Exploring Turkey: A Five-Day Adventure from Bahrain

Day 1: Istanbul Arrival

Istanbul, Turkey on March 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh cheeses, olives, tomatoes, and homemade jams. It's a local favorite that reflects the rich breakfast culture of Turkey.
TRY150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum.
TRY200, 2 hours

11:30AM

Discover Topkapi Palace

Wander through the opulent Topkapi Palace, home to generations of Ottoman sultans, and be amazed by its lavish rooms and beautiful gardens.
TRY300, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Zübeyir Ocakbaşı

Enjoy a delicious lunch of skewered meats and traditional mezes at this popular grill house known for its authentic flavors and ambiance.
TRY200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Spend the afternoon browsing the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, perfect for picking up souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Indulge in a traditional Turkish dinner with views of the Golden Horn at Hamdi Restaurant, famous for its kebabs and baklava.
TRY250, 2 hours

Day 2: Cappadocia Exploration

Cappadocia, Turkey on March 29, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Fuel your day with a hearty Turkish breakfast at a local café, including fresh bread, olives, and eggs.
TRY100, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the breathtaking views of Cappadocia's fairy chimneys and valleys from a hot air balloon at sunrise.
TRY2000, 3 hours

11:30AM

Visit Goreme Open-Air Museum

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site filled with rock-cut churches and frescoes that date back to the Byzantine era.
TRY150, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Savor traditional pottery kebabs in a cozy setting that showcases authentic Cappadocian flavors.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Hiking in Ihlara Valley

Enjoy a scenic hike through the Ihlara Valley, exploring ancient churches carved into the cliffs along the way.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Seten Restaurant

End your day with dinner at Seten, where you can enjoy tasty mezes and authentic local dishes with a charming ambiance.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Pamukkale Wonders

Pamukkale, Turkey on March 30, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hotel in Cappadocia before departing to Pamukkale.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Marvel at the stunning white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site.
TRY150, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at White Springs Restaurant

Taste Turkish dishes while enjoying a view of the terraces at this nearby restaurant known for its freshness and local flavors.
TRY150, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Discover the ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient spa city with well-preserved relics and a stunning ancient theater.
TRY100, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Cotton Castle

Take time to relax on the thermal waters of Pamukkale, soaking in the mineral-rich pools and enjoying the view.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kayas Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local grilled specialties at this laid-back eatery popular with both locals and visitors.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Ephesus Exploration

Ephesus, Turkey on March 31, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Bakery

Start your day with fresh breads and pastries from a local bakery in Ephesus, perfect for fueling your adventures.
TRY50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ephesus Ancient Ruins

Spend the morning exploring the magnificent ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater.
TRY250, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Taverna Ephesus

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional dishes at this popular taverna known for its friendly service.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit House of Virgin Mary

Explore the serene House of Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site with a rich history and scenic surroundings.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Ephesus Archaeological Museum

Visit the museum to see artifacts unearthed from the ancient city, giving context to your exploration of Ephesus.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Agora Restaurant

Savor local cuisine at Agora, known for its organic meals and tranquil terrace setting surrounded by trees.
TRY250, 2 hours

Day 5: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on April 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Taksim Square

Grab a light breakfast at a café in bustling Taksim Square, where you can enjoy people-watching and local life.
TRY100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Galata Tower

Climb to the top of Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city and to appreciate its fascinating history.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Shopping in Istiklal Street

Stroll along Istiklal Street, home to boutiques, shops, and cafes, ideal for last-minute souvenirs and gifts.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kiva Han

Delight in traditional Turkish dishes at Kiva Han, renowned for its kebabs and warming ambiance.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Spice Bazaar

Indulge your senses at the Spice Bazaar, filled with aromas from herbs and spices, perfect for picking up local delights.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Mikla

End your Turkish adventure with dinner at the upscale Mikla, known for its innovative dishes and rooftop vistas of Istanbul.
TRY500, 2 hours

6:30PM

Departure to Airport

Head to the airport for your return flight to Bahrain, taking with you unforgettable memories of Turkey.
Free, 1 hour