8-Day Family-Friendly Adventure in Turkey: Cities, Nature & Food

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, where you can indulge in a variety of cheeses, olives, and breads.
Head towards the historic Sultanahmet district after breakfast.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that will leave your family in awe of its grandeur.
Walk across to the Blue Mosque located nearby.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Discover the Blue Mosque

Next, visit the famous Blue Mosque, known for its beautiful blue tiles and unique architecture.
Stroll to the nearby Hippodrome afterward.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köfteçisi

Grab a delicious lunch of juicy meatballs at Sultanahmet Köfteçisi, a beloved local eatery.
Walk to the Grand Bazaar next.
TRY100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Shopping at the Grand Bazaar

Explore over 4,000 shops in the Grand Bazaar, where you can find everything from spices to textiles, perfect for family souvenirs.
Continue your adventure towards the Bosphorus.
FREE, 2 hours

4:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a picturesque Bosphorus cruise, offering stunning views of Istanbul's skyline and waterfront palaces.
After your cruise, return to your hotel for a break.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Galata Kitchen

For dinner, head to Galata Kitchen, which offers a delicious selection of Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist.
Head back to your hotel to rest after dinner.
TRY300, 2 hours
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Day 2: Istanbul Adventure

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at MOC

Delight in a cozy breakfast at MOC, known for their artisan coffee and fresh pastries.
Proceed to Topkapi Palace after breakfast.
TRY120, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Tour the majestic Topkapi Palace, home to sultans and filled with impressive collections.
Walk toward the Basilica Cistern next.
TRY300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Basilica Cistern

Experience the ancient underground Basilica Cistern, complete with atmospheric lighting and beautiful columns.
Next, take a taxi to the Spice Bazaar.
TRY150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Pandeli

Dine at Pandeli located in the Spice Bazaar, famous for its vibrant dishes and historical ambiance.
After lunch, make your way to the Galata Tower.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Galata Tower

Climb to the top of the iconic Galata Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Stroll down Istiklal Avenue for some shopping afterward.
TRY160, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping on Istiklal Avenue

Immerse yourself in shopping and local street food on the bustling Istiklal Avenue, a family-friendly experience.
Head for dinner once you’re done shopping.
FREE, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

Enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine with fresh ingredients at Meze by Lemon Tree for a delightful dining experience.
Return to your accommodation to prepare for the flight to Cappadocia.
TRY320, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cappadocia's Wonders

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Cappadocia.
Get ready for the hot air balloon ride.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience an unforgettable sunrise hot air balloon ride over the stunning rock formations and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.
Return to your hotel for a rest.
TRY1800, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Seki Restaurant

Recharge with a delightful lunch at Seki Restaurant offering traditional Turkish dishes with amazing views.
Explore the local caves after lunch.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum

Unravel history as you explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with fascinating frescoes.
Head to Pasabag Valley next.
TRY220, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Pasabag Valley

Wander through Pasabag Valley, also known as Monks Valley, where you can see unique fairy chimneys.
Proceed to Avanos for pottery experiences.
FREE, 2 hours

5:30PM

Pottery Workshop in Avanos

Engage in a family-friendly pottery workshop in Avanos and create your own souvenirs.
Return to your accommodation for relaxation.
TRY150, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Ziggy Cafe

Enjoy a cozy dinner at Ziggy Cafe, known for delicious homemade dishes with a warm ambiance.
Head back to your hotel after dinner.
TRY300, 2 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with another hearty breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for the adventures ahead.
Get ready to explore the Uchisar Castle.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Uchisar Castle

Climb Uchisar Castle for a panoramic view over Cappadocia’s spectacular landscape.
Head to the valley trails after.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hiking through Love Valley

Embark on a family-friendly hike through Love Valley, admiring the stunning rock formations along the way.
Lunch will be in Göreme.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Savor a delightful lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant, which offers authentic Anatolian dishes served in a unique cave setting.
Walk to the underground city after lunch.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Derinkuyu Underground City

Discover the incredible underground city of Derinkuyu, an ancient marvel carved into the rock that goes several levels deep.
Return to your accommodation in Cappadocia.
TRY150, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at your hotel

