Two Weeks in Turkey, One Week in England, and Two Weeks in Aruba: A Diverse Cultural and Relaxing Beach Adventure

Day 1: Istanbul Begins

Istanbul, Turkey on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh cheeses, olives, and menemen in Istanbul's bustling Cihangir neighborhood. Opens at 8am.
TRY150, 1h

9:30am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia to admire its stunning Byzantine architecture and rich history, a must-see cultural heritage site in Istanbul. Open 9am-7pm.
TRY150, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Enjoy traditional Turkish meatballs (köfte) and other local specialties at this historic eatery near the Blue Mosque. Open 11am–10pm.
TRY100, 1h

1:30pm

Blue Mosque

Explore the beautiful Blue Mosque with its striking blue tiles and impressive architecture, a functioning mosque closed during prayer times. Open 8:30am–12pm and 2:30pm–4:45pm.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulent palace that housed Ottoman sultans featuring stunning courtyards, treasury, and Harem tours. Open 9am-6:45pm, closed Tuesdays.
TRY200, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Dine with views over the Golden Horn serving classic Turkish dishes like kebabs and mezes. Open until midnight.
TRY200, 1.5h
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Day 2: Istanbul's Markets & Bosphorus

Istanbul, Turkey on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie

Enjoy a contemporary breakfast with views of the Bosphorus in Bebek. Open from 8am.
TRY130, 1h

9:30am

Grand Bazaar

Shop and explore one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world with thousands of shops selling everything from carpets to spices. Open 9am-7pm.
Free entry, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy classic Ottoman cuisine in the historic ambiance of this iconic bazaar restaurant. Open 11:30am–3pm.
TRY180, 1h

1:30pm

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic afternoon cruise on the Bosphorus Strait to see Istanbul’s skyline, palaces, and bridges from the water. Cruises operate from 1pm to 4pm.
TRY120, 2h

5:30pm

Visit Ortaköy

Stroll around Ortaköy district famous for its mosque beside the water and vibrant cafés, perfect for relaxing and sampling street food like kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes).
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at House Cafe Ortaköy

Enjoy dinner in a stylish café overlooking the Bosphorus with a menu that blends traditional and modern Turkish flavors. Open until 11pm.
TRY180, 1.5h
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Day 3: Cappadocia Adventure

Nevşehir, Turkey on May 17, 2025

7:00am

Early Flight to Cappadocia

Catch a morning domestic flight from Istanbul to Nevşehir for your Cappadocia exploration, around 1.5 hours.
TRY400, 1.5h

9:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Şafak

Enjoy a hearty Cappadocian breakfast with local cheeses, olives, and fresh bread near Göreme. Open from 8am.
TRY100, 1h

10:30am

Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore rock-cut churches, chapels, and monasteries adorned with ancient frescoes at this UNESCO heritage site. Open 8am-7pm.
TRY150, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Dibek Restaurant

Taste traditional pottery kebabs in a cozy setting inside a historic old house. Open 12pm to 9pm.
TRY150, 1h

2:30pm

Uchisar Castle

Climb this natural rock fortress for panoramic views over Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and valleys. Open 8am–7pm.
TRY50, 1.5h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or sunset viewpoint

Rest and enjoy the stunning sunset at one of the popular viewpoints like Red Valley or Sunset Point.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Seten Anatolian Cuisine

Dine on traditional Anatolian dishes with local wine in an atmospheric cave restaurant in Göreme. Open until 10pm.
TRY200, 1.5h
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Day 4: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon & Exploration

Nevşehir, Turkey on May 18, 2025

5:00am

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia’s unique landscape, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Flights start at dawn.
TRY1500, 3h

9:00am

Breakfast at hotel

After ballooning, enjoy a relaxed breakfast with local and international options at your hotel.
Included, 1h

10:30am

Explore Derinkuyu Underground City

Visit this vast underground city, used for centuries as a refuge, and marvel at its tunnels and chambers. Open 8am-7pm.
TRY120, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at nearby local restaurant

Sample regional Turkish cuisine in a traditional setting close to Derinkuyu. Open 11am-4pm.
TRY130, 1h

2:30pm

Pasabag (Monk’s Valley)

