Exploring the Best of Turkey in 7 Days

Day 1: Historic Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by visiting the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and mosque with breathtaking architecture.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by tram or taxi from most parts of the city. It takes about 30 minutes to get there.
30 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Continue to explore history at Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and wander through its stunning courtyards and chambers.
Topkapi Palace is a short walk from Hagia Sophia. It takes about 10 minutes to walk between the two attractions.
60 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Deraliye Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch at Deraliye Restaurant near Topkapi Palace, known for its traditional Ottoman cuisine.
Deraliye Restaurant is a 5-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
100 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Blue Mosque

Head to the stunning Blue Mosque, known for its blue tiles adorning the interior walls, and experience its serene atmosphere.
The Blue Mosque is adjacent to Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. It takes about 5 minutes to walk there.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shop at Grand Bazaar

Conclude your day by exploring the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, offering a variety of goods.
The Grand Bazaar is a 15-minute walk from the Blue Mosque.
Depends on purchases, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dinner with panoramic views of the city at Hamdi Restaurant, known for its traditional Turkish cuisine.
Hamdi Restaurant is located near the Grand Bazaar, about a 10-minute walk away.
150 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Magical Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Start your day with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, including fairy chimneys and rock formations.
Hot air balloon tours usually depart early in the morning from various locations in Cappadocia. Transportation to the take-off site is provided by the tour company.
300 USD, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Goreme Open-Air Museum

Discover the ancient cave churches and frescoes at Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Cappadocia's history.
Goreme Open-Air Museum is a short drive from most accommodations in Cappadocia.
45 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal at Dibek Restaurant in Goreme, known for its authentic Cappadocian cuisine.
Dibek Restaurant is located in the town of Goreme.
80 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hike in Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike in Rose Valley, famous for its rose-colored rock formations and picturesque valleys, offering stunning views.
Rose Valley is a short drive or hike from Goreme town.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Red Valley

Witness a magical sunset at Red Valley, known for its red-hued landscapes and panoramic vistas, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Red Valley is adjacent to Rose Valley and can be reached by foot or a short drive.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Ziggy's Cafe Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy dinner at Ziggy's Cafe Restaurant in Goreme, offering a blend of Turkish and international cuisine in a charming setting.
Ziggy's Cafe Restaurant is located in the center of Goreme town.
120 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Pamukkale's Natural Wonders

Pamukkale, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Hierapolis Ancient City

Begin your day by exploring the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient Greco-Roman city with well-preserved theaters, temples, and baths.
Hierapolis Ancient City is located near Pamukkale's travertine terraces and can be reached by foot from most accommodations.
50 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Swim in Cleopatra's Pool

Take a refreshing dip in Cleopatra's Pool, a mineral-rich thermal pool believed to have been a gift from Mark Antony to Cleopatra.
Cleopatra's Pool is located within the Hierapolis Archaeological Site.
32 TRY, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at White House Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the White House Restaurant overlooking the stunning travertine terraces of Pamukkale.
White House Restaurant is situated near the entrance to Pamukkale and Hierapolis.
90 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Pamukkale Travertines

Marvel at the natural wonder of Pamukkale's travertine terraces, formed by calcium-rich mineral water cascading down the hillside.
The travertines are accessible from the entrance area and can be explored on foot.
35 TRY, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Karahayit Hot Springs

Unwind in the therapeutic waters of Karahayit Hot Springs, known for their healing properties and colorful mineral deposits.
Karahayit Hot Springs are a short drive from Pamukkale's main attractions.
25 TRY, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Tripolis Restaurant

End your day with a delicious dinner at Tripolis Restaurant, offering a mix of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxing setting.
Tripolis Restaurant is located in the town of Pamukkale.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historical Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

8:00AM

Explore Ephesus Ancient City

Embark on a journey through time at the ancient ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Ephesus is easily accessible by car or public transportation from nearby towns like Selcuk.
60 TRY, 3 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Terrace Houses

Discover the well-preserved Terrace Houses in Ephesus, showcasing intricate mosaics, frescoes, and Roman architecture from the Hellenistic period.
The Terrace Houses are located within the Ephesus Archaeological Site.
20 TRY, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ejder Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Ejder Restaurant near the Ephesus site, offering a variety of local dishes.
Ejder Restaurant is located in Selcuk, a short drive from Ephesus.
70 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Temple of Artemis

Explore the remains of the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and learn about its historical significance.
The Temple of Artemis is a short drive from Ephesus and can be visited in about 30 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shop at Kemeralti Market

