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A Week on a Shoestring Budget in Turkey

Viewed by 85 travelers

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day at the iconic Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel and a former Byzantine church.
30 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Topkapi Palace

Move on to the Topkapi Palace, once the administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire.
60 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet

Indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant in the Sultanahmet area.
50 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Blue Mosque

Admire the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic design.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Grand Bazaar

Stroll through the vibrant Grand Bazaar, a paradise for bargain hunters and a feast for the senses.
Depends on purchases, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Taksim Square

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at one of the eateries in lively Taksim Square.
60 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a budget-friendly Bosphorus Cruise for breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline.
25 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Savor delicious Turkish pastries and savory treats at the renowned Karakoy Gulluoglu.
40 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Taksim Square

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Taksim Square, perfect for people-watching and street food.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Galata Tower

Climb the Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn.
25 TRY, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Balik Pazari

Feast on freshly grilled fish and mezes at Balik Pazari, a seafood market with affordable eateries.
70 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discover Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Begin your day at the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient cave churches.
45 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dibek

Treat yourself to a hearty Anatolian meal at Dibek, a cozy restaurant known for its local cuisine.
60 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Uchisar Castle

Climb to the top of Uchisar Castle for spectacular panoramic views of Cappadocia's unique landscape.
20 TRY, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Red Valley

Witness the magical hues of sunset at Red Valley, a natural wonder with stunning rock formations.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Dibek

Return to Dibek for a delightful dinner featuring traditional Cappadocian dishes.
70 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: More of Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Start the day with an optional hot air balloon ride for a bird's eye view of Cappadocia's surreal landscapes.
250 TRY, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Pottery Workshop in Avanos

Participate in a pottery workshop in Avanos and try your hand at creating traditional ceramics.
80 TRY, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Avanos

Enjoy a simple yet delicious lunch at a local eatery in the charming town of Avanos.
40 TRY, 1 hour

3:30PM

Hike in Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike through Rose Valley, known for its rose-colored rock formations and cave churches.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ziggy Cafe

Relish a laid-back dinner at Ziggy Cafe, a cozy spot known for its Mediterranean and Turkish fusion cuisine.
65 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Experience Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

9:00AM

Antalya Old Town (Kaleici)

Stroll through the charming cobbled streets of Antalya's Old Town, lined with historic buildings and boutique shops.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining

Indulge in a flavorsome lunch at Seraser Fine Dining, offering a taste of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine.
80 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hadrian's Gate and Hidirlik Tower

Admire the well-preserved Hadrian's Gate and Hidirlik Tower, two iconic landmarks in Antalya.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Konyaalti Beach

Unwind at Konyaalti Beach, a scenic stretch of pebbled shore with crystal-clear waters.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Marina

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at one of the seafood restaurants along the picturesque Antalya Marina.
70 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Discover Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

9:00AM

Hierapolis Archaeological Site

Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, including the well-preserved theater and the fascinating necropolis.
50 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pamukkale Village

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local eateries in Pamukkale Village, offering Turkish specialties.
60 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Pamukkale Travertines

Wander through the otherworldly terraces of Pamukkale, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters over centuries.
35 TRY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Cleopatra's Pool

Take a refreshing dip in Cleopatra's Pool, known for its mineral-rich waters and submerged ancient ruins.
50 TRY, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Tripolis Restaurant

Savor a delectable dinner at Tripolis Restaurant, known for its panoramic views and traditional Turkish cuisine.
80 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Explore Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

9:00AM

Ephesus Ancient City

Step back in time as you wander through the ancient streets of Ephesus, marveling at well-preserved ruins like the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theater.
60 TRY, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ejder Restaurant

Enjoy a satisfying lunch at Ejder Restaurant, offering a mix of traditional Turkish and international dishes.
70 TRY, 1 hour

2:30PM

House of Virgin Mary

Visit the House of Virgin Mary, a serene pilgrimage site with a tranquil ambiance and beautiful surroundings.
45 TRY, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping at Kemeralti Market

Explore the vibrant Kemeralti Market for budget-friendly souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Depends on purchases, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Han Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful farewell dinner at Han Restaurant, known for its traditional Turkish cuisine and warm ambiance.
90 TRY, 2 hours
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