Monday, November 20, 2023: Explore the Underground City of Derinkuyu
Start your adventure in Cappadocia by visiting the fascinating underground city of Derinkuyu. In the morning, descend into the depths of this ancient city built by early Christians to escape persecution. Marvel at the intricate network of tunnels, living quarters, and even a church. Afterward, head to the Ihlara Valley for a thrilling hike along the deep canyon and discover hidden rock-cut churches. As the evening approaches, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner in one of the local restaurants.
Derinkuyu Underground City: Approximately $10, 2-3 hours
Ihlara Valley: Free, 3-4 hours
Local Dinner: Approximately $15, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Café Cappadocia with its cozy ambiance and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a freshly-baked simit and a cup of Turkish tea while watching the hot air balloons float above. The average cost for a breakfast at Café Cappadocia is about 30 TL per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, visit Şehitler Evi Restaurant located in the heart of Derinkuyu. Indulge in traditional Turkish kebabs and mezes, all made with fresh local ingredients. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. The average cost for a lunch at Şehitler Evi Restaurant is about 40 TL per person.
In the evening, make your way to Zahire Pide & Kebap to experience a delightful dinner. Feast on flavorsome pides and succulent kebabs cooked to perfection. The cozy restaurant offers attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere. The average cost for a dinner at Zahire Pide & Kebap is about 60 TL per person.
Tuesday, November 21, 2023: Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia
Start your morning with an exhilarating hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia. Enjoy breathtaking views of fairy chimneys, valleys, and ancient cave dwellings as you float through the sky. After the balloon ride, explore the open-air museum of Göreme and admire the stunning rock-cut churches. In the afternoon, venture into the Devrent Valley, also known as "Imagination Valley," where you can spot remarkable rock formations resembling various shapes. End your day with a visit to the famous Ürgüp Fairy Chimneys.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Approximately $150-200 per person, 3-4 hours
Göreme Open-Air Museum: Approximately $10, 2-3 hours
Devrent Valley: Free, 1-2 hours
Ürgüp Fairy Chimneys: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A cozy café located in the heart of Göreme, offering a delicious breakfast spread of freshly baked pastries, eggs, and local specialties. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
A charming restaurant with a terrace overlooking the panoramic views of Cappadocia, serving a variety of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
A fine dining restaurant situated in Ürgüp, renowned for its elegant atmosphere and a menu showcasing refined Turkish cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Wednesday, November 22, 2023: Whitewater Rafting in Köprülü Canyon
Embark on an exciting whitewater rafting adventure in the Köprülü Canyon National Park. In the morning, gear up and navigate through the thrilling rapids of the Köprüçay River surrounded by stunning natural scenery. After the adrenaline-filled rafting experience, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the river. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the riverbank before exploring the ancient ruins of the historic city of Selge. End your day by relaxing at a riverside cafe.
Whitewater Rafting: Approximately $35-50 per person, 4-6 hours
Selge Ruins: Free, 1-2 hours
Riverside Cafe: Approximately $10, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head over to The Riverside Cafe, located near Köprülü Canyon. Enjoy a delicious Turkish breakfast with fresh pastries, cheeses, olives, and traditional tea. Average cost for a meal is about 25 Turkish Lira per person.
For lunch, dine at Köprüçay Balık Restoranı, a charming fish restaurant along the riverbank. Indulge in a variety of freshly caught seafood dishes such as grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp. Average cost for a meal is about 50 Turkish Lira per person.
For dinner, experience the authentic flavors of Turkish cuisine at Çınaraltı Kebap Salonu. This restaurant offers mouthwatering kebabs, delicious mezes, and traditional Turkish desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 70 Turkish Lira per person.
Thursday, November 23, 2023: Paragliding in Oludeniz
Experience the thrill of paragliding in the stunning coastal town of Oludeniz. In the morning, soar high above the scenic Blue Lagoon and enjoy panoramic views of the turquoise waters and sandy beaches. After your paragliding adventure, relax on the beautiful beach, take a swim, or indulge in water sports. In the afternoon, explore the ghost town of Kayaköy, a fascinating abandoned village with a haunting past. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner while watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea.
Paragliding: Approximately $80-120 per person, 2-3 hours
Oludeniz Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Kayaköy Ghost Town: Free, 2-3 hours
Seafood Dinner: Approximately $20-30, 1-2 hours
Friday, November 24, 2023: Trekking in the Lycian Way
Embark on an adventurous trek along the scenic Lycian Way, one of the world's top long-distance hiking trails. In the morning, start your hike from the ancient city of Olympos and follow the trail through pine forests, along rugged coastlines, and past picturesque villages. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and discover hidden beaches along the way. In the afternoon, reach the charming village of Çıralı and relax on its beautiful beach. Conclude your journey with a traditional Turkish hammam experience to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Trekking: Free, 4-6 hours
Çıralı Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Turkish Hammam: Approximately $30-50, 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventurous travelers seeking off the beaten path experiences, Turkey offers some hidden gems. Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Pamukkale, where thermal waters have created mesmerizing terraces of white mineral-rich pools. For thrill-seekers, try paragliding in the stunning Cappadocia or scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Kaş. For a taste of local culture, head to the vibrant city of Izmir and wander through the lively Kemeraltı Market, filled with aromatic spices, colorful textiles, and delicious street food.