10-Day Unique Turkey Itinerary: Explore Lesser-Known Gems

Day 1: Arrive in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on September 16, 2025

2:00PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle into your selected homestay in a quieter neighborhood to soak in the local vibe.
USD100, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Sultanahmet Square

Explore the historical heart of Istanbul, featuring the stunning Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Doy Doy Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Turkish dishes frequented by locals such as kebabs and mezes.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Istanbul Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on September 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Halleri

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast heavy with local cheeses, olives, fresh bread, and menemen.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Spice Bazaar

Wander through the colorful Spice Bazaar, where you can sample spices, sweets, and dried fruits.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

A local favorite offering unique Anatolian dishes, capturing the essence of traditional flavors.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit a Traditional Hamam

Experience a relaxing session at Cağaloğlu Hamamı, a less tourist-centered hamam known for its authentic services.
USD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Balat Neighborhood

Walk through the charming streets filled with local cafes, history, and colorful houses.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Café Privato

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in this local spot known for its delicious meze platter and fresh seafood.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Kas

Kas, Turkey on September 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Bakery

Grab a fresh simit (sesame bagel) and tea from a nearby bakery.
USD5, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Drive to Kas

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive along the coast with stunning sea views.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle into your chosen AirBNB with self-catering facilities.
USD120, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at Oburus Momus

Try their fresh seafood and local specialties in a relaxed setting.
USD25, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Beach Time at Kaputas Beach

Unwind at this beautiful beach often viewed as one of Turkey's hidden gems.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Bahce Restaurant

Experience local dishes with a modern twist in a garden setting.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Kas

Kas, Turkey on September 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Prepare a leisurely breakfast with local ingredients bought from local markets.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Day Trip on a Gullet

Embark on a traditional Turkish boat trip, visiting nearby islands and swimming spots.
USD50, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sempati Restaurant

A favorite among locals for its grilled meats and mezze selections.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Kas to Safranbolu

Safranbolu, Turkey on September 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Enjoy a typical Turkish breakfast including olives, cheeses, and bread.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Safranbolu

Travel to Safranbolu takes around 5 hours through mesmerizing landscapes.
CURRENCY0, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check-in and Lunch at Homestay

Experience local hospitality in a homestay while enjoying a homemade local lunch.
USD100, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Historic Safranbolu

Stroll through the UNESCO-listed old town, admiring its traditional Ottoman architecture.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hünkar Sofrası

Relish in delicious local dishes prepared with saffron, capturing the essence of Safranbolu.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Discovering Safranbolu

Safranbolu, Turkey on September 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Homestay

Enjoy a homemade breakfast with ingredients sourced from local markets.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kaymakamlar Museum

Learn about local life in this museum housed in a traditional wooden mansion.
USD5, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Traditional Hamam Experience

Visit a less touristy hamam for an authentic Turkish bath experience.
USD30, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Çınaraltı Restaurant

A local spot known for its comforting dishes like lentil soup and pide.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax in Local Gardens

Spend the afternoon lounging in a nearby garden park, enjoying the tranquility.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Zeytin Restaurant

Sample rich local flavors with vegetarian options available in this family-run spot.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Travel to Konya

Konya, Turkey on September 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Homestay

Savor a traditional breakfast with local produce before setting out.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Konya

Take a 3-hour drive to Konya, known as the home of the Whirling Dervishes.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Check-in to Local Accommodation

Settle in and unwind before exploring the town.
USD80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Tirit Restaurant

A local favorite known for its tirit dish, a succulent lamb meal served with bread.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Mevlana Museum

Explore the museum dedicated to Rumi and the spiritual history of the town.
USD10, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax in a Local Café

Soak in the local atmosphere at one of Konya’s charming cafes.
USD5, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Aziziye Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Southern Turkish meals in this famous eatery among locals.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Explore Konya

Konya, Turkey on September 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Start your day with a simple local breakfast offered at your stay.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Alaeddin Hill

Spend the morning exploring this historical park and the remnants of Alaeddin Mosque.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Konyalı Restaurant

Sample Konya’s famous 'etli ekmek' (meat bread), a must-try local dish.
USD15, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Whirling Dervish Show

Experience the mesmerizing performance of Whirling Dervishes in town.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Karatay Museum

Explore the ceramics and tiles of the Seljuk period at this unique museum.
USD8, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Asya Restaurant

Discover local dishes in a cozy dining space loved by residents.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Travel to Antalya

Antalya, Turkey on September 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Eatery

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a variety of local specialties before departure.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Antalya

Enjoy a beautiful 4-hour drive with coastal views along the way.
CURRENCY0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle into a local resort with stunning beach views.
USD150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at 7 Mehmet

Savor local flavors with a wide range of Turkish dishes renowned in Antalya.
USD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Kaleici Tramarat

Wander through the historic district with narrow streets, shops, and local eateries.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Seraser Fine Dining

Experience a luxurious dinner with a fusion of Ottoman and Mediterranean cuisine.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Departure from Ankara

Ankara, Turkey on September 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Resort

Enjoy a final breakfast with views of the Mediterranean ocean.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Ankara

Head to Ankara Airport, which takes about 5 hours. Enjoy local scenery along the way.
CURRENCY0, 5 hours

3:00PM

Drop-off Rental Car

Return your rental car at the airport before checking in.
USD0, 30 minutes
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