Exploring the Wonders of Turkey: A 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Vibrant Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring a variety of cheeses, olives, and fresh bread at this local favourite.
Walk or take a taxi to your first destination.
TRY150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hagia Sophia

Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases stunning Byzantine architecture.
11-minute walk from the breakfast spot.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Topkapi Palace

Delve into the opulent history of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, where you can explore its beautiful courtyards and exhibits.
15-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
TRY300, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Khorasani Restaurant

Indulge in delicious grilled meats and local dishes at this well-rated restaurant.
5-minute walk from Topkapi Palace.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

The Grand Bazaar

Wander through the vibrant stalls of the Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for souvenirs, spices, and traditional crafts.
10-minute taxi ride.
TRY0 (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy a panoramic view of the city while relishing authentic kebabs at this renowned spot.
15-minute walk from the bazaar.
TRY350, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cappadocia Adventure

Cappadocia, Turkey

6:00AM

Flight from Istanbul to Kayseri

Catch an early flight to Kayseri and take in the views of Cappadocia from above.
Taxi to the airport from your hotel.
TRY800, 2 hours

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy traditional pottery kebab and other local delights at this unique restaurant.
Taxi to Dibek Restaurant.
TRY200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia from above during a magical hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
Pick-up service included.
TRY2,500, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cappadocia Cuisine Restaurant

Savour traditional home-cooked style meals featuring fresh ingredients.
Taxi from balloon landing site.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Goreme Open Air Museum

Explore the ancient rock-cut churches adorned with frescoes that tell tales of the region's history.
30-minute bus ride from lunch.
TRY100, 2 hours

5:30PM

Pasabag Valley

Admire the stunning fairy chimneys and unique rock formations in Pasabag Valley.
20-minute taxi ride.
TRY50, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

End your day with a delicious meal inside a cave, enjoying local wines and dishes.
Taxi back to Goreme.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Pamukkale's Thermal Springs

Pamukkale, Turkey

9:00AM

Drive from Cappadocia to Pamukkale

Travel through the scenic landscapes en route to the stunning thermal pools of Pamukkale.
Hire a car or take a bus.
TRY500, 7 hours

4:00PM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your accommodation and prepare for the evening soak.
Check-in at a local hotel.
TRY1,500, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Pamukkale Travertines

Walk on the bright white terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters—a natural wonder.
Short walk from hotel.
TRY150, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at White House Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Turkish and international dishes at this highly-rated restaurant.
5-minute walk from the travertines.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Ephesus Exploration

Selçuk, Turkey

8:00AM

Drive from Pamukkale to Selçuk

Head to the ancient city of Ephesus, basking in the history and beauty of the ruins.
Hire a car or take a local bus.
TRY200, 3 hours

11:00AM

Ephesus Archaeological Site

Step back in time as you explore the ruins of Ephesus, including the famous Library of Celsus.
Drive to the site entrance.
TRY250, 2.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Agora Restaurant

Savour local specialities in a friendly, atmospheric setting near the archaeological site.
Drive from Ephesus.
TRY200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Temple of Artemis

Visit the remnants of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
10-minute drive.
TRY50, 1 hour

5:00PM

St. John’s Basilica

Marvel at this beautiful basilica, the reputed burial site of John the Apostle.
10-minute taxi ride.
TRY40, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Odeon Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner with a menu featuring local produce and dishes.
10-minute drive back to Selçuk.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Returning to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Flight from Izmir to Istanbul

Fly back to Istanbul for your final day, with time to enjoy more cultural sites.
Drive to Izmir Airport.
TRY800, 2 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Pideci Selim Usta

Taste some delicious Turkish pide (flatbread with fillings) before starting your exploration.
Taxi from the airport to the restaurant.
TRY150, 1 hour

12:30PM

Basilica Cistern

Explore this impressive underground water reservoir adorned with columns and atmospheric lighting.
Taxi from breakfast.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Konyalı Lokantası

Enjoy local dishes in this restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus.
Walk or take a short taxi ride.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Spice Bazaar

Wander through the Spice Bazaar, indulging in the rich aromas of spices and Turkish delights.
Short walk from lunch.
TRY0 (shopping costs vary), 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Balikci Sabahattin

Savour fresh seafood in a charming traditional setting to end your Turkish adventure.
Taxi from the bazaar.
TRY400, 2 hours
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