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10 Days in Turkey Itinerary: The Perfect Trip for First-Timers

Explore the best of turkey in 10 days.

Ever dreamt of wandering through ancient markets, soaring above unique landscapes, lounging on gorgeous beaches, or soaking in otherworldly natural pools? If yes, then let’s embark on a 10-day journey across enchanting Turkey. A place where the traditions of the East blend with the modernity of the West, Turkey truly offers a myriad of experiences for every traveler.

Experience the Ultimate 10-Day Tour of Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, and Pamukkale – Unmatched in Excellence!

Why Choose Turkey?

Why, indeed? Isn’t the promise of rich history, delectable cuisine, diverse culture, and dramatic landscapes enough? Well, if you’re still pondering, let me assure you, a trip to Turkey is like stepping into a time machine, where each city offers a different epoch to explore.

Day 1-3: Istanbul

Arrival and check-in.

Touchdown Istanbul ! The city straddles two continents and marries the past with the present. Check into your accommodation, refresh, and get ready to discover Istanbul.

Exploring Istanbul

Visit the grand bazaar.

Start your journey in the heart of Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar. A labyrinth of stalls selling everything from spices to exquisite carpets, isn’t it reminiscent of Aladdin’s Agrabah?

Explore the Hagia Sophia

Next, make your way to Hagia Sophia , an architectural marvel that has stood as a church, a mosque, and now, a museum. Can you imagine a more visible testament to Istanbul’s layered history?

Roam around the Blue Mosque

Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find the stunning Blue Mosque . Its six minarets piercing the skyline are a sight to behold, aren’t they?

Stroll along the Bosphorus

Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll along the Bosphorus . The sea breeze and the twilight view of the city, isn’t it a perfect ending to your first day?

Day 4-6: Cappadocia

Travelling to cappadocia.

Bid farewell to Istanbul and board your flight to Cappadocia . Known for its distinctive “ fairy chimneys ,” Cappadocia feels like stepping onto another planet, doesn’t it?

Discovering Cappadocia

Hot air balloon ride.

Rise early and take to the skies in a hot air balloon. Seeing the sunrise over the surreal landscape, isn’t it worth waking up early for?

Visit to the Göreme Open-Air Museum

Next, head to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the ancient rock-cut churches with beautiful frescoes. Are you feeling like an explorer already?

Walking through the Fairy Chimneys

Finish your day with a walk amongst the famous fairy chimneys. You can even explore inside some of them. Isn’t that a fascinating experience?

Day 7-8: Antalya

Journey to antalya.

Wave goodbye to Cappadocia and set off to Antalya , the Turkish Riviera. Get ready for some sun, sand, and sea!

Experiencing Antalya

Relax on the beach.

First things first, hit the beach! Feel the sand between your toes and the sun on your skin. Can you think of a better way to relax?

Explore the Old Town

Afterwards, wander through Antalya’s picturesque old town, Kaleiçi. With its narrow winding streets, and quaint shops, doesn’t it feel like a journey back in time?

Day 9-10: Pamukkale

Heading to pamukkale.

From Antalya, embark on your final leg to Pamukkale . Known for its white terraces, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters, Pamukkale is like a cotton castle, right?

Marvel at Pamukkale

Visit the travertines.

Spend your day wandering around the stunning travertines. Don’t forget to dip your feet in the warm waters. Isn’t it soothing?

Explore the Hierapolis Ancient City

Next, explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis located atop Pamukkale. The well-preserved Roman theater, Necropolis, and the ancient pool, don’t they take you back in time?

Best Tours and Experiences in Turkey:

• 7-Day Highlights of Turkey Tour : A comprehensive journey through Istanbul’s historical maze, Pamukkale’s cotton terraces, the ancient streets of Ephesus, and Cappadocia’s magical landscapes.
• 8-Day Turkey Tour Package : Discover the essence of Turkey by exploring the vibrant culture of Istanbul, the natural wonders of Pamukkale, the historical depth of Ephesus, and the dreamlike valleys of Cappadocia.
• 9-Day Around Turkey Tour : Embark on an expansive tour from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the enchanting valleys of Cappadocia, the thermal marvels of Pamukkale, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the historical significance of Troy and Gallipoli.
• 10 Days Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, and Cappadocia Tour : Experience the ultimate Turkish adventure, combining Istanbul’s cultural vibrancy, Ephesus’s ancient splendor, Pamukkale’s natural beauty, Antalya’s coastal charm, and Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes.

So, that’s your 10-day journey through Turkey , packed with history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. It’s like a rollercoaster ride through time, isn’t it? Whether it’s the buzzing streets of Istanbul, the enchanting landscape of Cappadocia, the beachside charm of Antalya, or the natural beauty of Pamukkale, there’s something for every traveler in Turkey .

• The best time to visit Turkey is during spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.
• The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
• Visa requirements for Turkey depend on your nationality. Be sure to check with your local embassy or consulate for the latest information.
• Yes, Turkey is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about the local situation and follow safety precautions.
• English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and major cities in Turkey. However, learning a few basic Turkish phrases can enhance your travel experience.

Discover Turkey: Our Top 3 Recommended Tour Packages

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The Ultimate Turkey Itinerary 10 Days: Best Places to Visit

by Drifter Planet | Aug 14, 2019 | Turkey , Most Popular Blog Posts

The ultimate 10-day Turkey itinerary for first timers including the best of Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale . (Updated in 2024)

Is it Asia or Europe? Turkey is both – the best of two continents in just one country.

At first, it may appear that Turkey mostly suits cultural travelers. After all, it sits on the cusp of both Europe and Asia, so it’s no wonder that the Turkish heritage is a fascinating fusion of various cultures.

By finely balancing age-old traditions with modern influences, Turkey promises travelers an unforgettable experience.

Here’s the thing – Turkey is an amazing destination for literally every kind of traveler. Adventure seekers, backpackers, families, fantasy landscape chasers, pilgrims, and party travelers – all will love Turkey for the same as well as different reasons.

I’m not much of a cultural traveler but I’m always in search of fantastic landscapes . I traveled to Turkey mainly because I had seen photos of Cappadocia ‘s surreal structures that looked something like a fantasy movie. Moreover, I really wanted to sit in Pamukkale ‘s blue and white natural pools.

Yes, I did everything that I wanted to do, and even more. Believe it or not, I fell in love with the culture in Turkey despite claiming not to be a cultural traveler. 

If you’re looking for a destination with fantasy-movie like strange beauty, rich history, amazing culture, insane bazaars, and good food then you really have to visit Turkey. The best part – Turkey is affordable . After all, Turkish Airlines runs promos for cheap flights to Turkey from many places in the world.

Alright, now that I have sold Turkey as a travel destination for you, I’d like to share my highly researched itinerary for Turkey that I personally made for myself. It includes Istanbul , Cappadocia , Pamukkale , and Ephesus.

There is a lot to see and do in Istanbul and Cappadocia, so you will spend most of your time there if you follow my itinerary.

Pamukkale and Ephesus can be covered in a short time but can get extremely crowded during the mid-day because most of the people head there for a day trip . So, as per my itinerary, you will visit these places early enough and stay the night nearby for a more relaxing experience. 

Rather than searching through various Turkey itineraries to find the one that best suits your interests, I will share golden nuggets on how to spend 10 days in Turkey. From information about how to move from point A to B and where to see the best sunsets, our Turkey trip planner has you covered. 

Istanbul Activities to Book

• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
• Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

Cappadocia Activities to Book

• Goreme Hot Air Balloon Flight Tour at Sunrise
• Green Tour in Ihlara Valley & Underground City

Pamukkale Activities to Book

• Hot Air Balloon Flight with Flight Certificate

Ephesus Activities to Book

• Ephesus & Temple of Artemis Shore Excursion (skip the line)

Istanbul Hotel Recommendations

• Amiral Palace
• Byzantium Hotel & Suites
• Pera Palace
• Angel’s home

Cappadocia Hotel Recomendations

• Zara Cave Hotel
• Sultan Cave Suites, Goreme
• Kale Konak Uchisar

Pamukkale Hotel Recomendations

• Ozbay Hotel
• Venus Hotel

Selçuk (for Ephesus) Hotel Recommendations

• Urkmez Hotel
• Atillas Getaway

The Ultimate Turkey Itinerary

Table of Contents

Day 1 of turkey itinerary, arrive in istanbul + map.

Start off your trip to Turkey by arriving in the bustling city of Istanbul. Your first day of Istanbul itinerary will be light and relaxed and yet will highlight the captivating history and culture of the city.

Remember, you will return to Istanbul towards the end of your trip and that’s when you will visit the majority of important landmarks.

If you think the trams of Lisbon are cute, then you will love Istanbul too!

I still remember my first few hours in Istanbul. I was amazed at the stunning minarets on each side of the water with interesting old buildings and historical sites that can be seen from a distance like the Galata Tower, the Maiden’s Tower, etc.

Talking about the water, the massive Bosphorus Sea is actually not a sea but a Strait between Blacksea and the Marmara Sea. It also has an inlet – the Golden Horn which divides the historic center of Istanbul from the rest of the city.

I have made the below map for you for your first day in Istanbul that you can save on your phone before your trip begins. You can also check out my Istanbul Instagram spots post for more inspiration.

By the way, Istanbul isn’t the capital city of Turkey, Ankara is.

Hippodrome of Constantinople (Sultan Ahmet Square)

The best place to start off after the touchdown is Sultanahmet Square. In the past, the square was the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the social and sporting center of the Byzantine Empire . 

Today, Sultanahmet Square is a historical area that is filled with various iconic attractions, and within close walking distance to other major landmarks such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Since it is your first day and you probably will have to leave for Cappadocia on an overnight bus or an early morning flight, you will not be visiting both Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque – but just one of them if the time allows.

Instead, take your time to discover the beauty of Sultanahmet Square. You will spot:

• Serpent Column,
• Obelisk of Thutmose,
• Walled Obelisk
• German Fountain

It is nice to walk around here in the evenings and see the colorful fountain. The minarets of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia look spectacular when they’re lit up.

If you have enough time left, then head to the Blue Mosque. If not, you can head directly for the last thing for the day – Gulhane Park ,

Sultan Ahmed Mosque (the Blue Mosque)

If you have enough time on your first day, then a visit to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is definitely a must. It will introduce you to the beauty of Turkish culture and wow you.

Please note that it takes around one hour to visit the Sultan Ahmed Mosque because it is a big complex and the entry for visitors is all the way from the back.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque is commonly known as the Blue Mosque and is one of the most visited mosques by travelers.

It has six minarets that you can spot from a distance. The interiors look spectacular with ceramic tiles, blue paint, and stained glass windows that let the natural light in. To make things even more awesome, there are 100s of chandeliers inside. 

There is a section that’s just for people who are praying and a separate section for visitors. I like that it is done like this so that the travelers and visitors do not disturb the ones who are praying.

The Blue Mosque closes for prayers a few times a day and on those times the entry is restricted. The Blue Mosque has no entry fee because it is a place of worship.

When entering the Mosque, please make sure that you are dressed modestly as a sign of respect for the culture. 

Gulhane Park

If you are the kind to eat an early dinner, then interchange the next two points. I eat early too but understand that a lot of people don’t.

Gulhane Park is a short 10-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square and offers a relaxing escape from the busy tourist center of Istanbul. It is definitely one of the best things that you can do in Istanbul which even the locals will approve of.

Gulhane is a Persian word for greenhouse and during the Ottoman times, this park was earlier a part of Topkapi Palace. This itinerary also includes a visit to Topkapi Palace when you come back to Istanbul after visiting other places in Turkey.

