How many days do you need in Turkey?

This itinerary covers 12 days in Turkey, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Turkey?

Plan your perfect 12 days trip to Turkey. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

12-Day Family Friendly Adventure in Turkey

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

12:00PM

Check-in to Hotel

After arriving in Istanbul, check into a family-friendly hotel in Sultanahmet area that is close to major attractions.

TRY1500, 2 hours

2:00PM

Hagia Sophia Visit

Explore the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stunning architecture.

TRY200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Basilica Cistern Tour

Discover the fascinating underground Basilica Cistern, filled with ancient history and beautiful ambient lighting.

TRY300, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

End the day with delicious kebabs at Hamdi, a restaurant known for its great views of the Golden Horn.

TRY500, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 2: Explore More of Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pando

Start the day with a hearty Turkish breakfast at Pando, known for simit and fresh cheeses.

TRY200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Topkapi Palace

Visit Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman sultans, for a glimpse into royal life.

TRY400, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Savor delicious meatballs at Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a family favorite.

TRY350, 1 hour

1:30PM

Grand Bazaar

Stroll through the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Spice Bazaar

Wander through the colorful rows of spices, sweets, and teas at the Spice Bazaar.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Tantuni

Try Tantuni for delicious Turkish wraps that the kids will love.

TRY300, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 3: Cappadocia Adventure

Cappadocia, Turkey

9:00AM

Flight to Cappadocia

Take a morning flight to Cappadocia, getting ready for an exciting day ahead.

TRY1000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-in Hotel

Check into a unique cave hotel in Göreme, creating a memorable stay for the family.

TRY2000, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy traditional pot kebabs, a local specialty, in a cozy setting.

TRY400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Goreme Open Air Museum

Visit the fascinating Göreme Open-Air Museum to see ancient rock-cut churches adorned with frescoes.

TRY300, 2 hours

4:30PM

Pigeon Valley Hike

Take a short hike in Pigeon Valley, where you can admire unique rock formations and landscapes.

Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Seten Restaurant

Dine on local dishes and enjoy the views overlooking the fairy chimneys.

TRY500, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Cappadocia

Day 4: Hot Air Ballooning and More

Cappadocia, Turkey

5:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the breathtaking sunrise over Cappadocia in a hot air balloon, an unforgettable family activity.

TRY2000, 3 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast spread at your cave hotel after your morning adventure.

Included in stay, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Pasabag Monks Valley

Explore the unique fairy chimneys in Pasabag, also known as Monks Valley.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Savor a delicious homemade meal at the popular Topdeck Cave Restaurant.

TRY450, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Avanos Pottery Workshop

Engage in a hands-on pottery workshop in Avanos, known for its historic pottery tradition.

TRY300 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Uranos Sarikaya

Enjoy dinner at a delightful restaurant situated in a cave, offering delicious local cuisine.

TRY500, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Cappadocia

Day 5: Relaxation at Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

9:30AM

Travel to Pamukkale

Take a bus to Pamukkale, known for its stunning travertine terraces.

TRY400, 8 hours (including travel time)

5:30PM

Check-in Hotel in Pamukkale

Arrive at your hotel and unwind before exploring the terraces.

TRY1500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at White House Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner at White House Restaurant, renowned for its authentic Turkish cuisine.

TRY400, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Pamukkale

Day 6: Exploring Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before venturing out.

Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Pamukkale Travertine Terraces

Visit the famous travertine terraces early to avoid the crowds at this natural wonder.

TRY300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kayas Restaurant

Grab a delicious lunch at Kayas, focusing on locally sourced ingredients.

TRY350, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hierapolis Ancient City

Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, which offer intriguing history and beautiful views.

TRY200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Cleopatra's Pool

Enjoy a refreshing dip in Cleopatra's Pool, with ancient ruins beneath the water.

TRY400, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

End the day at your hotel dining on a variety of Turkish dishes.

TRY400, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Pamukkale

Day 7: Journey to Fethiye

Fethiye, Turkey

8:00AM

Travel to Fethiye

Take a bus from Pamukkale to Fethiye, enjoying scenic views on the way.

