9-Day Adventure Itinerary in Turkey: Discover the Wonders of East and West

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltısoyu

Start your Turkish adventure with a hearty breakfast of menemen and fresh simit at this local favourite.
Located in the central Besiktas area, easily accessible by public transport.
TRY120, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Marvel at the stunning architecture of Hagia Sophia, a symbol of both Byzantine and Ottoman histories.
A short walk from the breakfast spot, a lovely 15-minute stroll.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy some authentic Turkish meatballs served with traditional rice and salad.
Located just a 10-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans as you wander through the palace’s stunning courtyards and museums.
A 10-minute walk from lunch, through the historic Sultanahmet district.
TRY400, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at the Basilica Cistern

Cool down in this ancient underground water reservoir, known for its atmospheric lighting and Medusa heads.
Just a 5-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
TRY200, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Zubeyir Ocakbasi

Feast on delicious kebabs and grilled meats, popular with locals and tourists alike.
A taxi ride should take around 15 minutes from the cistern.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Day in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pideci Uludag

Try a classic Turkish pide, a delicious flatbread topped with cheese and minced meat.
Easily reached by tram from central Istanbul.
TRY100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shop at the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the vibrant aisles filled with handcrafted goods, fabrics, and spices.
A 20-minute walk or a 10-minute tram ride from breakfast.
Free entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Turkish dishes with stunning views of the Bosphorus.
A short 15-minute walk from the bazaar.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Bosphorus Boat Tour

Relax on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, taking in views of palaces and bridges.
Departure from Eminönü, about 20 minutes by tram from lunch.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Spice Bazaar

Indulge your senses in this spectacular marketplace of herbs, spices, and teas.
A short walk from the boat tour's ending point.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Meze by Lemon Tree

Savour exquisite meze platters in a vibrant ambiance, perfect to end your day.
A taxi will take about 10 minutes back to Taksim.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

6:00AM

Balloon Ride over Cappadocia

Wake up early for an iconic hot air balloon ride, witnessing breathtaking views of the fairy chimneys.
Pick-up from your hotel arranged by the balloon company.
TRY3000, 3 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Ziggy Cafe

Enjoy a delightful spread with homemade jams and freshly baked bread.
Located in Urgup, a short drive from most hotels.
TRY120, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Göreme Open-Air Museum

Wander through the ancient rock-cut churches adorned with stunning frescoes.
A short taxi ride from breakfast, about 15 minutes.
TRY150, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Dine in a unique cave setting with authentic Turkish dishes like testi kebab.
Only a 5-minute drive from the museum.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Derinkuyu Underground City

Discover the fascinating underground city that once protected its inhabitants from invasions.
About 30 minutes drive from lunch.
TRY200, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dibek

Experience traditional tastes with a slow-cooked lamb dish served in a clay pot.
A 20-minute drive back to Göreme.
TRY250, 2 hours
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Day 4: Discovering Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at House of Avanos

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local cheeses and fresh veggies.
Easily accessible by scooter or taxi; located in Avanos.
TRY120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Pottery Workshop in Avanos

Join a hands-on pottery workshop in this town famous for its clay craftsmanship.
A short walk from the breakfast venue.
TRY500, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Seki Restaurant

Indulge in delectable dishes while enjoying panoramic views over the valleys.
A 20-minute car ride back towards Uçhisar.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hiking in Ihlara Valley

Embark on a scenic hike surrounded by unique rock formations and ancient churches.
About 40 minutes drive from lunch.
Free entry, 3 hours

5:30PM

Visit Uçhisar Castle

Climb to the top of this natural rock castle for breathtaking views of Cappadocia.
Around 20 minutes back towards Uçhisar town.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Pumpkin Goreme Restaurant

Savour farm-to-table dishes with Mediterranean influences as you relax after a day of adventure.
A short drive back to Göreme.
TRY200, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Soaking in Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading to your first destination.
Breakfast included with your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Pamukkale Travertines

