Family-Friendly 9-Day Turkey Itinerary: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Antalya Adventure

Day 1: Istanbul Arrival & Historic Sites

Istanbul, Turkey on May 26, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with a variety of cheeses, olives, eggs, and fresh bread to start your day in Istanbul.

TRY 80, 1h0m

10:30am

Hagia Sophia Museum

Explore this iconic Byzantine architectural masterpiece and marvel at its stunning mosaics and rich history.

TRY 200, 2h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Savor authentic Turkish meatballs (köfte) in a historic spot near the Blue Mosque.

TRY 70, 1h0m

2:00pm

Blue Mosque

Visit the famous Blue Mosque with its majestic domes and exquisite blue tiles - an active mosque, so dress respectfully.

Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulence of the Ottoman sultans' residence and explore its courtyards, treasury, and harem sections.

TRY 300, 2h30m

6:15pm

Dinner at Balikci Sabahattin

Dine on fresh seafood in a charming Ottoman-era house near Sultanahmet.

TRY 250, 1h30m

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Day 2: Istanbul - Bosphorus & Markets

Istanbul, Turkey on May 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Namlı Gurme

Indulge in a varied breakfast with local cheese, olives, and Turkish pastries in Karaköy.

TRY 90, 1h0m

10:00am

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic 2-hour cruise along the Bosphorus Strait to enjoy stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and palaces.

TRY 100, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası

Taste delicious regional Anatolian cuisine located in vibrant Kadıköy market district.

TRY 90, 1h0m

2:00pm

Grand Bazaar Shopping

Explore one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, perfect for souvenirs and local crafts.

Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Explore Spice Bazaar

Delight your senses with colorful spices, sweets, and teas at this lively market.

Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Enjoy traditional kebabs and panoramic views of the Golden Horn from this rooftop eatery.

TRY 220, 1h30m

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Day 3: Travel & Explore Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on May 28, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel in Istanbul

Grab a quick Turkish breakfast before your flight.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Flight to Cappadocia

Fly from Istanbul to Nevsehir or Kayseri Airport to reach Cappadocia region.

Varies, 1h30m

11:00am

Check-in and relax at Cave Hotel

Settle into your traditional cave hotel which offers authentic local ambiance.

Varies, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Enjoy homemade Cappadocian fare inside a cozy cave setting.

TRY 100, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore ancient rock-cut churches decorated with stunning frescoes; open 8am to 5pm.

TRY 150, 2h0m

5:00pm

Sunset at Red Valley

Watch the spectacular sunset reflecting off vibrant rock formations and fairy chimneys.

Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Dibek Restaurant

Try traditional pottery kebab in a warm, family-run setting.

TRY 120, 1h30m

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Day 4: Cappadocia Balloon & Valleys

Cappadocia, Turkey on May 29, 2025

5:00am

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s unique landscape. Must be booked in advance.

TRY 2500, 3h0m

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a late breakfast with local specialties after your balloon ride.

Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Explore Devrent (Imagination) Valley

Wander among unusual rock formations that resemble animals and objects.

Free, 1h30m

11:45am

Visit Pasabag (Monk’s Valley)

See some of the most striking fairy chimneys with multiple caps at this serene valley.

TRY 50, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sedef Restaurant

Enjoy flavorful Turkish cuisine in the heart of Göreme.

TRY 90, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Uchisar Castle

Climb to the top for incredible panoramic views over Cappadocia.

TRY 50, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or try a Turkish bath

Unwind with a traditional hammam experience—a great way to relax tired muscles.

TRY 250, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Seten Anatolian Cuisine

Savor authentic regional dishes with a view of Göreme town.

TRY 140, 1h30m

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Day 5: Travel & Relax in Antalya

Antalya, Turkey on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your flight to Antalya.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Flight to Antalya

Catch a morning flight from Cappadocia to Antalya, the Turkish Riviera’s jewel.

Varies, 1h30m

11:00am

Check-in and beach time

Relax at your hotel near Lara Beach or Konyaaltı Beach and enjoy seaside views.

Varies, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Dine in a historic Ottoman mansion serving international and Turkish cuisine.

TRY 200, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Kaleiçi (Old Town)

Wander through cobbled streets with quaint shops, historic buildings, and marina views.

Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at 7 Mehmet

Relish traditional Turkish dishes with the backdrop of the Taurus Mountains.

TRY 180, 1h30m

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Day 6: Nature & Waterfalls

Antalya, Turkey on May 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel a day of exploration.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Düden Waterfalls

Marvel at the scenic waterfalls located just 10 km outside Antalya, a perfect spot for family photos.

Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Vanilla Lounge Restaurant

Relish Mediterranean and Turkish fusion dishes in a stylish setting.

TRY 150, 1h0m

1:30pm

Beach time or Antalya Museum

Option to relax on Konyaaltı Beach or visit Antalya Museum showcasing archaeological artifacts (open 8:30am to 6pm).

TRY 50 if museum, 3h0m

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Unwind and prepare for dinner.

Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Piyazcı Akif

Try Antalya’s specialty piyaz and other local dishes at this well-known spot in Kaleiçi.

TRY 90, 1h30m

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Day 7: Return to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel in Antalya

Enjoy your final breakfast in Antalya.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Flight to Istanbul

Fly back to Istanbul and check-in to your hotel.

Varies, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Tour the stunning 19th-century palace showcasing Ottoman luxury and European influence; open 9am to 4:30pm.

TRY 250, 2h0m

1:45pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine in the historic Spice Bazaar with classic Turkish dishes.

TRY 120, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Istiklal Street & Galata Tower

Walk along the bustling Istiklal Avenue and visit the Galata Tower for panoramic city views.

TRY 100 for tower, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience modern Turkish cuisine with breathtaking views over Istanbul’s skyline.

TRY 350, 1h30m

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Day 8: Istanbul Cultural Day

Istanbul, Turkey on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast with Bosphorus views in Bebek.

TRY 100, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Chora Church

Admire stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes in this lesser-known gem; open 9am to 7pm.

TRY 100, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore Fener & Balat Neighborhoods

Wander colorful streets with historic churches, cafes, and local markets.

Free, 2h0m

1:15pm

Lunch at Forno Balat

Try delicious Turkish pastries and light meals in a cozy cafe.

TRY 80, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Emirgan Park

Stroll through this beautiful park famous for tulip displays and Bosphorus views.

Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Neolokal

Celebrate your trip with innovative Turkish cuisine served in a stylish setting.

TRY 320, 2h0m

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Day 9: Departure Day

Istanbul, Turkey on June 3, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a light breakfast before heading to the airport.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Transfer to Istanbul Airport

Travel to the airport for your flight back to Mumbai.

Taxi approx. TRY 150, 1h0m

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