Discovering Turkey in 7 Days

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00 AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing stunning Byzantine architecture.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by tram or taxi from most parts of Istanbul.
50 TRY, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Topkapi Palace

Continue to the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and explore its beautiful courtyards and exhibitions.
Topkapi Palace is a short walk from Hagia Sophia.
100 TRY, 2-3 hours

2:00 PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Relax on a Bosphorus Cruise, enjoying the scenic views of Istanbul's skyline and the famous bridges connecting Europe and Asia.
Head to Eminonu or Kabatas to catch a Bosphorus cruise boat.
60 TRY, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Grand Bazaar

End your day at the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, perfect for shopping and cultural immersion.
The Grand Bazaar is located in the heart of Istanbul's historic center, easily reachable by tram or taxi.
Depends on purchases, 2 hours
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Day 2: More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00 AM

Blue Mosque

Start your day at the iconic Blue Mosque, known for its striking blue tiles and impressive architecture.
The Blue Mosque is located near Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet Square.
Free, 1-2 hours

11:00 AM

Spice Bazaar

Explore the vibrant Spice Bazaar, filled with aromatic spices, teas, and Turkish delights, offering a true feast for the senses.
The Spice Bazaar is a short walk from the Grand Bazaar in Eminonu.
Depends on purchases, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like kebabs, mezze, and baklava.
You can find many local restaurants near the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar.
50-100 TRY, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Basilica Cistern

Visit the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir built in the 6th century, featuring ancient columns and mystical lighting.
The Basilica Cistern is located near Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
20 TRY, 1 hour
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Day 3: Magical Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00 AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Start your day with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, watching the sunrise from above.
Hot air balloon tours usually depart early in the morning from various points in Cappadocia.
300-400 USD, 1-2 hours

12:00 PM

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum, filled with ancient cave churches and stunning frescoes, showcasing Cappadocia's history.
The museum is located in Goreme town, easily accessible by car or tour bus.
30 TRY, 2-3 hours

3:00 PM

Pottery Workshop

Discover the art of pottery-making in Avanos, where you can try your hand at creating traditional Cappadocian pottery.
Avanos is a short drive from Goreme, and you can easily find workshops offering pottery classes.
50-100 TRY, 1-2 hours

7:00 PM

Traditional Turkish Dinner

Indulge in a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant, tasting dishes like testi kebab, manti (Turkish dumplings), and pide.
There are many charming restaurants in Goreme where you can enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine.
80-120 TRY, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: More of Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00 AM

Hike in Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike in Rose Valley, admiring the unique rock formations and ancient cave dwellings along the way.
You can start your hike from the town of Goreme, following the marked trails in Rose Valley.
Free, 2-3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at a Cave Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a cave restaurant, where you can taste local Cappadocian specialties in a unique setting.
There are several cave restaurants in Goreme and surrounding areas that offer authentic cuisine.
60-100 TRY, 1 hour

2:00 PM

ATV Tour

Experience the thrill of an ATV tour through the lunar-like landscapes of Cappadocia, exploring valleys and rock formations.
You can join ATV tours that depart from Goreme or Uchisar, offering various routes through the region.
150-200 TRY, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Sunset Point

Head to a scenic viewpoint like Sunset Point in Goreme to witness the magical sunset over the Cappadocian landscape.
Sunset Point is a short walk or drive from the town center of Goreme.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Pamukkale Day Trip

Pamukkale, Turkey

9:00 AM

Hierapolis Ancient City

Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, an archaeological site with well-preserved Roman structures and a famous necropolis.
Hierapolis is located near Pamukkale's travertine terraces, easily accessible by foot or taxi.
35 TRY, 2-3 hours

12:00 PM

Pamukkale Travertines

Visit the stunning Pamukkale travertine terraces, natural mineral pools formed by calcium deposits, where you can walk and even bathe.
The travertines are a short walk from Hierapolis or accessible by taxi or shuttle.
60 TRY, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Cleopatra's Pool

Relax in Cleopatra's Pool, a thermal pool with Roman ruins submerged in warm mineral waters, offering a unique bathing experience.
Cleopatra's Pool is located near the Pamukkale travertines and requires a separate admission fee.
50 TRY, 1-2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant in Pamukkale, trying dishes like kuzu tandir (slow-cooked lamb) or pide.
There are several restaurants near the Pamukkale town center offering traditional Turkish cuisine.
70-100 TRY, 1 hour
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Day 6: Ancient Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

9:00 AM

Ephesus Ancient City

Explore the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, featuring the Library of Celsus and the Theatre.
Ephesus is easily reachable by car or tour bus from nearby towns like Selcuk or Kusadasi.
60 TRY, 2-3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local eatery near Ephesus, tasting local specialties like kofte (meatballs) or imam bayildi (stuffed eggplant).
There are many charming eateries in Selcuk or Kusadasi where you can dine after visiting Ephesus.
50-80 TRY, 1 hour

2:00 PM

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 Virgin Mary is a short drive from Ephesus and accessible by car or tour.
30 TRY, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Shopping in Kusadasi

Explore the vibrant markets and shops in Kusadasi, known for its leather goods, ceramics, and souvenirs, perfect for some last-minute shopping.
Kusadasi is a short drive from Ephesus, and you can easily find shops in the town center.
Depends on purchases, 1-2 hours
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Day 7: Sunny Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

10:00 AM

Antalya Old Town (Kaleici)

Stroll through the charming streets of Antalya's Old Town, Kaleici, with its ancient city walls, Ottoman architecture, and cozy cafes.
Antalya Old Town is easily walkable from many hotels or can be reached by tram or taxi.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch by the Marina

Enjoy a seafood lunch by the picturesque Antalya Marina, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the bustling harbor.
There are many restaurants and cafes along the marina promenade offering fresh seafood dishes.
80-120 TRY, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Antalya Archaeological Museum

Visit the Antalya Archaeological Museum, showcasing a rich collection of artifacts from ancient Pamphylia, including sculptures, pottery, and mosaics.
The museum is located near the Old Town and easily accessible by foot or public transport.
40 TRY, 1-2 hours

5:00 PM

Konyaalti Beach

Relax at Konyaalti Beach, a popular stretch of pebbly shore with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and enjoying the sunset.
Konyaalti Beach is a short walk or drive from the city center, easily accessible by public transport or taxi.
Free, 2 hours
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