A Relaxing 7-Day Itinerary in Turkey and London

Wednesday October 25, 2023: Arrival in Istanbul, Turkey

Welcome to Istanbul! Start your trip by visiting the stunning Blue Mosque in the morning, followed by a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant. Afternoon tea at the historical Çınaraltı Tea Garden, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, is a must. In the evening, explore the vibrant streets of Istiklal Avenue, famous for its shops and lively atmosphere.

• Blue Mosque: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1 hour
• Çınaraltı Tea Garden: Estimated cost: £10, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Istiklal Avenue: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Thursday October 26, 2023: Istanbul

Spend the morning exploring the Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman sultans for centuries. Afterward, indulge in a relaxing Turkish bath experience at a traditional hammam. In the afternoon, visit the Grand Bazaar for a unique shopping experience. In the evening, enjoy a cruise along the Bosphorus, taking in the stunning views of Istanbul's skyline.

• Topkapi Palace: Entrance fee £13, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Turkish Bath (Hammam): Estimated cost £30, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Grand Bazaar: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Bosphorus Cruise: Estimated cost £15, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Friday October 27, 2023: Ankara to Cappadocia

In the morning, take a domestic flight from Istanbul to Ankara. Visit the impressive Ataturk Mausoleum, a landmark honoring Turkey's first president. Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch in Ankara before heading to the stunning region of Cappadocia. In the evening, relax and unwind in a hot air balloon ride, admiring the unique rock formations from above.

• Ataturk Mausoleum: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Domestic Flight from Istanbul to Ankara: Estimated cost £50-£100
• Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia: Estimated cost £100-£150, estimated time spent: 1 hour

Saturday October 28, 2023: Cappadocia

Start the day with a sunrise hot air balloon ride, experiencing the magical landscape of Cappadocia from the sky. Afterward, explore the ancient underground cities and rock-cut churches. Indulge in a traditional Turkish dinner while watching a mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes performance in the evening.

• Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise: Estimated cost £100-£150, estimated time spent: 1 hour
• Underground Cities: Estimated cost £10, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Rock-cut Churches: Estimated cost £5, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Whirling Dervishes Performance: Estimated cost £20, estimated time spent: 1 hour

Sunday October 29, 2023: London - Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

Arrive in London and head to Hyde Park in the morning for a relaxing stroll. Visit the Serpentine Gallery and have a picnic by the Serpentine Lake. Explore the enchanting Kensington Gardens in the afternoon, home to the stunning Kensington Palace. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner in one of the nearby restaurants.

• Serpentine Gallery: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Kensington Gardens: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Monday October 30, 2023: London - British Museum and Covent Garden

Spend the morning immersing yourself in history at the British Museum, admiring its vast collection. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the museum's cafes. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Covent Garden, known for its street performers and boutique shops. Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment in the evening to unwind.

• British Museum: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 3 hours
• Covent Garden: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Spa Treatment: Estimated cost £50-£100, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday October 31, 2023: London - Thames River Cruise and West End Show

Take a leisurely Thames River Cruise in the morning, enjoying iconic views of London's landmarks. Explore the Southbank area and have lunch at one of the riverside restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the famous Tower of London for a historical experience. In the evening, watch a mesmerizing West End show.

• Thames River Cruise: Estimated cost £15-£20, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Tower of London: Entrance fee £30, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• West End Show: Estimated cost £30-£100, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for a more relaxing experience, consider visiting the charming Hampstead Heath in London, a vast park with beautiful ponds and stunning views of the city skyline. In Turkey, don't miss the tranquil Oludeniz Beach, known for its crystal clear waters and picturesque surroundings. These hidden gems provide a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist areas.

Check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Turkey and London here.