Discovering Turkey in 7 Days

Day 1: Istanbul Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Begin your day by exploring the iconic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by tram or taxi from most parts of Istanbul. It takes about 30 minutes to reach from the city center.
30 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Topkapi Palace

Continue to Topkapi Palace to delve into the history of the Ottoman Empire and enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus.
Topkapi Palace is a short walk from Hagia Sophia. You can reach there in about 10 minutes on foot.
60 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Deraliye Restaurant

Indulge in delicious Ottoman cuisine at Deraliye Restaurant near Topkapi Palace.
Deraliye Restaurant is a 5-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
100 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Grand Bazaar

Shop for souvenirs and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar.
The Grand Bazaar is a 15-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
Free entry, shopping costs vary, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Enjoy a fine dining experience with stunning views of Istanbul at Mikla Restaurant.
Mikla Restaurant is located in Beyoglu, a short taxi or tram ride from the Grand Bazaar.
200 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 2: More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a Bosphorus cruise to admire the beauty of Istanbul from the water and see iconic landmarks like the Maiden's Tower.
Head to the Eminonu or Kabatas pier to catch a Bosphorus cruise. It takes about 2 hours to complete the cruise.
50 TRY, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savor authentic Turkish flavors at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its diverse menu of regional dishes.
Ciya Sofrasi is located in Kadikoy, easily reachable by ferry from Eminonu or Karakoy.
80 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Spice Bazaar

Stroll through the Spice Bazaar, filled with aromatic spices, Turkish delight, and souvenirs.
The Spice Bazaar is a short walk from Eminonu, where you can take a ferry to Kadikoy.
Free entry, shopping costs vary, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at a Turkish Hammam

Unwind with a traditional Turkish bath experience at a local hammam for relaxation and rejuvenation.
There are many hammams in Istanbul, with popular ones in Sultanahmet and Taksim areas.
150 TRY, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Grill & Bar

Enjoy a memorable dinner with breathtaking views of the Bosphorus at Sunset Grill & Bar.
Sunset Grill & Bar is located in Ulus, requiring a short taxi or bus ride from Sultanahmet.
250 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cappadocia Wonders

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Start your day with a magical hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia during sunrise.
Most hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia depart from Goreme. It takes about 1 hour to reach the take-off site.
400 USD, 2 hours

11:00AM

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the ancient cave churches and rock-cut dwellings at the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum.
Goreme Open-Air Museum is a short drive or a 20-minute walk from Goreme town center.
30 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Cappadocian meal at Dibek Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors.
Dibek Restaurant is located in Goreme town center, within walking distance from the museum.
70 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hike in Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike in Rose Valley to marvel at the unique rock formations and lush landscape.
Rose Valley is accessible from Goreme town center by foot or car. The hiking trail takes about 2 hours to complete.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Dine in a cave setting at Topdeck Cave Restaurant and enjoy panoramic views of the valley.
Topdeck Cave Restaurant is situated in Goreme, offering a unique dining experience.
100 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 4: More of Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Museum

Visit the Hot Air Balloon Museum to learn about the history and significance of hot air balloons in Cappadocia.
The museum is located in Urgup, a short drive from Goreme.
20 TRY, 1 hour

11:00AM

Pottery Workshop

Experience the art of pottery-making at a local workshop in Avanos, known for its pottery traditions.
Avanos is a 20-minute drive from Goreme, and you can easily find workshops offering hands-on pottery experiences.
50 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch by Kizilirmak River

Enjoy a scenic lunch by the Kizilirmak River in Avanos, known for its picturesque setting.
There are several riverside restaurants in Avanos offering beautiful views of the river.
80 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Kaymakli Underground City

Delve into the fascinating underground city of Kaymakli to discover the intricate network of tunnels and chambers.
Kaymakli Underground City is a short drive from Avanos and offers guided tours to explore its depths.
25 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Old Greek House

Dine at the Old Greek House in Urgup, known for its traditional Turkish cuisine and charming ambiance.
The Old Greek House is located in the heart of Urgup, providing a cozy dining experience.
120 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 5: Pamukkale Marvels

Pamukkale, Turkey

9:00AM

Hierapolis Ancient City

Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, including the well-preserved theater and necropolis.
Hierapolis Ancient City is located near Pamukkale and can be reached by a short drive or walk.
35 TRY, 2 hours

11:00AM

Pamukkale Travertines

Marvel at the surreal terraces of Pamukkale's travertine pools, known for their mineral-rich thermal waters.
The Pamukkale travertines are a short walk from Hierapolis Ancient City, allowing easy access to the natural wonders.
60 TRY, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at White House Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with panoramic views of Pamukkale at the White House Restaurant, offering Turkish and international cuisine.
The White House Restaurant is located near the travertines, providing a convenient dining spot.
90 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Cleopatra's Pool

Relax in the thermal waters of Cleopatra's Pool, where ancient legends and natural beauty converge.
Cleopatra's Pool is located within the Hierapolis archaeological site, offering a unique swimming experience.
50 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Melrose Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Melrose Restaurant, known for its Turkish specialties and welcoming ambiance.
Melrose Restaurant is located in the town of Pamukkale, providing a cozy dining atmosphere.
100 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 6: Ephesus Discovery

Ephesus, Turkey

9:00AM

Ephesus Ancient City

Step back in time at the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis.
Ephesus is easily accessible by car or public transport from Pamukkale, with a journey of about 3 hours.
50 TRY, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ejder Restaurant

Savor traditional Turkish cuisine at Ejder Restaurant near the Ephesus archaeological site.
Ejder Restaurant is located in Selcuk, offering a convenient dining option after exploring Ephesus.
70 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

House of Virgin Mary

Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site believed to be the final resting place of Mary, mother of Jesus.
The House of the Virgin Mary is a short drive from Ephesus, offering spiritual tranquility amidst nature.
20 TRY, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shop at Kemeralti Market

Explore the bustling Kemeralti Market in Izmir, known for its variety of shops selling local crafts and products.
Kemeralti Market is located in the heart of Izmir, easily accessible by public transport from Selcuk.
Free entry, shopping costs vary, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Deniz Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood dinner at Deniz Restaurant overlooking the Aegean Sea, known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.
Deniz Restaurant is situated near the Izmir waterfront, offering a scenic dining experience.
150 TRY, 2 hours
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Day 7: Bodrum Relaxation

Bodrum, Turkey

10:00AM

Bodrum Castle

Start your day by exploring the historic Bodrum Castle, housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
Bodrum Castle is located in the heart of Bodrum, easily accessible by foot or public transport.
40 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Limon Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Limon Cafe, a charming spot with delicious Mediterranean cuisine and sea views.
Limon Cafe is situated near Bodrum Castle, offering a relaxing dining experience.
80 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Bitez Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding at Bitez Beach, known for its clear waters and tranquil atmosphere.
Bitez Beach is a short drive or bus ride from Bodrum city center, providing a perfect escape for relaxation.
Free entry, 3 hours

5:00PM

Explore Bodrum Marina

Take a leisurely stroll around Bodrum Marina, lined with yachts, cafes, and boutiques for a scenic waterfront experience.
Bodrum Marina is within walking distance from Bitez Beach, offering a picturesque setting for an evening walk.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Marina Yacht Club

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Marina Yacht Club, overlooking the marina and enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
Marina Yacht Club is located at Bodrum Marina, providing a luxurious dining experience by the water.
200 TRY, 2 hours
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