It isn’t just a random park but has impressive historical structures and panoramic views of the Bosphorus. The historical, urban park stretches alongside the famous Topkapi Palace and even extends to its grounds.  The Islamic Science and Technology Museum is located within the park.

To see the views of the Bosphorus, Marmara Sea, and Princes’ Islands, head to the park’s northeastern edge . The Column of the Goths is also located here.

This column is the oldest surviving monument from the Roman period! It commemorates the victory of Emperor Claudius II over the Goths in 268 CE. 

If you visit in springtime, then you may be able to enjoy the stunning Tulip Festival. If you do, then I will be very jealous but please comment below and show your pictures.

Expect to see not only lush trees but also fountains, wooden bridges, historical columns, and loads of flowers.

Garden 1897 Restaurant for Dinner

After walking around in Gulhane Park, I’m sure you would have worked up an appetite. Visit the legendary Garden 1897 Restaurant which is at Garden House Hotel very at Sultanahmet Square.

Garden 1897 Restaurant is a very highly rated one and has not only the Ottoman dishes but also the Mesopotamian dishes.

Your first day in Istanbul serves as an introduction to the rich history that resonates across the whole country. Take the time to soak it in and prepare for the rest of your Turkey itinerary.

Day 2: Istanbul to Cappadocia, overnight in Göreme

Waking up early isn’t fun but prepare to have your mind blown as you will see my favourite place on earth – Cappadocia . You will feel like you woke up and arrived in a dreamland!

How to Reach Cappadocia from Istanbul?

It is easy to reach Cappadocia from Istanbul. The simplest way is by catching a flight. Cappadocia has two airports – Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) in Kayseri and Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV).

Pegasus Airlines flies daily from Istanbul to Cappadocia and the flights are usually not expensive if you book in advance. However, if you’re traveling on a budget, then you may want to get on an overnight bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia. Look for a ticket on Metro Turizm’s website.

When you arrive in Istanbul, you will land at the international airport – Atatürk. In order to fly to Cappadocia, you will have to go to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. They are both at the other ends of Istanbul.

Thankfully the public transportation system in Istanbul is pretty decent and both the airports are reachable by shuttles and metro.

Keep in mind that reaching Sabiha Gökçen airport from the Sultanahmet area just by public transport can take a while because it has to be split between tram and train. It is usually a better idea to get an Uber taxi or ask your hotel to arrange for a shuttle.

After an easy one-and-a-half-hour flight, you’ll arrive in Cappadocia, the breathtaking semi-arid region known best for its honeycombed hills and strange beauty.

Cappadocia is unreal – you will see caves, fairy chimneys, weird formations, and giant mushrooms. The best part – you can stay in a cave too!

Cappadocia has a reputation as a fairytale destination, whimsical in nature and magnificent in beauty. I want to remind you to sure that your camera (or phone) is fully charged before arriving. 

Head to Göreme, Check-in at the Cave Hotel

From Kayseri Airport or Nevşehir Airport, get on a taxi to arrive at Göreme, the loveliest part of Cappadocia.

Cappadocia is massive and has around 10 towns (or villages). They are all special but I recommend you stay in Goreme. It is super lively and you can walk to the main town center from most parts. Prepare to spend the night at one of the cave hotels in Goreme.

To make your Göreme travel experience truly unique, please do yourself a favor and book a cave hotel.

While Göreme has several amazing accommodation options to choose from, we’d definitely recommend the Sultan Cave Suites . The unique hotel offers cave rooms perched on top of Aydinli Hill. 

Over the last few years, Sultan Cave Suites has become crazy expensive because it is Instagram famous. You can look at some other nearby hotels too, they are all pretty decent, and Turkish hospitality standards are amazing.

Apart from Sultan Cave Suites , I recommend the following hotels:

• Maccan Cave Hotel
• Stone House Cave Hotel

Göreme doesn’t have a shortage of cave hotels and remember you will still have an amazing experience if your choice of hotel isn’t available.

Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Pigeon Valley

Now that you’ve found your nest, it’s time to explore the wonder of Cappadocia. There are many different tours that are available in Cappadocia because there’s so much to see. However, I joined the  Green Tour .

One of the best things I did in Göreme was the green tour because it covered the things I wanted to do at a nice pace and also a traditional Turkish dinner in a lovely garden restaurant.

The reason why I picked this tour was because it includes places that I knew I couldn’t reach myself by walking.

The Green Tour takes you to explore Derinkuyu underground city, Ugrup Panorama Point , Ihlara Valley, and Pigeon Valley. Let me talk about them briefly below . 

Selime Monastery

As a part of the Green tour, we visited the Selime Monastery which was unlike anything I had ever seen before.

Selime Monastery is a historical and abandoned rock-cut construction and the largest religious structure in the Cappadocia. It has a cathedral-sized church cut directly into the volcanic rock. All these are caves too!

Inside, our guide showed us frescoes and some were damaged by the weather over the years but they still looked amazing.

Three Sister Rocks Ugrup

The three sister rocks are three tall fairy chimneys at Ugrup Panorama Point. This was actually the first stop on our green tour.

The three tall fairy chimneys are slanted and are called three sister rocks or sometimes “the three beauties” as per the legends.

You can stand at this point and just marvel at the beauty around you because you will see the views all around.

This spot tends to get windy so make sure you carry a jacket even if it is a warm day.

Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu Underground City is the most shocking thing that I have seen in my life. Imagine an entire city that is built underground but is yet airy and it somehow manages to stay hidden for years.

It is so large that it sheltered 20,000 people as well as their livestock and food storage. It had rolling stone doors that could close the city from the inside. And this is one of the many underground cities, that are connected via tunnels. (Mindblown!)

They were discovered in 1963 when a local found a mysterious room behind a wall in his house while renovating.

There are many levels inside the Derinkuyu Underground City and I remember visiting at least 4 before feeling claustrophobic.

As per the experts, the Derinkuyu underground city thrived in the Byzantine era and was used as protection from the Arabs during the Arab–Byzantine wars of 780–1180 AD. They were also used by Christian natives in the 14th century, as a refuge for Cappadocian Greeks and Armenians.

Thankfully visiting it was an experience because I had a guide since I booked the green tour . I would. be so lost here without a guide.

Sunset Point in Göreme

After the Green Tour, go back to the comfort of your hotel for a well-deserved rest and get ready to see a spectacular sunset . Wear comfy shoes to walk to Göreme Sunset Point before dinner and bed.

Göreme’s sunset point the the place in Cappadocia that will make you feel like you are on Plant Tattoine from Star Wars!

On my first day in Göreme after I came back from the Green Tour, one of the locals took me to the Sunset Spot after I mentioned I loved sunsets and clicking amazing photos.

The walk to the sunset spot is short but I remember that there is a steep climb that comes at the end of the walk right before arriving at the sunset spot.

The sunset spot in Göreme is an elevated area on top of a hill which is pretty big. You will see loads of hills, caves, and rock formations in all directions.

There are multiple possibilities of places where you can stand and admire the view. You know me, I love viewpoints so I kind of went crazy here.

Dinner and Sleep Early

On your way back from the sunset point, eat dinner in Göreme city and sleep as early as you can before you have to wake up early to experience the most famous thing to do in Turkey.

Day 3: Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia + Göreme Sightseeing

Let’s face it – people visit Cappadocia from all over the world to experience the famous hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys. Many people visit Turkey just to do this, and this is how you will start your day today.

On your third day in Turkey, you get to tick off one of the most iconic activities in the region – flying above the ground in a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia . Because of this, the Lonely Planet says – “Turkey is Balloon filled skies” .

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia

Waking up early is hard and is a complete hell when it is as early as 4:30 a.m. But trust me, it is worth it because around this time you will get picked up by the balloon company.  (Yes, they pick you up from your hotel when you book this, how convenient!)

You don’t need to eat breakfast because this usually includes a lavish buffet-style breakfast right before the balloon ride. Just make sure you carry a thick jacket because it gets very cold up in the air.

Prepare yourself for the magical experience that is to come as you watch the incredible sunrise while flying 3000 feet above the ground.

Needless to say, you will click 100s of pictures of the fairy chimneys, volcanic spires, and unique architecture of the buildings below. 

When the balloon ride is over, it lands on the back of a moving jeep that takes everyone for the champagne and certificate ceremony, which is thankfully a quick one.

You’ll get dropped off at your hotel in the mid-morning, giving you enough time for a nap and relax before grabbing lunch.  I remember I slept for two hours straight after the balloon ride!

Lunch in Göreme

After your nap, walk to the Göreme city center for a nice lunch and the rest of your day in this cute city.

Göreme Open Air Museum

Walk to Göreme Open Air Museum. Here you will see even more amazing rock formations that you may have seen before.

Goreme Open Air Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes the most magnificent rock-cut churches, beautiful frescoes, and rock-formed architecture. 

The ticket window closes at 5 p.m. but you can definitely stay inside for much longer. I have seen people with sunset photos inside, and I’m sure that was in winter.

I was here without a guide and I wished I had someone to tell me all the amazing facts and stories. You can book a guided walking tour here which is highly rated and lasts for 75 minutes.

There is a cobbled walking path that’s hilly and goes over the entire Göreme Open Air Museum. The highlight is “ The Dark Church ” which has an additional entrance fee.

You will spend easily 1 hour here exploring the beauty of this place. I think I spent a bit more because I clicked a lot of photos.

Zemi Valley, a.k.a., Love Valley

I asked my guide for the Green Tour about easy-to-do attractions in Göreme that are unmissable, and he told me to go hike Zemi Valley and go to the Göreme Open Air museum one after another since they are right next to each other. I don’t know why Google Maps doesn’t show it like this.

Zemi Valley is also known as Love Valley because of its penis-shaped structures – more politely called the fairy chimneys. The entire Zemi Valley hike is 3.3 miles and is strenuous at times but you will be able to enjoy the surrounding view. 

The entire Zemi Valley trail stretches between Uchisar and Ortahisar. There are many hiking loops inside but you can pick a shorter one.

You don’t have to do the entire Zemi Valley hike, it is long and time-consuming but you can do a part of it. I did a part of it too because I was alone and I wanted to get back to the main street before it got dark and head to a sunset spot.

Just because I didn’t go further in, I don’t have better photos of Zemi Valley but it is one of the loveliest spots in Cappadocia, so please don’t miss it based on my bad photos.

It is worth mentioning that on the way to Zemi Valley from Goreme Open Air Museum is a beautiful open-air pottery store that looks out of this world. It has trees decorated with evil eye stones, an alien and a bunch of other amazing things.

Red Valley Panorama Lookout for Sunset

Another local took me to the sunset spot in Red Valley and I was so thankful because it was unreal. It is so different from Goreme’s sunset spot and is totally worth it.

There are no fairy chimneys here in Red Valley but miles and miles of reddish-pink hills that look better than any place that I have ever seen before when the sun sets.

These red hills with rock formations made the sunset landscape look even redder than normal. Seriously, I had to remove the warm tones a bit from my photos to prevent them from looking too red, and I usually do the opposite.

In order to reach the Red Valley sunset spot, you have to get in a taxi or drive your rented car to “Red Valley Panorama Lookout”. It is in Ortahisar and the drive from Goreme to here will take you 15 minutes.

This place was so stunning that I saw three newly married couples here for their wedding photoshoots. Looking back, I have realized that some of my best Cappadocia photos turned out at this spot.

