10-Day Turkey Itinerary: Discover Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus

Day 1: Istanbul Historic Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on October 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy an authentic Turkish breakfast featuring a variety of cheeses, olives, honey, eggs, and fresh bread to energize your first day in Istanbul.
TRY80, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Explore one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of the city's rich history. Open daily 9:00am-7:00pm.
TRY150, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Taste traditional Turkish meatballs in a lively historic setting near Sultanahmet Square.
TRY70, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Topkapi Palace

Discover the lavish residence of Ottoman sultans with stunning architecture, courtyards, and treasury. Open 9:00am-6:00pm.
TRY200, 3h

5:00pm

Walk around Sultanahmet Square

Stroll the vibrant plaza surrounded by historic monuments including the Blue Mosque and Hippodrome.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Balıkçı Sabahattin

Enjoy fresh seafood dining in a charming Ottoman house near the sea-side.
TRY180, 1h30m
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Day 2: Istanbul Market and Bosphorus

Istanbul, Turkey on October 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Namlı Gurme

Start with a fresh array of breakfast options in Karaköy, including cheeses, olives, and pastries.
TRY90, 1h

9:30am

Grand Bazaar Visit

Wander through one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, perfect for souvenirs and Turkish delights. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
Free Entry, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Pandeli Restaurant

Enjoy traditional and historic Turkish cuisine in the heart of the Spice Bazaar.
TRY120, 1h

1:30pm

Bosphorus Cruise

Take a scenic 2-hour cruise along the Bosphorus strait, enjoying views of palaces, bridges, and Istanbul’s skyline. Cruises typically run 10:00am-5:00pm.
TRY150, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace

Tour the opulent 19th-century palace, former residence of Ottoman sultans and the first president of Turkey. Open 9:00am-4:00pm.
TRY200, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mikla Restaurant

Experience fine dining with modern Turkish cuisine and panoramic city views from a rooftop setting.
TRY300, 2h
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Day 3: Istanbul to Cappadocia

Istanbul to Cappadocia, Turkey on October 3, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at your hotel

Have a light breakfast to prepare for your flight to Cappadocia.
Included, 30m

7:30am

Flight to Cappadocia (Nevşehir or Kayseri Airport)

Take a 1.5-hour flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia.
TRY400, 1h30m

10:00am

Check-in and Rest at Cave Hotel

Experience a unique cave hotel stay in Göreme or Uçhisar and freshen up.
TRY600 per night, 1h

11:30am

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient rock-cut churches with beautiful frescoes. Open 8:00am-7:00pm.
TRY150, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Dibek Traditional Cook

Savor traditional pottery kebab and local dishes in a historic setting.
TRY100, 1h

3:30pm

Uçhisar Castle Visit

Climb to the top of the natural rock fortress for spectacular panoramic views of Cappadocia.
TRY50, 1h

5:00pm

Sunset at Red Valley

Enjoy the stunning sunset casting red hues over surreal rock formations.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Seten Anatolian Cuisine

Relish authentic Cappadocian dishes in a cozy ambiance.
TRY150, 1h30m
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Day 4: Cappadocia Adventures

Cappadocia, Turkey on October 4, 2025

5:30am

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Start early for a breathtaking hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia’s surreal landscape. Flights run daily 5:30-7:30am but must be booked in advance.
TRY1800, 2h

8:00am

Breakfast at your Hotel

After your balloon ride, enjoy a hearty breakfast back at the cave hotel.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Visit Derinkuyu Underground City

Explore the fascinating multi-level underground city used by early Christians for refuge, open 8:00am-7:00pm.
TRY80, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sofra Restaurant

Enjoy local Cappadocian specialties including fresh bread and stews.
TRY90, 1h

2:30pm

Hike through Ihlara Valley

Take a scenic 4km walk along the Melendiz River surrounded by nature and rock-cut churches. Valley open from 8:00am to sunset.
TRY50, 2h30m

6:00pm

Return to Hotel and Rest

Relax and freshen up after your day of exploration.
Included, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ziggy's Shop & Cafe

Dine on traditional Anatolian dishes in a warm, artistic atmosphere.
TRY130, 1h30m
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Day 5: Cappadocia to Pamukkale

Cappadocia to Pamukkale, Turkey on October 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Checkout

Enjoy your last cave hotel breakfast before your travel to Pamukkale.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Flight or Bus to Denizli (closest to Pamukkale)

Take a domestic flight to Denizli or a long-distance bus, approximately 1.5-hour flight or 10-hour bus ride. Flights are preferred for time efficiency.
TRY500, 1h30m flight

11:00am

Transfer and Check-in at Pamukkale Hotel

Arrive in Pamukkale and settle in your hotel nearby the thermal pools.
TRY400 per night, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at White Dragon Restaurant

Enjoy fresh Turkish dishes with a view of the famous travertines.
TRY80, 1h

2:00pm

Pamukkale Thermal Pools and Hierapolis

Explore the surreal white travertine terraces and ancient Hierapolis ruins. Open 8:00am-7:00pm. Walking barefoot on terraces is required to protect them.
TRY150, 3h

