4-Day Romantic Getaway in Turkey: Istanbul and Cappadocia Highlights

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on April 28, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring a variety of cheeses, olives, eggs, and fresh bread. This cozy spot is beloved for its authentic flavors and charming atmosphere.
TRY100, 1h

10:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture featuring stunning mosaics and a rich history as a church, mosque, and museum. Open from 9am to 7pm for tourists in April.
TRY200, 2h

12:45pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy classic Turkish meatballs (köfte) at this historic eatery near key attractions, offering a flavorful and authentic lunch experience.
TRY90, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Topkapi Palace

Tour the sprawling Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, home to beautiful gardens, ornate rooms, and priceless artifacts. Open 9am-6pm in April.
TRY250, 2h

4:30pm

Stroll the Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, perfect for picking up souvenirs, spices, and Turkish delights.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Dine at this renowned seafood restaurant in Sultanahmet, known for its fresh fish dishes and warm ambiance, offering a perfect setting for a romantic evening.
TRY350, 1.5h
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Day 2: Cultural Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on April 29, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mangerie

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with panoramic views of the Bosphorus at this hip café in Bebek, featuring international and Turkish breakfast dishes.
TRY120, 1h

10:00am

Visit Basilica Cistern

Explore the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir featuring Medusa column bases and an eerie ambiance. Open 9:00am to 5:30pm.
TRY150, 1h

11:30am

Walk through Istiklal Avenue

Stroll this lively pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, soaking up Istanbul’s vibrant urban life.
Free, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Çiçek Pasajı

Enjoy traditional meze and seafood in this bustling, historic arcade, a favorite local spot on Istiklal Avenue.
TRY180, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Galata Tower

Climb the medieval Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus Strait. Open until 7pm in April.
TRY120, 1h

4:00pm

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

Take a romantic evening cruise on the Bosphorus to admire Istanbul’s skyline and bridges illuminated at sunset.
TRY250, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Mikla

Savor innovative Turkish-Scandinavian fusion cuisine with breathtaking city views at this award-winning rooftop restaurant.
TRY600, 2h
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Day 3: Discover Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on April 30, 2025

6:00am

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a magical sunrise hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes for stunning views of rock formations and valleys. Book in advance, operates early morning till about 9am.
TRY3500, 2.5h

9:30am

Breakfast at Café Şafak

Relax after the balloon ride with a hearty breakfast featuring local breads, cheeses, and coffee in Göreme village.
TRY80, 1h

10:30am

Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site featuring rock-cut churches and frescoes dating back to the 10th century. Open 8am to 7pm.
TRY200, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Seten Anatolian Cuisine

Taste authentic Anatolian dishes with a scenic view of the fairy chimneys from the terrace restaurant in Göreme.
TRY180, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Pasabag (Monks Valley)

Wander among impressive mushroom-shaped rock formations and explore the hermit caves used by monks.
TRY50, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Avanos town

Visit this charming town famous for its pottery workshops along the Kızılırmak River. Try your hand at pottery making.
TRY100 (for pottery workshop), 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Cappadocian cuisine cooked in a clay pot in this cozy, cave-style restaurant.
TRY150, 1.5h
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Day 4: Cultural and Scenic Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast featuring local jams, breads, and fresh tea or coffee at your cave hotel.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Explore Underground City (Derinkuyu or Kaymakli)

Discover the fascinating underground cities carved deep into the earth used for protection during invasions, open 8am-7pm.
TRY150, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ziggys Shoppe & Cafe

Enjoy a cozy lunch with Mediterranean-inspired dishes and homemade desserts in Ürgüp.
TRY180, 1h

1:30pm

Hike the Red Valley

Take a scenic and relatively easy hike through Red Valley, known for its stunning red rock formations and beautiful sunset views. Recommended 1.5-2h hike.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at hotel or explore local shops

Unwind and shop for local handicrafts and carpets in Göreme or your hotel’s lounge.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Lil’a Restaurant

Dine on contemporary Turkish cuisine with spectacular views of Cappadocia’s landscape, perfect for ending your romantic trip.
TRY400, 2h
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