So , end your day by catching the sunset in Red Valley, which also happens to be my choice for Instagram-worthy spots in Cappadocia . This promises to be the perfect way to end your day before returning to sleep in Ottoman Cave.

Day 4: Uchisar in Cappadocia

Today is the day when you will head to Uchisar, but first there’s another fun early morning activity.

You will hate me for including another early morning activity in your Cappadocia itinerary, but you will totally thank me when you see the view.

The thing is, Cappadocia isn’t the place for a late-night, late-morning kind of trip. The nightlife is pretty nonexistent, thanks to the early morning hot air balloon rides. Cappadocia’s sunrises and sunsets are epic, so make sure you wake up early every day.

Day 4 of your Turkey 10-day itinerary starts off brightly by catching yet another epic sunrise .

Photoshoot with a view of Balloons in Cappadocia

If you are already staying at Sultan Cave Suites then this will be easy for you. Otherwise , you need to walk here early morning to enjoy the sunset at Sultan Cave Suites with a view of balloons.

Now depending on the season, the balloon time is different and can be as early as 5:30 am, so please call Sultan Cave Suites in advance and ask.

Sultan Cave Suites is the most Instagrammed place in Cappadocia, thanks to the Do You Travel and Gypsy Lust duo. The location is perfect because of the nearby fairy chimneys. Moreover, the sky looks amazing as it gets flooded with hundreds of hot air balloons while the sun rises.

Sultan Cave Suites has been saying to to those who aren’t staying here, so, in that case, I recommend you book a professional photo shoot in Cappadocia with balloons at sunrise time, which is surprisingly affordable!

If I go back to Cappadocia, I’d ditch Sultan Cave Suites but book a professional sunrise photoshoot in a different location instead.

Arrive in Uçhisar at Kale Konak Cave Hotel

Uçhisar is the highest point in Cappadocia, and the main feature is a massive cone rock. On top is the Uçhisar castle, where you will see the sunset. Under it is a network of numerous underground passageways and rooms which are now blocked.

If you are in Cappadocia with a car, then you will not need to change your hotel. I changed mine from Goreme to Uchisar because I wanted to be close to the attractions here.

I recommend staying at the Kale Konak Cave Hotel . The hotel itself is so stunning that exploring it felt like I was sightseeing. I actually took it away and relaxed a little at Kale Konak Cave Hotel because I had a super amazing cave suite and I wanted to pamper myself a bit.

I also found a hammam inside the Kale Konak Cave Hotel and enjoyed half an hour there. After relaxing, I got out to conquer the beauty of Uçhisar with my fully charged cameras.

Quick Walk in Uçhisar

Uçhisar has a lot of slanted streets and antique shops. Spend a few minutes to know your surroundings in Uchisar and take note of any interesting restaurant or cafe that you might want to visit later.

I didn’t walk much here but I ate an egg Pide and then an ice cream before deciding to head back.

After a while, it gets a tad difficult to walk here because of the slopes. Save your energy for a hike in Pigeon Valley if you are up for it.

Pigeon Valley Hike (Uçhisar to Goreme)

Once you are in Uçhisar, explore the area around by walking. There is a hike between Goreme and Uçhisar through the Pigeon Valley that takes 2 hours. I will suggest it as an optional thing to do here.

The Pigeon Valley hike between Uçhisar to Goreme takes 2 hours and you can take a taxi to come back after doing one way.

Pigeon Valley is special because many pigeon houses have been carved into the sides of the valley over the last few years. Pigeon droppings were used for Pigeon guano – a fertilizer. The droppings were also used to deepen the color of the frescoes of the cave churches.

If you did the Green Tour, you would have already seen a glimpse of the Pigeon Valley but a hike here is definitely a deeper experience.

Gumusler Monastery (Optional)

If you have the time or a rented car, then drive to Gumusler Monastery. I didn’t do this but I heard amazing things from people who visited, so I’d like to mention this as an option for you.

Turkey was the center of the Byzantine Empire, and the Gumusler Monastery is a cave monastery that reflects this history. It is carved out of a large rock and is considered one of the best-preserved in the region. 

Uçhisar Kalesi (Uçhisar Castle) for Sunset

The last thing for today is to head to Uchisar Castle or Uçhisar Kalesi, which is estimated to be around 60 million years old. (Yes, you read that right – 60 million)

The castle is a fascinating rock citadel that is perched on a rock spur. The views from the top are out of this world. It is a man-made castle carved out on a volcanic hill.

Yes, this castle is famous for its underground caves but you would find that aspect not as impressive after seeing the Derinkuyu underground city. The reason for your visit is the panoramic view from the top.

If you want to see the sunset here then I recommend that you get there around 5:30 pm or 6 pm so that you can explore before watching the sun dip behind the fascinating rock formations. 

Of course, it makes sense to check the sunset time in your weather app and then arrive here at least 30 minutes before. Once you arrive, it doesn’t take much time to reach the top of the Uçhisar Castle.

Dinner in Uchisar

While you are in the area, choose from the many wonderful Turkish restaurants and enjoy dinner before heading back for the night at Kale Konak Cave Hotel . 

Day 5: Cappadocia to Denzili, Pamukkale

How to reach pamukkale from cappadocia.

Having wrung every ounce of goodness from Cappadocia, it’s time to fly to Denizli. You can choose to fly to Denizli from either Kayseri or Nevsehir Airport.

Pegasus flies from Keyseri to Denzili but it isn’t direct. If you’re lucky to find a direct flight, it shouldn’t take you longer than an hour and 15 minutes but it seems there aren’t any direct flights operating anymore in 2023.

Denizli city is slightly more industrial but is surrounded by beautiful valleys and natural sites. When you arrive in Denzili by flight, it is very easy to reach Pamukkale because there are shuttles from the airport after every flight.

These shuttles typically cost 15 – 20 TLs. The trip is short and shouldn’t take longer than 15 minutes to half an hour. Pamukkale village will be your home for the night.

Arrive in Pamukkale. Check-in at Ozbay Hotel.

Directly translated, Pamukkale means “cotton castle” in Turkish. It is a mineral-rich natural site that boasts thermal waters that flow over white calcite travertines (terraces).

The area is regularly frequented by day travelers who travel to dip into the pools, but we would definitely recommend that you spend the night here, explore the small village, and visit the thermal pools in the morning without crowds like I did.

I highly recommend booking a room at   Ozbay Hotel , Pamukkale. It is literally a 1-minute walk from the calcium pools.

It is a pretty hotel and absolutely loved their breakfast. Yum! Staying the night will also allow you to enjoy the rest of the village, further exploring the ancient ruins in the area.

Explore Pamukkale Village and Market

The white travertine pools are the main highlight of Pamukkale but we will leave that for tomorrow morning. I have made this 10 day Turkey itinerary post based on how I spent my time. My travel from Cappadocia to Pamukkale took almost an entire day so I visited the travertine pools the next day.

Today is the day to walk around and explore Pamukkale’s little market. This market is a good place to buy handmade souvenirs because it is much cheaper as compared to other places in Turkey.

Dinner in Pamukkale

Eat a nice meal in Pamukkale’s town. Sleep early so that you are rested after a day of travel. You will wake up early tomorrow, eat breakfast, and then visit the most famous attraction here.

I found Pamukkale to be much more authentic and affordable as compared to Cappadocia in terms of eating out.

Day 6: Expore Pamukkale

Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Having spent a large portion of the day before traveling, your sixth day in Turkey is dedicated to exploring the surreal environment and travertine thermal pools of Pamukkale .

Start your day early and reach Pamukkale’s travertine pools by 9 a.m. to avoid crowds.  I had a nice breakfast at my hotel and then I ventured out for the day.

The beautiful, white, terraced waters invite travelers to indulge in the offerings of the ‘spa town’. The pools offer a great way to unwind and relax while enjoying the beauty of the surroundings. 

Walk around Pamukkale’s mineral-rich formations, sit inside one of the pools, and take dozens of pretty photos. Spend enough time here so that you can check out the other attractions within this complex. 

If you exit Pamukkale’s travertine complex, then you can’t reenter without buying another ticket so spend a few hours here to satisfy yourself before you leave.

I did see a few travelers who were in the travertine pools in swimsuits but somehow I didn’t feel comfortable since I was traveling in Turkey as a solo female traveler.

Cleopatra’s Pools

While you’re exploring Pamukkale’s travertine complex, there’s another famous pool that you can enjoy here – the Cleopatra’s Pools, also known as the Antique Pool. 

Unlike the other pools in the area, Cleopatra’s pool is privately owned and has a fee of 700 TL as of 2023 and needs to be paid upon entry. 

As tempting as it is to wallow in the ‘healing waters’ of the hot springs all day, you also need to see Hierapolis, the ancient Roman city.

Don’t worry – everything is right next to each other in the same complex. The settlement boasts a fascinating history, and iconic attractions such as the Hierapolis Theatre, Necropolis, and Museum. 

Lunch in Pamukkale

Get out of the Travertine complex and check out of your hotel. Leave your luggage there or carry it with you to the market where you can spend some time in a restaurant.

Enjoy a nice Turkish lunch in Pamukkale before you head to the ancient city of Ephesus. Actually, you won’t be staying in Ephesus but in the nearby town of Selçuk. 

Pamukkale to Selçuk

Pamukkale and Selçuk are just 2.5 hours away from each other by road, so this journey is very easy if you do it in a rental car or entirely on a taxi. If you’re two or more in number, then a taxi makes sense and the cost isn’t so high when you split it up. The taxi journey will cost you around $60.

Another way of reaching Selcuk from Pamukkale is by hopping on a bus from Denzili. By now you surely know that Denzili town isn’t far from Pamukkale, so you can get here by taxi. From Denzili, get on a Kamil Koc bus to Selçuk.

Check-in at one of the below-mentioned hotels in Selçuk :

Day 7: Explore Ephesus

Selçuk to Ephesus

Having spent one week in Turkey, Ephesus introduces a new and exciting adventure to your trip. Depending on where your hotel is in Selcuk, you can choose to bicycle or walk to Ephesus over a distance of roughly 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). 

Explore Ephesus – the Walled Ruins

If you want to make the most of your Turkey itinerary 10 days in, then we suggest you get an early start. The lost city of Ephesus has a lot to explore, and you want to get the most out of it before all of the day-trippers arrive.

Alternatively, you can visit it right before the complex closes when it isn’t so crowded. The complex closes at 7 p.m. during summer months and 5:00 p.m. during winter months. You may want to check the official website for more information.

Enter Ephesus at the lower gate , which is closer to Selcuk town. The entire city of Ephesus is a World Heritage Center and a shining example of Greek and Roman architecture and history.

Whether or not you are a history-lover, Ephesus is sure to leave you in awe at the marvelous ruins that tell stories of centuries gone by in the ancient port city. 

Some key sights to include on your agenda are the Library of Celsus and Ephesus Amphitheater – arrive at these places early to avoid the queues.

Ephesus Outside the Walled Ruins

There are things to see outside the walled ruins too. These attractions are close to the Lower Gate. The Temple of Artemis, Basilica of St. John ,  Isa Bey Mosque, Ayasoluk Castle, and Ephesus Archaeological Museum among many others. 

Evening in  Selçuk

After soaking up as much history and culture as you possibly can, spend a relaxing evening with a beer and cool off at Denis Bar or Dplphin Bar. Both these bars are in the main town center.

Prepare to leave the next day for Istanbul on a flight. Alternatively, you can also catch an overnight bus to Istanbul from  Selçuk by Varan Bus lines.

