7-Day Family Adventure in Turkey: Exploring History, Nature & Vegetarian Delights

Day 1: Istanbul Arrival & Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Çiya Sofrası

Enjoy a wide variety of authentic vegetarian Turkish breakfast dishes including gözleme, menemen without meat, and fresh vegetables. It's a great way to start your day in Kadıköy.
TRY60, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore one of Istanbul's finest landmarks with its stunning mosaics and rich Byzantine and Ottoman history. A must-see for teens interested in architecture and history.
TRY100, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

This iconic eatery offers tasty vegetarian-friendly Turkish mezes and pide (Turkish pizza) with cheeses and vegetables, ideal for a family meal near the historic sites.
TRY80, 1h

1:30pm

Blue Mosque Visit

Located just across from Hagia Sophia, it is renowned for its striking blue tiles. Visitors can admire the stunning interior and learn about its religious significance.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Topkapı Palace Tour

Discover the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, including the treasury with jewels and artefacts, perfect for engaging teenagers.
TRY120, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Zencefil

Relax and enjoy excellent vegetarian Turkish and international cuisine at this charming restaurant close to Sultanahmet, perfect for families.
TRY110, 1.5h

Day 2: Istanbul Bosphorus & Markets

Istanbul, Turkey on April 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Savour traditional breakfast from Eastern Turkey with numerous vegetarian dishes and fresh cheeses.
TRY65, 1h

10:00am

Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a 2-hour scenic cruise on the Bosphorus, viewing palaces, bridges, and Istanbul’s skyline from the water - an exciting outdoor activity for teenagers.
TRY90, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Balikçı Sabahattin

Choose vegetarian meze plates and fresh bread at this well-known restaurant in Sultanahmet, with a pleasant courtyard atmosphere.
TRY100, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Grand Bazaar

Explore one of the world’s largest covered markets, perfect for teens to hunt souvenirs, spices, and textiles, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Explore Spice Bazaar

A colourful market specialising in herbs, spices, and sweets. A great foodie stop to try Turkish delight and dried fruits.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Govinda’s

Enjoy a vegetarian-friendly Indian restaurant with mostly plant-based options, making for a change of cuisine with family-friendly portions.
TRY90, 1.5h

Day 3: Fly to Cappadocia - Balloon & Exploring

Göreme, Cappadocia, Turkey on April 24, 2025

6:00am

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the magical sunrise over the fairy chimneys and rock formations; an unforgettable experience. Suitable for teenagers who enjoy adventure.
TRY2500, 3h

9:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Safak

Enjoy a vegetarian breakfast with freshly baked bread, cheeses, and eggs in a cosy setting in Göreme.
TRY50, 1h

11:00am

Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore ancient rock-cut churches with beautiful frescoes, ideal for educational and visual family interest.
TRY100, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant

A charming restaurant offering vegetarian specialties including local vegetable dishes and hearty stews.
TRY80, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Uchisar Castle

Climb to the top of the highest point in Cappadocia for panoramic views - fun and easy for teens.
TRY40, 1h

5:00pm

Explore Love Valley

Take a family-friendly hike among famous fairy chimneys, a great outdoor activity in the late afternoon.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Dine in a cozy cave setup offering rich vegetarian options and delightful local cuisine near Göreme.
TRY120, 1.5h

Day 4: Cappadocia Day Tour

Göreme, Cappadocia, Turkey on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Nazar Borek & Cafe

Taste authentic vegetarian börek pastries alongside fresh salads to energise your day.
TRY45, 1h

9:30am

Derinkuyu Underground City

Explore this fascinating multi-level underground city, a curious adventure that is sure to amuse and educate teenagers.
TRY80, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Local Restaurant in Nevşehir

Enjoy simple vegetarian dishes such as lentil soup, eggplant, and fresh salads at a local spot.
TRY60, 1h

2:00pm

Hike Ihlara Valley

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour walk through the valley lined with rock churches and beautiful nature, perfect for energetic teenagers.
TRY30, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Inci Cave Restaurant

Savour a delicious vegetarian meal in a unique cave atmosphere within Göreme known for its quality dishes.
TRY100, 1.5h

Day 5: Pamukkale Natural Wonders

Pamukkale, Turkey on April 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a healthy vegetarian breakfast with fresh fruit, cheeses, bread, and olives before travelling to Pamukkale.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Pamukkale (flight/drive)

Transfer to Pamukkale, ready for a day exploring the thermal terraces and surroundings.
N/A, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kayas Restaurant

Enjoy vegetarian-friendly regional Turkish dishes with spectacular views of the travertines.
TRY70, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Pamukkale Travertines & Hierapolis

Walk barefoot on the thermal terraces and visit ancient Hierapolis ruins including the theatre and the thermal pools.
TRY100, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at White House Restaurant

Experience local vegetarian dishes in this welcoming spot known for fresh ingredients and great views.
TRY90, 1.5h

Day 6: Ephesus Antique Exploration

Selçuk, Turkey on April 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

A balanced vegetarian breakfast prepares you for a full day of archaeological adventures.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Ephesus Ancient City

Discover one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities, ideal for curious teenagers to explore grand theatres, libraries, and temples.
TRY120, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Selçuk Köftecisi

They offer vegetarian mezes and pide in this local favourite next to Selçuk town centre.
TRY60, 1h

2:30pm

Visit House of Virgin Mary

A peaceful pilgrimage site nearby, set on a hilltop with lovely views and gardens.
TRY30, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Basilica of St John & Isa Bey Mosque

Visit the ruins and nearby mosque, providing a diverse cultural and historic experience.
TRY50, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ejder Restaurant

A local restaurant offering vegetarian and vegan Turkish specialities with a welcoming atmosphere.
TRY80, 1.5h

Day 7: Izmir Relax & Departure

Izmir, Turkey on April 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Reşatbey Cafe

Enjoy a light vegetarian breakfast with Turkish pastries and tea in central Izmir.
TRY50, 1h

10:00am

Walk the Kordon Promenade

Relax along the beautiful seafront promenade with cafes, parks and views of the Aegean Sea, perfect for unwinding before departure.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Deniz Restaurant

Enjoy vegetarian Turkish meze and fresh vegetable dishes with sea views at this popular Izmir spot.
TRY90, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kemeralti Market

Explore this historic bazaar for last-minute shopping and cultural immersion before heading to the airport.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Transfer to Izmir Airport

Head to the airport for your departure flight with plenty of great memories of Turkey.
N/A, 1h