How many days do you need in Turkey?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Turkey, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Turkey?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Turkey. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Ultimate 7-Day Family Vacation in Turkey

Day 1: Discovering Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning architecture and fascinating history of Hagia Sophia, once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum.

30 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Topkapi Palace

Stroll through the opulent rooms and beautiful gardens of Topkapi Palace, offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus.

60 TRY, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, known for its delicious kofte (meatballs) and mezze.

100 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Blue Mosque

Admire the intricate blue tiles and impressive domes of the Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Hamdi Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the city and delectable Turkish cuisine.

150 TRY, 1.5-2 hours

Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 2: Adventure in Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Embark on a magical hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, with breathtaking views of fairy chimneys and rock formations.

250 USD, 2-3 hours

11:00AM

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the ancient cave churches and frescoes at Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

45 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Savor a delicious lunch at Dibek Restaurant, known for its authentic Cappadocian cuisine and charming ambience.

120 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Horseback Riding

Enjoy a family-friendly adventure with a guided horseback riding tour through the otherworldly valleys and fairy tale landscapes of Cappadocia.

200 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Old Greek House

Experience a delightful dinner at Old Greek House, offering a cozy atmosphere and delectable Turkish dishes.

140 TRY, 1.5-2 hours

Find Hotels in Cappadocia

Day 3: Sun-soaked Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Antalya Aquarium

Explore the fascinating marine life at Antalya Aquarium, featuring a variety of underwater creatures and interactive exhibits.

90 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Enjoy a luxurious lunch at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant, offering a fine selection of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine.

200 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kaleici Old Town

Stroll through the charming streets of Kaleici Old Town, lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and quaint cafes.

Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Duden Waterfalls

Marvel at the stunning beauty of Duden Waterfalls, where the Lower Duden Waterfall cascades into the Mediterranean Sea.

5 TRY, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Marina Terrace Restaurant

Dine at Marina Terrace Restaurant, offering a picturesque setting by the harbor and a delectable seafood menu.

180 TRY, 1.5-2 hours

Find Hotels in Antalya

Day 4: Historical Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

9:00AM

Ephesus Ancient City

Discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

120 TRY, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ejder Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Ejder Restaurant, known for its authentic Turkish cuisine and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

100 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Ephesus Archaeological Museum

Explore the fascinating artifacts and historical treasures at Ephesus Archaeological Museum, providing insight into the ancient city's rich heritage.

40 TRY, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Aqua Fantasy Aquapark

Treat the family to a fun-filled afternoon at Aqua Fantasy Aquapark, featuring thrilling water slides, wave pools, and entertainment for all ages.

250 TRY, 3-4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Selcuk Koftecisi

Relish a delightful dinner at Selcuk Koftecisi, renowned for its mouthwatering kofte and traditional Turkish hospitality.

130 TRY, 1.5-2 hours

Find Hotels in Ephesus

Day 5: Pamukkale Paradise

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Pamukkale Travertines

Experience the surreal beauty of Pamukkale's travertine terraces, natural mineral pools, and ancient Hierapolis ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

80 TRY, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at White House Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch at White House Restaurant, offering scenic views of Pamukkale and a variety of Turkish and international dishes.

100 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hierapolis Archaeological Museum

Explore the artifacts and exhibits at Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, showcasing the history and culture of the ancient city.

30 TRY, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Cleopatra's Pool

Relax and swim in the rejuvenating waters of Cleopatra's Pool, surrounded by ancient Roman columns and submerged ruins.

50 TRY, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Tripolis Restaurant

Savor a delightful dinner at Tripolis Restaurant, known for its warm hospitality, traditional Turkish cuisine, and panoramic views of Pamukkale.

150 TRY, 1.5-2 hours

Find Hotels in Pamukkale

Day 6: Leisure Day in Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

9:00AM

Relax at Konyaalti Beach

Spend a leisurely day at Konyaalti Beach, with its pristine shoreline, clear blue waters, and various water sports and activities for the whole family.

Free, 4-5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at 7 Mehmet Restaurant

Enjoy a casual lunch at 7 Mehmet Restaurant, offering a diverse menu of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes with a sea view.

90 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Antalya Toy Museum

Explore the fascinating collection of toys and exhibits at Antalya Toy Museum, a delightful experience for both children and adults.

20 TRY, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Vanilla Restaurant

Indulge in a relaxed dinner at Vanilla Restaurant, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and delicious international and Turkish cuisine.

120 TRY, 1.5-2 hours

Find Hotels in Antalya

Day 7: Farewell in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, offering panoramic views of Istanbul's iconic landmarks, including the majestic Dolmabahce Palace and the historic Maiden's Tower.

60 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy a farewell lunch at Pandeli Restaurant, located in the Spice Bazaar, offering a culinary journey through traditional Ottoman cuisine.

150 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Spice Bazaar Shopping

Explore the vibrant aisles of the Spice Bazaar, filled with aromatic spices, Turkish delights, and unique souvenirs to bring home.

Free, 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Savor a spectacular farewell dinner at Mikla Restaurant, known for its contemporary Turkish cuisine, rooftop terrace, and breathtaking views of the city at sunset.

250 TRY, 2-3 hours

Find Hotels in Istanbul

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Ultimate 7-Day Family Vacation in Turkey

Day 1: Discovering Istanbul

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Adventure in Cappadocia

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Sun-soaked Antalya

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Historical Ephesus

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Pamukkale Paradise

8:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Leisure Day in Antalya

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Farewell in Istanbul

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

More About Turkey

Plan Your Turkey Trip