5:30pm

Visit Cleopatra's Pool

Take a relaxing swim in the ancient thermal pool filled with warm mineral waters and submerged columns.
TRY100, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Kayas Restaurant

Dine on local specialties like testi kebab in a cozy atmosphere.
TRY90, 1h30m
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Day 6: Pamukkale to Ephesus (Selçuk)

Pamukkale to Selçuk (Ephesus), Turkey on October 6, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Checkout

Start your day with breakfast before traveling to Selçuk near Ephesus.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive or Bus to Selçuk (approx. 3.5 hours)

Travel by car or bus through scenic countryside to Selçuk, the gateway to Ephesus.
TRY150, 3h30m

12:00pm

Check-in at Selçuk Hotel

Settle into your hotel in Selçuk and relax after your trip.
TRY350 per night, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Ejder Restaurant

Relish traditional Turkish cuisine with an emphasis on local Aegean flavors.
TRY70, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Ephesus Ancient City

Explore the well-preserved ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman city including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Open 8:00am-7:00pm.
TRY200, 3h

6:30pm

Visit Basilica of St. John

Tour the remains of the basilica built over the believed burial site of St. John. Open until sunset.
TRY60, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Agora Restaurant

Enjoy a variety of delicious local dishes in the heart of Selçuk.
TRY90, 1h30m
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Day 7: Ephesus and Kusadasi Beaches

Selçuk and Kusadasi, Turkey on October 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Relax with a leisurely breakfast before a day exploring and beach time.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit House of Virgin Mary

Visit the sacred pilgrimage site near Ephesus believed to be Mary’s last home. Open 8:00am-5:30pm.
TRY30, 1h

11:00am

Travel to Kusadasi

Short 30-minute drive to Kusadasi, a popular Aegean beach town.
TRY20, 30m

11:30am

Beach time at Ladies Beach

Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at one of Kusadasi’s most famous sandy beaches. Facilities open daily.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Öz Urla Balıkçısı

Taste fresh seafood with stunning views overlooking the Aegean Sea.
TRY120, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Kusadasi Marina and Bazaar

Stroll through the marina and shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Coffee break at Marina Café

Relax with a coffee while watching boats and sunset colors.
TRY40, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Deniz Restaurant

Dine on a mix of Turkish and international dishes near the waterfront.
TRY140, 1h30m
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Day 8: Selçuk Villages and Şirince

Selçuk and Şirince, Turkey on October 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a peaceful start with breakfast before heading to a nearby village.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Şirince Village

Explore this charming hillside village famous for its fruit wines, cobblestone streets, and Ottoman architecture. Shops and cafes open around 9:00am.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Şirince Artemis Restaurant

Savor local dishes accompanied by homemade fruit wines.
TRY85, 1h

2:00pm

Return to Selçuk and visit Isa Bey Mosque

Discover one of the largest and best-preserved Seljuk mosques in Turkey, a historic architectural gem.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Ephesus Archaeology Museum

View artifacts excavated from Ephesus to deepen your understanding of the ancient city. Open 8:00am-6:00pm.
TRY90, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Selçuk town square

Enjoy a coffee or tea at one of the local cafes watching daily life.
TRY30, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Urkmez Restaurant

Taste traditional Turkish dishes served with warm hospitality.
TRY100, 1h30m
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Day 9: Return to Istanbul

Selçuk to Istanbul, Turkey on October 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Checkout

Enjoy your final breakfast in Selçuk before heading back to Istanbul.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Flight from Izmir (Adnan Menderes Airport) to Istanbul

Drive 1 hour from Selçuk to Izmir airport and board your flight back to Istanbul (about 1 hour).
TRY350, 1h flight + 1h transfer

11:00am

Check-in at Istanbul hotel

Rest and freshen up at your hotel in Istanbul.
TRY600 per night, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Çiya Sofrası, Kadıköy

Discover diverse Anatolian flavors while exploring the Asian side’s vibrant market area.
TRY110, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Kadıköy Market and Moda neighborhood

Experience local life with street art, cafes, and a seaside promenade.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return ferry to European side

Enjoy scenic views of the city skyline during your ferry ride back across the Bosphorus.
TRY15, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Neolokal

Dine on modern interpretations of traditional Turkish cuisine in a stylish setting.
TRY250, 2h
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Day 10: Istanbul Leisure Day

Istanbul, Turkey on October 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mangerie Bebek

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with views over the Bosphorus in the upscale Bebek neighborhood.
TRY120, 1h

9:30am

Visit Istanbul Modern Art Museum

Explore contemporary Turkish and international art in this well-curated museum open 10:00am-6:00pm.
TRY100, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Karaköy Lokantası

Try a delicious lunch featuring mezes and seafood in a stylish historic venue.
TRY130, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Galata Tower

Climb this medieval tower for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Golden Horn. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
TRY100, 1h

3:00pm

Coffee break at Café Privato

Relax with specialty coffee in a charming atmosphere near Galata Tower.
TRY40, 1h

4:30pm

Shopping and Strolling on Istiklal Avenue

Enjoy your final afternoon shopping and people-watching along Istanbul’s most famous pedestrian street.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Celebrate your 10-day journey with fine dining and panoramic city views from this rooftop restaurant.
TRY350, 2h
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