Stroll through Kemeralti Market in Selcuk, known for its local products, handicrafts, and souvenirs, perfect for some shopping before dinner.
Kemeralti Market is located in the center of Selcuk town, a short distance from Ephesus.
Depends on purchases, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Mezze by Lemon Tree

Savor a delightful dinner at Mezze by Lemon Tree, a cozy restaurant in Selcuk offering a fusion of Turkish and international cuisine.
Mezze by Lemon Tree is located in the heart of Selcuk town.
120 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Scenic Bodrum

Bodrum, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Bodrum Castle

Begin your day by exploring the historic Bodrum Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.
Bodrum Castle is located in the heart of Bodrum town and is easily accessible on foot.
40 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Relax at Bardakci Cove

Spend some time relaxing at Bardakci Cove, a serene beach with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Bardakci Cove is a short walk from Bodrum Castle.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Limon Cafe

Enjoy a delicious seaside lunch at Limon Cafe near Bardakci Cove, offering fresh seafood and Turkish specialties.
Limon Cafe is located by the beach in Bodrum.
90 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Bodrum Amphitheatre

Discover the ancient ruins of Bodrum Amphitheatre, an impressive Roman structure with panoramic views of the town and sea.
Bodrum Amphitheatre is a short drive or walk from the town center.
20 TRY, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shop at Bodrum Bazaar

Browse through the vibrant stalls of Bodrum Bazaar, offering a variety of textiles, jewelry, and local crafts as souvenirs.
Bodrum Bazaar is located in the heart of Bodrum town, near the castle.
Depends on purchases, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Marina Yacht Club Restaurant

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Marina Yacht Club Restaurant, overlooking the marina and serving a fusion of Mediterranean and international cuisine.
Marina Yacht Club Restaurant is situated by Bodrum Marina.
150 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Relaxing Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

9:00AM

Explore Old Town (Kaleici)

Wander through the charming streets of Kaleici, Antalya's historic old town, lined with Ottoman-era houses, boutique shops, and cafes.
Kaleici is easily accessible on foot from most accommodations in Antalya.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Antalya Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the region at Antalya Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations.
Antalya Museum is a short drive from Kaleici and can be reached by public transportation or taxi.
40 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Enjoy a gourmet lunch at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant in Kaleici, known for its elegant ambiance and Turkish fusion cuisine.
Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant is located in the heart of Kaleici.
120 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Konyaalti Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Konyaalti Beach, a popular stretch of pebbly shoreline with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Konyaalti Beach is a short drive from Kaleici and easily accessible by public transportation or taxi.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Duden Waterfalls

Visit the magnificent Duden Waterfalls, where the Duden River cascades over rocky cliffs into the sea, creating a picturesque natural setting.
Duden Waterfalls can be reached by car or organized tours from Antalya city center.
5 TRY, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Marina Terrace Restaurant

Enjoy a seaside dinner at Marina Terrace Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the harbor and a selection of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes.
Marina Terrace Restaurant is located by the harbor in Antalya.
140 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Start your day by exploring the grand Dolmabahce Palace, a lavish Ottoman palace overlooking the Bosphorus, known for its opulent decor.
Dolmabahce Palace is located in the Besiktas district and can be reached by public transportation or taxi.
90 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Cruise on the Bosphorus

Embark on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, passing by iconic landmarks like the Maiden's Tower and historic waterfront mansions.
Bosphorus cruises depart from various ports along the strait, offering different durations and routes.
50 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Ciya Sofrasi in Kadikoy, known for its diverse Anatolian cuisine and fresh ingredients.
Ciya Sofrasi is located in the Kadikoy district on the Asian side of Istanbul, accessible by ferry or public transportation.
80 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Kadikoy Market

Stroll through the bustling Kadikoy Market, a vibrant hub of local vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and unique finds.
Kadikoy Market is a short walk from Ciya Sofrasi.
Depends on purchases, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Chora Church

Discover the stunning mosaics and frescoes of Chora Church, a Byzantine marvel showcasing intricate religious art and history.
Chora Church is located in the Edirnekapi neighborhood and can be reached by public transportation or taxi.
45 TRY, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Conclude your 7-day Turkish adventure with a memorable farewell dinner at Mikla Restaurant, offering modern Turkish cuisine and panoramic views of the city.
Mikla Restaurant is located in the Beyoglu district, accessible by public transportation or taxi.
200 TRY, 2 hours
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