10-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Turkey

  • Day 1: Istanbul
    None (Arrival)

    Starting your trip in one of the world's most popular cities, get lost in the colorful markets of the Grand Bazaar. Afterwards, head to Sultanahmet Square to visit some of Istanbul's most famous landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

  • Day 2: Istanbul
    30 minutes (3.6 km) from Day 1

    Take a ferry to one of Istanbul's Princes' Island to bike around and explore the local street markets, beaches and historic landmarks.

  • Day 3: Bursa
    3 hours (234 km) from Day 2

    Visit the Green Mosque, Grand Mosque, and historic Ottoman marketplace in Bursa, and then relax at one of the famous thermal baths.

  • Day 4: Selcuk
    8 hours (726 km) from Day 3

    Discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Turkey's largest church; John's Basilica. End the day at Pamukkale to see the stunning white terraces.

  • Day 5: Pamukkale
    10 minutes (2.8 km) from Day 4

    Relax your body at the natural thermal springs of Karahayit and then visit the Hierapolis Museum to witness the ancient city's history and artifacts.

  • Day 6: Antalya
    4 hours (350 km) from Day 5

    Explore the historic Old Town of Kaleici and then end the day at Konyaalti Beach.

  • Day 7: Antalya
    2 hours (85 km) from Day 6

    Visit one of the world's oldest cities, Perge, and then continue to spend the day at Aspendos Roman Theatre.

  • Day 8: Konya
    4 hours (233 km) from Day 7

    Discover the tomb of Rumi, one of Islam's most significant figures at the Mevlana Museum.

  • Day 9: Cappadocia
    4 hours (254 km) from Day 8

    Watch the sunrise over the magical Cappadocia scenery at Göreme National Park. Afterwards, explore the Open-Air Museum, which is home to many rock-cut churches and chapels.

  • Day 10: Istanbul
    11 hours (750 km) from Day 9

    End your trip with a traditional Turkish breakfast in Istanbul's Kadikoy district. Visit the impressive Dolmabahçe Palace before heading to the airport for your departure.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Grand Bazaar (2 hours, free)
  • Blue Mosque (1 hour, free)
  • Hagia Sophia (1 hour, 60 TRY)
  • Ferry Ride to Prince's Island (1 hour, 5 TRY)
  • Bike Rental on Prince's Island (4 hours, 25-40 TRY)
  • Green Mosque (1 hour, free)
  • Grand Mosque (1 hour, free)
  • Historic Ottoman Marketplace (2-3 hours, free)
  • Entrance to Pamukkale Thermal Pools (6 hours, 50 TRY)
  • Antalya Old Town (2 hours, free)
  • Konyaalti Beach (6 hours, free)
  • Perge (2 hours, 20 TRY)
  • Aspendos Roman Theatre (2-3 hours, 60 TRY)
  • Mevlana Museum (1 hour, 40 TRY)
  • Göreme National Park (6 hours, 25-30 TRY)
  • Open-Air Museum (3 hours, 45 TRY)
  • Dolmabahçe Palace (2 hours, 60 TRY)
  • Total Estimated Costs: Approximately 400-500 TRY

Transportation

Public buses and ferries are the most cost-effective ways to travel, but keep in mind that some travel times can be lengthy. Flights are also an option, but it may be difficult to stay within a shoestring budget. The average cost for buses and ferries is around 20-50 TRY per ride, and travel times can range from a few hours up to a full day.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting Bodrum or Fethiye for their beautiful beaches and nightlife. For a shorter trip, try staying around Antalya or Istanbul as they both have plenty of attractions to enjoy.

Airports

The main airports in Turkey are the Istanbul Airport (IST) located in Istanbul, Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) located in Izmir, and the Antalya Airport (AYT) located in Antalya. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the largest airport in Turkey and is located approximately 35 km away from the city center.

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