20-Day Turkey Adventure: Discovering History, Culture, and Cuisine

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on March 16, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh bread, cheeses, olives, cucumbers, and more, served in a cozy atmosphere.
TRY150, 90 minutes

11:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the grand structure that was once a cathedral, then a mosque, and now a museum showcasing stunning Byzantine architecture.
TRY200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Enjoy a hearty meal at this renowned restaurant known for its diverse Anatolian dishes and vibrant flavors.
TRY120, 90 minutes

3:00PM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Visit the opulent palace of the Ottoman sultans, filled with history, lavish decorations, and beautiful gardens.
TRY300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mikla

Savor stunning views of the city while enjoying innovative Turkish cuisine with a modern twist in this upscale restaurant.
TRY400, 2 hours

Day 2: Istanbul Explorations

Istanbul, Turkey on March 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Room

Enjoy a delightful mix of home-cooked Turkish dishes and international breakfast favorites in a charming environment.
TRY100, 90 minutes

10:30AM

Visit Blue Mosque

Marvel at the stunning blue tiles and impressive dome of this iconic mosque that epitomizes Istanbul's rich history.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Discover Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, perfect for souvenirs and local crafts.
Free, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine in this historical eatery located within the Spice Bazaar, famous for its traditional Turkish dishes.
TRY180, 90 minutes

4:00PM

Visit Basilica Cistern

Explore the ancient underground water reservoir with its atmospheric lighting and stunning columns.
TRY300, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Experience exceptional views of the Golden Horn while enjoying delicious kebabs and rice dishes at this popular spot.
TRY250, 2 hours

Day 3: Bursa Day Trip

Bursa, Turkey on March 18, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty hotel breakfast to fuel your day trip to Bursa.
Included, 60 minutes

9:00AM

Travel to Bursa

Take a scenic ferry ride from Istanbul to Bursa, known for its green scenery and historical significance.
TRY150, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Grand Mosque

Admire the beautiful architecture and intricate details of this iconic mosque, an important symbol of the city.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at İskele Restaurant

Savor traditional Bursa kebabs and the famous İskender in a restaurant with a view of the river.
TRY200, 90 minutes

2:00PM

Explore the Silk Market

Visit this vibrant market where silk has been traded for centuries, perfect for shopping and cultural insights.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Uludağ National Park

Take a cable car ride to this beautiful national park, offering stunning views and trails for short walks.
TRY200, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kelebek Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Turkish flavors with a modern twist, set in a cozy ambiance.
TRY250, 2 hours

Day 4: Istanbul to Iznik

Iznik, Turkey on March 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy buffet breakfast before heading to Iznik to explore the historical sites.
Included, 60 minutes

9:00AM

Travel to Iznik

Head to Iznik via private transport, known for its beautiful tiles and historical sites.
TRY200, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Ancient City of Nicaea

Explore the ruins of this ancient city known for the First Council of Nicaea and beautiful mosaics.
TRY100, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Koza Restaurant

Dine in a traditional setting famous for its fresh trout and local dishes.
TRY150, 90 minutes

3:00PM

Explore Iznik Tiles Workshop

Learn about the fascinating art of tile making that this city is famous for at one of the workshops.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Iznik Lake

Relax by the picturesque Iznik Lake, perfect for some serene views and photography.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Red House

Enjoy regional specialties like olives and lamb in a charming restaurant overlooking the lake.
TRY200, 2 hours

Day 5: Iznik to Pergamon

Pergamon, Turkey on March 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Cafe

Start with a light breakfast at a local café famous for its fresh pastries and strong coffee.
TRY80, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel to Pergamon

Drive to Pergamon to explore the ancient ruins of this once-powerful city.
TRY200, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit Acropolis of Pergamon

Discover the ancient structures and remarkable views from the acropolis that illustrate its historical significance.
TRY120, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Omak Restaurant

Try some delicious local dishes with an aromatic selection of rices and meats at this charming eatery.
TRY160, 90 minutes

4:00PM

Explore Asklepion

Visit the ruins of the ancient medical complex dedicated to Asclepius, the god of health.
TRY100, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pergamon Steakhouse

Enjoy a hearty steak dinner at this popular local steakhouse with a rustic charm.
TRY250, 2 hours

Day 6: Ephesus Discovery

Ephesus, Turkey on March 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with an extensive breakfast at the hotel before heading to Ephesus.
Included, 60 minutes

9:00AM

Travel to Ephesus

Depart early for Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Ephesus

Explore the extensive ruins including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre, showcasing Roman architecture.
TRY250, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Selçuk Efes Restaurant

Taste authentic Turkish cuisine with an emphasis on seafood at this well-reviewed restaurant.
TRY180, 90 minutes

3:30PM

Visit House of Virgin Mary

See the reputed final home of Mary, mother of Jesus, a significant pilgrimage site.
TRY50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore St. John’s Basilica