Day 8: Arrive in Istanbul, Cruise over Bosphorus

So it is the second time you are arriving in Istanbul. I suggest one of the above-mentioned hotels for an amazing experience:

Hamam in Istanbul

If you chose to spend the previous night resting in Selcuk, then the morning of your eighth day in Turkey will start off with a morning flight from Izmir to Istanbul.

If you take the bus, you’ll also arrive sometime in the morning. Check into your Istanbul hotel of choice, and head straight to a Turkish hammam for a one-of-a-kind experience . 

These hammams are all over the city and offer a variety of services. Some are touristy and as expensive as EUR 50 per person.

There are historical hammams in almost every area and some are frequently visited by locals. They may not look fancy and clean but because of the heat and marble, these are germ-free. If you ask a local, you might get a good recommendation.

If you want to book a high-end hammam with a massage, check this option that costs EUR 49 and you will have to go to the Hilton Doubletree Hotel for this.

You can choose from a self-service option, a traditional hammam that offers the real Turkish bath experience, or other styles which include aromatherapy massages, reflexology, and facial clay masks. 

Sunset cruise over the Bosphorus Strait

After your hammam experience, you should feel rested and revived. Make your way to the Bosphorus Strait, which is sometimes called a sea or even a river but is a strait that separates the continents of Europe and Asia. 

Kick back, relax, and enjoy a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus River, taking in the unique perspective of the city.  I have shortlisted some tours for you to book and they all offer something different:

• Bosphorus & Golden Horn Cruise : EUR 12, duration is 2 hours
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table : EUR 25, duration is 3-4 hours.
• S unset Small-Group Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus : EUR 35, duration is 2.5 hours on a luxury yacht.

The Bosphorus Cruise that I went for lasted 2 hours. It also had live commentary that I wasn’t interested in but the views on each side of the Bosphorus Strait were unmatched.

After a day of walking around Istanbul city during summer days, the Bosphorous cruise felt pretty amazing because I got to sit back and relax to just enjoy the view. It did get a bit chilly later in the evening.

Nightlife in Istanbul – Bosphorus Strait Area

Unlike most of the trip – you won’t need to wake up early for the next 2 – 3 days so take time to explore Istanbul’s party scene.

One of the most popular and scenic spots for nightlife in Istanbul is the Bosphorus area. Here you will find many places where you can enjoy your food and drinks with a view of the Bosphorus Sea.

Head to Beer Point or Taps Bebek for good beer. If you want to get fancy, head to Sortie – the most lively (and expensive) place to party in Istanbul.

Day 9: Historical Istanbul (and Dan Brown’s Istanbul) + Map

Istanbul has got so much to offer, and as your trip draws to a close, it’s time to put on your comfortable walking shoes and prepare to explore the historical Istanbul. If you are a fan of Dan Brown’s Inferno, you’ll recognize a lot of these attractions from the adventures of Robert Langdon.

In order to save money and avoid standing in lines in Istanbul, you can buy a multi-day museum pass.

There are a few must-see attractions that can’t be missed and need to be added to your Istanbul itinerary . These are all located near one another and can be explored in one go. 

I have made a map for today’s locations. The ones that are not a short walk away can be reached by tram. I have mentioned tram details before each destination that’s a bit far.

Save the above map as an offline map on your phone to avoid getting lost without the internet.

Hagia Sophia

Many first-time visitors are surprised to know that Hagia Sophia was once a Greek Orthodox church, was later also a mosque but is now a museum.

As of now, it is one of the greatest surviving architectural examples of the Byzantine Empire. It has been restored a few times and new structures have been added. The minarets were added during the Ottoman time. 

There is a lot to see inside Hagia Sophia but I will mention a few things for you to notice and possibly photograph. See the minarets, the dome, the inscriptions, the marble door, the imperial door, the beautiful door, the hammam (bathhouse), the Omphalion, lustration urns, and calligraphic roundels among other things.

The entry fee for Hagia Sophia was 72 Turkish Liras but was removed after 2020 because it functions as a mosque. So as of today, it is free to visit . Set aside one hour for Hagia Sophia.

Basilica Cistern

If you are a fan of Dan Brown’s books then for sure you have heard of Basilica Cistern . It is just 500 meters away from Hagia Sophia and is definitely worth visiting.

Basilica Cistern is unlike any place that you would see. It is an ancient giant well cavern below the city streets of Istanbul. There are water ducts and massive columns.

Historically the ducts fed this Cistern with water for general use like drinking, washing, bathing, etc. These water ducts were supported by columns that are said to be 35-40 meters tall.

There are carved faces of Medusa at the bottom of some columns. Meduse is from Green Mythology with hair of snakes. As per the legend, if one looked directly at Medusa they’d turn to stone.

The entry fee for Basilica Cistern in 2023 is 350 Turkish Lira and isn’t included in the Museum pass. It is open from 9 am to 7 pm.

Set aside 30 minutes for Basilica Cistern and perhaps take a break after it before you head to the next place on the itinerary.

Topkapi Palace + Lunch at Museum Cafe

Just 450 meters away from Basilica Cistern is the Topkapi Palace. You can visit this place on your own but will definitely be more interesting with a guide. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For almost 400 years, the Topkapi Palace was the Ottoman Empire’s royal residence. Today it attracts thousands of tourists as they glimpse the history while enjoying the beauty of this lavish palace.

The museum cafe overlooks the water so is an amazing place to eat lunch.

Set aside a few hours to spend at Topkapi Palace because it is huge. There are pavilions, massive courtyards, and rooms with an impressive collection of artifacts.

The tile work and the decoration will wow you! There are some rooms where you can’t click photos so keep your eyes out for the sign.

Inside is also Hagia Irene, one of the few churches that wasn’t ever converted into a mosque in the Ottoman area.

One of the courtyards overlooks the “Golden Horn” (where the Sea of Marmara meets the Bosporus River waters), so you will get amazing views and photos. Many people say that it is the best viewpoint to see the golden horn of the old quarter of Istanbul, overlooking the Bosphorus Strait and Galata Tower.

There is also a harem inside the Topkapi Palace with 400 rooms but you have to buy an additional ticket to see it. Also, there is a hamam inside with an entry fee of 100 liras.

Set aside two hours for Topkapi Palace, especially if you will be eating lunch here.

Come back to your Hotel to Freshen up

The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, and Basilica Cistern are a stone’s throw away from one another, so you can do them all together and come back to your room to freshen up for the evening.

Get ready to head to the Galata area for sunset and nightlife. The Galata Bridge and Tower is slightly further away, but still walkable and definitely worth a visit.

Sunset at Galata Bridge and Tower

Walk over the Galata bridge and get on top of the tower to enjoy the sunset. The walk from Sultanahmet Square to Galata Tower is around 3 kilometers. It goes over the Galata Bridge from where you will see amazing views.

Walking isn’t necessary and you can also arrive at the Galata Tower by getting onto a tram from Sultanahmet Square. Get on T1, ride 4 stops till Karaköy , and from there you will be 600 meters away from Galata Tower.

The Galata tower has 9 floors but the lift will only take you till the 7th – so wear comfortable shoes. There is a 360-degree observation deck on top which will give you breathtaking views of Istanbul city.

If you see a queue of people outside you can just skip it. Instead, the sunset from the Galata bridge is pretty amazing as compared to having to wait in line.

Drinks and Dinner in Galata District

Galata District is a good spot to enjoy the nightlife in Istanbul. You have had to wake up early on many mornings but the next will start late.

Head to Riddim or Mojo in the Galata district to enjoy good music. I like this list by Culture Trip that mentions the best bars for epic nightlife in the Galata district.

Day 10: Bazaars of Istanbul + Map

While Istanbul is rich in history, it is also buzzing with a lively atmosphere and super-rich culture that you should experience.

At the center of this culture are a large number of bazaars and markets that can be found in the city. Istabul’s Bazaars are world-famous and you can not leave Turkey without visiting at least one of them.

From the sharp and sultry aromas of the Spice Bazaar to the Turkish lanterns and carpets at the Grand Bazaar, the hustle and bustle of the city is unrelenting. 

In order to reach the market area, get on a tram from Sultanahmet station to Eminönü station. From there it is a 3-minute walk that you will enjoy.

I have made a map for you to tackle the day. Save it as your offline map before you start the day.

If you suffer from social anxiety and can’t handle crowded places, then you may want to avoid the below two bazaars altogether.

Spice Market (Misir Carsisi)

Spice Market – Misir Carsisi is one of the largest bazaars in Istanbul and is in the Faith District. It has 85 shops that sell spices, tea, dry fruits, nuts, and more. It is not to be confused with the Grand Bazaar, which you will visit right after this.

Before you visit Misir Carsisi, it is important to know how to say “no thank you” because you might get haggled by pushy salesmen. As an Indian, I’m pretty used to this and I don’t mind it at all. For me visiting a place like this is worth the hassle of dealing with pushy salesmen.

Misir Carsisi is something that you have to see while you are in Istanbul whether you want to buy it or not. This visit is about experiencing the smells, sounds the people – and all the sensory overload that you can imagine.

The spice market is cheaper than the Grand Bazaar, so if you see something you’d like to buy, just go for it.,

Walk through the endless maze of stalls inside the Egyptian spice market. You can stop for local Turkish snacks and tea or coffee.

This market is in a building that’s lovely from the inside with arches. The spice market joins the textile market and uphill to the Grand Bazaar with a 10-minute walk.

Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar is the grandest of all bazaars in Istanbul. It is a covered market with 41 streets. It is the largest and the oldest covered market in the world. Whatever you want to miss in Istanbul, but do not miss the Grand Bazaar because it will offer you the most memorable sights. 

There are shops that sell home decor, leather goods, clothes, food, Turkish delight, lamps, and just about anything. Remember this is one of the places where you have to haggle. In some ways, it reminded me of Bangkok’s Chatuchak market because that also has sections for everything.

Again, this isn’t a shopping visit but more of an experience. Buying things in the Grand Bazaar is now super expensive because a lot of tourists visit it from all over the world.

The Grand Bazaar also has a bunch of cafes, so you can eat a snack or lunch here. It is also located in the Faith district and is easy to reach from the Spice Bazaar.

When you are done snacking on the Turkish delight treats and bargaining the price of shiny trinkets, make sure that you visit Süleymaniye Mosque, an iconic landmark in Istanbul.

Süleymaniye Mosque

The most visited Mosque in Istanbul is the Blue Mosque but it is the Süleymaniye Mosque that’s the grandest. One of the locals suggested that I visit the Süleymaniye Mosque , so I did.

Again, I’d like to remind you to dress appropriately – cover your shoulders, your legs, and your head in order to visit religious sites in Turkey.

The Süleymaniye Mosque is located on top of one of the hills of Istanbul. To reach here is quite a climb but it doesn’t have the queues of the Blue Mosque that you visited on your first day. Inside are also the tombs of Hurrem and Suleiman.

You will also be able to see the view of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn when you are up at the Süleymaniye Mosque ‘s gardens. Take some time and sit in the gardens, you won’t want to leave.

If you are a cat lover, then you will be happy to know that there are quite a lot of them roaming around the Süleymaniye Mosque .

The Ottoman imperial mosque is staggering in size and quite a sight to behold. It is Istanbul’s second largest mosque – you will see it from your Bosphorus cruise and maybe even from the airplane when you land.

Come back to your hotel for a break

After spending more than half of your day at different bazaars and Süleymaniye Mosque , I’m sure you are itching to shower, freshen up, and just relax a little before you head out. I did the same too.

