14-Day Authentic Turkey Itinerary: Explore Hidden Gems and Local Life

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on August 31, 2025

3:00PM

Check-In at Accommodation

Settle into a charming local Airbnb in Istanbul's Kadikoy area, perfect for self-catering and local insights.
CURRENCY0, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Galata Bridge Walk

Stroll across the historic Galata Bridge for stunning views, watching fishermen and local life unfold around you.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Sofrasi

Savor authentic Turkish dishes at this beloved eatery, known for its regional specialties popular among locals.
CURRENCY70, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on September 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Namli

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with fresh menemen and local cheeses at this local favorite.
CURRENCY50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Ferry to Buyukada

Take a scenic ferry ride to Buyukada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, known for its charming streets and great views.
CURRENCY40, 2 hours including waiting time

1:00PM

Lunch at Milto Restaurant

Taste fresh seafood and enjoy a relaxing terrace view at this popular local spot on Buyukada.
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Buyukada

Discover Buyukada by foot or bicycle, and visit the historic Greek Orthodox monastery, Aya Yorgi.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Return to Istanbul

Ferry back to the city.
CURRENCY40, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Asmalımescit

Finish your day in the vibrant neighborhood of Asmalımescit, where you can find various local eateries.
CURRENCY60, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Experience

Istanbul, Turkey on September 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tarihi Galata Safa

Enjoy traditional Turkish pastries and a strong coffee at this historic café near the Galata Tower.
CURRENCY45, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Salt Galata

Explore this contemporary cultural space featuring art exhibits, shops, and a café, perfect for appreciating local creativity.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tarabya Balikcisi

A seafood restaurant popular among locals, where you can enjoy fresh catches from the Bosphorus.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Uskudar Tea Time

Take a tram to Uskudar for traditional Turkish tea with beautiful views of Kiz Kulesi.
CURRENCY30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Tram from Moda to Kadikoy

Experience local transport on the tram from Moda to Kadikoy, where vibrant markets await.
CURRENCY10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Kadi Nimet

Indulge in a local favorite famous for its meze and grilled dishes, frequented by the community.
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Depart for Ankara

Ankara, Turkey on September 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Market

Visit a local market for fresh bread and yogurt to enjoy back at your accommodation.
CURRENCY20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Train to Ankara

Catch a morning train to Ankara, enjoying scenic views along the way.
CURRENCY70, 5 hours

3:00PM

Check-In at Accommodation in Ankara

Settle into a cozy homestay in Ankara for a local experience.
CURRENCY0, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Visit Atatürk's Mausoleum

Pay respects and learn about the Turkish Republic's founder in this monumental mausoleum.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Trilye Restaurant

Dine on Turkish seafood dishes at this classy yet cozy restaurant popular among locals.
CURRENCY90, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Explore Ankara

Ankara, Turkey on September 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Prepare a light breakfast with local ingredients from a nearby market.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Car Hire in Ankara

Pick up your rental car for your self-guided road trip through Turkey.
CURRENCY150, 1 hour

11:00AM

Drive to Cappadocia

Head out to Cappadocia, enjoying the beautiful scenic drive, approximately 3 hours.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

2:00PM

Check-In at Accommodation in Cappadocia

Get settled in a cozy cave hotel that offers self-catering options.
CURRENCY0, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Explore Cappadocia Villages

Visit local villages, such as Çavuşin and Ürgüp, for authentic cultural experiences and handmade crafts.
CURRENCY0, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy traditional pottery kebab and other local dishes in a rustic setting, favored by locals.
CURRENCY70, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Cappadocia Adventures

Cappadocia, Turkey on September 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Prepare breakfast with local ingredients from the market in the area.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia from above in a hot air balloon at sunrise.
CURRENCY200, 3 hours including prep and flight time

1:00PM

Lunch at Seki Restaurant

Taste delicious local dishes with a spectacular view of the fairy chimneys.
CURRENCY70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hamam Experience

Have a relaxing afternoon at a less-touristy traditional hamam to unwind and rejuvenate.
CURRENCY50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Visit Pigeon Valley

Enjoy an evening hike through Pigeon Valley, appreciating the natural beauty and tranquility.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Seten Restaurant

Dine on homemade Turkish meals with locally sourced ingredients at this homey restaurant.
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip from Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on September 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast in your cave hotel before setting out.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Ihlara Valley

