Exploring the Best of Turkey in 5 Days

Day 1: Historical Wonders

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Karaköy Güllüoğlu

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Karaköy Güllüoğlu, known for their delicious pastries and desserts.
Located in the Karakoy district, easily accessible by public transport.
TRY 50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning architecture and history of Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending Christian and Islamic influences.
Located in Sultanahmet Square, a short walk from the Blue Mosque.
TRY 100, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch with a view of the Bosphorus at Hamdi Restaurant, known for its kebabs and mezes.
Near the Spice Bazaar, easily reachable by tram or taxi.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the vibrant alleys of the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offering an array of unique souvenirs.
Located in the heart of Istanbul's Old City.
Free to explore, shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Mikla Restaurant, offering modern Turkish cuisine with panoramic views of the city.
Located in Beyoğlu district, accessible by taxi or public transport.
TRY 250, 2 hours
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Day 2: Land of Fairy Chimneys

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Embark on a magical hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, witnessing the sunrise and fairy chimneys from above.
Most tours offer hotel pick-ups for this experience.
TRY 850, 2-3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Abdullah's

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Abdullah's, a cave restaurant known for its delicious Turkish spread and scenic views.
Located in Göreme, easily accessible by foot.
TRY 80, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Göreme Open-Air Museum

Discover the ancient cave churches and rock-cut dwellings at the UNESCO-listed Göreme Open-Air Museum, showcasing the region's rich history.
A short drive from Göreme town centre.
TRY 45, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Uçhisar Castle

Climb to the top of Uçhisar Castle for panoramic views of Cappadocia, the highest point in the region offering a stunning sunset backdrop.
A short drive from Göreme or accessible by organised tour.
TRY 20, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at Dibek Restaurant, known for its local cuisine and cosy ambience.
Located in the town of Ürgüp, reachable by car or shuttle.
TRY 120, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Mineral Terraces of Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kale Restaurant

Start your day with a scenic breakfast overlooking the white terraces of Pamukkale at Kale Restaurant.
Located in the village of Pamukkale, offering great views of the natural wonders.
TRY 60, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Step back in time as you explore the well-preserved ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient Greco-Roman city situated near the travertine terraces.
Entrance to Hierapolis is included with the Pamukkale ticket.
TRY 35, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tripolis Restaurant

Enjoy a tasty lunch with a view at Tripolis Restaurant, offering a mix of Turkish and international cuisine in a relaxing setting.
Located near the travertines, perfect for a post-exploration meal.
TRY 100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax in Cleopatra's Antique Pool

Unwind in the mineral-rich waters of Cleopatra's Pool, where legends say Cleopatra herself once swam, amidst ornate ruins and columns.
Entrance to the pool requires an additional fee.
TRY 50, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Koray Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Koray Restaurant, serving authentic Turkish dishes and freshly caught seafood.
Located in the town of Pamukkale, a short walk from many accommodations.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Ancient Ruins of Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ejder Restaurant

Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at Ejder Restaurant, offering a variety of Turkish and continental options.
Located in Selçuk, a historic town near Ephesus, easily reached by foot or taxi.
TRY 70, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Ephesus Ancient City

Discover the remarkably preserved ancient city of Ephesus, featuring the Library of Celsus, Temple of Artemis, and grand amphitheatre.
A short drive or walk from Selçuk, entrance fee required.
TRY 90, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kebabiş

Indulge in a traditional Turkish kebab lunch at Kebabiş, a popular local spot known for its authentic flavours and generous portions.
Located in Selçuk town centre, near the archaeological sites.
TRY 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit House of the Virgin Mary

Pay a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred site believed to be where Mother Mary spent her final days, offering peace and serenity.
Located on Mount Koressos, accessible by shuttle or car from Ephesus.
TRY 30, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ayasoluk Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Ayasoluk Restaurant, overlooking the ancient ruins of St. John's Basilica, serving a mix of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes.
Located in Selçuk with a picturesque backdrop of historical sites.
TRY 120, 2 hours
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Day 5: Turquoise Coast Beauty

Antalya, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a cosy breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, a charming spot offering a variety of Turkish breakfast options.
Located in the historical district of Kaleiçi, easy to explore on foot.
TRY 60, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Antalya Old Town

Stroll through the picturesque streets of Antalya's Old Town, lined with historic buildings, shops, and charming cafes, showcasing the city's rich heritage.
Easily walkable from Kaleiçi, filled with beautiful architecture and landmarks.
Free to explore, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Indulge in a luxurious lunch at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant, offering a blend of Turkish and international cuisine in an elegant setting.
Situated in the historic centre, providing a refined dining experience.
TRY 200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Konyaaltı Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding at Konyaaltı Beach, a beautiful pebbled stretch of coastline with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a leisurely swim or sunbathing.
Accessible by public transport or taxi, offering amenities like loungers and umbrellas for rent.
TRY 25, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Marina Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood feast at Marina Restaurant, overlooking the picturesque Antalya Marina, offering a variety of freshly caught seafood dishes.
Situated by the marina, providing a lovely dining backdrop.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours
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