9-Day Turkish Adventure: From Istanbul to Enchanting Cappadocia

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start the day with a traditional Turkish breakfast showcasing local cheeses, olives, and honey.
Located in the famous Cihangir neighborhood, easily accessible via public transport.
TRY150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning centuries-old basilica, emphasizing its beautiful mosaics and historical importance.
Take tram to Sultanahmet stop for easy access.
TRY200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kadıköy Çiya Sofrası

Taste regional dishes in this acclaimed restaurant tucked in the vibrant streets of Kadıköy.
Take a ferry from Eminönü to Kadıköy.
TRY180, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Wander through the bustling bazaar, perfect for souvenir shopping and experiencing local culture.
Walk back from Kadıköy ferry terminal to the bazaar.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Enjoy panoramic views of the city while savoring a blend of international and local cuisine.
Take a taxi to Taksim and walk to the restaurant.
TRY500, 2 hours

8:00PM

Attend Whirling Dervish Show

Experience the mesmerizing Sufi dance at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center.
It's near the Hagia Sophia, a short taxi ride away.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Lades Restaurant

Try their famous menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers) to fuel the adventure.
Located in Besiktas, easily reached by tram.
TRY120, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Topkapi Palace

Discover the rich history of the Ottoman Empire and view the stunning treasury.
Take tram to Sultanahmet stop.
TRY350, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ziya Baba

Enjoy traditional Turkish meat dishes and fresh grilled fish in a warm atmosphere.
Return to Taksim via tram.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Street Food Tour

Sample tried and true street food from simit (bread) to döner, guided by a local.
Meet at Taksim Square.
TRY300, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla Rooftop Restaurant

Savor gourmet Turkish cuisine with a stunning sunset view over the Bosphorus.
Located in the Marmara Pera Hotel, a short taxi ride.
TRY600, 2 hours
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Day 3: Village Retreat in Sapanca

Sapanca, Turkey

8:00AM

Check out and drive to Sapanca

The idyllic village known for its lush nature awaits as you settle into your drive from Istanbul.
Drive 2 hours to Sapanca.
TRY150, 2 hours

10:00AM

Check-in at Sapanca Village Hotel

Relax in this charming hotel surrounded by nature before your adventures begin.
Located in the center of Sapanca.
TRY1200, 1 hour

11:30AM

Horse Riding at Sapanca Lake

Saddle up for a relaxing ride along the beautiful lake and lush landscapes.
Nearby stables can be reached by car.
TRY500, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kristal Butik

Indulge in homemade dishes such as ravioli and traditional Turkish pizza.
Short drive from horse riding area.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Maşukiye Village

Stroll through this charming village known for its natural beauty and delightful cafes.
10-minute drive from Sapanca.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Soğuksu Restaurant

Enjoy fresh trout and authentic village cuisine while sitting beside a babbling brook.
Just outside Maşukiye village.
TRY200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature & Culture in Bolu

Bolu, Turkey

8:00AM

Check out and drive to Bolu

Continue your journey with nature-filled Bolu known for its lakes and forests.
Drive 1.5 hours to Bolu.
TRY130, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Check-in at Bahar Hotel

Stay in this eco-friendly hotel that offers modern amenities and beautiful forest views.
Located near Lake Abant.
TRY1200, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Lake Abant

Take a peaceful walk around the lake, enjoying stunning fall scenery.
A short drive from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Abant Palace Restaurant

Dine with a beautiful lake view while sampling delicious Turkish local dishes.
Within walking distance around the lake.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Attend Lamp Making Workshop

Learn the ancient art of lamp making in a fascinating hands-on workshop.
Workshop located nearby Abant Parish.
TRY400, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Green House

Enjoy a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring fresh, local ingredients.
A drive back to Bolu center.
TRY230, 2 hours
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Day 5: Odyssey to Cappadocia via Aksaray

Aksaray, Turkey

8:00AM

Check out and drive to Aksaray

Travel towards Cappadocia, taking a scenic stop in Aksaray along the way.
Drive 1.5 hours to Aksaray.
TRY130, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Underground City

Explore the fascinating subterranean city of Derinkuyu, showcasing ancient civilizations.
Located a short drive from where you'll park in Aksaray.
TRY150, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Karamanoğlu Kebab House

