Weeklong Budget Travel in Turkey

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 1, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the stunning Hagia Sophia, a former Greek Orthodox Christian basilica, later an imperial mosque, and now a museum.
Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by tram or walking from most central locations in Istanbul.
30 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karakoy Gulluoglu

Indulge in delicious Turkish pastries and kebabs at this renowned local eatery.
Karakoy Gulluoglu is a short walk from Hagia Sophia, located in the Karakoy neighborhood.
50 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Step back in time at Topkapi Palace, once the primary residence of Ottoman Sultans, now a museum showcasing Ottoman artifacts.
Topkapi Palace is adjacent to Hagia Sophia, allowing for easy access on foot.
60 TRY, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner with panoramic views of the city at Hamdi Restaurant.
Hamdi Restaurant is a short taxi ride from Topkapi Palace, offering stunning views of the Golden Horn.
80 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 2, 2024

9:00AM

Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on a Bosphorus Cruise to admire the beauty of Istanbul from the water, passing iconic landmarks like the Maiden's Tower and Dolmabahce Palace.
Head to the Eminonu or Kabatas docks to catch a cruise boat, easily reachable by tram or taxi.
40 TRY, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savor authentic Turkish cuisine at Ciya Sofrasi, known for its diverse menu of regional dishes.
Ciya Sofrasi is located in Kadikoy, accessible by a scenic ferry ride from Eminonu.
70 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Grand Bazaar Shopping

Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, perfect for souvenir hunting.
The Grand Bazaar is a short walk from Hagia Sophia, offering a unique shopping experience.
Free to explore, costs vary based on purchases, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Tarihi Karadeniz Dernegi

End your day with a meal at Tarihi Karadeniz Dernegi, a cozy restaurant serving Black Sea region specialties.
Tarihi Karadeniz Dernegi is located in Fatih district, easily accessible by tram or taxi from the Grand Bazaar.
60 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discovering Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on June 3, 2024

10:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the magical sunrise over Cappadocia with a hot air balloon ride, offering unparalleled views of the unique landscape.
Book a hot air balloon tour in advance for a sunrise departure, with most companies offering hotel pick-up.
250 USD, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal at Dibek Restaurant, known for its delicious Turkish dishes and cozy ambiance.
Dibek Restaurant is located in Goreme town, a short walk from most hotels in the area.
80 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Goreme Open-Air Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of Cappadocia at the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient cave churches.
Goreme Open-Air Museum is within walking distance from Goreme town center, easily accessible on foot.
45 TRY, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ziggy's Shoppe & Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Ziggy's Shoppe & Cafe, a charming eatery offering a mix of international and Turkish cuisine.
Ziggy's Shoppe & Cafe is located in Uchisar village, a short drive from Goreme.
70 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: More of Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on June 4, 2024

9:00AM

Hike in Rose Valley

Embark on a scenic hike in Rose Valley, known for its stunning rock formations, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave dwellings.
Join a guided hiking tour or follow the marked trails starting from Goreme town, offering breathtaking views along the way.
Free, guided tours available at additional cost, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Old Greek House

Treat yourself to a traditional Anatolian meal at Old Greek House, a historic restaurant serving local specialties.
Old Greek House is located in Mustafapasa village, a short drive or bus ride from Goreme.
60 TRY, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Kaymakli Underground City

Explore the fascinating underground city of Kaymakli, carved out of soft volcanic rock and used by early Christians as a hiding place.
Kaymakli Underground City is a short drive from Goreme, offering guided tours of its intricate tunnels and chambers.
50 TRY, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Dine in a cave setting at Topdeck Cave Restaurant, known for its panoramic views and traditional Cappadocian cuisine.
Topdeck Cave Restaurant is located in Goreme, providing a unique dining experience in a historic cave setting.
80 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Pamukkale Day Trip

Pamukkale, Turkey on June 5, 2024

9:00AM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Start your day by exploring the ruins of Hierapolis Ancient City, featuring well-preserved Roman amphitheater, necropolis, and thermal baths.
Hierapolis Ancient City is adjacent to Pamukkale's travertine terraces, reachable by a short walk from the main entrance.
50 TRY, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Aspava Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal at Aspava Restaurant, offering a mix of Turkish and international dishes with a view of Pamukkale's white terraces.
Aspava Restaurant is located near the entrance of Pamukkale, providing a convenient dining option with scenic views.
70 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Swim in Cleopatra's Antique Pool

Take a refreshing dip in Cleopatra's Antique Pool, known for its warm mineral waters and submerged ancient ruins.
Cleopatra's Antique Pool is part of the Pamukkale Hierapolis Archaeological Site, offering a unique swimming experience.
32 TRY, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at White House Restaurant

End your day with a meal at White House Restaurant, a cozy eatery serving Turkish comfort food with a homely atmosphere.
White House Restaurant is located near the Pamukkale travertines, offering a relaxing dining experience after a day of exploration.
60 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Exploring Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey on June 6, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Ephesus Ancient City

Discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus, Great Theater, and Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Ephesus Ancient City is located near Selcuk town, accessible by local buses or taxis from Pamukkale.
60 TRY, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ejder Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Ejder Restaurant, offering a variety of grilled dishes and mezes.
Ejder Restaurant is located in Selcuk town, providing a convenient dining option near the Ephesus archaeological site.
50 TRY, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Terrace Houses

Step back in time at the Terrace Houses of Ephesus, showcasing well-preserved Roman villas with intricate mosaics and frescoes.
The Terrace Houses are part of the Ephesus archaeological site, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the affluent residents of ancient Ephesus.
20 TRY, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ali Baba Kebab House

Savor delicious kebabs and Turkish specialties at Ali Baba Kebab House, a local favorite known for its flavorful dishes.
Ali Baba Kebab House is located in Selcuk town, offering a cozy setting for a relaxing dinner after exploring Ephesus.
70 TRY, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Relaxing in Antalya

Antalya, Turkey on June 7, 2024

10:00AM

Visit Antalya Old Town

Stroll through the charming streets of Antalya Old Town, known for its historic architecture, vibrant markets, and picturesque harbor views.
Antalya Old Town is easily explored on foot, with landmarks like Hadrian's Gate and Yivli Minare Mosque within walking distance.
Free to explore, optional costs for attractions, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Seraser Restaurant, offering a mix of Turkish and international cuisine in an elegant setting.
Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant is located in the Old Town area, providing a luxurious dining option with impeccable service.
100 TRY, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Konyaalti Beach

Unwind on the sandy shores of Konyaalti Beach, known for its clear waters and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Take a short bus or taxi ride from Antalya Old Town to Konyaalti Beach, offering a perfect spot for relaxation and sunbathing.
Free, optional costs for beach amenities, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Marina Terrace Restaurant

Enjoy a seaside dinner at Marina Terrace Restaurant, overlooking the Antalya Marina with a menu featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Marina Terrace Restaurant is situated in the Antalya Marina, providing a scenic setting for a memorable dinner by the sea.
80 TRY, 1.5 hours
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