relaxation with a visit to the vibrant city of Izmir. In the morning, explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch in the charming seaside town of Çeşme in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, wander through the bustling streets of the Kemeraltı Bazaar, known for its traditional handicrafts and local delicacies.

  • Ephesus: Entrance fee - $15, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Çeşme: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Kemeraltı Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly relaxing experience, consider visiting the thermal spa town of Afyonkarahisar, located between Istanbul and Pamukkale. Indulge in the healing thermal baths and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this lesser-known destination. Another hidden gem is the coastal town of Ayvalık, known for its charming streets, olive groves, and beautiful sunsets. Relax on the sandy beaches or take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Turkey trip 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