12-Day Comprehensive Turkey Tour: Culture, Heritage & Adventure

Day 1: Discover Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on February 28, 2025

8:00 AM

Hagia Sophia

Start your day by visiting this architectural wonder, which has served as a cathedral and mosque, now a museum showcasing breathtaking mosaics.
TRY 200, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Blue Mosque

Just a short walk away, explore the beautiful Blue Mosque renowned for its exquisite blue tiles and stunning architecture.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Topkapi Palace

Head to Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning artifacts.
TRY 300, 2.5 hours

3:00 PM

Grand Bazaar

Spend the afternoon wandering through the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for Turkish delights, spices, and souvenirs.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Galata Tower

End your day with stunning views of the city from the Galata Tower, a historic landmark providing a perfect photo opportunity.
TRY 100, 1 hour

Day 2: Cultural Gems

Istanbul, Turkey on March 1, 2025

9:00 AM

Dolmabahce Palace

Visit the opulent Dolmabahce Palace, known for its extravagant décor and beautiful gardens overlooking the Bosphorus.
TRY 300, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Basilica Cistern

Explore the ancient Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir famous for its impressive columns and serene ambiance.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Spice Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the fragrant atmosphere of the Spice Bazaar, where you can taste and buy a variety of spices and sweets.
Free, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Suleymaniye Mosque

Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture known for its vast courtyard and serene atmosphere.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Istiklal Avenue

Stroll down Istiklal Avenue, a vibrant street with shops, cafés, and street performers, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Free, 2 hours

Day 3: Journey to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on March 2, 2025

7:00 AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Begin your day with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over Fairy Chimneys and Cappadocia's surreal landscapes.
TRY 2000, 3 hours including breakfast

10:30 AM

Goreme Open-Air Museum

Discover the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum, home to beautiful rock-cut churches and fascinating frescoes.
TRY 150, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Pasabag Valley

Explore Pasabag Valley, known for its remarkable fairy chimneys and stunning natural scenery, perfect for photo opportunities.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Devrent Valley

Visit Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley, where unique rock formations resemble various animals and characters.
Free, 1 hour

Day 4: Cappadocia Adventures

Cappadocia, Turkey on March 3, 2025

8:00 AM

Derinkuyu Underground City

Explore the fascinating Derinkuyu Underground City, a sprawling subterranean network that once sheltered ancient inhabitants.
TRY 100, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Ihlara Valley

Hike through the picturesque Ihlara Valley, dotted with rock-cut churches and a tranquil river, offering an escape into nature.
Free, 3 hours

3:00 PM

Uchisar Castle

Visit Uchisar Castle for panoramic views of Cappadocia, perched on its highest point, it offers unique rock formations in the distance.
TRY 100, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Avanos Pottery Workshop

Join a pottery workshop in Avanos and learn the art of traditional Turkish pottery-making from local artisans.
TRY 50, 2 hours

Day 5: Pamukkale Serenity

Pamukkale, Turkey on March 4, 2025

10:00 AM

Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Relax in the stunning white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, a natural wonder with therapeutic thermal waters.
TRY 300, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Hierapolis Ancient City

Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, home to ruins including well-preserved amphitheaters and ancient baths.
TRY 150, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Cleopatra's Pool

Discover Cleopatra's Pool, known for its ancient ruins submerged in thermal water, perfect for a refreshing dip.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Explore Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey on March 5, 2025

9:00 AM

Ephesus Ruins

Wander through the incredible ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities, and visit the iconic Library of Celsus.
TRY 200, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Temple of Artemis

Visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and reflect on its historical significance.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

House of Virgin Mary

Explore the House of Virgin Mary, a serene pilgrimage site believed to be her final resting place, offering peaceful surroundings.
TRY 50, 1 hour

Day 7: Bodrum Bliss

Bodrum, Turkey on March 6, 2025

10:00 AM

Bodrum Castle

Visit Bodrum Castle, a stunning fortress built by the Knights of St. John, now housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
TRY 100, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Bodrum Marina

Stroll along Bodrum Marina, enjoy the view of the yachts and vibrant atmosphere, with options for shopping and dining.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

Explore what remains of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, another of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, steeped in history.
Free, 1 hour

Day 8: Antalya Coastline

Antalya, Turkey on March 7, 2025

10:00 AM

Old Town (Kaleici)

Discover Kaleici, Antalya's charming old town, filled with historical architecture, narrow streets, and delightful shops.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Hadrian's Gate

Marvel at Hadrian's Gate, a beautifully preserved ancient Roman triumphal arch that signifies the entrance to the old town.
Free, 30 minutes

1:30 PM

Antalya Archaeological Museum

Visit the Antalya Archaeological Museum, one of the most important archaeological museums showcasing artifacts from ancient civilizations.
TRY 100, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Duden Waterfalls

Relax at Duden Waterfalls, where you can enjoy beautiful views and tranquility as the water cascades into the sea.
Free, 2 hours

Day 9: Fethiye Getaway

Fethiye, Turkey on March 8, 2025

10:00 AM

Oludeniz Beach

Spend a leisurely day at Oludeniz Beach, famous for its turquoise waters and paragliding opportunities, offering stunning coastal views.
Free, 3 hours

1:30 PM

Butterfly Valley

Take a boat trip to Butterfly Valley, a stunning natural sanctuary filled with diverse flora and unique butterflies.
TRY 50 for the boat, 2.5 hours

4:30 PM

Kayaköy Ghost Village

Explore the abandoned village of Kayaköy, known for its ghostly charm and historical significance as a former Greek settlement.
Free, 1.5 hours

Day 10: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on March 9, 2025

10:00 AM

Spice Bazaar

Explore the vibrant Spice Bazaar, filled with exotic spices, sweets, and Turkish delights perfect for souvenirs.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Nardis Jazz Club

Relax at Nardis Jazz Club for lunch while enjoying live jazz in a cozy atmosphere overlooking the Golden Horn.
Average meal price: TRY 150, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Suleymaniye Mosque

Revisit the magnificent Suleymaniye Mosque for a peaceful afternoon and to take in its beauty again.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Chora Church

Explore Chora Church, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and beautiful frescoes.
TRY 100, 1.5 hours

Day 11: Final Discoveries

Istanbul, Turkey on March 10, 2025

9:00 AM

Beylerbeyi Palace

Visit Beylerbeyi Palace, a picturesque summer residence of the Ottoman sultans, set on the Bosphorus.
TRY 150, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Ortakoy Mosque

Stop by the charming Ortakoy Mosque located by the Bosphorus, famous for its beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Fener and Balat Districts

Explore the colorful and historic Fener and Balat districts, known for their vibrant houses and rich cultural heritage.
Free, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Galata Bridge

Walk across the iconic Galata Bridge, popular for its beautiful views and bustling atmosphere, ideal for people-watching.
Free, 1 hour

Day 12: Wrap Up in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on March 11, 2025

10:00 AM

Visit Princes' Islands

Take a ferry to the beautiful Princes' Islands, known for their charming streets and absence of motor vehicles.
TRY 150 for ferry, 5 hours, including exploration time

4:00 PM

Explore Taksim Square

Return to the mainland to explore Taksim Square, a vibrant public space that serves as a cultural and commercial hub.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Bosphorus, savoring traditional Turkish dishes.
Average meal price: TRY 250, 2 hours