9-Day Turkish Adventure: Explore Istanbul to Cappadocia via Unexplored Safranbolu

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: Journey to Safranbolu

Safranbolu, Turkey

8:00AM

Check out and drive to Safranbolu

Venture to Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture.
Drive 4 hours to Safranbolu.
TRY200, 4 hours

12:30PM

Check-in at Zozan Hotel

Relax in this quaint hotel offering charming rooms and traditional decor.
Located in the heart of Safranbolu.
TRY1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Cevheroglu Restaurant

Indulge in delicious traditional meals featuring local specialties, including kebabs.
A short walk from the hotel.
TRY180, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Safranbolu Old Town

Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the traditional wooden houses and shops.
Start directly from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Kaymakamlar Museum

Get a glimpse of local life and culture as you explore this unique museum in a historical mansion.
Walk from the Old Town through pleasant streets.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kayi Restaurant

Enjoy authentic regional cuisine while appreciating the relaxing ambiance.
Short walk from the museum.
TRY200, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Immersion in Safranbolu

Safranbolu, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty Turkish breakfast overlooking the village's beautiful scenery.
Enjoy a varied selection at your hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Safranbolu Bazaar

Wander through the local market that bustles with fresh produce and crafts.
Located within walking distance from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Attend Local Lamp Making Workshop

Discover the traditional craft of lamp-making from local artisans hands-on.
Arranged nearby the bazaar for convenience.
TRY300, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Safranbolu Konak Restaurant

Sample delicious Ottoman dishes that embody local culture and flavors.
Just a short walk from the workshop.
TRY220, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Historic Houses

Visit a few of the historic mansions turned museums to delve deeper into the local heritage.
Easy walking distance from the restaurant.
TRY150, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Huzur Restaurant

Indulge in local specials, with options for vegetarian dishes available.
A pleasant stroll from the historic houses.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Journey to Aksaray

Aksaray, Turkey

8:00AM

Check out and drive to Aksaray

Leave Safranbolu and set your sights on the next destination, Aksaray, rich with history.
Drive 3 hours to Aksaray.
TRY200, 3 hours

11:30AM

Visit Derinkuyu Underground City

Explore this astonishing underground city and delve into the fascinating history beneath your feet.
Drive about 30 minutes from Aksaray center.
TRY150, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Karamanoğlu Kebab House

Taste delicious kebabs and traditional dishes in this warmly greeted eatery.
Return to Aksaray for lunch.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Cappadocia

Marvel at the unique landscapes of Cappadocia as you make your way to this enchanting region.
Drive 1.5 hours to Cappadocia.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

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

7:00PM

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 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

Final Shopping in Goreme

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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