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 64 travelers

A Week of Family-Friendly Adventure in Turkey

Saturday December 23: Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus

Begin your trip by exploring the well-preserved Ancient City of Ephesus in Selçuk. In the morning, wander through the ancient ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, marveling at the impressive Library of Celsus and the grand Theater. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Ephesus Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from the ancient city. As the evening sets in, take a stroll in the charming town of Selçuk and indulge in delicious local cuisine.

  • Ancient City of Ephesus: Entrance fee: 40 TRY ($5) | Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Ephesus Archaeological Museum: Entrance fee: 30 TRY ($4) | Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday December 24: Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia

Embark on a journey to Cappadocia, famous for its unique rock formations known as fairy chimneys. In the morning, take a hot air balloon ride and witness the spectacular sunrise over the otherworldly landscape. In the afternoon, explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, home to ancient cave churches adorned with beautiful frescoes. As the evening approaches, wander through the streets of the quaint town of Göreme and sample traditional Turkish cuisine.

  • Hot air balloon ride: Starting from 700 TRY ($90) per person | Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Göreme Open-Air Museum: Entrance fee: 30 TRY ($4) | Time spent: 2-3 hours
Monday December 25: Discover the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

Spend the day exploring Istanbul, starting with the iconic Blue Mosque. In the morning, admire the stunning architecture of this historic mosque and explore its intricate interior. Afterward, head to Hagia Sophia, a magnificent basilica turned mosque turned museum, and marvel at its exquisite Byzantine and Ottoman artwork. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling streets of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace with a rich history.

  • Blue Mosque: Free admission | Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Hagia Sophia: Entrance fee: 100 TRY ($13) | Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Grand Bazaar: Free admission | Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday December 26: Relax at Pamukkale's Thermal Pools

Head to Pamukkale, a natural wonder renowned for its cascading terraces of white mineral-rich thermal pools. In the morning, take a dip in these healing waters and marvel at the surreal landscape. In the afternoon, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, located adjacent to Pamukkale, and visit its well-preserved ruins, including the Roman theater and the Necropolis. As the evening approaches, relax and unwind in one of the local spas.

  • Pamukkale Thermal Pools: Entrance fee: 80 TRY ($11) | Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Hierapolis Ancient City: Entrance fee: 50 TRY ($7) | Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday December 27: Cruise Along the Bosphorus in Istanbul

Experience Istanbul's scenic beauty by taking a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. In the morning, embark on a boat tour and enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul's iconic landmarks, including the Dolmabahçe Palace and the famous Maiden's Tower. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Ortaköy, known for its picturesque waterfront, charming boutiques, and delicious local food. As the evening sets in, savor a delightful seafood meal at a restaurant with a Bosphorus view.

  • Bosphorus Cruise: Starting from 25 TRY ($3) per person | Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ortaköy: Free admission | Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday December 28: Visit the Ancient Ruins of Troy

Travel to the ancient city of Troy, famous for the legendary Trojan War. In the morning, explore the archaeological site and uncover the secrets of this ancient city through the ruins of its defensive walls and temples. In the afternoon, visit the Troy Museum to see artifacts excavated from the site. As the evening approaches, relax and enjoy the serenity of the nearby Assos peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches and picturesque landscape.

  • Troy Ancient City: Entrance fee: 30 TRY ($4) | Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Troy Museum: Entrance fee: 10 TRY ($1) | Time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday December 29: Explore the Underground City of Derinkuyu

Conclude your trip with a visit to the underground city of Derinkuyu, an impressive subterranean complex carved out of soft volcanic rock. In the morning, descend into the depths of this ancient city and discover its intricate tunnels, rooms, and ventilation systems. In the afternoon, travel back to Istanbul and indulge in last-minute shopping at Istanbul's famous Spice Bazaar. As the evening sets in, savor a farewell dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant.

  • Derinkuyu Underground City: Entrance fee: 45 TRY ($6) | Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Spice Bazaar: Free admission | Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Turkey, don't miss the charming town of Alacati, known for its white stone houses, narrow streets, and vibrant markets. With its laid-back atmosphere, Alacati offers visitors a chance to experience local life, sample delicious Aegean cuisine, and admire traditional architecture. Additionally, Dalyan, situated along the beautiful Turkish Riviera, is a hidden gem loved by locals. Explore the Dalyan Delta on a boat tour, spot native loggerhead sea turtles, and relax on the pristine Iztuzu Beach.

To check hotel and flight prices, click 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