8-Day Cultural and Historical Journey Through Turkey

Day 1: Istanbul Introduction

Istanbul, Turkey on May 28, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with an authentic Turkish breakfast featuring a variety of cheeses, olives, eggs, and fresh bread in a cozy setting in Cihangir.
TRY120, 1h0m

10:30am

Hagia Sophia

Explore this iconic former basilica and mosque known for its stunning Byzantine architecture and rich history.
TRY200, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy delicious Turkish meatballs in the historic Sultanahmet district, offering a traditional atmosphere and great local flavors.
TRY70, 1h0m

2:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Visit the residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring ornate rooms, beautiful gardens, and treasure rooms.
TRY280, 2h30m

5:30pm

Walk through the Basilica Cistern

Discover the ancient underground water reservoir known for its atmospheric columns and historical significance.
TRY100, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Balikçı Sabahattin

Savor fresh seafood in a charming historic house near Sultanahmet, known for its flavorful dishes and traditional ambiance.
TRY250, 1h30m
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Day 2: Istanbul Modern & Markets

Istanbul, Turkey on May 29, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Enjoy breakfast with Bosphorus views in Bebek, offering fresh pastries, eggs, and coffee.
TRY110, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Explore contemporary Turkish art, with exhibitions from local and international artists.
TRY150, 1h30m

12:00pm

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, perfect for shopping souvenirs and local crafts.
FREE, 2h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Ottoman cuisine inside the historic bazaar with a beautiful environment.
TRY180, 1h0m

4:00pm

Spice Bazaar visit

Experience the vibrant colors and aromas of the bazaar offering herbs, spices, sweets, and teas.
FREE, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Dine at one of Istanbul’s top restaurants with panoramic views and innovative Turkish-Nordic cuisine.
TRY400, 2h0m
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Day 3: Travel to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on May 30, 2025

7:00am

Flight to Cappadocia

Take a morning flight from Istanbul to Kayseri or Nevsehir airport, gateway to Cappadocia.
TRY800, 1h30m

9:30am

Transfer to Göreme

Travel from the airport to the village of Göreme, ideal base for exploring Cappadocia.
TRY150, 1h0m

11:00am

Check into a Cave Hotel

Experience unique cave-room accommodation blending history and modern comfort.
TRY800, N/A

12:30pm

Lunch at Seten Anatolian Cuisine

Taste traditional Cappadocian dishes using local ingredients in a warm setting.
TRY160, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Göreme Open-Air Museum

Visit this UNESCO site filled with rock-cut churches and frescoes dating back to the 10th century.
TRY150, 2h0m

5:00pm

Sunset at Red Valley

Watch the spectacular sunset over unique red rock formations for great photo opportunities.
FREE, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy local specialties such as pottery kebab in a traditional dining room setting.
TRY140, 1h30m
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Day 4: Cappadocia Adventures

Cappadocia, Turkey on May 31, 2025

5:00am

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Start early with a breathtaking balloon flight over Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and valleys.
TRY2200, 3h0m

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Relax with a traditional Turkish breakfast back at your hotel after your balloon ride.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Derinkuyu Underground City

Explore the fascinating ancient multi-level underground city used for refuge during invasions.
TRY150, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Local Restaurant in Uchisar

Taste homemade dishes with a view of Uchisar Castle in this charming village.
TRY140, 1h0m

2:30pm

Uchisar Castle

Climb to the top for panoramic views of Cappadocia’s unique landscape.
TRY50, 1h0m

4:00pm

Walk in Pigeon Valley

Enjoy an easy hike through valley trails dotted with ancient pigeon houses carved in the cliffs.
FREE, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Lil’a Restaurant

Dine at a fine dining restaurant blending modern and traditional Anatolian flavors.
TRY320, 1h30m
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Day 5: Pamukkale Thermal Springs

Pamukkale, Turkey on June 1, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Pamukkale by Bus or Private Transfer

Journey from Cappadocia to Pamukkale; expect around 8 hours by road, so consider private transfer for comfort.
TRY700, 8h0m

3:30pm

Check into Hotel in Pamukkale

Rest and refresh before exploring the terraces tomorrow.
TRY600, N/A

5:00pm

Visit Pamukkale Thermal Pools (travertines)

Enjoy walking on the famous white calcium terraces filled with warm mineral-rich waters; open until sunset.
TRY150, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at White Dragon Restaurant

Indulge in local Turkish cuisine with some international options in a relaxed environment.
TRY100, 1h0m
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Day 6: Ephesus Ruins Exploration

Selcuk, Turkey on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Ephesus from Pamukkale

Drive to Selcuk near Ephesus; approximately 3.5 hours by car.
TRY350, 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Bizim Ev Restaurant

Enjoy homemade Turkish dishes in a traditional setting near the ancient city.
TRY90, 1h0m

1:30pm

Tour Ephesus Ancient City

Explore one of the best-preserved ancient cities, featuring the Library of Celsus, Grand Theater, and many ruins.
TRY150, 3h0m

5:00pm

Visit the House of Virgin Mary

Visit the revered pilgrimage site believed to be the last home of Mary, mother of Jesus.
TRY70, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Artemis Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and Turkish main courses in Selcuk’s cozy restaurant.
TRY130, 1h30m
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Day 7: Relax in Izmir

Izmir, Turkey on June 3, 2025

9:00am

Travel from Selcuk to Izmir

Short 1-hour drive to Izmir, a vibrant coastal city on the Aegean Sea.
TRY100, 1h0m

10:30am

Breakfast at Kordonboyu Çınaraltı

Breakfast by the sea with fresh bread, cheeses, olives, and Turkish tea or coffee.
TRY80, 1h0m

12:00pm

Visit Kemeralti Bazaar

Shop and explore the lively bazaar with local crafts, souvenirs, and street food.
FREE, 2h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Deniz Restaurant

Experience delicious seafood dishes with views over the Izmir coastline.
TRY150, 1h0m

4:00pm

Walk along Alsancak Promenade

Stroll along the beautiful waterfront area filled with cafes, shops, and historic architecture.
FREE, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Topçu Kebap

Try local kebabs and mezes in a traditional setting popular with locals.
TRY120, 1h30m
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Day 8: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Flight to Istanbul

Fly back to Istanbul for your return journey or final sightseeing.
TRY700, 1h30m

10:00am

Breakfast at Karaköy Lokantası

Enjoy a refined breakfast with Turkish classics in a stylish environment in Karaköy.
TRY120, 1h0m

11:30am

Visit Galata Tower

Climb this famous medieval stone tower for spectacular city views.
TRY130, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Neolokal

Taste innovative dishes inspired by traditional Anatolian cuisine in a contemporary setting.
TRY240, 1h30m

3:00pm

Leisure time or shopping

Spend your last afternoon shopping or relaxing in Istanbul’s vibrant neighborhoods like Istiklal Avenue or Nisantasi.
Variable, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Celebrate your final night with an unforgettable kebab dinner overlooking the Golden Horn.
TRY280, 1h30m
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