Take a day trip to Ihlara Valley for a hike among beautiful scenery and ancient rock churches.
CURRENCY0, 5 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Local Café in Ihlara

Enjoy a homemade meal at a local café overlooking the valley.
CURRENCY35, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Cappadocia

Drive back and relax at your hotel.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Evening at Paşabağ Valley

Visit Paşabağ Valley to watch the sunset over the unique fairy chimneys.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Enjoy a meal in an enchanting cave setting with a menu full of local specialities.
CURRENCY90, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Travel to Gaziantep

Gaziantep, Turkey on September 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Prepare breakfast with locally sourced ingredients from the Cappadocia market.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Gaziantep

Travel to Gaziantep, known for its rich culinary heritage, approximately 4 hours drive.
CURRENCY0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Check-In at Local Accommodation

Arrive at a family-run guesthouse for an authentic experience.
CURRENCY0, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Lunch at Kenger

Enjoy local specialties including the famous Gaziantep kebabs adored by locals.
CURRENCY75, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Gaziantep's Mosaic Museum

Visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum featuring stunning ancient mosaics, a must-see in Gaziantep.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Accommodation

Take some time to relax or go out exploring the local markets.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Hamur Kitchen

Savor traditional dishes at this popular family-run restaurant known for its warm atmosphere.
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Explore Gaziantep

Gaziantep, Turkey on September 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a homemade breakfast with local ingredients.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Gaziantep Castle

Explore this ancient castle that offers panoramic views of the city.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Kafikahve

Relax and enjoy a traditional Turkish coffee and pastries at this local café.
CURRENCY40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Turkish Hamam Experience

Pamper yourself with an authentic hamam experience in a lesser-known hamam in Gaziantep.
CURRENCY50, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the local spice market

Explore the vibrant spice market where locals shop, indulging your senses with colorful spices.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Relax at accommodation

Take some time to unwind and enjoy the local atmosphere.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at İmam Çağdaş

Known for its kebabs, this restaurant is a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.
CURRENCY70, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Drive to Izmir

Izmir, Turkey on September 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a home-cooked breakfast before checking out.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Izmir

Travel to Izmir, enjoying beautiful coastal scenery on the way, a 5-hour journey.
CURRENCY0, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check-In at Local Accommodation

Arrive at a seafront guesthouse offering self-catering options in the heart of Izmir.
CURRENCY0, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Explore Konak Square

Stroll around Konak Square, visit the historic clock tower, and enjoy the local atmosphere.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Kemeralti Bazaar

Wander through this bustling bazaar full of local shops offering everything from spices to textiles.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Doliva Restaurant

Enjoy a home-cooked meal with local ingredients, featuring a warm ambiance and local clientele.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Discover Izmir

Izmir, Turkey on September 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Prepare a breakfast using local produce from the local market.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Day Trip to Ephesus

Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its ruins.
CURRENCY25, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Tripolis

Dine at this local restaurant known for its delicious gözleme (Turkish flatbread) and other specialties.
CURRENCY45, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Hamam Experience

Experience an authentic hamam in Izmir, preferred by locals, perfect for relaxation after your trip.
CURRENCY50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Asansör Restaurant

Experience stunning views and authentic Turkish dishes at this iconic restaurant in Izmir.
CURRENCY90, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Relaxing Day in Izmir

Izmir, Turkey on September 11, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast made from local ingredients.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at Kordon

Spend your morning walking along the seaside promenade and relaxing by the water.
CURRENCY0, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yeni Asmaalt Restaurant

Grab lunch at a beloved local eatery, famous for its fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
CURRENCY90, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Art Gallery Visit

Visit a local art gallery showcasing contemporary Turkish art.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening Tea with Locals

Make friends with local residents and enjoy Turkish tea while learning about their culture.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ege Dönere

Enjoy authentic döner kebab at this highly recommended establishment loved by locals.
CURRENCY60, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on September 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Have a final breakfast with fresh local produce before departing.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Istanbul

Head to Istanbul, a scenic drive of approximately 5 hours.
CURRENCY0, 5 hours

3:30PM

Drop off Car at Istanbul Airport

Return the rental car at the airport before checking in for your flight.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Flight Departure

Board your flight returning home with unforgettable memories of Turkey.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours
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Day 14: Travel Home

Istanbul, Turkey on September 13, 2025

Returning Home

Flight Back to Perth

Enjoy your flight back to Perth, reminiscing about a wonderful trip in Turkey.
CURRENCY0, Duration of Flight
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