Istanbul 7-Day Road Trip on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

TRY 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Grand Bazaar

Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal at the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.

TRY 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Blue Mosque

Experience the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque and take in its serene atmosphere.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Kumkapi

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes at the charming neighborhood of Kumkapi, known for its seafood restaurants.

TRY 70, 2 hours

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Day 2: Explore Bursa

Bursa, Turkey

8:00AM

Explore Bursa City Center

Spend the day exploring the historic city center of Bursa, known for its Ottoman architecture and silk markets.

TRY 50, Full day

1:00PM

Lunch at Kozahan

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Kozahan, a historic caravanserai converted into a restaurant.

TRY 40, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Green Mosque

Admire the intricate architecture of the Green Mosque, a symbol of Bursa's rich history.

TRY 10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Tarihi Iskender

Indulge in a famous Iskender kebab at Tarihi Iskender restaurant, a local favorite.

TRY 60, 2 hours

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Day 3: Relax in Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Hierapolis and Pamukkale Travertines

Spend the day exploring the ancient ruins of Hierapolis and relaxing in the natural travertine pools of Pamukkale.

TRY 70, Full day

1:00PM

Lunch at Terrace Restaurants

Enjoy a meal with a view at one of the terrace restaurants overlooking Pamukkale's natural wonders.

TRY 50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax in the Cleopatra Antique Pool

Soak in the mineral-rich waters of the Cleopatra Antique Pool and rejuvenate your body.

TRY 32, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Try authentic Turkish dishes at a local eatery near your accommodation.

TRY 40, 2 hours

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Day 4: Explore Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Antalya Old Town

Explore the charming streets of Antalya Old Town, known for its historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere.

TRY 90, Full day

1:00PM

Lunch at Marina Restaurants

Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the restaurants by the marina, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

TRY 60

4:00PM

Explore Hadrian's Gate

Admire the well-preserved Hadrian's Gate, a Roman triumphal arch that marks the entrance to the old city.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Grill House

Savor grilled meats and traditional mezes at a local grill house in Antalya.

TRY 50, 2 hours

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Day 5: Discover Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the magical landscape of Cappadocia from a hot air balloon at sunrise (optional activity).

TRY 850, 2-3 hours

11:00AM

Explore Göreme Open-Air Museum

Discover the ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes at the UNESCO-listed Göreme Open-Air Museum.

TRY 30, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cappadocian Cuisine

Enjoy a traditional Cappadocian meal at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like testi kebab or pottery kebab.

TRY 50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Hike in Love Valley

Take a scenic hike in Love Valley to marvel at the unique rock formations and fairy chimneys.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Cave Restaurant

Dine in a cave restaurant and savor local specialties while immersing in the enchanting atmosphere of Cappadocia.

TRY 80, 2 hours

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Day 6: Experience Ankara

Ankara, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Anıtkabir

Explore Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkey.

TRY 80, Half day

12:00PM

Lunch at Hamamonu

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Hamamonu, a historic neighborhood in Ankara with charming Ottoman-era buildings.

TRY 40, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Ankara Citadel

Climb up to the Ankara Citadel to enjoy panoramic views of the city and learn about its history.

TRY 20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ataturk Orman Ciftligi

Have a picnic dinner at the tranquil Ataturk Forest Farm, a green oasis in Ankara.

TRY 60, 2 hours

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Day 7: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans and home to various treasures.

TRY 100, Half day

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a last Turkish lunch at a local restaurant in Istanbul, savoring the flavors of the trip.

TRY 60, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Spice Bazaar

Take a stroll through the vibrant Spice Bazaar to shop for spices, sweets, and souvenirs.

Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant

Indulge in a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline.

TRY 80, 2 hours

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