Discovering the Hidden Gems of Turkey: An Offbeat 25-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on August 31, 2025

3:00PM

Check-in at Local Airbnb

Settle into a cozy Airbnb in a traditional neighborhood.

USD150, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Çiya Sofrası

Enjoy authentic regional dishes at this local favorite in Kadıköy.

USD25, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on September 1, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Indulge in a traditional Turkish breakfast with local cheeses and olives.

USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Ferry to Buyukada

Visit the largest of the Princes' Islands, famous for its charming streets and horse-drawn carriages.

USD5, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pita

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional dishes with a view over the sea.

USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Salt Galata

Engage with contemporary art exhibitions and explore a vibrant community space.

USD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Walk across Galata Bridge

Experience stunning views and the bustling vibe of the fishermen along the bridge.

USD0, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Kral Kokoreç

Savor authentic Turkish street food in a local atmosphere.

USD12, 1 hour

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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Istanbul, Turkey on September 2, 2025

9:00AM

Turkish Tea in Uskudar

Enjoy a quiet moment with tea and pastry overlooking Kiz Kulesi.

USD6, 1 hour

10:30AM

Tram from Moda to Kadikoy

Experience the local public transport and explore vibrant Kadikoy district.

USD1, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Iskender Kebapçısı

Taste one of the best versions of Iskender kebab, a local favorite.

USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit to Hagia Sophia

Explore the rich history behind one of Turkey's most iconic structures.

USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Spend the evening at leisure, with a chance to plan next day's travel.

USD0, 3 hours

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Day 4: Final Day in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on September 3, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mangerie

A top spot in Bebek for a delicious breakfast with a waterfront view.

USD18, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Wander through this historic market known for its lively atmosphere.

USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Konyalı

Indulge in traditional Turkish dishes in a restaurant preferred by locals.

USD15, 1-2 hours

2:30PM

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Experience the opulence of this former administrative center of the Ottoman Empire.

USD15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Head to Train Station

Prepare for departure to Ankara, ensuring ample time for check-in.

USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Overnight Train to Ankara

Embrace a comfortable overnight journey to the capital city.

USD30, 11 hours

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Day 5: Arrival in Ankara

Ankara, Turkey on September 4, 2025

5:00AM

Quick Breakfast at Local Bakery

Grab a quick pastry and Turkish coffee to start your day right.

USD5, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Visit Anıtkabir

Explore the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.

USD0, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Check-in at Local Homestay

Settle into a welcoming homestay that offers local cuisine.

USD80, 1 hour

10:30AM

Lunch at Haci Arif Bey

Enjoy classical Turkish dishes in a cozy atmosphere favored by locals.

USD20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Drive to Cappadocia

Journey through the beautiful landscapes towards Cappadocia.

USD0, 4 hours

5:00PM

Arrive in Cappadocia & Check-in

Settle into a unique cave hotel offering local ambiance.

USD120, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy traditional dishes served in a unique setting with local flair.

USD25, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Exploring Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on September 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring local cheeses and breads.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Ihlara Valley

Experience a scenic hike along this beautiful valley with ancient churches.

USD5, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Village Restaurant

Savor home-cooked meals made from locally sourced ingredients.

USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Underground Cities

Discover the fascinating underground cities that once provided refuge.

USD10, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Turkish meals in a picturesque cave setting.

USD30, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Relaxation Day

Cappadocia, Turkey on September 6, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A leisurely breakfast to start the day before exploring.

USD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit a Local Hamam

Experience an authentic Turkish bath away from tourist crowds.

USD20, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Şafak

Try local specialties and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

USD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at Hotel

Spend the afternoon lounging at your charming cave hotel.

USD0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Evening Gullet Trip

Enjoy a serene evening witnessing the beauty of Cappadocia's landscapes from the sea.

USD50, 3 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Seten Restaurant

Taste traditional Anatolian flavors in a rustic atmosphere.

USD28, 1.5 hours

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Day 8: Drive to Gaziantep

Gaziantep, Turkey on September 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before the journey.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Gaziantep

Set off for Gaziantep, a city renowned for its culinary heritage.

USD0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Local Homestay

Immerse yourself in the local community at a traditional homestay.

USD75, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at Karkamış

Relish famous Gaziantep kebabs and local specialties at this popular eatery.

USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Zeugma Mosaic Museum

Discover exquisite mosaics and artifacts from the ancient city of Zeugma.

USD10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Rüstempaşa Kebap

Savor mouthwatering kebabs in a traditional setting favored by locals.

USD15, 1.5 hours

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Day 9: Exploring Gaziantep

Gaziantep, Turkey on September 8, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Homestay

Enjoy a locally prepared breakfast featuring regional flavors.

USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Gaziantep Castle

Learn about the city's history and enjoy panoramic views from the castle.

USD0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karpuz Dede

Taste delicious local dishes and famous Gaziantep baklava.

USD18, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Bake Baklava Workshop

Join a workshop to learn how to make Gaziantep's famous baklava.

USD30, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Marko Paşa

Experience the culinary delights of Gaziantep in this casual restaurant.

USD25, 1.5 hours

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Day 10: Drive to Izmir

Izmir, Turkey on September 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Homestay

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local produce.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Izmir

Travel towards Izmir, a vibrant coastal city.

USD0, 7 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Local Guesthouse

Settle into a charming guesthouse run by locals.

