Welcome to Istanbul! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and getting settled. In the morning, head to the Sultanahmet neighborhood to visit the iconic Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. In the evening, indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant.
Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia: Entrance is free. Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Grand Bazaar: Estimated cost for shopping: varies. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, which offers a wide range of flavorful breakfast items such as cheeses, olives, jams, and pastries. The average cost per person is about $10.
Lunch: For a delicious and authentic Turkish lunch, head to Umur Restaurant. This restaurant serves a variety of mouthwatering kebabs, mezes, and salads. The average cost per person is about $15.
Dinner: For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Mikla Restaurant, located on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel. Enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul while savoring modern Turkish cuisine with a twist. The average cost per person is about $50.
Thursday, October 19: Istanbul Sightseeing
Explore the Topkapi Palace, a magnificent complex that was once the residence of Ottoman sultans. In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, enjoying views of the city's stunning skyline. In the evening, visit the lively Istiklal Avenue for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Istiklal Avenue: Estimated cost for shopping and dining: varies. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Çakmak Kahvaltı Salonu, an authentic Turkish breakfast spot offering a wide variety of traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 30 TL per person.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Hamdi Restaurant, known for their mouthwatering kebabs and stunning views of Istanbul. Average cost for a meal is about 60 TL per person.
For dinner, visit Karaköy Lokantasi, a popular seafood restaurant serving fresh catches of the day in a stylish setting. Average cost for a meal is about 100 TL per person.
Friday, October 20: Istanbul's Asian Side
Cross the Bosphorus Bridge to the Asian side of Istanbul. Visit the historic Uskudar district and enjoy the beautiful views from the Maiden's Tower. In the afternoon, explore the Kadikoy neighborhood, known for its vibrant street food scene and local markets. In the evening, relax in a traditional Turkish hammam for a rejuvenating experience.
Uskudar: Estimated cost for transportation: 4 TL (approximately $0.50 USD). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Kadikoy: Estimated cost for transportation: 4 TL (approximately $0.50 USD). Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Turkish Hammam: Estimated cost for a hammam session: 200-300 TL (approximately $25-$35 USD). Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Cafe Privato in Uskudar. They offer a variety of breakfast options and their Turkish breakfast plate is a favorite. Average cost for a meal is about 35 TL per person.
For lunch, visit Ciya Sofrasi in Kadikoy. They serve traditional Turkish dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Don't miss their famous lamb kebab. Average cost for a meal is about 50 TL per person.
For dinner, head to Ciya Kebeb in Kadikoy. They specialize in grilled meat dishes and their Adana kebab is a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 60 TL per person.
Saturday, October 21: Flight to Cappadocia
Take a domestic flight to Cappadocia. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and get ready to explore this unique region. In the morning, take a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views of the fairy chimneys and rock formations. In the afternoon, visit the Goreme Open Air Museum to see the ancient cave churches. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Hot air balloon ride: Estimated cost: 750-900 TL (approximately $90-$110 USD) per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Goreme Open Air Museum: Entrance fee: 100 TL (approximately $12 USD). Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Start your day with a hearty Turkish breakfast at Kale Cafe. Indulge in a variety of traditional dishes like menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers) or borek (savory pastries). Average cost for a meal is about 20-30 TL per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Dibek Restaurant. Try their famous testi kebab, a slow-cooked meat dish served in a clay pot. The restaurant also offers salads, mezes, and vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 40-60 TL per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Seten Anatolian Restaurant. Enjoy a wide range of Turkish specialties, including kebabs, mezze platters, and fresh seafood. Don't miss their delicious baklava for dessert. Average cost for a meal is about 60-80 TL per person.
Sunday, October 22: Exploring Cappadocia
Start your day by hiking through the picturesque Rose Valley, known for its stunning natural landscapes. In the afternoon, visit the underground city of Derinkuyu to see the ancient living quarters carved into the rocks. In the evening, join a traditional Turkish folk dance performance and enjoy a cultural show.
Rose Valley: Entrance is free. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Turkish Folk Dance Performance: Estimated cost: 100-150 TL (approximately $12-$18 USD). Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Keyif in Ürgüp, where you can enjoy a delicious selection of Turkish pastries and freshly brewed coffee. An average meal here costs around 20-30 TRY per person.
For lunch, try out the charming Seten Restaurant in Ürgüp, known for its authentic Turkish cuisine and beautiful courtyard. Average cost for a meal here is about 40-50 TRY per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at Ziggy's Restaurant in Göreme, which offers a mix of Turkish and international dishes with a stunning view of the Cappadocia landscape. Expect to spend around 100-150 TRY per person for a meal here.
Monday, October 23: Hot Air Balloon Experience in Cappadocia
Experience another thrilling hot air balloon ride to catch the sunrise over the unique landscape of Cappadocia. In the morning, take a leisurely hike in the Love Valley, famous for its phallic-shaped rock formations. In the afternoon, visit the Uchisar Castle for panoramic views of the region. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Turkish feast at a local restaurant.
Hot air balloon ride: Estimated cost: 750-900 TL (approximately $90-$110 USD) per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Love Valley: Entrance is free. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
For breakfast, head to Cafe Safak for a delightful start to your day in Cappadocia. With a charming ambiance and a selection of freshly baked goods, the average cost for a meal is about 20 TL per person.
For lunch, explore the unique flavors of Turkish cuisine at Asmaalti Restoran. Located in the heart of Cappadocia, this restaurant offers a variety of delicious kebabs and traditional dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 40 TL per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Seten Anatolian Restaurant, known for its authentic Turkish cuisine and cozy atmosphere. With a wide range of options, the average cost for a meal is about 60 TL per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Departure from Cappadocia
Enjoy your last morning in Cappadocia with a visit to the charming town of Avanos, known for its pottery. In the afternoon, take a flight back to Istanbul. Before departing, consider a relaxing river cruise along the Golden Horn to bid farewell to the city. Safe travels!
Avanos: Estimated cost for transportation: 30 TL (approximately $4 USD). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
River Cruise: Estimated cost: 25 TL (approximately $3 USD). Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Cappadocia Food House: Enjoy a hearty breakfast of traditional Turkish cuisine at Cappadocia Food House. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of options such as beyaz peynir (white cheese), olives, eggs and freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Pottery Kebab Restaurant: For lunch, head to Pottery Kebab Restaurant for delicious kebabs and other Turkish specialties. This restaurant is known for its tender meat, flavorful marinades and generous portions. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Sultanahmet Köftecisi: Indulge in a mouthwatering dinner at Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a popular restaurant known for its köfte (Turkish meatballs). The köfte are made with a special blend of spices and served with fresh bread and a side of salad. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Istanbul, don't miss the opportunity to explore the historic neighborhood of Balat, known for its colorful houses and charming streets. Visit the Chora Church, famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. In Cappadocia, venture off the beaten path to explore the lesser-known Ihlara Valley, home to ancient rock-cut churches and a picturesque river.