Savor the flavors of succulent kebabs and a unique regional twist.
Return to Aksaray for lunch.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Drive to Cappadocia

Arrive at the magical landscape of Cappadocia and soak in its unique features.
Drive 1.5 hours to Cappadocia.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Check-in at Sultan Cave Suites

Stay at a unique blend of luxury and tradition in this breathtaking cave hotel.
Located in Goreme.
TRY1600, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Seten Restaurant

Dine under the stars, surrounded by stunning rock formations while enjoying authentic Turkish cuisine.
Walking distance from the hotel.
TRY300, 2 hours
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Day 6: Hot Air Balloons & Adventure

Cappadocia, Turkey

5:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Soar over the magnificent fairy chimneys at sunrise, providing an unforgettable experience.
Transfer arranged by the balloon company from your hotel.
TRY4000, 3 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet prepared by the hotel for an energizing start.
Enjoy the hotel's various breakfast options.
Included in stay, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Goreme Open Air Museum

Explore the impressive rock-cut churches adorned with stunning frescoes.
5-minute drive from the hotel.
TRY250, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Savor local specialties, including testi kebab, served in a clay pot.
Short drive from the museum.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Pigeon Valley

Hike through this picturesque valley known for its charming dovecotes and stunning views.
Drive from Goreme for a quick hike.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Zeytin Restaurant

Enjoy a fantastic dinner-cum-viewing of local culture and traditional dance performances.
20-minute drive from Pigeon Valley.
TRY300, 2 hours
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Day 7: Further Discovering Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel your day with a delicious spread of local dishes awaiting you at the hotel.
Enjoy the plethora of choices available.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Avanos for Pottery Workshop

Create your pottery piece from scratch and learn from the skilled artisans.
Drive for about 15 minutes from Goreme.
TRY300, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Han Ciragan Restaurant

Savor a delightful lunch while enjoying views of the Red River.
Short drive from the pottery workshop.
TRY220, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Pasabag Valley

Wander through Pasabag, famous for its remarkable fairy chimneys.
Drive to the valley from Avanos.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Hot Air Balloon Evening Ride (If Available)

View Cappadocia's landscape again, this time during the dusk for a magical moment.
Arranged pickup from hotel.
TRY4000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Experience traditional Turkish dishes served in an authentic cave setting.
Short drive back to Goreme.
TRY280, 2 hours
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Day 8: Final Day in Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy one last Turkish breakfast at the hotel before preparing for departure.
Variety of options available for breakfast.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Uchisar Castle

Climb to the top of the natural rock fortress for breathtaking views of Cappadocia.
Drive for about 20 minutes from Goreme.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Cam Turkey - Final Shopping

Spend some time shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs in Goreme before you leave.
Head back to Goreme town center.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Safak

Delight in delicious pastries and Turkish coffee at this cozy café.
Very central location in Goreme.
TRY150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive Back to Istanbul

Conclude your adventure with a scenic drive back to Istanbul.
Drive 8 hours back to Istanbul.
Free, 8 hours

11:00PM

Check-in at Radisson Blu Hotel

Unwind in luxury at a beautifully rated hotel while recapping your adventure.
Located in central Istanbul.
TRY2500, 1 hour
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Day 9: Final Moments in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy the last breakfast of your journey at the hotel, taking in the memories of the trip.
Various options available.
Included in stay, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Spice Bazaar

Visit the bustling bazaar and pick up some spice souvenirs before your journey ends.
Short drive or tram ride to Eminönü.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy an excellent farewell meal sampling perfect kebabs with views of the Galata Tower.
In Eminönü area.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at a Turkish Bath

Unwind in a luxurious bathhouse, treating yourself to a rejuvenating experience.
Located in Galata area.
TRY500, 2 hours

7:00PM

Goodbye Dinner at Mikla Rooftop

Recap the entire journey while enjoying a final dinner with spectacular views.
Return to Taksim for the rooftop.
TRY600, 2 hours

9:00PM

Departure

Take a final moment to reflect on your adventure as you prepare for your journey home.
Travel to the airport by taxi.
TRY300, 1 hour
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