8-Day Epic Turkey Adventure: Exploring Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Pamukkale

Day 1: Istanbul Arrival

Istanbul, Turkey on March 22, 2025

10:00AM

Hagia Sophia

This architectural marvel served as a cathedral and mosque and is now a museum, showcasing stunning mosaics and a rich history that dates back to 537 AD.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs (köfte) with a side of piyaz (bean salad) in this historic eatery widely known for its authentic flavors.
TRY150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Topkapi Palace

Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, this palace complex boasts exquisite architecture and artifact collections that represent centuries of history.
TRY500, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Grand Bazaar

Dive into one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets where you can shop for unique souvenirs, textiles, and spices to take home.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Famous for its kebabs and stunning views of the Golden Horn, this restaurant provides a quintessential Turkish dining experience.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Pierre Loti

This hillside cafe offers a delicious traditional Turkish breakfast with breathtaking views of the Golden Horn.
TRY100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Basilica Cistern

Step below ground to explore this ancient underground water reservoir characterized by beautiful columns and atmospheric lighting.
TRY300, 1 hour

11:00AM

Chora Church

Famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, this church offers insight into the art and history of the Byzantine era.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciya Sofrasi

Savor regional Turkish dishes, with a focus on Anatolian cuisine, prepared meticulously to highlight authentic flavors.
TRY180, 1 hour

3:00PM

Spice Bazaar

A sensory overload of colors and aromas, this bazaar is perfect for picking up spices, dried fruits, and other local delicacies.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus, taking in the beautiful skyline and iconic landmarks of Istanbul from the water.
TRY350, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Meze by the Bosphorus

Indulge in a range of delicious mezes and fresh seafood while enjoying serene views of the Bosphorus.
TRY220, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Travel to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a complimentary breakfast at your hotel to energize for the journey ahead.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Flight to Cappadocia

Take a scenic flight to Cappadocia and witness the stunning landscapes from above.
TRY1200, 1 hour

12:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive at your accommodation and take some time to relax and refresh before exploring.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Dine in a unique cave setting and enjoy traditional Turkish dishes made with local ingredients.
TRY200, 1 hour

3:30PM

Göreme Open Air Museum

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with rock-cut churches and stunning frescoes that date back to the early Christian period.
TRY300, 2 hours

6:00PM

Pasabag (Monks Valley)

Famous for its fairy chimneys, this valley offers surreal landscapes perfect for photography and hiking.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional pottery kebab in an authentic setting, surrounded by Cappadocian decor.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Explore Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on March 25, 2025

5:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon ride over the unique landscape of Cappadocia, which is an unforgettable adventure.
TRY3000, 3 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast post balloon ride at your hotel before heading out for more exploration.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Uçhisar Castle

Climb to the top of this natural rock fortress for panoramic views of the surrounding fairy chimneys and valleys.
TRY100, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Seki Restaurant

Relish your meal at this upscale restaurant known for its local wine selection and stunning views.
TRY400, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Avanos Pottery Workshop

Engage in a pottery-making workshop in this charming town known for its clay and pottery, great for experiential learning.
TRY200, 2 hours

4:30PM

Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)

Wander through this valley where the rock formations resemble various animals and shapes, encouraging a sense of imagination.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ziggy's Shoppe & Cafe

Savor local dishes in a cozy atmosphere at this popular café known for its warm hospitality.
TRY230, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Travel to Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey on March 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading to the next destination.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Pamukkale

Prepare for a scenic drive to Pamukkale, known for its white travertine terraces.
TRY500, 6 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive at your hotel in Pamukkale and unwind before your outdoor adventures.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Pamukkale Travertines

Explore the stunning white cliffs and warm thermal waters, a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for bathing and relaxation.
TRY500, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at White Springs Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal with a great view of the travertines at this cozy restaurant serving local specialties.
TRY220, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Explore Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey on March 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, enjoying the fresh local flavors.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hierapolis Ancient City

Explore this ancient Greco-Roman city featuring a well-preserved theater and thermal baths, providing insights into its historical significance.
TRY300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kayas Restaurant

Relish authentic Turkish dishes in a friendly local eatery known for its warm service.
TRY160, 1 hour

1:30PM

Cleopatra's Pool

Experience swimming in this ancient thermal pool filled with historical ruins that add to the unique experience.
TRY200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Afternoon visit to Pamukkale Village

Stroll through the charming village, interact with locals and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Asian Garden Restaurant

Savor a blend of Asian and Turkish cuisine for a unique dining experience in Pamukkale.
TRY180, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Travel to Antalya

Antalya, Turkey on March 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a hearty breakfast before journeying onwards to Antalya, a vibrant Mediterranean city.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Antalya

Enjoy scenic coastal landscapes on the drive to Antalya, where the turquoise sea meets the mountains.
TRY400, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive at your hotel in Antalya for an afternoon of relaxation.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining

Dine at this elegant restaurant offering a fine selection of international dishes in a classic Turkish ambiance.
TRY350, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Kaleiçi (Old Town)

Wander through the charming old town with narrow streets, historical buildings, and vibrant shops, capturing the essence of Antalya's history.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at 7 Mehmet

One of Antalya’s renowned restaurants serving delicious local seafood and traditional Turkish dishes with magnificent views of the city.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

Day 8: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on March 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Wrap up your adventure with a final breakfast at the hotel before heading to the airport.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Flight back to Istanbul

Catch your flight back to Istanbul for your return journey.
TRY1200, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Istiklal Street

Take a leisurely walk down this famous street filled with shops, cafes, and art galleries, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Mezzaluna

Enjoy contemporary Italian cuisine in a stylish setting, offering a refreshing change from Turkish food.
TRY280, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Galata Tower

Climb this medieval stone tower for panoramic views of the city skyline and golden horn.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Mikla

End your trip with a memorable dinner at this rooftop restaurant offering stunning views and contemporary Turkish cuisine.
TRY600, 2 hours

9:00PM

Departure

Head to the airport for your departure flight back home.
Free, Variable