Turkey 5 Day Itinerary

Turkey Travel Itinerary (5 Days)

Day 1: Istanbul - The City of Wonders

  • Morning: Arrive in Istanbul, the vibrant city that straddles Europe and Asia. Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), a former Byzantine church, Ottoman mosque, and now a museum. Explore the nearby Basilica Cistern, a massive underground water storage system built in 532 AD.
  • Evening: Take a stroll along the Bosphorus Strait and enjoy the sunset. Try some traditional Turkish cuisine, such as Doner Kebab or Lahmacun, at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Istanbul - Palaces and Bazaars

  • Morning: Visit the opulent Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Be sure to see the Treasury and the Harem sections.
  • Afternoon: Explore the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, you’ll find everything from carpets to jewelry to souvenirs.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkish bath (Hamam) experience at a local spa.

Day 3: Istanbul to Cappadocia

  • Morning: Fly to Kayseri or Nevsehir and transfer to Cappadocia, a region famous for its unique fairy chimneys and honeycombed hills.
  • Afternoon: Explore the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia on a guided tour. Visit the Göreme National Park and marvel at the ancient cave dwellings and churches.
  • Evening: Watch the sunset over the fairy chimneys and enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner.

Day 4: Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Ride

  • Early Morning: Take a breathtaking Hot Air Balloon Ride over Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes. Watch the sunrise from above and see the fairy chimneys up close.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Derinkuyu Underground City, a massive subterranean city built in the 8th century BC.
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel or explore the local town of Göreme.

Day 5: Cappadocia to Istanbul and Departure

  • Morning: Return to Kayseri or Nevsehir airport for your flight back to Istanbul.
  • Afternoon: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market in Istanbul.
  • Evening: Depart from Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW).

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need an e-visa or a visa upon arrival. Check the official Turkish government website for more information.
  • Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. You can exchange money at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices.
  • Language: Turkish is the official language, but many locals in tourist areas speak English.
  • Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting mosques and churches. Remove your shoes before entering mosques.
  • Safety: Turkey is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

  • Flights: Book domestic flights between Istanbul and Kayseri or Nevsehir in advance.
  • Airport Transfers: Arrange for private transfers or use public transportation (Havabus) from airports to your accommodations.
  • Local Transportation: Use taxis, buses, or walk/take a shuttle bus to get around Istanbul and Cappadocia.

Other Tips

  • Try Turkish Delight: Sample this traditional sweet treat at local markets or shops.
  • Bargain at Markets: Haggling is expected at markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
  • Respect Local Customs: Remove your shoes before entering mosques, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and natural wonders, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Happy travels in Turkey!