7-Day Cultural and Historical Tour Itinerary in Turkey

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring cheeses, olives, honey, and fresh bread in a cosy atmosphere; this sets you up perfectly for a day of exploring.
TRY60, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Experience the remarkable history of Hagia Sophia, a magnificent architectural wonder that has served as both a cathedral and mosque.
TRY150, 2h0m

11:45am

Tour the Blue Mosque

Admire the stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture of the Blue Mosque, an active place of worship and a must-see Istanbul landmark.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Seven Hills Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and spectacular views of the Bosphorus and Hagia Sophia, perfect for a relaxing mid-day meal.
TRY180, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Topkapi Palace

Delve into Ottoman history through the opulent rooms and lush gardens of Topkapi Palace, the former royal residence.
TRY200, 2h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Savour traditional Southeastern Turkish dishes like kebabs with views overlooking the Golden Horn.
TRY200, 1h30m
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Day 2: Markets and Bosphorus

Istanbul, Turkey on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Start your day with a delicious breakfast by the Bosphorus, offering fresh ingredients and a relaxed vibe.
TRY75, 1h0m

9:30am

Grand Bazaar Shopping

Wander through one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets to shop for unique souvenirs and spices.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Spice Bazaar

Experience the aromatic Spice Bazaar with vibrant stalls selling herbs, sweets, and teas.
Free, 1h0m

1:15pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine in historical surroundings with classic Ottoman dishes near the Spice Bazaar.
TRY120, 1h0m

3:00pm

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic afternoon boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, enjoying views of palaces, bridges, and Istanbul's skyline.
TRY120, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Ulus 29

Enjoy modern Turkish cuisine with panoramic views of the city, perfect to end your Istanbul experience.
TRY250, 2h0m
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Day 3: Fly to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on June 25, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick breakfast at your hotel before heading to the airport for your flight to Cappadocia.
Included in hotel, 1h0m

8:00am

Flight to Cappadocia

Catch a morning domestic flight from Istanbul to Nevşehir or Kayseri Airport in Cappadocia.
TRY600, 1h30m

10:00am

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive in Cappadocia, transfer to your cave hotel for check-in and a brief rest.
Included in travel, 1h0m

11:30am

Visit Göreme Open Air Museum

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock-cut churches and beautiful frescoes.
TRY175, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Cappadocian and Turkish cuisine in an atmospheric cave setting.
TRY150, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Pasabag (Monk’s Valley)

Discover unique fairy chimneys and stunning landscapes in this famous valley.
TRY50, 1h30m

5:00pm

Pottery Workshop in Avanos

Join a hands-on pottery class and learn about the local tradition in this charming town.
TRY120, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Seki Restaurant

Dine on gourmet dishes with local wines and spectacular views over Cappadocia.
TRY250, 1h30m
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Day 4: Hot Air Balloon and Valleys

Cappadocia, Turkey on June 26, 2025

4:30am

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon flight over the magical landscapes of Cappadocia.
TRY3000, 3h0m

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast after your early morning balloon adventure.
Included in hotel, 1h0m

9:30am

Hike in Red and Rose Valleys

Take a scenic hike through the colourful Red and Rose Valleys, known for their striking rock formations.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Seten Restaurant

Savour traditional Anatolian flavours in a beautifully restored old home.
TRY150, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Uchisar Castle

Climb to the summit of this natural rock fortress for panoramic views of Cappadocia.
TRY50, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Hotel or Explore Local Markets

Spend your afternoon relaxing or explore local shops for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
Free to browse, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal on the floor seating in this historic stone building.
TRY140, 1h30m
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Day 5: Pamukkale Journey

Pamukkale, Turkey on June 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a hearty breakfast before departing Cappadocia for Pamukkale by flight or bus.
Included in hotel, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Denizli and Transfer to Pamukkale

Journey to Denizli airport or bus station followed by transfer to Pamukkale; check into your hotel.
TRY300 (travel), 4h0m

2:00pm

Visit Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Explore the stunning terraced hot springs; walk barefoot to enjoy the warm calcium-rich waters.
TRY150, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Hierapolis Ancient City

Wander through the ruins of this ancient spa city, including the Roman theatre and necropolis.
TRY150, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at White Dragon Restaurant

Taste a variety of Turkish dishes in a relaxed atmosphere near the thermal pools.
TRY120, 1h30m
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Day 6: Ephesus Exploration

Selçuk, Turkey on June 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before traveling to Selçuk to visit Ephesus.
Included in hotel, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Selçuk

Drive or take a bus to Selçuk from Pamukkale; check in to local accommodation.
TRY150 (travel), 3h0m

12:00pm

Visit Ancient City of Ephesus

Explore the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and Temple of Artemis.
TRY200, 3h0m

3:30pm

Tour House of Virgin Mary

Visit the sacred site believed to be where Mary spent her last days, set in a tranquil garden.
TRY80, 1h0m

5:00pm

Explore Selçuk town centre

Walk around the town, visit the bazaar and the Isa Bey Mosque, soaking in local culture.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Artemis Restaurant

Enjoy local Aegean dishes with fresh ingredients and welcoming atmosphere.
TRY130, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Izmir City Tour

Izmir, Turkey on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Breakfast and check-out before heading to Izmir, the coastal city vibrant with Turkish culture.
Included in hotel, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel to İzmir

Short transfer from Selçuk to İzmir; start your city exploration.
TRY50, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Konak Square and Clock Tower

Explore the lively heart of Izmir with its famous clock tower and surrounding markets.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Walk along Kordon Promenade

Enjoy a scenic stroll along the waterfront filled with cafes, restaurants and beautiful views.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Deniz Restaurant

Taste fresh seafood offerings with a welcoming ambience near the sea.
TRY140, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Agora Open Air Museum

Visit the ancient marketplace ruins showcasing İzmir’s rich history.
TRY60, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Kadifekale Castle

Climb up to this historic hilltop castle for impressive views over the city and coastline.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Topçu İskender

End your trip with traditional Turkish Iskender kebab, a delicious and hearty final meal.
TRY100, 1h30m
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Day 8: Departure

Izmir, Turkey on June 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast before your departure from Izmir.
Included in hotel, 1h0m

9:00am

Transfer to Airport

Head to İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport for your onward journey.
TRY50, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability