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Exquisite Istanbul and Captivating Cappadocia Adventure

Viewed by 62 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Begin your journey by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by walking from most hotels in the area.
30 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Topkapi Palace

After Hagia Sophia, immerse yourself in history at Topkapi Palace, former residence of Ottoman sultans.
Topkapi Palace is a short walk from Hagia Sophia.
100 TRY, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the vibrant colors and aromas of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
A short taxi ride from Topkapi Palace.
Free to enter, shopping prices vary, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill

Enjoy a delicious dinner with a view of the Bosphorus at Sunset Grill.
Sunset Grill is located in Sultanahmet area, a short walk from the Grand Bazaar.
150 TRY, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a relaxing Bosphorus cruise to see the city's iconic landmarks from the water.
Cruise departures are available from Eminonu or Ortakoy, easily reachable by taxi or public transport.
25 USD, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Indulge in authentic Turkish cuisine at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its diverse and delicious dishes.
Ciya Sofrasi is located in Kadikoy, accessible by a short ferry ride from Eminonu.
50 TRY, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Spice Bazaar

Stroll through the aromatic Spice Bazaar, a paradise for food enthusiasts and spice lovers.
Spice Bazaar is situated in Eminonu, a short walk from the ferry terminal.
Free to enter, shopping prices vary, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Mikla

Experience modern Turkish cuisine with a panoramic view of the city at Mikla restaurant.
Mikla is located in Beyoglu, accessible by taxi or public transport from Eminonu.
200 TRY, 2-3 hours
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Day 3: Historical Wonders of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Blue Mosque

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Blue Mosque, known for its intricate blue tilework.
Blue Mosque is located in Sultanahmet Square, near Hagia Sophia.
Free, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Basilica Cistern

Explore the underground wonders of the Basilica Cistern, an ancient water reservoir.
Basilica Cistern is a short walk from the Blue Mosque.
20 TRY, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Deraliye Restaurant

Savor Ottoman cuisine at Deraliye Restaurant, offering a taste of history with every bite.
Deraliye Restaurant is located in Sultanahmet, close to the major attractions.
80 TRY, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Walk through Gulhane Park

Relax and unwind in the lush surroundings of Gulhane Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Gulhane Park is adjacent to Topkapi Palace.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Asitane Restaurant

Dine at Asitane Restaurant for a taste of authentic Ottoman recipes in a historic setting.
Asitane Restaurant is located in Edirnekapi, accessible by taxi or public transport.
150 TRY, 2-3 hours
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Day 4: Last Day in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Explore the lavish Dolmabahce Palace, a symbol of the Ottoman Empire's late period.
Dolmabahce Palace is located in Besiktas, accessible by taxi or public transport.
60 TRY, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Kebap

Savor mouthwatering kebabs at Ciya Kebap, a popular spot for authentic Turkish grilled meats.
Ciya Kebap has multiple branches, with one located in Kadikoy.
70 TRY, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Istiklal Street Shopping

Shop for souvenirs and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Istiklal Street, a vibrant pedestrian avenue.
Istiklal Street is easily reachable by public transport or taxi from Besiktas.
Free to enter, shopping prices vary, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at 360 Istanbul

End your Istanbul adventure with a memorable dinner at 360 Istanbul, offering panoramic views of the city.
360 Istanbul is located in Beyoglu, accessible from Istiklal Street.
250 TRY, 2-3 hours
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Day 5: Journey to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

Morning

Travel to Cappadocia

Take a domestic flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia and marvel at the unique landscape from above.
Board a flight from Istanbul Airport to either Nevsehir or Kayseri Airport in Cappadocia.
150 USD, 1.5 hours flight

Afternoon

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes at the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Goreme Open-Air Museum is a short drive from the airport.
45 TRY, 2-3 hours

Evening

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Cappadocian dinner at Dibek Restaurant, known for its authentic local dishes.
Dibek Restaurant is located in Goreme town, a short distance from the museum.
100 TRY, 1-2 hours
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Day 6: Magical Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the enchanting sunrise over Cappadocia with a memorable hot air balloon ride.
Various tour operators in Goreme offer hot air balloon flights early in the morning.
250 USD, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Hike in Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike through Rose Valley, marveling at the unique rock formations and fairy chimneys.
Rose Valley is a short drive or hike from Goreme town.
Free, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Nomad Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Nomad Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the stunning Cappadocian landscape.
Nomad Restaurant is situated in a scenic location within Cappadocia.
80 TRY, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Underground City

Delve into the fascinating underground city of Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, showcasing ancient underground civilizations.
Both Derinkuyu and Kaymakli are easily accessible by car or tour from Goreme.
30 TRY, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Old Greek House

Indulge in a memorable dinner at the Old Greek House, serving authentic Cappadocian dishes in a charming setting.
Old Greek House is located in Urgup, a short drive from Goreme.
120 TRY, 1-2 hours
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Day 7: Farewell to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

Morning

Hot Air Balloon Ride (Optional)

For those who missed the opportunity earlier, take another chance for a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia's surreal landscape.
Book a hot air balloon experience with a local provider in Goreme.
250 USD, 1-2 hours

Afternoon

Pottery Making Workshop

Participate in a pottery making workshop to learn about the traditional art of pottery in Cappadocia.
Workshops are available in Avanos, a short drive from Goreme.
50 TRY, 2 hours

Evening

Farewell Dinner at Dimrit Restaurant

Conclude your Cappadocia adventure with a delightful dinner at Dimrit Restaurant, offering a taste of local cuisine.
Dimrit Restaurant is located in Urgup, easily accessible from Avanos.
100 TRY, 1-2 hours
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