Walk among fairy chimneys with twin and triple rock caps in this scenic valley famous for hermit dwellings.
TRY50, 1.5h

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Relax and refresh before dinner.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Enjoy home-cooked Cappadocian dishes in an intimate cave dining experience in Göreme. Open until 10pm.
TRY180, 1.5h
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Day 5: Pamukkale & Travel

Pamukkale, Turkey on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Early Flight/Drive to Denizli

Travel from Cappadocia to Denizli region by morning flight or comfortable bus for visiting Pamukkale. Flight approximately 1.5 hours plus transfer.
TRY400, 3h

11:00am

Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Walk the stunning white travertine terraces and soak your feet in the natural thermal pools at this famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. Open 8am-7pm.
TRY100, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kayas Restaurant

Enjoy local Turkish cuisine with views of the terraces in Pamukkale village. Open 11am-6pm.
TRY120, 1h

2:30pm

Hierapolis Ancient City

Explore the ancient Greco-Roman city ruins, including a theater, necropolis, and Roman baths adjacent to Pamukkale. Open 8am-7pm.
TRY150, 2h

5:00pm

Check into hotel and relax

Rest at your hotel in Pamukkale and enjoy amenities.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at White Dragon Restaurant

Dine on Turkish and international dishes in a cozy atmosphere near Pamukkale center. Open until 10pm.
TRY150, 1.5h
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Day 6: Ephesus & Travel

Selçuk, Turkey on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast included in your accommodation.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Ephesus (Selçuk)

Drive or take a transfer to Selçuk to explore the famous archaeological site of Ephesus. Approximately 3 hours travel.
TRY200, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ejder Restaurant

Sample fresh Aegean seafood and Turkish dishes in Selçuk’s town center. Open 11am-10pm.
TRY150, 1h

1:30pm

Ephesus Ancient City

Tour the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus including the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and Temple of Artemis site. Open 8am-7pm.
TRY150, 3h

4:30pm

Visit House of Virgin Mary

Visit this revered pilgrimage site said to be the last home of Mary, mother of Jesus, located near Ephesus. Open 8am-7pm.
TRY60, 1h

6:00pm

Return to Selçuk and check-in hotel

Check into your accommodation and rest after a full day of exploration.
Varies, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Artemis Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in a relaxed ambiance in Selçuk’s town center.
TRY130, 1.5h
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Day 7: Travel to England

London, England on May 21, 2025

7:00am

Flight to London

Depart from Izmir (nearest airport to Selçuk) to London, approx 4.5 hour direct flight.
GBP150, 6h

1:00pm

Check-in and lunch at Dishoom Covent Garden

Experience a popular Bombay-style café known for its flavorful Indian dishes in central London. Open 8am-11pm.
GBP20, 1h

2:30pm

London Eye

Take a ride on the iconic London Eye for unparalleled views of the city’s skyline. Opens 11am-6pm.
GBP30, 1h

4:00pm

Walk along the South Bank

Enjoy a leisurely walk by the Thames River, viewing landmarks like the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Flat Iron

Dine at this well-known steakhouse with great value and ambiance located near Covent Garden. Open until 10:30pm.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 8: London Landmarks

London, England on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club Soho

Savor a British breakfast with all the classics in a lively Soho café. Opens at 8am.
GBP15, 1h

9:30am

Tower of London

Explore London’s historic castle, home to the Crown Jewels and centuries of royal history. Open 9am-4:30pm.
GBP29, 2.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Borough Market

Enjoy a variety of gourmet street food and local delicacies at this famous London food market. Open 10am-5pm.
GBP15, 1h

1:30pm

British Museum

Visit one of the world’s best museums featuring artifacts from around the globe. Open 10am-5:30pm.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason

Treat yourself to a traditional English afternoon tea experience in this historic department store. Pre-booking recommended.
GBP50, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Palomar

Relish modern Jerusalem-style cuisine in a vibrant setting in Soho. Open until 10:30pm.
GBP35, 1.5h
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Day 9: Historic & Cultural London

London, England on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Gail's Bakery

Enjoy fresh pastries, coffee, and light breakfast near your accommodation. Opens at 8am.
GBP10, 1h

9:00am

Visit Westminster Abbey and Big Ben

Explore Westminster Abbey, a gothic church full of British history; admire Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from outside. Abbey open 9:30am-3:30pm.
GBP27, 2h

