Turkey Itinerary: 7 Days

What is the best time to visit Turkey?

Turkey’s weather varies widely throughout its vast and dispersed territory. As a result, you can always find regions to visit at all times. The best seasons to visit Turkey are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). The temperatures would be mild, the skies would be clear, the crowds would be thin, and everything would be less expensive. During Ramadan (March to May), a few shops and restaurants are closed during the day. The summer months (June-August) will be scorching hot, crowded, and expensive. However, it is an excellent time to visit the Mediterranean coast. Cappadocia also hosts the Cappadox Festival in May, which is worth seeing. Winters (December–February) are extremely cold and rainy, making them an unsuitable time to visit Turkey.

Getting Around in Turkey

• Air Travel—Flights are pretty affordable in Turkey. Driving takes up a lot of time, so it makes sense to travel by air. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus are the leading airlines operating flights to various cities.
• Rental Car – Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring less accessible areas or for a road trip. Keep in mind that you will be making some long drives. It takes 10-12 hours to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia. There are various car rental agencies in major cities and at airports. If you plan to drive between cities, check the offers at Localrent.
• Train – Train travel in Turkey is generally limited and slow, though services are improving.
• Bus – Buses are a popular and inexpensive mode of transportation in Turkey. Several bus companies offer both intercity and intracity services. The buses are comfortable and provide a range of amenities.

Places on Our Itinerary

ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Istanbul, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is the highlight of your Turkish vacation. The city has been around for 2000 years and is densely packed with ancient ruins and monuments. Begin your day in Sultanahmet, Istanbul’s old city, where you can see most of the city’s iconic sights, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern. Everything is clustered together, and you can get around on foot.

Take a cruise along the Bosphorus and marvel at the most beautiful architectural mansions along the way, such as the Bosphorus bridges, Ottoman residences, Ciragan Palace, and Dolmabahçe Palace. For a deeper exploration, consider visiting the Ottoman Suites, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Bezmi Alem Mosque. Istanbul’s public transportation system is excellent, and taxis are pointless. Please note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays & national holidays, and the Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays. Visitors cannot enter the Blue Mosque before 1:30 p.m. on Friday mornings. The mosque may not be open to visitors during the five prayer sessions.

When you’re done sightseeing for the day, you should check out the Grand Bazaar for a unique shopping experience. It is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. The labyrinth bazaar tests your haggling skills, offering a mind-boggling range of local products and souvenirs. Unfortunately, the focus is now mainly on fake copies of luxury brands. Handbags, footwear, clothing, jewelry – everything is a copy of some high-end label. It can be a rip-off, but a visit to Istanbul without a visit to the Grand Bazaar would be incomplete. Another attraction is the Spice Bazaar, which offers a wide selection of essences, dried fruits, ceramics, textiles, and numerous aromatic spices. Explore the trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants for authentic local flavors and cuisines. The vibrant neighborhoods of Nisantasi, Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş, Karaköy, and Istiklal Caddesi won’t disappoint if you’re looking for some hot spots.

Must-Visit in Istanbul:

• Hagia Sophia – Once a cathedral, later a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia is an enormous architectural marvel.
• Topkapi Palace – UNESCO Heritage Site and the oldest surviving palace in the world. The ancestral residence of the Ottoman Sultans has been converted into a museum.
• Blue Mosque – An architectural masterpiece with around 20,000 hand-painted blue Iznik tiles. The grandeur and splendor of the mosque will leave you amazed.
• Basilica Cistern—This grand subterranean structure, built in the 6th century, is full of visual wonders, such as Medusa’s weeping column and inverted head.
• Grand Bazaar – Vibrant and colorful, Grand Bazaar is one of the first “shopping malls of the world”. It has 61 covered streets and more than 4000 shops.
• Bosphorus Cruise – A cruise through the middle of Europe and Asia, giving you gorgeous views of waterfront palaces and houses.
• Galata Bridge and Galata Tower – The 500 AD watchtower is the best place to get a panoramic view of Istanbul.

CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY

Cappadocia has seen a sudden surge in popularity and may soon overtake Istanbul as the top attraction in Turkey. The region comprises several towns, each with its unique landscape. Stunning vistas, fairy chimneys, fantastic rock formations, & underground cave dwellings – Cappadocia is truly a magical destination. The popular spots include the Göreme Open Air Museum, Pasabag Monk’s Valley, Devrent Valley, Tokali Kilise, Göreme National Park, the Red & Rose Valleys, Cavusin Castle, and Uchisar Castle. It’s also fun to wander around downtown Göreme and shop for trinkets, such as Turkish rugs, lovely lamps, and other items.

The region is famous for hot air balloon rides, and you must get up early in the morning to see hundreds of hot air balloons floating in the sky over the moon-like landscape. The views are simply breathtaking, both from the ground and from the basket of the balloon. Plan to stay at least two nights in Cappadocia, allowing an extra day to enjoy a hot air balloon ride if the weather isn’t cooperating and you cannot take the ride on the first day. Book ahead of time, as only 150 balloons are allowed daily and are always in high demand. If you’re looking for a reliable and top-rated hot-air balloon trip, Viator and GetYourGuide are great places to start.

Use the second day to visit the more remote attractions. It is best to book a local tour to explore the area without worrying about logistics. Another option is to take a hop-on, hop-off bus, which is a great way to explore the area at an affordable price. Cappadocia’s subterranean cities are as well-known around the world as the region’s unusual fairy chimneys. The region boasts 200 underground cities, with Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı being the most notable examples. To see the underground cities, you must climb and descend many steps and bend down in a few places, but this allows you to learn about the history of these fascinating settlements and better understand how the ancient inhabitants lived. The Ihlara Valley is another must-see location. It features numerous cave churches and rock-cut buildings within a unique landscape. Stay in one of the region’s many cave hotels for a magical experience. Travelers highly recommend Sultan Cave Suites and Kelebek Special Cave Hotel.

Must-Visit in Cappadocia:

• Kaymakli Underground City—The underground city has eight floors below ground, but only four are open to the public. At its peak, it could accommodate 3,000 people.
• Devrent Valley – Known for its unique fairy chimneys.
• Derinkuyu Underground City – The deepest underground city in Turkey (200 feet underground) with an extensive network of passages and tunnels
• Pasabag Monk’s Valley – For the mushroom-shaped pinnacles
• Göreme Open Air Museum – Rock-cut churches and Christian monuments dug into the hills, dating back hundreds of years.
• Uchisar Castle – The fortress offers panoramic views of the entire region
• Ihlara Valley – A majestic 15km gorge formed thousands of years ago by volcanic activity in the region. It is 100 meters deep in most places.

EPHESUS, TURKEY

Ephesus Ancient City, founded by the Greeks in the 10th century BC, is Turkey’s most prominent and prosperous open-air museum. Ephesus was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire and the center of trade and commerce in the ancient world. Today, it is one of Turkey’s best-preserved ruins. You can explore the Isabey Mosque, the Temple of Artemis (one of the seven wonders of the ancient world), the 25,000-seat Ephesus Grand Theatre, the Basilica of St. John, the Hadrian Temple, Sirince Village, and the House of the Virgin Mary in and around Ephesus.

PAMUKKALE, TURKEY

Pamukkale literally translates to “cotton castle,” and there is no better way to describe this picturesque region. Pamukkale has natural thermal spring water pools with curative properties. Due to calcareous salt deposits, stepped-water terraces and white-colored travertines have formed on the mountain slopes. These natural springs have been popular since the 2nd century BC. People came here looking for remedies for their ailments. Wander the travertines, take a dip in the Cleopatra Pool, admire the breathtaking views, and visit the Roman Hierapolis city archaeological site – plenty to keep you busy.
PS: The travertine terraces at Pamukkale are not what they looked like 10-20 years ago. Except for a few pools along the east side, the white rock mountains, once full of warm thermal water, have largely dried up. The handful of pools that do have water are choked with tourists and social media influencers. The trip to Pamukkale is exhausting and takes several hours to complete. So, keep your expectations low if you go for a day trip to Pamukkale.

ANTALYA, TURKEY

Antalya, a vibrant city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is one of the country’s top tourist destinations. The resort town boasts a warm Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it an ideal destination year-round. With a history stretching over 2,000 years, Antalya has been inhabited by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Also known as the “Turkish Riviera,” Antalya offers a perfect blend of ancient architecture and modern conveniences. The majestic coastline, featuring beaches and rocky coves, is framed by surrounding mountains and the deep blue sea, providing a dramatic backdrop that enhances the beauty of the place.