Since you have already seen a bunch of sunsets in Istanbul, it is up to you if you’d like to see one today too, or just enjoy street food at one of the most famous spots in Istanbul where locals go.

Street Food at Istiklal Street

Assuming your hotel is close to Sultanahmet Square (mine was), get on the T1 tram in the direction of Kabataş from Sultanahmet tram stop, and ride 5 stops till Tophane . Get off at Tophane, walk for 500 meters and you will arrive at Istiklal Street, the famous street food hot spot in Istanbul. It is near Taksim Square.

If you like experimenting with food, you will lose your mind at Istiklal Street. You won’t just see kebabs but also Islak burgers, pide, lahmacun, borek, and many more interesting things.

The food options are not just limited to one street but also smaller streets that are crisscrossing.

Closing Thought – Turkey Itinerary 10 Days

After a whirlwind adventure through Turkey, enjoying the taste of the intricate culture, your Turkish trip has come to an end.

From the fascinating, sweeping views of Cappadocia, the ethereal hot springs of Pamukkale, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the vibrant culture of Istanbul – what more could you ask for? You can now enjoy one of the best Turkey itineraries 10 days long, and full of adventure.

Flying out of Istanbul on day 11 will leave you with a light heart and a mind full of memories. No amount of Turkey travel blogs can fully describe the magnificence of this country, you simply have to go on this adventure and experience it yourself. 

Is Turkey Safe to Travel?

Many people warned me before I traveled solo to Turkey and said it wasn’t safe. They also said I should be careful of unwanted male attention.

Honestly, I did not face any issues with “unwanted male attention” because many Turkish people helped me, and some were men. Interestingly a few of them had a protective “brotherly” vibe when they were helping me, which is something I have only seen in India apart from Turkey.

I still remember how a stranger helped me find my shuttle from Denzili to Pamukkale. On a hot afternoon in Istanbul, a shopkeeper gave me free bottles of cold water while I was hunting for my hostel. 

Just when I was about to leave Turkey, I was stranded in Istanbul during the military coup . Bad timing! During this time, a lot of strangers helped me with information, support, and more. My suggestion to you – please read the latest travel advisory before traveling to Turkey. 

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16 Comments

Thank you for this itinerary and tips. I want to do a road trip. I am going with my best friend. 2 women driving in Turkey. Is it easy to drive there or should i get in a tour and flights? I drove in England, Scotland and Ireland with the same friend and it was fine. I am not afraid to drive in foreign country but I don’t know about Turkey. What do you suggest?

We are a couple arriving in Istambul the 25th may and we would like to know the options of which options you have from the 26 until the 06 June, staying at the, and 2 days in Istambul because we went there before. Thank you

Hello, can you say how much it will cost for one persion? Starting time is 03.01.2020.

How did you travel to the various places within the cities, did you arrange transport from the hotel or did you hire a car or use the bus system. Trying to find out if it is easy enough to travel by public transport to all the tourist sites especially in Ephesus and Pamakkule or hire a car for that duration.

Hiring a car is the easiest and you should totally do it. I used a taxi in Goreme and did a few tours that also included internal transportation. In Pamukkale, everything is within walking distance and I traveled to Denzili by bus. I used both taxis and buses in Istanbul.

Hi! I am planning to copy your 10 day itinerary with my husband this coming April or May 2020.

I was wondering how much in total did you spend for this trip. Hope you don’t mind sharing.

Thank you very much!

I love your itinerary and plan to follow it during my trip in May this year with my wife. There are a couple of missing pieces of info that will help me plan better 1. Recommended Hotels to stay in Istanbul 2. Tips on preferred ways to travel within the city. Do they have Uber ?

Hi – my hubby & I are planning to do your suggested 10 Day Turkey trip – we both love it and all of the useful info. However we will be coming from Greece and starting at Kusadai, then Pumakkale, Ephesus and want to fly directly to Cappadocia, before finishing in Istanbul for 4-5 nights. You mention a couple of direct flights from Cappdocia to Denizli, but we can’t seem to find any the other way. All the flights seem to go via Istanbul which we were trying to avoid. Any suggestions would be so appreciated.

It seems that there aren’t any direct flights as of now. Pegasus Airlines did have a flight that was to Nevşehir or Kayseri but I can no longer find them. Thanks for pointing this out and I will edit my article.

I used this itinerary to help plan my recent trip to Turkey — was so very helpful, especially the route from Cappadocia – Pamukalle – Selcuk. We had an amazing time! Thanks so much! <3

Thank you so much!! It makes me happy when I’m able to help people plan their trips 🙂

I’m glad I was able to help you! I did this trip alone after researching for AGES for the best and the safest way to move between these destinations, the best photo spots and what not. I’m happy if I can help another person out 🙂

Please share who should we use for this itinerary. If we want to add Ankara and Konya and reduce the days in Istanbul, what do you suggest.

Ankara and Konya are both cities and I wouldn’t personally make an effort to see them. But if you want to then go ahead and reduce your time in Istanbul or Pamukkale or Cappadocia for this.

Hi Love your itinerary as we are from Hawaii and like you always want the incredible scenery over the history. My ? is I heard we should also not miss Bodrum. Wondering if you went there and if so- when we should incorporate it from what destination. We have the option of being gone more than the 10 days so trying to know best place to fit inside your itenerary. Aloha

Hi Carol, Bodrum is a touristy beach destination but I have heard good things about it. There are colorful streets and historical landmarks. I did not visit because I wanted to visit other places in Turkey instead. 🙂

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a knack for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

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Last Updated on April 8, 2024 by Drifter Planet

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10 Unforgettable Days in Türkiye: Full Trip Itinerary

Adventure Travel , Europe , Travel , Turkey | September 24, 2023

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you buy anything mentioned here. It doesn't cost you anything extra.

One of my favourite adventures to date is an epic 10 day road trip through Turkey that was packed with bucket list experiences and otherworldly destinations.

This is my complete itinerary for ten days in Turkey, including our five day self-drive tour from Marmaris to Cappadocia and back down to the south of the country.

As we carved our way through the patchwork landscape on our Turkey road trip, we passed makeshift honey stalls and impressive mosques at what felt like hundred metres intervals.

There were balconies strung with chilli peppers left to dry in the sun outside of Konya, huge swathes of land littered with pumpkins in Cappadocia, and acre upon acre of farmland and greenhouses in Antalya, where some of Turkey’s tastiest produce is grown.

Our Turkish road trip road was never boring, and each of our destinations were bewilderingly beautiful.

This trip gave me so many incredible memories. I’m glad that having accidentally let ten years pass since my last visit to Marmaris, I finally took the time to explore Turkey’s true delights.

During our ten days in Turkey, we stopped at famous tourist attractions like Pamukkale, Cappadocia and the Düden Waterfalls in Antalya .

We concluded our trip with a few days of downtime in sleepy Dalyan , which is close to Dalaman airport and therefore a practical place to end any Turkey itinerary.

Read on for more information about visiting each of these amazing Turkish destinations!

Our Turkish adventure was jam-packed with jaw-dropping sights, sunshine and countless çay and gözleme stops in establishments which ranged from crude roadside shacks to spectacular riverside restaurants.

I thought I’d share my itinerary for ten days in Turkey and the exact route we took on our road trip from Marmaris to help anyone planning a trip to Turkey who, like myself, wants to see the best bits in less than two weeks.

My travel itinerary for 10 days in Turkey

Watch my full-length Cappadocia video on Youtube

You can tailor this comprehensive ten day Turkey itinerary to suit you – pack the highlights into a busy seven day Turkey trip or stretch it out and spend two or even three weeks in Turkey, you lucky thing!

In case you have more time to play with, I’ve mentioned the best places to go in Turkey where you might like to extend your stay, and how long to spend in each place.

Of course, if you’re just planning a beach getaway and dashing around the country seems a bit too strenuous for you, you can still see some of these Turkish destinations during your holiday.

The stops on this Turkey travel itinerary encompass some of the best trips to do in Turkey for holidaymakers and I’ve included links for tours to some of the most popular sights, in case you won’t be driving in Turkey.

At the bottom of this guide, I’ve shared all of my Turkey travel tips and essential information.

I travelled with locals, so I’ve got loads of insider tips to share.

Days 1 – 3: Relaxing for three days in Marmaris (with a cultural day trip if you want it)

Before we set off on our road trip through Turkey, we spent some time unwinding in Marmaris .

If you’ve got ten days in Turkey, a short seaside holiday here is a great way to start your trip.

Located at the meeting place of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, Marmaris is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country.

While we were there, we did a blissfully relaxing boat trip.

I’ve been to Marmaris a few times, and a day out on the sea is always the highlight of my stay. 

You can book your boat trip in advance and look forward to a terrific day on the water with unlimited drinks and a BBQ lunch.

I definitely recommend enjoying a few lazy days in Marmaris before you begin a big adventure in Turkey.

You can do a jeep safari , get an authentic Turkish bath or spend a day at Atlantis Water Park .

If you’d like to pursue culture during your stay in Marmaris, book a day trip to the Ancient City of Ephesus .

There are loads of restaurants in Marmaris and you’ll find pulsating nightlife, but it’s a very family friendly destination.

Marmaris has a plethora of all-inclusive hotels, some of the best being Green Nature Diamond and Hawaii Hotel .

It’s cheap enough to eat out in Marmaris, so I’d suggest opting for self-catering accommodation or Bed and Breakfast there.

Some good options are Club Aida , Grand Azur and Grand Pasa .

The one thing that lets Marmaris down is its beach so while you’re there, jump on a bus to İçmeler beach and spend the day there for your sea and sand fix.  

Let me know if you would like a separate post on stuff to do in Marmaris!

Find hotels in Marmaris

Day 4: hitting the road – marmaris to pamukkale.

The drive from Marmaris to Pamukkale takes around three hours. If you’re going on a road trip from Marmaris, you might as well stop here!

Pamukkale , literally “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, is the most visited attraction in Turkey thanks to its Instagram-worthy snow white calcite travertine terraces filled with thermal water.

The ancient spa city is a fascinating place to explore, so it’s worth spending a bit of time here to make sure you see everything.

Pamukkale is amazing, but it gets very busy so it’s best to do your research before you go in order to enjoy it fully.

For a truly unforgettable experience in Pamukkale, book a hot air balloon ride over its sparkling white landscape.

Find hotels for Pamukkale

Once we had drank in everything we could at Pamukkale, we hopped back in the car and began the five hour drive to Konya, where we stopped for the night.

We stayed at a fantastic hotel called Gherdan Gold Hotel .

It has a spa with a hammam, the rooms are very comfortable and the breakfast buffet offers lots of traditional Turkish favourites.

Since we had only dedicated five of our ten days in Turkey to our road trip, we left Konya early the next morning.

If you have more time than we did, you could spend a day in Konya before continuing on your journey towards Cappadocia.

Konya is a very religious city and among the top attractions there are Mevlana Muzesi , which is the mosque where the mausoleum of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, a Persian Sufi mystic is located.

You can see the whirling dervishes there in the summer months.

Find hotels in Konya

Day 5: driving from konya to göreme, cappadocia.

The drive from Konya to Göreme takes approximately three hours.

Whether you're planning to do a lot of sightseeing or you just want to see the iconic hot air balloons, Göreme is the best area to stay in Cappadocia.

We were in Cappadocia for just 24 hours and managed to squeeze a lot in to that time.

Luckily, the hot air balloons flew the morning we were there – which was extra fortunate because they hadn't been able to fly for three days before our stay!

