7-Day Cultural and Historical Adventure Across Turkey

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey on June 10, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with a variety of cheeses, olives, eggs, honey, and fresh bread – a perfect start to your Istanbul adventure.
TRY100, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore the legendary Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece that served as a cathedral and mosque, now a museum showcasing Byzantine and Ottoman history.
TRY150, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Dine in a historic restaurant within the Spice Bazaar offering classic Ottoman dishes in a charming setting.
TRY120, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Topkapi Palace

Discover the opulence of the Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace including its harem, treasury, and beautiful gardens.
TRY200, 2h30m

5:30pm

Stroll the Sultanahmet Square

Wander the historic heart of Istanbul, admiring landmarks and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and street performances.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Enjoy fresh seafood in a cozy, traditional setting near Sultanahmet, renowned for its quality and ambiance.
TRY180, 1h30m

Day 2: Istanbul and Bosphorus

Istanbul, Turkey on June 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Namlı Gurme

Start your day with a delicious assortment of Turkish pastries, cheeses, and olives in Karaköy.
TRY90, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit the Blue Mosque

Marvel at the stunning blue tiles and majestic architecture of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, one of Istanbul’s iconic symbols.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world with thousands of shops selling carpets, spices, and souvenirs.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Havuzlu Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Turkish mezes and kebabs near the Grand Bazaar in a relaxed atmosphere.
TRY110, 1h0m

3:00pm

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic 2-hour cruise along the Bosphorus to see palaces, fortresses, and beautiful Istanbul shorelines.
TRY180, 2h0m

6:00pm

Coffee and dessert at Pierre Loti Café

Relax at this hilltop café with panoramic views over the Golden Horn, enjoying Turkish coffee and baklava.
TRY60, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Mikla

Savor modern Turkish cuisine at this rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views over Istanbul.
TRY350, 2h0m

Day 3: Travel to Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey on June 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before your journey to Cappadocia.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Flight from Istanbul to Kayseri

Take a morning flight to Kayseri Airport, the nearest airport to Cappadocia; flight lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
TRY400, 1h15m

10:30am

Transfer to Göreme

Travel from Kayseri Airport to Göreme by shuttle or taxi, approximately 1-hour drive.
TRY80, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Anatolian cuisine in a cozy cave restaurant, a signature experience in Cappadocia.
TRY120, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore ancient rock-cut churches with stunning frescoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site open daily from 8am to 7pm.
TRY100, 2h0m

4:00pm

Hiking at Pigeon Valley

Take a gentle 2-hour hike through Pigeon Valley, known for its unique rock formations and pigeon houses carved into the cliffs.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Seten Anatolian Cuisine

Dine on authentic Cappadocian dishes featuring local ingredients in a charming setting.
TRY150, 1h30m

Day 4: Cappadocia Adventure

Cappadocia, Turkey on June 13, 2025

5:00am

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the surreal landscapes, a must-do activity, offering breathtaking views; rides generally last about 1 hour.
TRY1500, 3h0m

8:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Return to hotel for a well-deserved breakfast after the early morning adventure.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Derinkuyu Underground City

Tour the largest excavated underground city in Turkey, dating back thousands of years, open from 8am to 7pm.
TRY80, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ziggy’s Café, Ürgüp

Enjoy a variety of Anatolian dishes with a modern twist in a cozy atmosphere.
TRY130, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Uçhisar Castle

Climb to the top of the highest point in Cappadocia for panoramic views of the valleys; the site is open 24 hours.
TRY50, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Love Valley

Walk among the famous uniquely shaped fairy chimneys and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Seki Restaurant, Argos in Cappadocia

Indulge in a fine dining experience with a view, featuring regional wines and refined Turkish cuisine.
TRY250, 2h0m

Day 5: Pamukkale Relaxation

Pamukkale, Turkey on June 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before your transfer to Pamukkale.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive from Cappadocia to Pamukkale

A long scenic drive or an internal flight can be arranged; approx 7-hour drive or 1.5-hour flight+transfer.
TRY400, 7h0m

3:30pm

Check in and rest

Arrive in Pamukkale, check into hotel and relax.
Hotel cost varies, 1h0m

5:00pm

Visit Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Explore the natural limestone terraces and warm pools, perfect for an afternoon soak; site open until 7pm.
TRY90, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at White Dragon Restaurant

Enjoy fresh local and international cuisine, with views of the terraces illuminated at night.
TRY130, 1h30m

Day 6: Ancient Ephesus Day

Selçuk, Turkey on June 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have breakfast before heading to Ephesus.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel to Ephesus

Drive approximately 3 hours from Pamukkale to the ancient city of Ephesus.
TRY100, 3h0m

12:00pm

Tour Ephesus Ancient City

Explore the best-preserved ancient Greco-Roman city in the Mediterranean, including the Library of Celsus and Great Theatre; open 8am-7pm.
TRY150, 3h0m

3:30pm

Lunch at Selçuk Şirince Village

Enjoy a traditional lunch in this quaint village renowned for fruit wines and authentic Turkish dishes.
TRY120, 1h0m

5:00pm

Visit House of Virgin Mary

Visit the sacred site believed to be the last residence of Mary, open until 6pm.
TRY50, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ejder Restaurant, Selçuk

Savor regional specialties in a comfortable setting.
TRY100, 1h30m

Day 7: Relax in Izmir

Izmir, Turkey on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Izmir

Short 1-hour drive from Selçuk to Izmir, a lively city by the Aegean Sea.
TRY50, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Konak Square and Clock Tower

Explore the central square and the iconic Ottoman clock tower, a perfect photo opportunity.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Explore Kemeralti Bazaar

Wander through this bustling traditional market filled with shops, cafes, and snacking opportunities.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Deniz Restaurant

Taste fresh Aegean seafood dishes near the seafront with lovely views.
TRY130, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Kordon Promenade

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, dotted with cafes and beautiful sea views.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Topçu Restaurant

Relish traditional Turkish grilled meats in a lively, authentic atmosphere to end your trip.
TRY120, 1h30m