Istanbul and Cappadocia 8-Day Itinerary Itinerary

Start with a delightful breakfast at Lokma Balıkçısı, offering a variety of Turkish dishes. Then, embark on a Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option to witness the beauty of the city's waterfront, passing under the Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu) and admiring the historical Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari).

Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at Ciya Sofrasi, a renowned spot for its traditional Anatolian cuisine. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll in the charming neighborhood of Ortaköy, known for its cozy cafes and the picturesque Ortaköy Mosque.

Dine at Maiden's Tower Restaurant, located on a small islet in the Bosphorus, offering a unique dining experience with stunning views. Later, consider joining the Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise with Live Guide and Drinks to witness the city's enchanting skyline as the sun sets.

Begin with a hearty breakfast at Sunset Grill & Bar, known for its panoramic views and international cuisine. Then, head to the Topkapi Palace & Harem Museum Ticket & Audio Guide to explore the opulent palace and its fascinating exhibits.

For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Hamdi Restaurant, which offers a wide range of Turkish delicacies. Post-lunch, visit the Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi) with a skip-the-line entry and audio guide, and be awed by its grandeur and the European influences in its design.

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, famous for its mouthwatering steaks and vibrant ambiance. Afterward, take a walk on the modern Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani) and explore the surrounding lively area with its shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Start your day with a visit to the Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show, immersing yourself in the spiritual and mesmerizing performance. Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast at the venue or nearby cafe.

For lunch, savor the flavors of Asitane Restaurant, which specializes in the cuisine of the Ottoman Palace. Post-lunch, engage in a creative experience at the Istanbul Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop, where you'll craft your own unique souvenir.

Dine at Karaköy Lokantası, offering a contemporary take on Turkish dishes in a stylish setting. Conclude your evening with the Turkish Dance Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre, enjoying the vibrant traditional performances.

Take a day trip to the From Istanbul Full-Day Princes Island Tour with Lunch, where you'll explore the car-free islands, enjoy a leisurely bike ride or horse-drawn carriage tour, and savor a delightful lunch with island views.

Return to Istanbul and visit the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi) with a skip-the-line entry and audio guide, exploring the ancient underground waterway and its intriguing Medusa head sculptures.

For dinner, try the flavors of Dürümzade, a popular spot for its mouthwatering kebabs and wraps. Afterward, take a relaxing walk near the water, perhaps by the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi), and enjoy the city lights.

Begin your Cappadocia adventure with a magical hot air balloon ride over the otherworldly Cappadocia landscape, taking in the breathtaking views of the fairy chimneys and rock formations as the sun rises.

After landing, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local cafe or your hotel. Then, set out to explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum (Göreme Açık Hava Müzesi) with a guide, discovering the ancient rock-cut churches and monasteries.

Dine at 360 Istanbul East Restaurant & Bar, which offers a fusion of flavors and a panoramic view of the Cappadocian landscape. Conclude your day with a visit to the Uçhisar Castle (Uçhisar Kalesi), the highest point in Cappadocia, to witness a stunning sunset.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe. Then, head to the Derinkuyu Underground City (Derinkuyu Yeraltı Şehri) with a guide, exploring the fascinating underground tunnels and rooms of this ancient subterranean city.

For lunch, try the local specialties at Bebek Balıkçısı, which offers a selection of fresh seafood dishes. Post-lunch, visit the Pasabag (Monks Valley) and Devrent Valley (Devrent Vadisi) to admire the unique fairy chimney formations and rock sculptures.

Dine at Sultanahmet Koftecisi, a historic spot known for its köfte (meatballs) and classic Turkish mezes. Conclude your evening with a mesmerizing Istanbul Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks, enjoying the views and the gentle breeze on the Bosphorus.

Start your last day with a delightful breakfast at Balıkçı Sabahattin, known for its fresh seafood and traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Then, take a moment to revisit a favorite spot or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.

For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Hünkar Restaurant - Topkapı Palace Hotel Istanbul, which offers a royal dining experience with its time-honored dishes. Afterward, visit the Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi) with a skip-the-line entry and audio guide, exploring the elegant summer residence of the Ottoman sultans.

Conclude your trip with a memorable dinner at Mikla, one of Istanbul's finest restaurants, offering a blend of modern Turkish and Scandinavian flavors with a panoramic view of the city. Reflect on your journey as you enjoy the culinary masterpieces and bid Istanbul a fond farewell.