We stayed at Arch Palace Hotel , which I'd 100% recommend if you're unsure where to stay in Cappadocia. The location was perfect.

If you have a larger budget, try Sultan Cave Suites for some serious photo opportunities (it's the hotel where those gorgeous breakfast shots all over Instagram are taken).

Outside of Göreme, Museum Hotel in Uçhisar has a swimming pool overlooking the valleys.

For more information about visiting Cappadocia , you'll need to read my dedicated blog post because this magical destination warrants a space of its own.

Find hotels in Cappadocia

At this point, a lot of people would probably continue on from Cappadocia to Istanbul, but we had other plans.

We wanted to begin and end our five day Turkey tour in the south of the country, as we had booked return flights via Dalaman.

If you're going to Istanbul from Cappadocia, the distance is around 750km and the drive takes 8-9 hours.

Day 6: Cappadocia to Antalya

I was reluctant to leave Cappadocia so soon, but we had planned to be in Antalya so we began the drive shortly after the last hot air balloon landed on our second day in Göreme.

We were in Antalya only for the night before we continued our journey further southwest but by this point the car was getting a bit tiring, so travellers with more time should definitely pause to enjoy Antalya before they get back behind the wheel.

It had been cooler up in Cappadocia so the Antalya sunshine was very welcome!

Lara has some gorgeous hotels, including Liberty and Asteria Kremlin Palace . I recommend staying in Belek , if you're looking to party in Antalya.

Find hotels in Antalya

Day 7: exploring antalya en route to dalyan.

Our local guides took us to a few surprise stops on the drive from Antalya to Dalyan. I'm so glad we had their insider knowledge, because these are places we probably wouldn't have found ourselves.

We started out early in the morning and were lucky enough to visit the magnificent Düden Waterfalls while the park that the upper waterfall is located in was completely empty.

This is a gorgeous, tranquil place and would be the perfect spot to munch on a picnic in the shade.

If you go to Antalya, you can't miss this place. I've found a guided tour that will take you there, plus other must-see sites in Antalya.

As we crawled along the Turkish Mediterranean coast, which is also aptly known as the Turquoise Coast, we passed paradise-like sandy coves.

Tired and in dire need of a boost during our long journey, we were pleased to happen upon Kaputaş Beach, a small beach between Kaş and Kalkan.

The perfect place to spend a few hours outside of the car on a long, hot afternoon!

There was one more unscheduled stop on our self-drive Turkey tour when we got to Muğla: a quick dip at Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon in Fethiye.

This is a popular spot for paragliding .

Find hotels & tours in Oludeniz

Days 8 to 10: dreamy dalyan.

Finally, we poured back into the car for the drive from Ölüdeniz to Dalyan , which takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Dalyan was the ideal place to chill after a rather hectic Turkey trip!

It's a quiet town on the river, with a much slower pace and slightly older crowd than Marmaris attracts.

We chose it because my mum and her husband have holidayed there a few times and it's very close to Dalaman Airport, which made the trip home to the UK that little bit quicker.

During our stay in Dalyan, we rented a lovely apartment in a complex called Manuela Apartments. Each of their four apartments sleeps six and we basically had the shared swimming pool to ourselves.

I'm already planning another trip to Dalyan and I hope to stay at this apartment again.

Find hotels & tours in Dalyan

Check out my guide to what to do in Dalyan if you're planning a trip!

Our five day Turkey road trip route

Planning to drive around Turkey? Here's a look at the route we used.

I didn't actually do any of the driving myself (I'm still not very confident behind the wheel so driving on the right would have been too daunting), but I found the roads on our trip to be very well maintained and surprisingly quiet.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

The summer season is the busiest time to go to Turkey on holiday, and we deliberately avoided the summer months because we didn't want to contend with crowds and searing heat during our road trip.

We did this trip in October, and I think it's the best month to travel in Turkey.

Cappadocia in particular was a lot less crowded than I feared it would be and we still had blazing sunshine – it was just a little cooler after dark in Cappadocia.

Typically, visiting Turkey in Spring or Autumn is the best way to beat the crowds and still enjoy good weather.

What is the best way to travel around Turkey if you have 10 days?

We rented a car in Marmaris for our ten days in Turkey. Our local drivers did the last leg from Dalyan back to Marmaris by themselves. If you pick up from the airport, that would solve this problem!

Check car hire prices for Turkey here

The freedom having our own car gave us really made this adventure what it was.

We passed tour buses at some of the main tourist attractions and felt relieved we weren't on one!

I've heard that at Pamukkale especially, tours are very rushed and you don't get much time to enjoy the place.

While we were in Marmaris, we used the local buses to get around. They're cheap and you just pay the driver before you get off at your destination.

How many days should I spend in Turkey?

For this trip, ten days in Turkey felt adequate, but I would have definitely liked to have spent more time in Cappadocia and perhaps a little time in Konya – it's not super touristy but I think it would have been an interesting place to explore.

If you're going to proceed on to Istanbul after Cappadocia, I'd recommend extending your stay in Turkey to two weeks at least.

The journey is very long and while I've yet to visit Istanbul myself, I know the city requires at least three days.

How to get to Marmaris

I flew direct from Newcastle to Dalaman Airport with Jet2. In order to get the lowest possible price for my flights, I always use Skyscanner's price alert function to book when the price drops.

I booked a shuttle from Dalaman Airport to Marmaris. The drive takes about two hours and they usually stop for a break halfway through.

Of course, the shuttle stops at various hotels so if you want a quicker transfer from Dalaman airport to your hotel, it's best to book a private transfer.

Useful travel advice for Turkey

Travellers in Turkey need to carry their ID and visa with them at all times, but this rule is only really enforced outside of tourist resorts.

We were asked for ours once, at a police checkpoint near Konya.

Travel insurance is essential for visiting Turkey as medical care is expensive there.

My brother had to get an X-ray in Marmaris about 10 years ago and even then, it was extortionate!

Travellers all over the world use World Nomads as they offer the best level of protection. Use the box below to get a quote for your Turkey trip.

If you're travelling around Turkey, learning a few phrases of Turkish will go a long way, especially in restaurants or if you're pulled over by the police (we were once, but we drove through many police checkpoints).

Locals appreciate tourists who make the effort.

Arm yourself with a Turkish phrase book and start making local friends.

The Lonely Planet Turkey guide is bound to come in handy too!

Our ten day Turkey tour is a trip I'll never forget. I had been to Marmaris a handful of times in my early teens so it was brilliant to go back and actually see some of the country as an adult.

I hope you've found my Turkey tour itinerary helpful, but please don't hesitate to shoot me a message if you have any questions. I'll do my best to answer them, or I'll hit up mum's husband and get his local input!

I'm making a travel vlog about this Turkey trip, so subscribe to my Youtube channel to ensure you don't miss it.

Melis Living says

October 21, 2019 at 7:30 pm

I am so glad you enjoyed it – I loved following your trip on Instagram! Gorgeous pics! Melis x

October 24, 2019 at 11:28 pm

This honestly looks so incredible. Loved following your trip! X

abdel ilah says

November 5, 2019 at 12:45 pm

wow!! This looks pretty amazing … Thanks a lot 🙂

Best 10 Days Turkey Tour Packages & Itineraries

10 Days Turkey Tour Package

10 Days Turkey Tour Package with Antalya

10 Days Turkey Tour Package with Troy

10 Day Turkey Tour Packages

Looking for a comprehensive travel experience that covers all the highlights of Turkey? Look no further than our  10 days Turkey tour packages! These tour packages offer a variety of options, including historical highlights, city sightseeing, and adventure tours. With private tours and knowledgeable tour guides, you'll get a personalized experience tailored to your interests.

One popular option is the Gulet cruise along the Turkish coastline, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. And no trip to Turkey is complete without a visit to Cappadocia , where you can explore unique landscapes and immerse yourself in local culture. For those looking for more adventure, an Istanbul tour is a must-do, while a tour of Altinkum or Fethiye can offer a different perspective. If you only have a day in Istanbul, make sure to make the most of it!

Whether you're looking for a day city sightseeing tour in Istanbul or a day historical highlights tour in the Turkish Riviera , there's something for everyone on these 10-day tours . Don't miss the chance to explore Fethiye and its stunning coastline on a gulet cruise. So why wait? Book your package today and discover all that Turkey, including Istanbul, the Turkish Riviera, Fethiye, and gulet cruises, has to offer!

Itinerary for a Perfect 10-Day Tour in T urkey

If you're looking for the perfect itinerary to explore Turkey in just 10 days, look no further. This guide will take you through the best sights and experiences that Turkey has to offer, including a tour of Cappadocia, a gulet cruise, and visits to Altinkum and Fethiye. From Istanbul's bustling streets to the stunning beaches of the Turquoise Coast, this itinerary covers it all.

D ay 1: Istanbul Tour with a Bosphorus Cruise

Start your Western Turkey travel off right with a tour of Istanbul, one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Begin your day at the Hagia Sophia, an awe-inspiring architectural masterpiece that was once a church and then a mosque. Next, head to Topkapi Palace , where you can marvel at Ottoman-era artifacts and enjoy stunning views of the city. Don't forget to add Pamukkale to your itinerary for its breathtaking natural hot springs and visit Cappadocia for its unique rock formations or take a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait for an unforgettable experience.

In the afternoon, take a day city sightseeing tour and see Istanbul from a different perspective. You'll sail past iconic landmarks like the Maiden's Tower and Dolmabahce Palace while taking in breathtaking views of both Europe and Asia on your day tour. Alternatively, you can opt for a day city sightseeing trip with a taste of Turkish delight tour to make your experience even more delightful.

Days 2-4: Western Turkey Travel with Day City Sightseeing Trips

Over the next three days, embark on a journey to explore western Turkey's top destinations. Start in Izmir, known for its beautiful coastline and lively bazaars. From there, head to Kusadasi to relax on sandy beaches or take a dip in crystal clear waters. If you have time, consider adding Istanbul to your itinerary for an unforgettable city experience. Don't miss out on the Cappadocia highlights tour for a unique glimpse into the region's history and culture. And for a truly relaxing day, visit Pamukkale for its natural hot springs and stunning white terraces. Finally, end your trip with a memorable cruise along Turkey's picturesque coastlines.

From Kusadasi, it's just a short drive to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world. If you're planning a Western Turkey travel, consider taking a 7 days Turkey tour that includes a Cappadocia highlights tour and a visit to Istanbul before heading to Kusadasi for dinner. Spend an entire day exploring this incredible site before continuing your journey through Turkey.

On day four of your 10-day Turkey tour , visit Pamukkale's famous hot springs and travertine terraces before heading back to Izmir for your flight to Antalya. This tour covers Istanbul, Cappadocia highlights tour, and the western Turkey region.

Days 5-7: Explore The Turkish Riviera And The Turquoise Coast

Antalya is your gateway to the Turkish Riviera, a stunning stretch of coastline that's home to some of Turkey's most beautiful beaches. Spend your first day in Antalya exploring the city's old town and visiting landmarks like the Hadrian's Gate and Yivli Minaret. If you have time, consider taking a cruise along the coast or exploring other popular destinations like Istanbul , Cappadocia, and Pamukkale.

On day six of your 10 days Turkey tour, head out of Istanbul to explore the Turquoise Coast. Visit Olympos, a hidden gem with ancient ruins and secluded beaches, before continuing on to Kas, a charming seaside village with crystal clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Don't forget to add Cappadocia to your itinerary for a hot air balloon ride and explore the unique landscape. And if you have time, consider adding a cruise to your trip to fully experience the beauty of the Turkish coastline.