TRY400, 3 hours

11:00AM

Check-in Hotel

Arrive in Fethiye and check into a family-friendly hotel close to the marina.

TRY2000, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Pasa Kebab

Refuel with tasty kebabs at Pasa Kebab, a favorite among locals.

TRY350, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Fethiye Marina

Stroll along the picturesque marina and enjoy some family shopping at local boutiques.

Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Butterfly Valley

Take a boat to Butterfly Valley, a hidden gem where you can find beautiful butterflies and stunning landscapes.

TRY500 round trip, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Mozaik Bahçe

Savor delectable meals with a view in Mozaik Bahçe, a charming restaurant set in a garden.

TRY500, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Fethiye

Day 8: Fethiye Beach Day

Fethiye, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a fun beach day.

Included in stay, 1 hour

10:30AM

Oludeniz Blue Lagoon

Spend the day at the famous Oludeniz Beach and enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

TRY100, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Lunch at Fidgets Restaurant

Have a delightful lunch at Fidgets while enjoying the stunning beach view.

TRY600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Paragliding Experience

For the adventurous family, try tandem paragliding over Oludeniz, experiencing majestic views from above.

TRY1500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend a few leisurely hours relaxing at the beach, enjoying the sun and sand.

Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sandinos

Conclude the day with a dinner at Sandinos, basking in the coastal atmosphere.

TRY600, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Fethiye

Day 9: Cultural Day in Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

8:00AM

Travel to Ephesus

Depart for Ephesus via bus, gearing up for a day of history.

TRY400, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Yayla Restaurant

Grab a quick lunch at Yayla Restaurant known for its delicious pide and kebabs.

TRY400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ephesus Ancient City

Explore the impressive ancient ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theatre.

TRY500, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Temple of Artemis

See the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Trilyali Restaurant

Savor delicious local fish at Trilyali Restaurant, with a charming service.

TRY600, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Ephesus

Day 10: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Travel to Istanbul

Take a flight back to Istanbul for the final leg of your adventure.

TRY800, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-in Hotel

Arrive in Istanbul and check into your hotel to relax.

TRY1500, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrası

Delight in a variety of traditional dishes at Ciya Sofrası, famed for its rich flavors.

TRY500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Dolmabahce Palace

Discover the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, a must-visit during your stay in Istanbul.

TRY350, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll in Taksim Square

Enjoy a leisurely stroll in Taksim Square, a lively part of the city enriched with shops.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Magnus

Celebrate your last night with a sumptuous dinner at Magnus, offering both local and international dishes.

TRY800, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 11: Istanbul Leisure Day

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Relax and enjoy breakfast at your hotel, prepping for a leisurely last day.

Included in stay, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Galata Tower

Climb up the Galata Tower for stunning panoramic views over the city.

TRY100, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Galata Bridge

Feast on fish sandwiches at one of the tasty kiosks below the Galata Bridge.

TRY200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Boat tour on Bosphorus

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon on a boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, viewing iconic landmarks.

TRY400, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore and Shop at Nişantaşı

Discover upscale shops and cafes in Nişantaşı, a chic neighborhood in Istanbul.

Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Seven Hills Restaurant

Wrap up your fantastic Turkish adventure with a farewell dinner overlooking the city skyline.

TRY800, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Istanbul

Day 12: Departure from Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor your last breakfast at the hotel before checking out.

Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Check-out and Departure

Prepare for check-out and gather memories from a fulfilling trip to Turkey.

TRY500, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Istanbul

Step 1 Outline Preview:

12-Day Family Friendly Adventure in Turkey

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Explore More of Istanbul

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Cappadocia Adventure

9:00AM

11:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

7:30PM

Day 4: Hot Air Ballooning and More

5:30AM

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Relaxation at Pamukkale

9:30AM

5:30PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Exploring Pamukkale

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Journey to Fethiye

8:00AM

11:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

7:30PM

Day 8: Fethiye Beach Day

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 9: Cultural Day in Ephesus

8:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 10: Return to Istanbul

9:00AM

11:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 11: Istanbul Leisure Day

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 12: Departure from Istanbul

8:00AM

9:30AM

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