Enjoy some downtime at your hotel, perhaps take a swim in the pool or relax in the gardens.
Prepare for dinner in town.
FREE, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Seten Restaurant

Conclude the day with a delicious dinner at Seten Restaurant, known for traditional dishes and stunning views.
Return to your hotel to rest for the night.
TRY350, 2 hours
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Day 5: Pamukkale's Natural Wonders

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing Cappadocia and heading to Pamukkale.
Fly to Denizli and drive to Pamukkale.
FREE, 1 hour

10:00AM

Arrive in Pamukkale & visit the Travertine Terraces

Explore the stunning white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, where you can enjoy the thermal waters and take beautiful photos.
Head up to the ancient city of Hierapolis next.
TRY200, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at White Springs Restaurant

Rest and refuel with lunch at White Springs Restaurant, offering picturesque views of the terraces.
Prepare for more exploration after lunch.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Dive into history at the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can visit well-preserved ruins including a theater and a magnificent necropolis.
Enjoy a dip in the thermal pool afterward.
TRY150, 3 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Cleopatra's Pool

Unwind and relax in Cleopatra's Pool, where you can swim among ancient columns and feel rejuvenated.
Get ready for dinner afterward.
TRY250, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kayas Restaurant

Indulge in a local dining experience at Kayas Restaurant, where traditional Turkish dishes are served with a modern twist.
Return to your hotel for the night.
TRY280, 2 hours
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Day 6: Historic Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast at your hotel before traveling to Ephesus.
Drive from Pamukkale to Ephesus.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ephesus Archaeological Site

Spend the morning exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including the impressive Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Next, visit the Temple of Artemis in the nearby area.
TRY250, 2 hours

11:30AM

See the Temple of Artemis

Visit the site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis.
Take a break for lunch afterward.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Alma Evi

Dine at Alma Evi for a delicious Turkish meal made from fresh local ingredients.
Explore additional ruins in the town.
TRY230, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the House of Virgin Mary

Visit the serene site believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
Return to Ephesus for extra exploration.
TRY150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return to Ephesus for extra exploration

Explore more of Ephesus at your leisure; a guided tour can enrich the experience.
After exploring, head to your accommodation.
FREE, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ejder Restaurant

Savor a delightful dinner at Ejder Restaurant, well-known for its generous portions of local cuisine.
Return to your hotel for the night.
TRY300, 2 hours
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Day 7: Beach Day in Bodrum

Bodrum, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your beach day with a refreshing breakfast at your hotel in Ephesus.
Drive to Bodrum's beaches after.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Arrive at Bodrum Beach

Spend a relaxing morning at the scenic Bodrum Beach, known for its stunning views and clear waters.
Enjoy some beach activities or swim.
FREE, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hamptons Restaurant

Take a break from the sun and enjoy fresh seafood for lunch at Hamptons Restaurant by the beach.
After lunch, explore Bodrum Castle.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Bodrum Castle

Explore the impressive Bodrum Castle with its rich history and beautiful views of the sea.
Head to the market after.
TRY200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Bodrum Market

Stroll through Bodrum Market, where you can find unique local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Prepare for dinner afterwards.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Marina Yacht Club

For a special farewell dinner, dine at Marina Yacht Club, known for its luxurious ambiance and exquisite Mediterranean cuisine.
Return to your hotel to relax.
TRY400, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your Bodrum hotel before heading back to Istanbul.
Take a morning flight back to Istanbul.
FREE, 1 hour

11:00AM

Arrive in Istanbul & explore

Upon arrival, spend the day doing last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Istanbul, exploring what you may have missed.
Visit local shops and markets.
FREE, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Civet Cafe

Savor a unique dining experience at Civet Cafe, known for its incredible coffee and light fare.
Continue your exploration after lunch.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Tour the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, showcasing stunning architecture and rich history.
Return to your hotel for a snack before departure.
TRY300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Mikla

Enjoy your final dinner at Mikla, offering a breathtaking view of Istanbul and exquisite cuisine.
Return to your hotel, and prepare for your departure.
TRY500, 2 hours
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