Day seven is all about relaxation. Spend the day lounging on one of Antalya's many beautiful beaches or taking a boat tour cruise along the coast. If you're looking for more adventure, consider taking a trip to Istanbul or visiting the stunning natural hot springs of Pamukkale. And when it's time to rest, unwind at your hotel in Antalya.

Days 8-9: More Itineraries For Exploring The Best Of Turkey

On your final two days in Turkey, embark on a journey to Istanbul and indulge in the city's rich history and culture. Afterward, head to Pamukkale to witness its stunning white terraces and take a relaxing dip in its thermal pools. If time permits, consider taking a cruise along the Mediterranean coast for a scenic view of Turkey's coastline. Don't forget to visit Cappadocia as well, an otherworldly region known for its unique rock formations and underground cities. Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for an unforgettable experience.

Embark on a memorable journey through Turkey starting from Istanbul. Begin by exploring the famous bazaars and end your trip in Istanbul once again. Take a cruise along the Mediterranean coast to witness the stunning beauty of Cappadocia and Pamukkale. Spend some time exploring these unique destinations before heading back to Istanbul for your last day. You can choose to revisit areas you may have missed earlier in your trip or do some last-minute shopping in Istanbul's famous bazaars.

Saturday Details: A Perfect Amount Of Time To Spend In Each Location

With this itinerary, you'll spend around two days in each hotel location. This gives you enough time to see all of the major sights in Istanbul and Cappadocia while still having time for relaxation and exploration. If you prefer, you can also add a cruise to your trip for a unique experience.

Top 10 Must-See Places in Turkey for a 10-Day Tour

If you're planning to visit Turkey and have only ten days, you may wonder what are the must-see places that you shouldn't miss. Turkey is a country full of history, culture, and natural beauty. From Istanbul's iconic sites to Pamukkale's hot springs, there are many fascinating highlights that will make your trip unforgettable. Don't forget to add Cappadocia to your itinerary for a unique experience. You can also take a cruise along the coast or stay in a luxurious hotel to fully indulge in Turkey's beauty.

Istanbul: The City of Two Continents

Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in the world, and for a good reason. It's where Europe meets Asia, where ancient history blends with modern life. If you're looking for a day Turkey adventure tour, consider visiting Cappadocia. Alternatively, if you want to explore Istanbul further, take a day city sightseeing trip or a day Turkish delight tour. Here are some iconic sites that you should visit during your stay:

The Blue Mosque : Also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, it's one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. Its six minarets and blue tiles make it an impressive sight.

The Bosphorus: Take a boat tour along the strait that separates Europe from Asia. You'll see magnificent palaces, historic mansions, and stunning views.

Hagia Sophia: Once a church, then a mosque, now a museum. Hagia Sophia is an architectural masterpiece with a rich history.

Western Turkey: Gallipoli Peninsula and Pamukkale Pools

Western Turkey has many fascinating places to explore, including a day in Istanbul and a visit to Cappadocia. Another must-see is Pamukkale, or you can take a day Turkish delight tour.

Gallipoli Peninsula: If you're interested in WWI history, visiting Gallipoli is a must-do activity. You can take guided tours to learn about the battles that took place here.

Pamukkale Pools: Known as "Cotton Castle," Pamukkale is famous for its white terraces filled with mineral-rich hot springs. You can soak in these pools while enjoying stunning views.

South Cappadocia: Spectacular Scenery and Exciting Places

Cappadocia is a region in central Turkey known for its unique landscape and rich history. If you're planning a trip to Turkey, don't miss the opportunity to visit Pamukkale, go on a day Istanbul tour, indulge in a day Turkish delight tour, or explore the region with a day tour.

Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. It's an unforgettable experience that will give you stunning views.

Ancient Ephesus: Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. You'll see impressive ruins such as the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.

Oludeniz Blue Lagoon: Located near Fethiye, Oludeniz is a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and a stunning lagoon.

Trabzon: A Hidden Gem in Northeastern Turkey

Trabzon is a city on the Black Sea coast that many tourists overlook. However, it's worth visiting if you have time. If you're planning a trip to Istanbul or Cappadocia, consider adding Trabzon to your itinerary. Don't forget to book a hotel before your visit. And while you're at it, make sure to add Pamukkale to your list of must-sees as well.

Sumela Monastery: Located in Maçka district, Sumela Monastery is an impressive structure built into a cliff face. It dates back to the 4th century AD and has breathtaking views.

Hagia Sophia Museum: Not to be confused with Istanbul's Hagia Sophia, this museum was once a church, then a mosque, now a museum. Its frescoes and mosaics are worth seeing.

Uzungol Lake: Uzungol means "long lake," and it's located in Çaykara district. It's surrounded by mountains and forests, making it an ideal place for hiking or relaxing.

Comparing the Best 10-Day Turkey Tours Available

Looking for the best Turkey 10-day tour packages can be overwhelming , especially with so many options available. To help you make an informed decision, we have compared some of the best tours based on price and highlights. Whether you want to explore the vibrant city of Istanbul, marvel at the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, or relax in a luxurious hotel, there is a tour package for every season.

Check Availability and Book the Best Tour through Tripadvisor Reviews

Tripadvisor is a reliable platform to check hotel reviews and ratings from other travelers who have experienced the accommodations firsthand in Istanbul and Cappadocia. It's always good to read both positive and negative reviews to get a better understanding of what to expect in terms of day details during your stay. Additionally, Tripadvisor is a great resource to find tours and activities to do while visiting these destinations.

Look for Flights and Tickets to the Nearest Airport for Convenience

When booking your tour to Cappadocia, consider looking for flights and tickets to the nearest airport for convenience. Istanbul Ataturk Airport is one of the busiest airports in Turkey, while Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is another option that serves numerous airlines. Also, make sure to book a hotel in advance so you can have a comfortable stay during your trip . Don't forget to check the day details of your tour, especially if you are planning to visit during peak season.

Choose the Best 10 Days Turkey Tour Package Based on Reviews and Recommendations

Choosing the best Turkey tour packages , hotel and season can make or break your vacation experience. Make sure you read reviews carefully before making any decisions. Some popular tours in Cappadocia include day details for exploring the unique landscape.

Istanbul City Tour: This tour takes you through some of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace Museum, Blue Mosque , Grand Bazaar, and Spice Market. If you're planning to extend your stay in Istanbul, we recommend exploring other destinations such as Cappadocia, famous for its unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides. You can also book a hotel in Istanbul to make the most out of your trip. For day details, our tour guide will provide you with a comprehensive itinerary that covers all the must-see spots. Depending on the season, you may want to bring appropriate

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride: A day tour to Cappadocia from Istanbul is incomplete without a hot air balloon ride over its stunning landscape. This unforgettable experience can be easily arranged by your hotel, and day details can be discussed with the tour operator. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour: This tour takes you to Pamukkale's famous white terraces, where you can relax in the natural hot springs. You'll also visit Hierapolis, an ancient Roman city. The tour starts from your hotel in Istanbul and includes day details. Additionally, you can extend your trip to explore Cappadocia's unique landscapes.

Pros and Cons of Different 10-Day Turkey Tour Packages

If you're planning a trip to Turkey , choosing the right tour package can make all the difference. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for you. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of different 10-day Turkey tour packages that include popular destinations like Istanbul and Cappadocia, as well as consider the best season for travel and departure days throughout the year.

Cultural Tours: Historical Sites And Rich Culture

Cultural tours focus on historical sites and rich culture of Turkey such as Istanbul's Hagia Sophia or Ephesus ancient city ruins that will give you an insight into Turkish history. These types of tour packages are perfect for history buffs and those who want to learn more about the local culture. However, cultural tours may not provide as much outdoor or adventure activities. The day details of the tour will be provided to you beforehand so that you can plan accordingly. Depending on the season, the tour may have specific attractions to visit. The year depart days vary, so make sure to check the schedule before booking your trip.

Focus on historical sites and rich culture

Great for history buffs and learning about local culture

May not provide as much outdoor or adventure activities

Adventure Tours: Outdoor Activities And Thrills

Adventure tours prioritize outdoor activities such as hiking, hot air balloon rides, and river rafting. These types of tour packages are perfect for thrill-seekers and those who love to be active outdoors. However, adventure tours may not provide as much emphasis on cultural or historical sites. Day details and year depart days are provided for those who want to plan their trip accordingly. Additionally, the season is taken into account to ensure the best possible experience. Istanbul is not typically included in adventure tours but can be added upon request.

Prioritize outdoor activities and thrills

Perfect for thrill-seekers and those who love to be active outdoors, our day tour in Istanbul is the perfect way to explore the city in any season. Discover all the exciting day details as you embark on an adventure like no other.

May not provide as much emphasis on cultural or historical sites during a day tour in Istanbul. It's important to consider the day details and season when planning your itinerary.

All-Inclusive Packages: Meals And Accommodations Covered

All-inclusive packages cover meals and accommodations so you don't have to worry about additional expenses during your trip. However, these types of packages may limit your dining options since meals are often provided at the hotel or with pre-selected restaurants. If you're interested in a day tour, make sure to check the day details with your travel agent. It's also important to consider the season when planning your trip to Istanbul.

Meals and accommodations covered

No need to worry about additional expenses during your trip, whether you're going on a day tour or exploring Istanbul's season-specific day details.

May limit dining options

Customizable T ours : Personalized Itineraries With More Planning Required

Customizable tours allow you to create a personalized itinerary that suits your interests, whether you're planning to visit Istanbul or any other city. You can choose which attractions to visit, how long to stay in each location, and what type of activities you want to do. However, customizable tours require more planning and research on your part, especially if you want to include day details or seasonal activities. Additionally, depending on the year depart days that you choose, some attractions may be closed or have limited availability.

Choosing the Right 10-Day Turkey Tour for You

There are several factors you should consider to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience on your 10-day Turkey tour . From Istanbul, destinations to activities and accommodations, each tour is unique and caters to different preferences. Make sure to check the year depart days and season details before booking to ensure availability. Here are some tips on how to choose the right tour for you:

Consider the Destinations Included in the Tour Package

One of the most important factors when choosing a 10-day Turkey tour package is the destinations included in the itinerary. Depending on your interests, you may want to visit historical sites such as Ephesus or Troy , explore natural wonders like Cappadocia or Pamukkale, or soak up the culture in Istanbul or Antalya . Make sure that the tour package you choose covers your preferred destinations and provides details about the year depart days and season for your convenience.

Check if the Tour Includes a Hot Air Balloon Flight or a Blue Cruise

If you're looking for a unique experience during your trip to Turkey, consider booking a tour that includes a hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia's fairy chimneys or a blue cruise along Turkey's stunning coastline. These activities provide breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. For those interested in exploring Istanbul, there are day details available for guided tours of the city's historical landmarks. Additionally, be mindful of the season when planning your trip as some activities may only be available during certain times of the year. It's also important to check the year depart days for your desired tours to ensure availability.

Look for Opportunities to Enjoy a Dinner or Overnight Bus Journey

Some tours offer opportunities to enjoy dinner at traditional Turkish restaurants in Istanbul or take an overnight bus journey between destinations. These experiences allow you to immerse yourself in Turkish culture and get off-the-beaten-path while also providing day details of the tour itinerary. Plan your trip according to the season and year depart days to make the most of your Turkish adventure.

