11-Day Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale Itinerary

Begin your day at the Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi). This grand palace was once the residence of Ottoman sultans and is now a museum showcasing imperial collections. Explore its opulent rooms and beautiful gardens.

Next, visit the nearby Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Muzeleri). These museums house an impressive collection of artifacts from various civilizations. Afterward, have lunch at Restaurant Name, known for its delightful Turkish dishes.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk across the Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü) and enjoy views of the Golden Horn. For dinner, head to Restaurant Name for some mouthwatering seafood.

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi). Wander through its colorful stalls filled with spices, sweets, and souvenirs.

Continue to the nearby Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), one of Istanbul's largest mosques. After exploring this architectural masterpiece, have lunch at Restaurant Name, which offers great views of the city.

Spend your evening in the lively area of Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani). Explore its bustling streets filled with shops and cafes. Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Name, known for its delicious kebabs.

Begin your day at the contemporary Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi). Discover modern Turkish art through various exhibitions.

Afterward, head to Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) for panoramic views of Istanbul. Enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe or restaurant such as 360 Istanbul for an elevated dining experience.

Conclude your day with a visit to the historic neighborhood of Balat. Wander through its colorful streets and charming cafes. For dinner, try out local flavors at one of Balat's cozy restaurants like Cibalikapi Balikcisi.

Start your day with a visit to the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi). This massive market is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Wander through its labyrinthine alleys and discover a wide array of goods from spices to jewelry.

Head over to Eminӧnü Square (Eminönü Meydani) for a taste of local life. Enjoy lunch at one of the nearby eateries such as Hamdi Restaurant, known for its delicious kebabs and stunning views of the Golden Horn.

End your day with a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus. This scenic waterway divides Europe and Asia and offers breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline. For dinner, dine at Mikla Restaurant, which offers panoramic views and modern Turkish cuisine.

Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi) is your first stop today. This opulent palace served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in its later years. Explore its lavish rooms and beautiful gardens.

Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari) is next on your list. This historic fortress offers stunning views of the Bosphorus. After exploring, have lunch at Lokma Restaurant nearby, known for its traditional Turkish dishes.

Ortaköy is a vibrant neighborhood perfect for an evening stroll. Enjoy dinner at House Cafe Ortaköy with views of the Bosphorus Bridge.

Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi) is your first destination today. This museum is renowned for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.

Pierre Loti Hill (Pierre Loti Tepesi) offers a peaceful retreat with panoramic views over Istanbul. Have lunch at Pierre Loti Cafe while enjoying the scenery.

Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage) in Beyoğlu district is perfect for an evening out. Enjoy dinner at one of its many restaurants like Sevic Restaurant.

Begin your day with a visit to Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii), an architectural masterpiece offering serene surroundings.

For lunch try Deraliye Ottoman Palace Cuisine offering traditional dishes in Sultanahmet area.

Conclude your day by relaxing at Aga Turkish Bath (Aga Hamami), one of Istanbul's oldest hamams providing an authentic Turkish bath experience.

Start your day with a hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia. This early morning activity offers breathtaking views of the fairy chimneys and valleys. After the ride, enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café such as Seki Restaurant.

Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring rock-cut churches and monasteries with stunning frescoes. Spend some time exploring this historical site and learning about its significance.

End your day with a visit to Uchisar Castle for panoramic views of Cappadocia at sunset. For dinner, head to Lil'a Restaurant, known for its fine dining experience and beautiful terrace views.

Derinkuyu Underground City is your first stop today. This ancient multi-level underground city is fascinating to explore and offers insight into how people lived in these subterranean spaces.

Ihlara Valley is perfect for an afternoon hike. The valley is known for its beautiful scenery and rock-cut churches along the Melendiz River. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river or at one of the local eateries such as Belisirma Village Restaurant.

Avanos is known for its pottery workshops and charming riverside setting. Spend your evening exploring this quaint town and try your hand at pottery making. For dinner, dine at Hanedan Kervansaray Restaurant which offers traditional Turkish cuisine in a historic setting.