Walk on the stunning white travertine terraces and swim in thermal pools.
A short taxi ride from your hotel.
TRY400, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at White Castle Restaurant

Dine while enjoying views of the travertines, sampling local dishes.
Just a few minutes' walk from the terraces.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Wander through the ruins of this ancient spa city right above the travertines.
A short walk from lunch.
TRY150, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Antique Pool

Swim among ancient ruins in the thermal waters known as Cleopatra's Pool.
A quick walk from Hierapolis.
TRY200, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Kayas Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine at this charming restaurant.
A taxi will take around 10 minutes from the pool.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Exploring Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up for a day of exploration with a nice selection of breads and fruits.
Breakfast is included with your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ephesus Ancient City

Step back in time exploring ancient ruins, including the Library of Celsus.
A taxi ride should take about 10 minutes from your hotel.
TRY300, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Selçuk Efes Restaurant

Indulge in authentic local dishes and Turkish meze.
A short taxi ride from the ancient site.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Temple of Artemis

Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, with its grand remains.
Only a 15-minute walk from lunch.
TRY50, 1 hour

3:00PM

St. John’s Basilica

Discover the historical importance of this ancient basilica and enjoy the serene environment.
A 20-minute walk from the Temple.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Okuz Mehmet Pide

Savour delicious Turkish pide while chatting with locals in this popular eatery.
A short taxi ride from the basilica.
TRY150, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Relaxing in Fethiye

Fethiye, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yengec Restaurant

Enjoy breakfast with a view of the harbour, with an extensive Turkish breakfast spread.
Located near Fethiye Marina, easily accessible.
TRY120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Ölüdeniz Beach

Spend the morning lounging at the famous Blue Lagoon, known for its serene turquoise waters.
Take a local minibus from the town centre, about 20 minutes.
Free entry, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Buzz Beach Bar

Savour fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes right on the beach.
A lovely short walk from the beach area.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Paragliding over Ölüdeniz

Experience the thrill of paragliding off Babadag Mountain, soaring above one of the most beautiful coastlines.
Local operators will arrange pick-up and drop.
TRY800, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Imge Restaurant

Feast on delicious grilled fish with local herbs, capturing the essence of Aegean cuisine.
A 20-minute drive back to Fethiye town centre.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a final Turkish breakfast before departing for Istanbul.
Breakfast included with your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Fly back to Istanbul

Catch a morning flight back to Istanbul.
Transport arranged by hotel to the airport.
TRY1500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Dolmabahçe Palace

Admire the lavishness of this 19th-century palace, right by the Bosphorus.
Directly accessible via public transport from the airport.
TRY400, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Palace Restaurant

Savor a mix of modern and traditional dishes in the picturesque palace grounds.
Located within Dolmabahçe Palace.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping in Nişantaşı

Stroll through this chic neighbourhood filled with boutiques and cafés.
A 15-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
Free entry, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Enjoy a breathtaking rooftop dining experience with city views.
About 20 minutes' drive from Nişantaşı.
TRY400, 2 hours
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Day 9: Last Day in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Nar Cafe

End your culinary journey with a delightful breakfast of eggs and Turkish delight.
Located in the historic Galata area, a perfect start to the day.
TRY120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Galata Tower

Climb the tower for panoramic views of the stunning Istanbul skyline.
Only a 10-minute walk from breakfast.
TRY250, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Istanbul Modern

Engage with contemporary art at this chic museum located along the Bosphorus.
A 15-minute walk from Galata Tower.
TRY150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Cihangir Sofrası

Dine on traditional Turkish fare with delightful views of the Bosphorus.
A short 10-minute walk from the museum.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Taksim Square

Wander around the bustling square and enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafés.
A 15-minute walk from lunch.
Free entry, 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Mikla

Celebrate the end of your journey with a fine dining experience offering local ingredients with a modern twist.
Only a 10-minute walk back to the hotel.
TRY600, 2 hours
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