Turkish Delights: A 5-Day Family-Friendly Foodie Adventure in Turkey

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and mosque with stunning architecture and history.
Hagia Sophia is centrally located in Istanbul, easily accessible by tram or taxi from most areas. It takes about 30 minutes to get here.
50 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise to admire the beautiful skyline of Istanbul and the historic landmarks along the strait.
You can catch a Bosphorus cruise from Eminonu or Kabatas. It's a relaxing 2-hour journey.
100 TRY, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savor authentic Turkish flavors at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its delicious kebabs, mezes, and desserts.
Ciya Sofrasi is located in Kadikoy. Take a ferry from Eminonu to Kadikoy, then it's a short walk. The journey takes about 1 hour.
150 TRY, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Grand Bazaar

Shop for souvenirs and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
The Grand Bazaar is in the heart of Istanbul. You can reach it by tram or taxi. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
Free to explore, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Asitane Restaurant

Indulge in a royal Ottoman dining experience at Asitane Restaurant, known for its historical recipes and elegant ambiance.
Asitane Restaurant is located in Edirnekapi. You can take a taxi from the Grand Bazaar, which takes about 20 minutes.
200 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 2: More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Topkapi Palace

Visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans and now a museum housing artifacts from the imperial era.
Topkapi Palace is near Hagia Sophia, within walking distance. It takes about 1 hour to explore the palace.
100 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Lokantasi

Enjoy a modern twist on Turkish cuisine at Karakoy Lokantasi, known for its innovative dishes and cozy ambiance.
Karakoy Lokantasi is located in Karakoy. You can take a tram or taxi from Topkapi Palace, which takes around 30 minutes.
120 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Spice Bazaar

Stroll through the colorful Spice Bazaar, filled with aromatic spices, Turkish delights, and unique souvenirs.
The Spice Bazaar is located in Eminonu, close to the Grand Bazaar. It takes about 20 minutes by tram or taxi.
Free to explore, 1 hour

4:00PM

Galata Tower

Climb the historic Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus, especially beautiful during sunset.
Galata Tower is in Beyoglu. You can reach it by tram or taxi from the Spice Bazaar. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
25 TRY, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience fine dining with a view at Mikla Restaurant, offering modern Turkish cuisine and a terrace overlooking the city.
Mikla Restaurant is located in Beyoglu. You can walk from Galata Tower, which takes about 15 minutes.
250 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 3: Discovering Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Start your day with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, known for its fairy chimneys and rock formations.
Hot air balloon rides usually depart early in the morning from designated launch sites. The experience lasts around 1 hour.
400 USD, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Anatolian cuisine at Dibek Restaurant, featuring local specialties like pottery kebabs and testi kebab.
Dibek Restaurant is in Goreme town center. It's a short walk from most hotels in Cappadocia.
80 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Goreme Open-Air Museum

Visit the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum to see ancient cave churches and frescoes dating back to the 10th century.
The museum is a short drive from Goreme. You can take a taxi or join a guided tour. The visit takes around 2 hours.
30 TRY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Red Valley

Witness the magical colors of sunset at Red Valley, a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of Cappadocia.
Red Valley is a short drive or hike from Goreme. You can rent a car or join a tour. The sunset view is best enjoyed in the evening.
Free to visit, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Old Greek House Restaurant

Dine in a charming cave setting at Old Greek House Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious Turkish dishes.
Old Greek House Restaurant is located in Urgup. You can take a taxi from Red Valley, which takes about 15 minutes.
150 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 4: Adventures in Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Hike in Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike in Rose Valley, known for its pink-hued rock formations, cave churches, and panoramic views.
Rose Valley is near Goreme. You can hike from Goreme or take a short drive. The hike can take 2-3 hours depending on the trail.
Free to hike, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fat Boys Restaurant

Enjoy a casual lunch at Fat Boys Restaurant, offering a variety of Turkish and international dishes in a relaxed setting.
Fat Boys Restaurant is located in Uchisar. You can take a taxi from Rose Valley, which takes about 10 minutes.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Pottery Workshop

Participate in a pottery workshop to learn about the traditional art of pottery-making in Cappadocia and create your own masterpiece.
There are several pottery studios in Avanos. You can join a guided workshop or visit independently. The workshop can last 1-2 hours.
50 TRY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Turkish Night Show

Experience a lively Turkish night show with traditional music, dance performances, and cultural entertainment.
Many hotels in Cappadocia offer Turkish night shows. You can book a ticket through your hotel or a local tour operator. The show lasts around 2 hours.
200 TRY, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Ziggy's Shoppe & Cafe

Enjoy a cozy dinner at Ziggy's Shoppe & Cafe, a popular spot for delicious Turkish cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.
Ziggy's Shoppe & Cafe is located in Goreme. It's a short walk from most hotels in the area.
120 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxing in Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Antalya Old Town

Explore the charming cobbled streets and historic landmarks of Antalya Old Town, known for its preserved Ottoman architecture.
Antalya Old Town is easily accessible on foot from most hotels in the city center. Take a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the atmosphere.
Free to explore, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Seraser Restaurant, offering a blend of Turkish and international cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant is located in Antalya Old Town. It's a short walk from most hotels in the area.
200 TRY, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Konyaalti Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy shores of Konyaalti Beach, enjoying the Mediterranean sunshine and clear blue waters.
Konyaalti Beach is a short drive or bus ride from Antalya Old Town. You can easily reach the beach and unwind by the sea.
Free to visit, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Antalya Aquarium

Discover the underwater world at Antalya Aquarium, home to a variety of marine life and interactive exhibits for all ages.
Antalya Aquarium is near Konyaalti Beach. You can walk or take a short taxi ride to the aquarium. The visit takes around 1.5 hours.
70 TRY, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Vanilla Restaurant

End your day with a delightful dinner at Vanilla Restaurant, known for its seafront location and fresh seafood dishes.
Vanilla Restaurant is located near Antalya Marina. You can walk along the promenade to reach the restaurant.
180 TRY, 2 hours
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