Discovering Turkey in 7 Days

Day 1: Istanbul Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and mosque, now a museum showcasing Byzantine architecture.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by tram or taxi from most parts of the city.
50 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Topkapi Palace

Immerse yourself in Ottoman history at Topkapi Palace, where you can see stunning courtyards, holy relics, and picturesque views of the Bosphorus.
Topkapi Palace is a short walk from Hagia Sophia, located in the Sultanahmet District.
60 TRY, 2-3 hours

2:00PM

Grand Bazaar

Experience the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, filled with shops selling spices, carpets, ceramics, and more.
The Grand Bazaar is a 15-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
Free to enter, shopping costs vary, 2-3 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 skyline, Ottoman palaces, and picturesque bridges from the water.
Head to Eminonu or Kabatas to catch a Bosphorus Cruise boat.
25 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Indulge in authentic Turkish cuisine at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its diverse selection of regional dishes and traditional flavours.
Ciya Sofrasi is located in Kadikoy, easily accessible by ferry from Eminonu.
100 TRY, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Taksim Square

Stroll around Taksim Square, a bustling hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering a taste of modern Istanbul.
Take a tram from Eminonu to reach Taksim Square.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cappadocia Adventure

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Start your day with a mesmerising hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, with fairy chimneys and rock formations below.
Various tour operators in Goreme offer hot air balloon rides, with transfers included.
300 EUR, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum to explore ancient cave churches and see stunning frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
The museum is located in Goreme town, easily reachable on foot or by local transport.
45 TRY, 2-3 hours

3:00PM

Hike in Red Valley

Enjoy a scenic hike in Red Valley, known for its red-hued rock formations and panoramic views, especially beautiful during sunset.
Red Valley is a short drive or hike from Goreme, with signposted trails.
Free, 2-3 hours
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Day 4: More of Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Derinkuyu Underground City

Explore the fascinating Derinkuyu Underground City, an ancient multi-level underground complex used by early Christians to escape persecution.
Derinkuyu Underground City is a short drive from Goreme, accessible by car or tour.
35 TRY, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Savour traditional Anatolian cuisine at Dibek Restaurant, known for its authentic dishes and charming ambiance.
Dibek Restaurant is located in Urgup, a short drive from Goreme.
90 TRY, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Pottery Workshop in Avanos

Visit a pottery workshop in Avanos to witness local artisans creating beautiful ceramics using traditional techniques.
Avanos is a 20-minute drive from Goreme, with plenty of workshops to choose from.
50 TRY, 1 hour
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Day 5: Pamukkale Relaxation

Pamukkale, Turkey

9:00AM

Pamukkale Travertines

Marvel at the stunning white terraces of Pamukkale, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters cascading down the mountainside.
Pamukkale is a 1-hour drive from Denizli, where you can take a bus or taxi to reach the site.
60 TRY, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Hierapolis Ancient City

Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, an archaeological site with well-preserved Roman baths, a theatre, and necropolis.
Hierapolis is located next to the Pamukkale travertines, easy to explore on foot.
35 TRY, 2-3 hours

3:00PM

Cleopatra's Pool

Relax in Cleopatra's Pool, a thermal pool filled with mineral-rich waters believed to have healing properties, surrounded by ancient columns.
Cleopatra's Pool is located within the Pamukkale complex, with changing facilities available.
50 TRY, 1-2 hours
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Day 6: Ephesus Discovery

Ephesus, Turkey

9:00AM

Ephesus Ancient City

Step back in time at Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, with highlights like the Library of Celsus and the Theatre.
Ephesus is a short drive from Selcuk, where you can take a taxi or local minibus to reach the site.
60 TRY, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ejder Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ejder Restaurant, offering a mix of Turkish and international cuisine with a scenic view of the surrounding countryside.
Ejder Restaurant is located near the entrance of Ephesus, ideal for a post-sightseeing meal.
80 TRY, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

House of Virgin Mary

Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site believed to be the last residence of the Virgin Mary, offering a serene and spiritual experience.
The House of the Virgin Mary is a short drive from Ephesus, accessible by car or tour.
30 TRY, 1 hour
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Day 7: Bodrum Beach Day

Bodrum, Turkey

9:00AM

Bodrum Castle

Begin your day at Bodrum Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
Bodrum Castle is located in the heart of Bodrum town, easily accessible on foot or by local transport.
40 TRY, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Limon Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Limon Restaurant, known for its fresh catch of the day and panoramic views of the harbour.
Limon Restaurant is situated in the Bodrum Marina area, perfect for a leisurely lunch by the sea.
120 TRY, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Beach Relaxation

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Bodrum, soaking up the sun and enjoying the clear waters of the Aegean.
There are various public and private beaches in Bodrum, easily accessible from the town centre.
Free, 2-3 hours
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