11:30am

Walk through St. James’s Park to Buckingham Palace

Stroll the beautiful park and see the iconic royal residence. The Changing of the Guard usually occurs around 11am-12pm.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Wolseley

Indulge in classic European café-style dining in Piccadilly. Open until 4pm.
GBP30, 1h

2:00pm

National Gallery

Admire world-famous paintings by masters such as Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Turner. Open 10am-6pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Covent Garden

Enjoy street performers, shops, and lively market atmosphere in this vibrant London district.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Clos Maggiore

Dine in an intimate, romantic French restaurant in Covent Garden, often named London’s most romantic. Open until 10pm.
GBP50, 1.5h
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Day 10: Travel to Aruba

Oranjestad, Aruba on May 24, 2025

7:00am

Flight to Aruba

Depart London for Aruba with connecting flights; total travel time approx 12-14 hours, plan arrival in the evening.
USD900, 14h
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Day 11: Relax in Aruba

Oranjestad, Aruba on May 25, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Dutch Pancakehouse

Enjoy delicious Dutch-style pancakes and freshly brewed coffee to start your island day.
USD15, 1h

10:30am

Eagle Beach

Spend the morning relaxing on one of Aruba’s top beaches with clear waters and soft white sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Barefoot Restaurant

Dine right on the beach with exquisite views and Caribbean-inspired cuisine.
USD35, 1.5h

3:00pm

Visit California Lighthouse

Explore this historic lighthouse and enjoy scenic views of Aruba’s northwestern coast. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Relax and swim at Arashi Beach

Another beautiful beach on the northern tip offering calm waters and snorkeling opportunities.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Flying Fishbone

Experience dining with your feet in the sand and fresh seafood cuisine in a romantic setting. Open until 10pm.
USD50, 1.5h
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Day 12: Island Exploration

Oranjestad, Aruba on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Linda's Dutch Pancakes & Eetcafe

Fuel up with hearty Dutch pancakes and local favorites in Oranjestad, opens at 7:30am.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Arikok National Park

Explore Aruba’s unique desert and coastal landscape, hiking trails, caves, and wildlife. Park is open 8am-5pm.
USD11, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Boca Prins Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy local dishes within the national park with a scenic view of the coast.
USD25, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Natural Pool (Conchi)

Take a guided jeep tour to this natural rock pool perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
USD50 for tour, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Yemanja Woodfired Grill

Savor fresh grilled seafood and steaks with tropical twists in a cozy atmosphere. Open until 10pm.
USD45, 1.5h
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Day 13: Water Sports & Relax

Oranjestad, Aruba on May 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Dutch Pancakes & Waffles

Taste sweet and savory pancakes near the hotel, opens at 8am.
USD15, 1h

10:00am

Snorkeling at Mangel Halto

Enjoy clear waters and vibrant marine life at one of Aruba’s best snorkeling beaches.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Kona Grill & Bar

Dine on fresh sushi and seafood located on the marina, open 11am-10pm.
USD30, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Palm Beach

Spend the afternoon at a lively beach with many resorts, bars, and water sports options.
Free, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Aquarius Restaurant

Seafood and Mediterranean dishes with beach views, a perfect way to end your day. Open until 10pm.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day 14: Cultural Day & Shopping

Oranjestad, Aruba on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Linda's Dutch Pancakes

Start your day with pancakes and fresh juices.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Aruba Aloe Factory & Museum

Learn how aloe is harvested and processed, and enjoy a free tour. Opens 9am-5pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Old Man and the Sea

Dine by the water on fresh seafood and Caribbean specialties. Open 12pm-10pm.
USD40, 1.5h

2:00pm

Shopping in Downtown Oranjestad

Explore colorful shops, local crafts, and luxury boutiques in the city center.
Variable, 3h

6:00pm

Relax at hotel

Prepare for departure or enjoy final evening in Aruba.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Screaming Eagle

Fine dining experience offering fusion cuisine in an elegant setting.
USD60, 2h
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Day 15: Departure

Oranjestad, Aruba on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast on the island before heading to the airport.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Departure from Aruba Airport

Head to the airport for your onward flight home or next destination.
Variable, Variable
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