USD85, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Kordon Boyu

Dine along the waterfront with views of the Aegean Sea, a local hotspot.

USD22, 1.5 hours

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Day 11: Exploring Izmir

Izmir, Turkey on September 10, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a delightful breakfast of local pastries and cheeses.

USD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Ephesus

Explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

USD15, 4 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Ephesus Restaurant

Feast on traditional Aegean cuisine after touring the ancient site.

USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Çeşme Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on one of Aegean's beautiful beaches.

USD0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Mezze

Savor an array of delicious mezes in a chic restaurant atmosphere.

USD30, 1.5 hours

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Day 12: Beach Day in Izmir

Izmir, Turkey on September 11, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast with freshly baked bread and jams.

USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit a Local Market

Experience the vibrant local market, perfect for snacks and souvenirs.

USD5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Asmali Ev

Taste authentic Turkish pizza in a buzzing local setting.

USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Foça Beach

Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun and swimming.

USD0, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Şirince

Partake in a unique dining experience with locals at this remote eatery.

USD25, 2 hours

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Day 13: Drive to Kas

Kas, Turkey on September 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a filling breakfast before heading to Kas.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kas

Embark on a journey to the stunning coastal town of Kas.

USD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Local Hotel

Relax in a serene hotel that provides access to the beach.

USD100, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Yudum

Indulge in exquisite seafood dishes at this local gem.

USD25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Kaputas Beach

Relax on one of Turkey's most beautiful beaches with crystal-water.

USD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sefa Restaurant

Savor local delicacies in this charming setting by the sea.

USD30, 1.5 hours

View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Exploring Kas

Kas, Turkey on September 13, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A delicious breakfast featuring fresh local ingredients.

USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Gullet Day Trip

Embark on a relaxing gullet trip to explore hidden bays and enjoy swimming.

USD50, 8 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Brothers

Enjoy a cozy dinner experience with local dishes in Kas.

USD35, 1.5 hours

View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Drive to Safranbolu

Safranbolu, Turkey on September 14, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up before the long drive ahead.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Safranbolu

Travel towards this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Ottoman houses.

USD0, 5 hours

3:00PM

Check-in at Boutique Hotel

Settle in a beautifully restored Ottoman house offering local hospitality.

USD90, 1 hour

4:30PM

Coffee and Pastries at Tophane

Relax at a local coffee shop and enjoy traditional pastries.

USD8, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hacı Abdullah

Dine on delicious Turkish dishes in a setting loved by locals.

USD20, 1.5 hours

View Hotel Availability

Day 16: Exploring Safranbolu

Safranbolu, Turkey on September 15, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty local breakfast.

USD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Old Town

Stroll through the beautiful streets of old Safranbolu.

USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Zeytinyağlı Sofrası

Delight in homemade Turkish dishes made with olive oil.

USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hamam Experience

Relax with a traditional henna hamam, an experience not to miss.

USD25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Özlem Restaurant

Enjoy local specialties in a family-run eatery.

USD30, 1.5 hours

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Day 17: Drive to Konya

Konya, Turkey on September 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast before heading to Konya.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Konya

Set off for Konya, known for its Islamic heritage and whirling dervishes.

USD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Local Hotel

Settle into a local hotel that exudes cultural charm.

USD85, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Konyalı Mevlana

Taste delicious local dishes, renowned for their meat and bread.

USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Mevlana Museum

Explore the museum dedicated to Rumi and learn about his teachings.

USD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tiritçi Mithat

Savor traditional Tirit, a Konya specialty in a beloved eatery.

USD25, 1.5 hours

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Day 18: Exploring Konya

Konya, Turkey on September 17, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel your day.

USD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Historical Sites

Explore the historical architecture and culture in downtown Konya.

USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Semazen

Experience traditional Turkish cuisine in a cozy environment.

USD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Attend a Whirling Dervish Show

Witness the grace and spirituality of this Sufi ceremony.

USD10, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Coffee at Local Cafe

Unwind with a cup of Turkish coffee in a local haunt.

USD4, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Eriş Restaurant

Enjoy local specialties including mouthwatering stews.

USD20, 1.5 hours

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Day 19: Drive to Antalya

Antalya, Turkey on September 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast before traveling to Antalya.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Antalya

Travel to the beautiful coastal city of Antalya.

USD0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Local Guesthouse

Settle into a guesthouse with warmth and local charm.

USD90, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at Kaleiçi

Savor local dishes and enjoy the historic architecture.

USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Old Town Antalya

Wander through antique streets lined with shops and cafes.

USD0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Mehtap Restaurant

Experience traditional coastal flavors in a beloved local restaurant.

USD25, 1.5 hours

View Hotel Availability

Day 20: Beach Day in Antalya

Antalya, Turkey on September 19, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

A delicious breakfast featuring fresh local fruits.

USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at Konyaaltı Beach

Spend a day soaking in the sun and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea.

USD0, 5 hours

4:00PM

Lunch at Local Beach Cafe

Have a casual lunch with local seafood options.

USD15, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at 7. Aylak

Enjoy a delightful dinner with stunning sea views.

USD30, 1.5 hours

View Hotel Availability

Day 21: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on September 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a local breakfast before your flight.

USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Istanbul Airport

Travel back to Istanbul for your flight.

USD0, 5 hours

2:00PM

Return Car at Airport

Complete your journey by returning the hired car.

USD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Lunch at Airport Restaurant