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12-Day Nature and Culinary Adventure in Turkey

Viewed by 79 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your journey with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring an array of cheeses, olives, eggs, and freshly baked bread.
Located in the Beşiktaş district, about a 30-minute taxi ride from Sultanahmet.
TRY200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Hagia Sophia

Wander through the stunning architecture and rich history of this former cathedral and mosque—now a museum.
A short 10-minute walk from Van Kahvaltı Evi.
TRY150, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Savor authentic Anatolian dishes that showcase the diversity of Turkish cuisine with flavors from every region.
Located in Kadıköy, take a ferry from Eminönü which takes about 20 minutes.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulent history of the Ottoman Empire within the majestic palace grounds.
Take the ferry back and walk approximately 15 minutes from the ferry dock.
TRY300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy delicious kebabs and traditional Turkish mezes with a stunning view of the Golden Horn.
A short ten-minute taxi ride or a 30-minute walk overlooking the water.
TRY350, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 2: City and Culinary Delights

Istanbul, Turkey

8:30AM

Breakfast at Petit Four

Indulge in pastries and strong Turkish coffee at this quaint cafe.
Within walking distance of your hotel.
TRY80, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the labyrinth of stalls filled with textiles, jewelry, and spices, perfect for a colorful shopping experience.
A 10-minute walk from Petit Four.
TRY0 (browsing), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Treat yourself to their famous meatballs and a side of piyaz, a white bean salad.
Walk 15 minutes back to Sultanahmet.
TRY120, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Basilica Cistern

Marvel at the ancient underground water reservoir with its grand columns and atmospheric lighting.
A short 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
TRY300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, viewing palaces and picturesque shores.
Board at the docks near Eminönü, a 15-minute walk.
TRY400, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Dine overlooking the stunning skyline of Istanbul while savoring international and local dishes.
A 25-minute taxi ride from the docks.
TRY500, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 3: Cappadocia Adventure

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local pastries and fresh produce to fuel your day.
Open your door to enjoy breakfast at the hotel, as it is included.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience an unforgettable sunrise balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia.
The balloon company will provide pick-up from your hotel.
TRY2000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy lunch with authentic local dishes and cave-themed dining.
A 5-minute taxi ride from your hotel.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the stunning frescoed churches carved into rocks, reflecting the region’s Byzantine history.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
TRY300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Experience Cappadocia's unique pottery kebab among other traditional dishes.
A 15-minute walk from Göreme Open-Air Museum.
TRY350, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Cappadocia

Day 4: Nature Escapades

Cappadocia, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a healthy breakfast to start your day of adventure.
Breakfast in your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking in Ihlara Valley

Experience a breathtaking hike alongside the Melendiz River with stunning rock formations and ancient churches.
Arrange for a local tour which will pick you from the hotel.
TRY450, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Belisirma Restaurant

Enjoy lunch in a riverside setting with fresh trout and local favorites.
Located in the valley and is included in the hiking tour.
Included, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Derinkuyu Underground City

Explore the largest excavated underground city in Turkey, rich with history and fascinating architecture.
A guide will escort you from the valley tour.
TRY200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Rest at your hotel

After a day of exploration, relax in your unique cave hotel and unwind.
Return to your hotel in Göreme.
Included, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Seten Restaurant

Dine while enjoying local wines and dishes made from fresh ingredients based on ancient recipes.
A 10-minute walk from your hotel.
TRY400, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Cappadocia

Day 5: Pamukkale Wonders

Pamukkale, Turkey

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast to energize your journey ahead.
Breakfast in your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Pamukkale

Take a morning flight to Denizli (1 hour), then a 30-minute taxi to Pamukkale.
Travel via domestic flight.
TRY700, 1.5 hours (including taxi)

10:30AM

Visit Pamukkale Travertines

Walk barefoot along the dazzling white travertine terraces and soak your feet in thermal waters.
Located near your hotel, a short 5-minute taxi ride.
TRY300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at White Springs Cafe

Recharge with a meal featuring fresh, local dishes and refreshing drinks.
A 10-minute walk from the travertines.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Discover the historical ruins, including the amphitheater, necropolis, and ancient baths.
A short 5-minute walk from lunch.
TRY250, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pamukkale Restaurant

Dine while enjoying traditional Turkish meals with a lovely view of the travertines.
Located 15 minutes from Hierapolis walking.
TRY300, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Pamukkale

Day 6: Ephesus Excursion

Ephesus, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with a healthy breakfast before traveling.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Ephesus

Take a 30-minute taxi ride to Ephesus to explore its ancient ruins.
Tax from your hotel.
TRY200, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Explore Ephesus Ancient City

Walk through history among the well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Entry located on-site.
TRY350, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Artemis Restaurant

Savor a mix of local Anatolian cuisine and vegetarian dishes using fresh ingredients.
A short 10-minute ride from the ancient city.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit House of Virgin Mary

See the sacred site believed to be the last home of Mary.
A 15-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
TRY100, 1 hour

5:00PM

Travel back to Pamukkale

Return to Pamukkale to unwind after a day of exploration.
30-minute taxi ride back.
TRY200, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at the hotel

