Turkey-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Turkey

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

  • Arrival: Arrive at Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST)
  • Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter Turkey. Citizens of certain countries can obtain an e-visa online.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or metro (M1A line) from the airport to your hotel in Sultanahmet area
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Sultanahmet, such as Hotel Empress Zoe or similar
  • Evening Activity: Explore the streets of Sultanahmet, visit the Blue Mosque (free admission), and enjoy the sunset at the Golden Horn

Day 2: Istanbul

  • Morning Activity: Visit the Hagia Sophia Museum (50 TRY per person) and take a guided tour
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Turkish cuisine, such as kebabs or baklava, at a local restaurant
  • Afternoon Activity: Explore the Basilica Cistern (20 TRY per person) and visit the Grand Bazaar (free admission)
  • Evening Activity: Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Cruise (30 TRY per person) and watch the city lights

Day 3: Istanbul to Cappadocia

  • Morning Transportation: Fly from Istanbul to Kayseri Airport (ASR) or Nevsehir Airport (NAV)
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Göreme, such as Hotel Göreme or similar
  • Afternoon Activity: Explore the Göreme National Park (30 TRY per person) and visit the Uçhisar Castle
  • Evening Activity: Watch the sunset from a panoramic viewpoint and enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner

Day 4: Cappadocia

  • Morning Activity: Take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia (150 EUR per person)
  • Lunch: Try some local specialties, such as mantı or testi kebabı
  • Afternoon Activity: Visit the Derinkuyu Underground City (30 TRY per person) and explore the nearby villages
  • Evening Activity: Enjoy a relaxing evening in your hotel or explore the Göreme village

Day 5: Cappadocia to Pamukkale

  • Morning Transportation: Drive from Göreme to Pamukkale (approx. 4 hours)
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Pamukkale, such as Hotel Hierapolis or similar
  • Afternoon Activity: Visit the Hierapolis Ancient City (30 TRY per person) and explore the travertines of Pamukkale
  • Evening Activity: Enjoy the sunset and relax at your hotel

Day 6: Pamukkale to Ephesus and Selçuk

  • Morning Transportation: Drive from Pamukkale to Selçuk (approx. 3 hours)
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Selçuk, such as Hotel Urkmez or similar
  • Afternoon Activity: Visit the ancient city of Ephesus (30 TRY per person) and explore the nearby village of Şirince
  • Evening Activity: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and relax in your hotel

Day 7: Departure from Izmir

  • Morning Transportation: Drive from Selçuk to Izmir Airport (ADB) or take a bus
  • Departure: Fly back home from Izmir Airport

Other Essentials

  • Language: Turkish, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas
  • Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
  • Weather: Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Turkey, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists
  • Dress Code: Modest dress is recommended for visiting mosques and historical sites
  • Safety: Take necessary precautions to stay safe, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings

Additional Tips

  • Haggling: Expect to haggle when shopping at markets or bazaars
  • Respect Local Customs: Remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes, and respect Ramadan traditions if traveling during the holy month
  • Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying delicious Turkish delicacies, such as baklava, kebabs, and Turkish delight