Discover the remnants of this fascinating basilica, believed to be the burial site of St. John.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Agora Restaurant

Indulge in a wonderful dinner featuring a variety of cuisines within a traditional setting.
TRY220, 2 hours

Day 7: Selçuk to Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey on March 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a robust breakfast before departing for Pamukkale.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel to Pamukkale

Make your way to Pamukkale, famous for its thermal springs and travertine terraces.
TRY150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Pamukkale Travertines

Walk along the stunning travertine terraces and enjoy the natural pools created by mineral-rich waters.
TRY400, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at White Springs Restaurant

Dine on fresh, local fare while enjoying beautiful views of the travertines.
TRY150, 90 minutes

4:30PM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Wander through this ancient city known for its well-preserved ruins and impressive theatre.
TRY200, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pamukkale Restaurant

Enjoy delicious traditional dishes in a relaxed atmosphere at this charming eatery.
TRY180, 2 hours

Day 8: Pamukkale to Fethiye

Fethiye, Turkey on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a generous breakfast before heading to Fethiye.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel to Fethiye

Arrive in the charming town of Fethiye, located along the beautiful southern coast.
TRY200, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit Fethiye Fish Market

Explore the vibrant fish market, where you can choose your seafood and have it cooked right in front of you.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Fish Market Restaurant

Enjoy freshly cooked seafood from the Fethiye Fish Market, a local favorite.
TRY250, 90 minutes

3:00PM

Explore Lycian Rock Tombs

Admire the ancient rock tombs carved into the cliffs, showcasing the unique Lycian culture.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Oludeniz Beach

Relax at one of Turkey’s most famous beaches, known for its stunning lagoon and crystal-clear waters.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Taka Restaurant

Enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine with spectacular views over Fethiye Bay.
TRY300, 2 hours

Day 9: Fethiye Adventure

Fethiye, Turkey on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a refreshing breakfast to prepare for a day of adventure.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Boat Trip to Butterfly Valley

Take a scenic boat trip to the breathtaking Butterfly Valley, known for its stunning cliffs and natural beauty.
TRY250, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Beach Cafe

Relax at a beach café and enjoy some snacks while soaking in the sun.
TRY120, 90 minutes

3:30PM

Visit Kayaköy Ghost Town

Explore the abandoned village of Kayaköy, rich in history, with many houses preserved.
TRY100, 90 minutes

5:30PM

Explore Fethiye Marina

Stroll through the marina area, vibrant with shops and cafes, perfect for people watching.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Karbeyaz Restaurant

End the day with a tasty dinner focusing on locally sourced ingredients with contemporary flair.
TRY200, 90 minutes

Day 10: Antalya Journey

Antalya, Turkey on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a breakfast spread including local specialties, perfect for the day ahead.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel to Antalya

Travel along the stunning coastline to reach Antalya, a vibrant city on the Mediterranean coast.
TRY250, 3 hours

1:00PM

Visit Kaleiçi Old Town

Explore the historic old town with its narrow streets, wooden houses, shops, and cafes.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining

Indulge in a gourmet experience with exquisite cuisine and a beautiful setting.
TRY400, 90 minutes

5:00PM

Visit Düden Waterfalls

Take in the natural beauty of the waterfalls, a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
TRY100, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at 7 Mehmet

Savor traditional Turkish meals with stunning views of the Mediterranean at this acclaimed restaurant.
TRY300, 2 hours

Day 11: Explore Konya

Konya, Turkey on March 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before your exploration.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel to Konya

Head to Konya, the city of Rumi, rich in culture and history.
TRY250, 3 hours

1:00PM

Visit Mevlana Museum

Explore the museum dedicated to the famous poet Rumi and the Whirling Dervishes.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Konyalı Restaurant

Indulge in local dishes, such as Etli Ekmek, a traditional flatbread with meat.
TRY130, 90 minutes

4:00PM

Visit Alaeddin Mosque and Park

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at this historic site, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Free, 90 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Somatçı Fihi Ma Fih

Experience authentic Konya cuisine with a variety of local flavors in a charming setting.
TRY180, 90 minutes

Day 12: Cappadocia Wonders

Cappadocia, Turkey on March 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a delightful breakfast, preparing for a day in the magical landscapes of Cappadocia.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience breathtaking views of Cappadocia's fairy chimneys during a hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
TRY1000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the exquisite rock-cut churches and stunning frescoes in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
TRY250, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Dine in a unique cave setting while tasting local specialties in the heart of Cappadocia.
TRY220, 90 minutes

4:30PM

Visit Uchisar Castle

Climb to the top of one of the highest points in Cappadocia for stunning panoramic views.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Seten Restaurant

Enjoy delicious traditional dishes with a modern twist in a beautiful setting with views of the valleys.
TRY300, 2 hours

Day 13: Cappadocia Exploration

Cappadocia, Turkey on March 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a full breakfast before diving deeper into Cappadocia's wonders.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Visit Ihlara Valley