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at your accommodation as you share experiences of the day.
Dinner included at your hotel.
Included, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ephesus

Day 7: Izmir Delight

Izmir, Turkey

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a delightful breakfast including fresh bread and local cheeses.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Izmir

Take a bus from Pamukkale to Izmir (approximately 3 hours).
Take a bus from Pamukkale station.
TRY150, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kordon Boyu

Dine in the beautiful Kordon area with fresh seafood and stunning sea views.
Take a 15-minute taxi from the bus station.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit İzmir Clock Tower

Take photographs and enjoy walking around Konak Square.
Just a 10-minute walk from Kordon Boyu.
TRY0 (browsing), 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Kemeralti Bazaar

Dive into the vibrant market atmosphere with shops selling traditional goods, spices, and crafts.
A 15-minute walk from the Clock Tower.
TRY0 (browsing), 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Asansör Restaurant

Enjoy local dishes while gazing at a panoramic view of the city from the terrace.
A 15-minute walk from the bazaar.
TRY350, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Izmir

Day 8: Fethiye's Charm

Fethiye, Turkey

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a satisfying breakfast with regional specialties.
Breakfast in your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Fethiye

Take a bus from Izmir to Fethiye (approximately 3.5 hours).
Bus station to bus station.
TRY200, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pasa Kebab

Relish in flavorful kebabs cooked over an open flame in this charming restaurant.
Near the marina, a short taxi ride away.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Fethiye Castle

Climb up to the castle for stunning panoramic views of Fethiye and the bays.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Ölüdeniz Beach

Relax on one of Turkey's most famous beaches known for its turquoise water and beautiful views.
A bus ride from the city center (about 30 minutes).
TRY0 (browsing), 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Oludeniz Sunset Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and Mediterranean-style dishes while watching the sunset.
Returning to Fethiye, a 30-minute bus ride.
TRY350, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Fethiye

Day 9: Adventures in Oludeniz

Oludeniz, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Feast on a hearty breakfast with stunning ocean views.
Breakfast in your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Paragliding Experience

Experience the thrill of paragliding over the Blue Lagoon with breathtaking views down to the coast.
Book in advance, local transport will be included.
TRY1500, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Hangout

Relax at this laid-back eatery offering quick bites and delicious snacks.
Located near the beach, just a short walk.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Butterfly Valley

Take a boat through the stunning gorge to this serene natural wonder filled with butterflies.
A short boat ride from the beach.
TRY250, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cactus Restaurant

Indulge in grilled meats and local dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
Back on land, a 30-minute bus ride from the docks.
TRY300, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Oludeniz

Day 10: Antalya Bliss

Antalya, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start with an energizing breakfast for your day of exploration.
Breakfast in your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Antalya

Take a bus from Oludeniz to Antalya (approximately 3 hours).
Bus from Oludeniz to Antalya.
TRY200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kaleiçi

Savor fresh seafood and authentic Turkish dishes in Antalya's historic center.
A short walk from the bus station.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Hadrian's Gate

Admire the monumental arch built to honor the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 130 AD.
Located in the Kaleiçi district.
TRY0 (browsing), 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Old Town (Kaleiçi)

Stroll through the charming streets lined with Ottoman-era houses and shops.
Continue walking in the same area.
TRY0 (browsing), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Seratik

Enjoy a lavish dinner of meat and vegetable dishes prepared with local spices.
Located in the heart of Kaleiçi.
TRY400, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Antalya

Day 11: Relaxation and Nature

Antalya, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast prepared with local ingredients to fuel your day.
Breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Duden Waterfalls

Explore the beautiful cascades and lush surroundings in this serene park.
Travel via taxi from your hotel (approximately 30 minutes).
TRY100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Duden Waterfall Cafe

Dine in a peaceful setting while enjoying fresh salads and local dishes.
Located just next to the waterfalls.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Beach Time at Lara Beach

Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the sun and sea.
A taxi ride from the café (30 minutes).
TRY0 (browsing), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Casa

Savor Mediterranean recipes in a stylish atmosphere near the beach.
A short taxi ride from the beach (15 minutes).
TRY400, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Antalya

Day 12: Farewell Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Wrap up your Turkish adventure with a breakfast filled with local flavors.
Breakfast in your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel back to Istanbul

Take a morning flight from Antalya to Istanbul (1 hour).
Domestic flight from Antalya airport.
TRY700, 1.5 hours (including transfer)

11:00AM

Last Minute Shopping at Grand Bazaar

Revisit the Grand Bazaar for any last-minute gifts or souvenirs.
Transfer from the airport to the bazaar (30 minutes).
TRY0 (browsing), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ziya Şark Sofrası

Enjoy your last meal in Turkey with traditional dishes and delightful sweets.
10-minute walk from the bazaar.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Spice Bazaar

Visit the Spice Bazaar to indulge your senses and pick up some flavors to take home.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
TRY0 (browsing), 1 hour

5:00PM

Departure

Farewell as you depart for your flight home, carrying wonderful memories.
Heading to the airport, a taxi or metro ride duration of 45 minutes.
TRY300, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Istanbul
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