Must-Visit in Antalya:

• Kaleiçi (Old Town): The historic district is lined with Ottoman-era homes, small boutiques, and cafes. The Old Harbor, a charming marina, is an excellent location for a boat ride along the coastline.
• Düden Waterfalls: These gorgeous waterfalls are just outside the city. The Lower Düden flows directly into the Mediterranean Sea.
• Konyaaltı and Lara Beaches – Konyaaltı Beach has clear waters and scenic views, whereas Lara Beach is known for its luxury resorts and golden sand. 
• Yivli Minare Mosque (Fluted Minaret): Dating back to the 13th century, this renowned mosque is among the oldest in the city and features a distinctive fluted minaret.

Option #1: 7-Day Itinerary for Turkey (With Ephesus & Pamukkale)

Our itinerary starts in Istanbul. Istanbul is an aviation hub and very well-connected to all parts of the world, so reaching it is never an issue.

Turkey Itinerary Day 1:  Arrive in Istanbul and spend the day exploring the Sultanahmet district and other must-see attractions. Try to reach Istanbul the day before or early in the morning so that you can have a full day of sightseeing. Stay the night in Istanbul.

Turkey Itinerary Day 2:  Spend the second day of your trip in Istanbul. Take a cruise, enjoy a leisurely meal, and visit the other attractions on your list. We’ll be leaving Istanbul today for Cappadocia. Traveling by plane from Istanbul to Cappadocia is the most convenient option. Cappadocia is a region in Turkey’s heartland, not a city. Fly to Kayseri or Nevşehir in the late evening. They are an hour’s drive to most towns in the Cappadocia region. Stay overnight in Cappadocia.
PS: The cheaper option is to take an overnight bus from Istanbul to Göreme, Cappadocia’s main downtown area. The bus ride takes approximately 11 hours, and you will arrive in Cappadocia on the third morning of our itinerary. If you take the bus, you won’t be able to go on a hot-air balloon ride on the third day.

Turkey Itinerary Day 3: Get up early to enjoy a spectacular sunset from your hot air balloon. You are in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Explore the unique attractions of Cappadocia. Spend another night in Cappadocia.

Turkey Itinerary Day 4: Use this day to explore the nearby attractions in Cappadocia. Please keep track of the time, as we need to leave for Izmir today. Travel as late as possible in the evening from Cappadocia (Kayseri) to Izmir. There are two direct flights from Kayseri to Izmir; the rest are via Istanbul. Book your hotel in Kusadasi or Selcuk (Both are around one hour from Izmir). The Ephesus ruins are located very close to Kusadasi (18km) and Selcuk (3km), making them ideal places to stay for a trip to Ephesus.

Turkey Itinerary Day 5:  Explore Ephesus at your own pace. It is best to use a guide who can explain the historical significance of the numerous ruins. Kusadasi/Selcuk overnight

Turkey Itinerary Day 6:  There is no direct bus to Pamukkale, so self-driving/taxi/tour is the best option. Explore the stunning travertines. After you’ve had your fill, head to the hotel. It’s a long journey back to Kusadasi/Selcuk, where you’ll spend the night. You can also travel directly to Izmir and spend the night there if you need to catch a flight out of Izmir in the morning.
Kusadasi-Pamukkale:  By Train – 4h35m, By Road – Around three hours
Selcuk-Pamukkale:      By Train – 3h15m, By Road – Around three hours
Pamukkale-Izmir:        By Train – 4h35m, By Road – Around three hours
PS: If you skip a day trip to Pamukkale, stay in Istanbul longer and depart for Cappadocia on day three. The remaining itinerary will also shift by one day.

Turkey Itinerary Day 7: Take a flight from Izmir to Istanbul, where you will depart the country. Plan the rest of your day around where you land and when your next flight departs. Keep in mind that the city center is quite a distance from both airports.

7 Days Turkey Itinerary on Map for Option 1

Option #2:  7-Day Itinerary for Turkey (With Antalya)

Our second itinerary skips Ephesus and Pamukkale and takes you to Antalya, Turkey’s popular beach town. During this itinerary, we would not stop in Istanbul upon arrival, but instead visit the capital city at the end.