Hike through the scenic valley filled with lush vegetation and ancient rock-cut churches.
TRY100, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Belisirma Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant with delicious local dishes and serene views.
TRY150, 90 minutes

3:00PM

Explore Derinkuyu Underground City

Discover the fascinating underground city, which once provided refuge for thousands.
TRY150, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Pasabag Valley

Explore the unique fairy chimneys and rock formations, perfect for photography.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy traditional home-cooked meals served in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxation after a busy day.
TRY200, 90 minutes

Day 14: Kayseri Adventure

Kayseri, Turkey on March 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a buffet breakfast before exploring Kayseri.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel to Kayseri

Drive to Kayseri, a city with a rich history and delicious food.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Kayseri Castle

Explore the historic castle, offering great views of the city and its surroundings.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Kaskal Restaurant

Taste the famous manti (Turkish dumplings) at this popular dining spot.
TRY180, 90 minutes

2:30PM

Explore Gevher Nesibe Museum

Visit the historical medical museum that showcases the medical practices of the past.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Hunat Hatun Mosque

Discover the architectural beauty of this mosque built in the 13th century.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Mahbube Restaurant

Indulge in authentic local cuisine with a homely touch in this delightful establishment.
TRY200, 90 minutes

Day 15: Aksaray Ventures

Aksaray, Turkey on March 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast to kickstart your day in Aksaray.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel to Aksaray

Head to Aksaray, with picturesque landscapes and rich history await.
TRY150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Sultanhanı Caravanserai

Discover this historic caravanserai from the Seljuk period, showcasing beautiful architecture.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore Aksaray Museum

Visit the museum that offers insight into the region's history and culture.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Güler Restaurant

Enjoy local dishes and fresh ingredients at this popular eatery.
TRY150, 90 minutes

3:00PM

Visit the Ancient City of Caravansarai

Explore the historical remains of caravans and the trade routes of the ancient times.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sucuoglu Restaurant

Savor traditional Turkish dishes in a friendly atmosphere with great service.
TRY200, 90 minutes

Day 16: Ankara Visit

Ankara, Turkey on March 31, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a generous breakfast before heading to Ankara.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel to Ankara

Journey to Turkey's capital, filled with history and cultural sites.
TRY250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Anıtkabir

Pay your respects at the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Turkey's founder and first president.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Trilye Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood with a modern twist in this elegant restaurant.
TRY300, 90 minutes

3:00PM

Explore Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

Discover a rich collection of artifacts that showcase Turkey's diverse history.
TRY150, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Caffe Nero

Enjoy a casual dining experience with a menu that includes international and Turkish options.
TRY180, 90 minutes

Day 17: Trabzon Introduction

Trabzon, Turkey on April 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a fresh breakfast before heading to Trabzon.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel to Trabzon

Travel through lush landscapes to reach the stunning Black Sea region.
TRY200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Visit Sumela Monastery

Explore this historic monastery perched on a cliff with breathtaking views.
TRY130, 2 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Yali Restaurant

Indulge in delicious local dishes, focusing on seafood specialties typical of the Black Sea region.
TRY200, 90 minutes

5:00PM

Explore Trabzon Hagia Sophia

Discover this beautiful mosque that was originally a church, showcasing unique architecture.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Kadir Restaurant

Enjoy local Black Sea cuisine at this popular, bustling restaurant.
TRY220, 90 minutes

Day 18: Trabzon Leisure Day

Trabzon, Turkey on April 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast before spending the day exploring Trabzon at your own pace.
Included, 60 minutes

11:00AM

Visit Boztepe Hill

Enjoy panoramic views of Trabzon and the Black Sea from this scenic hill.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hüsrev Restaurant

Savor regional specialties that highlight the maritime flavors of Trabzon.
TRY150, 90 minutes

3:00PM

Visit Atatürk Mansion

Explore the beautifully landscaped garden and mansion that belonged to Turkey's founding father.
TRY50, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Çayeli Cafe

Enjoy local tea along with snacks while taking in the delightful views of the city.
TRY100, 90 minutes

Day 19: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on April 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a healthy breakfast as you prepare to return to Istanbul.
Included, 60 minutes

9:30AM

Travel back to Istanbul

Journey back to Istanbul enjoying the scenery along the way.
TRY350, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Nefis Bufe

Enjoy quick local bites like kebabs and pide at this casual eatery.
TRY150, 60 minutes

3:00PM

Free Time in Istanbul

Spend your afternoon shopping or visiting local cafes and markets.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Turkuaz Restaurant

Celebrate your time in Turkey with a memorable dinner featuring traditional dishes and cultural performances.
TRY350, 2 hours

Day 20: Departure

Istanbul, Turkey on April 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before your departure.
Included, 60 minutes

10:00AM

Check-out and Departure

Check-out from the hotel and head to the airport for your onward journey.
Free, N/A