10 Days Exploring Turkey's Ancient Cities Itinerary

Begin your day with a refreshing visit to Duden Waterfalls (Duden Selalesi). These stunning waterfalls are located just outside the city center and offer beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers.

After enjoying the waterfalls, head back to the city for lunch at Vanilla Lounge, known for its contemporary cuisine and stylish setting. Post-lunch, explore Antalya Museum (Antalya Muzesi), one of Turkey's largest museums showcasing artifacts from various periods including Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras.

Conclude your day with a relaxing evening at Konyaalti Beach (Konyaalti Plaji). Enjoy the sunset by the beach or take a leisurely walk along the promenade. For dinner, savor some local flavors at 7 Mehmet, renowned for its traditional Turkish dishes.

Kick off your morning with an adventurous hike in Termessos, an ancient city perched high in the Taurus Mountains. The ruins are well-preserved and offer breathtaking views over Antalya.

After your hike, return to Antalya for lunch at Pio Gastro Bar & Bistro, which offers a fusion of Mediterranean flavors in a cozy atmosphere. Spend your afternoon exploring more ancient ruins at Perge (Perga), one of Turkey's most significant archaeological sites dating back to 1000 BC.

End your day with some relaxation by visiting Kursunlu Waterfalls (Kursunlu Selalesi). The serene environment is perfect for unwinding after a day full of exploration. Enjoy dinner at Lara Balık Evi, famous for its fresh seafood dishes.

Travel from Antalya to Pamukkale early in the morning. Upon arrival, start with visiting Pamukkale Thermal Pools. These natural thermal pools are famous for their white travertine terraces filled with warm mineral-rich waters – perfect for relaxation.

For lunch, head over to Mehmets Heaven which offers delightful local cuisine with stunning views of Pamukkale’s terraces. Post-lunch, explore more history by visiting Hierapolis, an ancient city that sits atop Pamukkale’s travertines offering fascinating ruins including baths, temples, and theaters.

In the evening experience something unique by attending the mesmerizing performance of Pamukkale Traditional Whirling Dervish Ceremony. This spiritual dance performance is both captivating and culturally enriching. For dinner enjoy local delicacies at White House Restaurant & Cafe.

Start your day with an exhilarating Pamukkale Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride. Soar above the stunning white travertine terraces and ancient ruins of Hierapolis, enjoying breathtaking views as the sun rises over this unique landscape.

After your balloon ride, enjoy a delicious lunch at Kayas Restaurant and Bar, known for its friendly atmosphere and tasty local dishes. Spend your afternoon experiencing the thrill of Pamukkale Tandem Paragliding Experience, offering a bird’s-eye view of Pamukkale’s natural beauty.

In the evening, relax and unwind with a visit to Pamukkale Live Whirling Dervishes Ceremony & Sema Ritual. This traditional performance is both spiritual and mesmerizing. For dinner, head to Asian Kitchen & Coffee for a delightful mix of Asian flavors.

Private Pamukkale Tour from Airport (Pick up & Drop Off) to Ephesus early in the morning. Upon arrival, start with a visit to the iconic Library of Celsus, one of the most well-preserved structures in Ephesus. Marvel at its grandeur and intricate details.

Ephesus Restaurant for lunch offers a perfect blend of local cuisine in a charming setting. Afterward, explore more ancient wonders by visiting the Great Theatre of Ephesus, an impressive structure that once held up to 25,000 spectators.

Ephesus Terrace Houses are next on your list. These well-preserved homes offer insight into the daily lives of Ephesus' elite citizens. For dinner, dine at The Olive Tree Restaurant - Villa Rica, known for its delicious Mediterranean dishes.

Private Transfer between Antalya Airport & Antalya City 25km to Istanbul early in the morning. Start your exploration with a visit to Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), an architectural marvel that has served as both a church and mosque over centuries.

Balikci Sabahattin offers fresh seafood for lunch in a historic setting. Post-lunch, visit Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), once home to Ottoman sultans and now housing an extensive collection of artifacts including jewels and manuscripts.

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici) is next on your list – this ancient underground water reservoir is both eerie and fascinating. For dinner, head to Mikla, offering panoramic views of Istanbul along with modern Turkish cuisine.

Begin your day with a visit to Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii). This stunning mosque is famous for its beautiful blue tiles adorning its interior walls.

For lunch, enjoy traditional Turkish dishes at Sultanahmet Koftecisi. Afterward, explore Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi), one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world where you can shop for souvenirs or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Conclude your day by visiting Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) which offers panoramic views over Istanbul especially beautiful during sunset. Enjoy dinner at Neolokal, known for its innovative take on traditional Turkish cuisine.

Start your day with a visit to Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii). This grand mosque, designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, offers stunning views over the Golden Horn and is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.

For lunch, head to Ciya Sofrasi, known for its authentic Anatolian dishes. Afterward, explore Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri), which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various civilizations that have shaped Istanbul's history.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi), a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. For dinner, dine at 360 Istanbul, offering panoramic views of the city along with a diverse menu.

Bosphorus Cruise is a perfect way to start your final day in Istanbul. Enjoy the scenic views of both the European and Asian sides of the city from the comfort of your boat.

Karakoy Lokantasi for lunch offers delicious Turkish cuisine in a stylish setting. Post-lunch, visit Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), an opulent palace that served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in its final years.

Ortaköy is your last stop – this lively neighborhood by the Bosphorus is perfect for an evening stroll. Enjoy dinner at House Cafe Ortakoy, known for its delightful dishes and beautiful views of the Bosphorus Bridge.