7-Day Budget-Friendly Adventure in Turkey

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on March 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Privato

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring olives, cheese, eggs, and fresh bread at the charming Cafe Privato, known for its local flavor.
TRY100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing beautiful mosaics and rich history.
TRY200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the bustling Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for local handicrafts, spices, and textiles.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Khorasani Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal of kebabs and mezes at the budget-friendly Khorasani, popular for its authentic taste.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Blue Mosque

Admire the stunning architecture and intricate tile work of the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks.
FREE, 1 hour

3:30PM

Basilica Cistern

Explore the mysterious underground Basilica Cistern, an engineering marvel historically used for water storage.
TRY300, 1 hour

5:00PM

Sunset at Galata Bridge

Enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset over the Golden Horn from Galata Bridge; a perfect photo spot.
FREE, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Savor stunning views paired with delicious traditional Turkish dishes at Hamdi, famous for its kebabs and baklava.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Travel to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on March 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hotel featuring local pastries and fresh fruits before heading out.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Cappadocia

Take an early morning bus ride to Cappadocia, known for its unique rock formations and fairy chimneys.
TRY500, 12 hours including stops

9:00PM

Check into Local Guesthouse

Settle into your budget-friendly guesthouse, providing all basic amenities and a cozy atmosphere.
TRY400, 1.5 hours

11:00PM

Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

End your day with local Anatolian cuisine at this unique cave restaurant, famous for its intimate ambiance.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Cappadocia Exploration

Cappadocia, Turkey on March 19, 2025

7:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Catch the sunrise over Cappadocia from a hot air balloon, offering stunning aerial views of the unique landscapes.
TRY1500, 3 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Refuel with a hearty breakfast at a local café featuring eggs, breads, and Turkish tea.
TRY70, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Goreme Open Air Museum

Explore the rock-cut churches and frescoes dating back to the Byzantine era at this UNESCO World Heritage site.
TRY300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pottery Kebab Restaurant

Taste the delicious pottery kebabs cooked in traditional clay pots, served with local side dishes.
TRY120, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hiking in Ihlara Valley

Discover the picturesque trails in Ihlara Valley, surrounded by nature and serene views, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Uchisar Castle

Climb to the top of Uchisar Castle for panoramic views of Cappadocia and its enchanting landscapes.
TRY200, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner in a historic setting at Dibek, known for its authentic flavors and ambiance.
TRY180, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Pamukkale Journey

Pamukkale, Turkey on March 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a traditional Turkish breakfast at your guesthouse before departing for Pamukkale.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Pamukkale

Take a bus to Pamukkale, famous for its white travertine terraces and thermal springs.
TRY500, 7 hours including stops

4:00PM

Visit Pamukkale Travertines

Walk across the stunning travertine terraces of Pamukkale and enjoy the therapeutic thermal waters.
TRY300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at White Springs Restaurant

Delight in a meal overlooking the travertines at this budget-friendly restaurant, serving local dishes.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Discover Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey on March 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a healthy breakfast at your hotel before setting off to explore Ephesus.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Ephesus

Join a short bus journey to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.
TRY150, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Ephesus Ruins

Wander through the vast ruins of Ephesus including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
TRY400, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ejder Restaurant

Indulge in traditional Turkish dishes at Ejder Restaurant, known for its excellent service and cozy atmosphere.
TRY130, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit House of Virgin Mary

Pay a visit to this significant Christian pilgrimage site located just a few kilometers from Ephesus.
TRY50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Izmir

Travel back to Izmir, where you can relax and explore a bit of the city.
TRY150, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Asansor Restaurant

Dine at Asansor for a taste of local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and local specialties.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Explore Izmir

Izmir, Turkey on March 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe des Cafes

Try the local pastries and excellent coffee at Cafe des Cafes, a local favorite for breakfast.
TRY80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Kadifekale (Velvet Castle)

Explore the historical ruins of Kadifekale, offering stunning views of Izmir and the Aegean Sea.
FREE, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Stroll Along Kordon

Take a relaxing walk along the picturesque Kordon promenade with its cafes and stunning sea views.
FREE, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Doy Doy Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Doy Doy, famous for its delicious pide and other Turkish dishes.
TRY120, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Konak Square

Experience the heart of Izmir at Konak Square, known for its historical clock tower and bustling surroundings.
FREE, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Agora Open Air Museum

Discover the remnants of the ancient Agora, showcasing the rich history of the city.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Networking and Souvenir Shopping

Spend the evening mingling with locals and picking up affordable souvenirs at the local market.
FREE, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Balikçim Restaurant

Savor fresh fish dishes at this local restaurant renowned for its seafood and vibrant atmosphere.
TRY220, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hotel featuring local delights before returning to Istanbul.
FREE, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel back to Istanbul

Take a bus back to Istanbul for your final day in the city filled with memories.
TRY500, 12 hours including stops

9:00PM

Explore Taksim Square

Experience the vibrant life of Taksim Square; enjoy cafes, shops, and street performances.
FREE, 2 hours

11:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Mikla

Enjoy a spectacular fine dining experience with city views and innovative Turkish cuisine at Mikla.
TRY500, 2 hours