Budget-Friendly 7-Day Turkey Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel blending Christian and Islamic influences.
Walk from your accommodation or take a tram to Sultanahmet. Entry fee: 100 TRY
100, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for souvenirs and local goods.
Walk from Hagia Sophia. Free entry, budget for shopping.
Shopping budget, 2 hours

2:00PM

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Bosphorus to see Istanbul's skyline and iconic landmarks from the water.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to the cruise departure point. Cruise tickets: 25 TRY
25, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Gulhane Park

Unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Gulhane Park, a perfect spot for a leisurely evening stroll.
Walk from the cruise or take a tram. Park entry is free.
0, 1 hour
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Day 2: More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans and now a museum showcasing imperial treasures.
Short tram ride from Sultanahmet. Entry fee: 150 TRY
150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Stroll through the Spice Bazaar

Indulge your senses in the aromatic Spice Bazaar, where you can sample and purchase a variety of spices, teas, and sweets.
Walk from Topkapi Palace. Free entry, budget for shopping.
Shopping budget, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Blue Mosque

Admire the stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance of the Blue Mosque, an iconic symbol of Istanbul.
Short walk from the Spice Bazaar. Free entry.
0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Enjoy Turkish Tea at a Rooftop Cafe

Unwind with a traditional Turkish tea at a rooftop cafe, offering panoramic views of the city.
Walk to a nearby cafe. Cost of tea: 10 TRY
10, 1 hour
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Day 3: Discovering Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the magical landscape of Cappadocia from a hot air balloon, a bucket-list activity offering breathtaking views.
Transfer from Istanbul by overnight bus or flight. Book a tour in advance. Cost varies.
Varies, 2 hours

1:00PM

Explore Göreme Open-Air Museum

Discover the ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes of Göreme, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Cappadocia's history.
Short drive from balloon landing site. Entry fee: 45 TRY
45, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Uçhisar Castle

Climb to the top of Uçhisar Castle for panoramic views of the fairy chimneys and valleys of Cappadocia.
Short drive from Göreme. Entry fee: 15 TRY
15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Traditional Turkish Dinner

Indulge in a delicious traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant, savoring regional specialties.
Explore local dining options in Göreme. Budget for dinner.
Varies, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: More of Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Hike in the Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike in the Rose Valley, marvelling at the unique rock formations and cave dwellings along the way.
Join a guided tour or take a local minibus to the valley. Wear comfortable shoes. Free entry.
0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Pottery Making Workshop

Get creative at a pottery making workshop in Avanos, where you can learn about traditional techniques and craft your own pottery.
Short drive from Rose Valley. Workshop fees vary.
Varies, 2 hours

4:00PM

Sunset View at Red Valley

Witness the stunning sunset over the Red Valley, known for its vibrant hues and captivating landscape.
Short drive from Avanos. Ideal for photography enthusiasts. Free entry.
0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dine at a Cave Restaurant

Enjoy a unique dining experience at a cave restaurant, tasting local dishes in a charming underground setting.
Explore dining options in Göreme or Uçhisar. Budget for dinner.
Varies, 2 hours
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Day 5: Pamukkale Day Trip

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Discover the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, including a well-preserved theatre, necropolis, and Roman baths.
Travel by overnight bus or flight to Denizli. Take a local minibus to Hierapolis. Entry fee: 50 TRY
50, 3 hours

12:00PM

Swim in Cleopatra's Pool

Relax in the thermal waters of Cleopatra's Pool, believed to have healing properties, amidst the picturesque Pamukkale terraces.
Adjacent to Hierapolis. Pool entrance: 32 TRY
32, 2 hours

3:00PM

Walk on the Cotton Castle

Take a leisurely walk on the stunning white terraces of Pamukkale, resembling a cotton castle in the sunlight.
Accessible from Cleopatra's Pool. Entry fee: 35 TRY
35, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Try Traditional Turkish Desserts

Treat yourself to delicious Turkish desserts like baklava and künefe at a local cafe in Pamukkale town.
Explore cafes in the town centre. Cost varies.
Varies, 1 hour
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Day 6: Ephesus Day Trip

Ephesus, Turkey

9:00AM

Explore Ephesus Ruins

Step back in time at the ancient city of Ephesus, home to well-preserved ruins including the Library of Celsus and the Theatre.
Travel by bus or train to Selçuk. Ephesus is a short distance from Selçuk. Entry fee: 100 TRY
100, 3 hours

1:00PM

Visit the House of Virgin Mary

Pay a visit to the House of Virgin Mary, a sacred site believed to be the final residence of Virgin Mary.
Short drive from Ephesus. Entry fee: 25 TRY
25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant near Ephesus, savouring authentic flavours of the region.
Choose a restaurant in the vicinity. Budget for lunch.
Varies, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Şirince Village

Stroll through the charming streets of Şirince Village, known for its wine production and picturesque setting.
Short drive from Ephesus. Free entry.
0, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Relaxing in Bodrum

Bodrum, Turkey

10:00AM

Visit Bodrum Castle

Explore the historic Bodrum Castle, housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology and offering panoramic views of the sea.
Travel by bus or ferry to Bodrum. Castle entry fee: 60 TRY
60, 2 hours

1:00PM

Relax on Bardakci Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon sunbathing and swimming at Bardakci Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic views.
Short walk from the castle. Free entry.
0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Bodrum Marina

Take a stroll around Bodrum Marina, lined with yachts and offering a vibrant atmosphere with cafes and shops.
Walk from the beach. Free entry.
0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dine at a Seafront Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at a seafront restaurant, savouring fresh seafood and watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea.
Choose a restaurant along the marina. Budget for dinner.
Varies, 2 hours
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