Turkey Itinerary Day 1: 

After arriving in Istanbul, take a flight to Antalya. Make sure your flight to Atalaya departs from the same airport. Once you have checked into your hotel in Antalya, head to Konyaaltı Beach for some relaxation. It is located near the city center, offering clear waters and a stunning view of the Taurus Mountains. Have an early night since it’s been a long day.

Turkey Itinerary Day 2:

In the morning, visit the Düden Waterfalls and other nearby attractions. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming, narrow streets of the Old Town. Don’t miss the Yivli Minare Mosque and Hadrian’s Gate. Take a ferry from the Old Harbor and enjoy a spectacular sunset. Savor a Turkish meal at one of the numerous restaurants in the heart of Antalya and stay the night.

Turkey Itinerary Day 3:

Today, you can head to Lara Beach and spend a relaxing morning there. In the late afternoon or evening, take a flight to Kayseri or Nevsehir, arrive at your hotel, and spend the night in Cappadocia.

Turkey Itinerary Day 4:

Wake up early for your balloon ride and then explore Cappadocia for the rest of the day.

Turkey Itinerary Day 5:

Now is your chance if you could not go on a balloon ride the day before. Otherwise, take in the fantastic views of the balloon-filled sky from below. Leave for Istanbul as early as possible to arrive early and have enough time to explore some of the city’s attractions and take a Hammam bath.

Turkey Itinerary Day 6:

Discover the Sultanahmet district and other must-see attractions. In the evening, take a sunset cruise over the Bosphorus.

Turkey Itinerary Day 7:

Visit the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and other neighborhoods in Istanbul. This is also the final day of your trip, and it is time to leave for your next destination.

7 Days Turkey Itinerary on Map for Option 2

Things to know before you travel to Turkey

• Istanbul has two airports. The largest and most popular is Istanbul International Airport (IST), located on the European side. Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) is smaller and on the Asian side. Both are a reasonable distance from the city center.
• Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) are about 80 kilometers apart. Consider that when planning your itinerary.
• If you have a European Union passport, you don’t need a visa to visit Turkey. Nationals of other countries mostly need an e-visa to enter Turkey. You have to apply online, and your visa is processed within minutes.
• The Istanbul City Tourist Pass is of good value and includes admission to the most popular attractions. It also includes many skip-the-queue options. In addition, you’ll have access to public transport and 4G WiFi in Istanbul.
• Museums are generally closed on Mondays.
• Booking.com and PayPal are banned in Turkey, but you can use a VPN to access them.
• Outside the tourist areas, English is not widely spoken in Turkey. To simplify life, it is advisable to learn a few basic words in the Turkish language.
• The Turkish Lira is equal to 0.10 USD. Most places in big cities take credit cards, but you will need cash for taxis, street vendors, small shops, tips, and public transport. ATMs are easy to find all over Turkey.
• Turkey is a very safe destination for solo female travelers. However, you need to be conservative in your dress as Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country.

• Turkey is stringent when it comes to drug use. There is no tolerance for drug use or sale within the country, though smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol are legally allowed.
• Turkish culture has specific protocols for visiting homes or eating. When visiting someone’s house, for example, it is customary to bring sweets, flowers, or gifts for the children. During meals, you should handle all food with your right hand and keep your feet hidden beneath the table.
• One should follow proper etiquette and respect the local culture. Public display of affection is frowned upon.
• Always cover your shoulders and knees while visiting any religious places in Turkey. Scarves prove to be a big savior in such cases.
• It is common to see stray dogs and cats everywhere in Turkey. Locals mostly look after them and are pretty friendly, so there is no reason to fear them.
• Water is generally safe to drink, but doesn’t taste very pleasant. For drinking purposes, bottled water is preferable.
• Turkey uses a 220V two-prong system, similar to European plugs.
• Piyaz, Saksuka, Mercimek Kofte, Yaprak Dolma, Lahmacun, Menemen, Manti, Börek, Corba, Baklava, and Lokum are some of the popular Turkish dishes.
• Most hotels, restaurants, and public places have Western toilets. However, while traveling around Turkey, you are bound to come across a squat toilet. The prospect may look daunting, but such toilets are cleaner and more hygienic. Few public toilets charge for usage, so carrying loose change is always a good idea.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your understanding.