Make Sure the Tour Provides Knowledgeable Guide

A knowledgeable guide can make all the difference during your trip by providing insights into local history and culture while ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Look for tours with experienced guides who speak your language, especially if you plan to visit Istanbul. Additionally, consider checking the year depart days, and season of your trip to ensure the best experience. Don't forget to ask for day details to make the most out of your tour.

Check Season and Weather Conditions Before Booking

Turkey experiences four distinct seasons with varying weather conditions across different regions, including Istanbul. It's important to check weather forecasts before booking your day tour so that you can plan your day details accordingly and avoid any potential disruptions due to weather. Also, keep in mind the year depart days when planning your trip.

Why a 10-Day Tour is the Perfect Way to Experience Turkey

If you're planning a trip to Turkey, a 10-day tour package is the perfect way to experience all that this amazing country has to offer. With so much to see and do in Turkey, it can be overwhelming trying to plan your itinerary on your own. That's where a tour package comes in handy. Whether you're departing from Istanbul or other cities, you can choose the season and year you want to travel. For more details, check out the tour package options available.

Itinerary for a Perfect 10-Day Tour in Turkey

A well-planned 10-day itinerary with all the necessary details will take you through some of the most iconic destinations in Turkey, including Istanbul , Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Antalya. You can choose your year of departure and suitable days for the trip. This itinerary can be enjoyed during any season without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

During your 10-day tour in Turkey, there are some must-see places that you should not miss out on. These include the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Museum in Istanbul, the hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia's fairy chimneys , and exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Hierapolis-Pamukkale thermal pools for more details. Depending on the season you choose to travel, you can witness different natural and cultural phenomena. Plan your year depart days accordingly to make the most of your trip.

There are several tour companies offering different types of 10-day Turkey tours packages departing from Istanbul. It’s important to compare them based on factors such as price, itinerary details, accommodation options, customer reviews, and the season or year you plan to depart.

Each tour company has its own pros and cons, depending on the season and year depart days. Some may offer more luxurious accommodations in Istanbul but at higher prices while others may have more budget-friendly options with fewer amenities included. Consider the day details that matter most to you when choosing between different packages.

The right tour package for you depends on your personal preferences and travel style. If you prefer luxury , then a high-end tour package would be perfect for you. If you're on a budget, then a more affordable option would be better suited to your needs. Consider the season when planning your trip, as this can affect availability and pricing. Make sure to check day details to ensure the itinerary matches your interests. For a unique experience, consider visiting Istanbul, a city rich in history and culture. Additionally, be mindful of year depart days when booking your tour package to ensure it aligns with your schedule.

In conclusion, Turkey is an amazing country with so much to offer, especially in Istanbul. A 10-day tour package is the perfect way to experience all that it has to offer without feeling overwhelmed or missing out on any must-see destinations. Whether you prefer to depart in the summer or winter season, there are tour packages available that cater to your needs. For more details on the different tour packages available, be sure to inquire with your travel agent. Choose the right tour package for you and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Turkey!

Articles about the most important places

Hagia Sophia  

Blue Mosque

Grand Baz a ar

Topkapi Pal ace

Basilica Cistern ​

Göreme

Devrent Valley

Uchisar Castle

Ephesus Ancient City

House of Virgin Marry

Library of Celsus

Temple of Hadria n

Duden Waterfall

Perge, Aspendos 

Mount Ararat

​ Canakkale

Travel Tips

Visa and passport requirements

Travel insurance

Best time to visit Turkey

What to pack

Local customs and traditions

Transportation options

Currency exchange and payment methods

Safety and security

Ultimate 10 Day Turkey Itinerary (Plus 7 day & 2 Week Options!)

Planning a trip and building an itinerary can sometimes be a little daunting no matter what part of the world you go to. Which places should you visit? How long should you stay for? How do you get around? Putting together a Turkey itinerary is no exception to this.

These are all questions that may come to mind when daydreaming about your next destination. Turkey is one of my favorite countries that I have traveled through because it is so rich in culture and diverse in natural beauty.

My hope is that after reading this guide you will have a better understanding of the perfect itinerary when traveling through this amazing part of the world. 

While it is completely possible to travel through Turkey on your own, I highly recommend taking a tour like I did. Turkey is a massive country that spans across both Europe and Asia.

Taking a tour helped me navigate my way around with easy transportation connections, all while taking in the most breathtaking sites in the most cost-effective ways.

I was able to leave most of the dirty work up to the tour company and was able to sit back and experience an itinerary that covered the most highlighted parts of this tremendous country.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Turkey (Travel Guide)

The Perfect 10 Day Turkey Itinerary

Table of Contents

Istanbul – 3 to 5 days

The best place to start is the iconic city of Istanbul. This itinerary takes you on a gigantic loop that starts and ends in Istanbul. I recommend spending 5-7 days in Istanbul if you can, but that will really depend on the amount of time you have for your Turkey itinerary.

When I went, I started with 4 days on my own before joining the tour and then once the tour ended I spent another 3 days exploring and covering sites that I had missed.

Istanbul truly is packed with an abundance of tourist attractions. It has an authentic exotic flavor mixed with a vibrant cosmopolitan flair. The most difficult thing is deciding what amazing sites top your Istanbul bucket list . 

Top Istanbul Places to Add to Your Turkey Itinerary:

• Hagia Sophia Museum:   Built-in 537 AD, this museum that was once a Greek Orthodox Cathedral and then a mosque is now one of Istanbul’s most iconic buildings. 
• Blue Mosque: Just steps away from the Hagia Sophia is perhaps Istanbul’s most photographed monument. This massive blue-tiled mosque has 13 domes, 6 towering minarets and 200 amazing stained glass windows. 
• Basilica Cistern: Built-in 532 AD, this underground cistern was designed to service the Byzantine emperors at the Great Palace. 
• Istanbul Archaeology Museums: Located in the Eminonu District is a complex of 3 historical buildings that house artifacts from the Turkish, Hellenistic and Roman civilizations.
• Topkapi Palace Museum: This immense palace was home to each of the sultans and their families between the 15th and 19th centuries. Today it is a maze of beautiful buildings housing phenomenal artifacts that are all centered around a series of tranquil courtyards. 
• Dolmabahce Palace: This European influenced palace is the largest in the country and is the place where Ataturk himself took his last breath.
• The Grand Bazaar: Spend an afternoon shopping at one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. The sheer size of the bazaar is unreal with over 60 streets and 4000 shops.
• Galata Tower: Grab the perfect panoramic snapshot of Istanbul’s skyline from the historical tower that was first erected in 1348. 
• Bosphorus Cruise: Take a cruise along the Bosphorus where you can revel in the phenomenal skyline and literally be sailing between two continents.
• Princes’ Islands: Approximately 12 miles from Istanbul lay 9 small islands. Explore the most popular called Buyukada, as it is full of character and doesn’t have any motor vehicles. 

Goreme – 2 to 4 days

One of my favorite places in all of Turkey is the fairytale-like region of Cappadocia. This bizarre but captivating landscape of fairy chimneys and mushroom-shaped pinnacles is a photographer Mecca.

There is so much to see and do in Cappadocia , and the town of Goreme caters to its curious tourists. I only spent 3 days in Goreme but could have easily tacked on an extra day. 

Top Goreme Places to Add to Your Turkey Itinerary:

• Fly above the peculiar landscape in a hot air balloon: Hands down, Cappadocia’s most popular activity would be its hot air balloon excursions. Hover as high as 1000 feet above the ground and gracefully maneuver through the pinnacles with an expert balloon pilot. 
• Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum: This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of a series of monasteries carved into rocks that date back to the 10th century. 
• Explore one of the amazing underground cities: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kaymakli or Derinkuyu where you can explore the labyrinth of tunnels that stretch for miles.
• Discover the Rose Valley or Red Valley: These beautiful valleys get their names because of the pinkish hue that the rocks turn throughout different times of the day. Hike the trails by foot or go horseback riding while soaking up this unforgettable landscape. 
• Experience a Turkish hammam: Get out of your comfort zone and strip down to experience a tradition that was adopted from the Romans and Byzantines. Although hammams still serve the purpose of bathing and purity, they have become more of a spa and are a great way for tourists to relax. 
• Shop for the finest Turkish handcrafts: Cappadocia is the perfect place to buy your souvenirs as there are so many cute, locally-owned shops. 
• Tantalize your taste buds: Try the Anatolian specialty of a pottery kebab, where your dish is cooked in a sealed pot. The only way to get into the clay pot is by smashing it with a mallet. 

Cirali/Olympos – 2 days

Located in the ancient Lycia region of Anatolia is the charming seaside town of Cirali . Cirali has not yet succumbed to mass tourism so it is the perfect place to relax and discover a few of its hidden treasures.

Top Cirali Places to Add to Your Turkey Itinerary:

• Soak up the sun on Cirali Beach: Nestled among the lush mountainous landscapes is a 2 mile stretch of pebbled beach. The waters are crystal clear and there are very little crowds to contend with.
• Discover the Ancient City of Olympos: Just a short walk down Cirali Beach is one of the six leading Lycian League cities that was founded during the Hellenistic period. Because of the dense forest and overgrowth, exploring Olympos is like walking through a set of a fantasy movie. It actually reminded me of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat Temple, Ta Prohm where the movie Tomb Raider was filmed. 
• Explore the Ancient City of Phaselis: Just a 20-minute drive north of Cirali is another ancient city that is a little bigger and more well-preserved than Olympus. Founded by the Rhodians around 700 BC, this city is situated on a peninsula surrounded by three bays and protected within the grounds of a lush National Park. 
• Discover Yanartas or the Eternal Flames of Chimera: Hike up Mount Chimera at dusk so you can roast marshmallows on natural flames that have been emerging from cracks in the earth for thousands of years.
• See the views from Mount Olympus: Approximately 15 miles away from Cirali is the towering Mount Olympus. This mountain stands nearly 8000 feet above sea level and can be ascended by either foot or cable car. 

Pamukkale – 1 to 2 days

Pamukkale is another Turkish destination that should top everyone’s list. It is located in the western part of the country and is known for its mineral-rich white limestone terraces.

Depending on how much time you want to spend at the historical site of Hierapolis, this destination could be seen in either one day or stretched into two. 

Don’t miss:  Foolproof Guide to Pamukkale Turkey

Top Pamukkale Places to Add to Your Turkey Itinerary:

• Visit Turkey’s Cotton Castle: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these cascading white travertine terraces are a gorgeous natural wonder. Spending the day lounging in the vibrant blue pools and natural thermal springs truly is an amazing experience.
• Discover Hierapolis: This ancient city is full of remains of the Greco-Roman period. Founded at the end of the 2nd century BC, you can marvel at what is left behind. 
• Swim in Cleopatra’s Pool: This geothermal pool was man-made and said to have been a gift from Marc Anthony to Cleopatra. The minerality in the water has a champagne bubble effect and you can literally swim around Doric columns that fell into the pool during an earthquake in the 7th century.
• Para-glide over Pamukkale: Catch a bird’s eye view of the magnificent landscape while tandem paragliding with a trained instructor. 
• Experience a Whirling Dervish Show: One of Turkey’s well-known religious ceremonies is the dance of the Whirling Dervish. Watch this mystical ceremony and gain a better understanding of how their practices take them on a spiritual journey. 

Selcuk – 2 to 3 days

Known to be the gateway to Ephesus, Selcuk is a quaint town that is situated just a few miles inland from the Aegean coast. It has a laid back, friendly atmosphere and there are plenty of must-see sites that would keep any traveler busy. 

Don’t Miss: Ephesus, Turkey: Best Sites to Visit in the Ancient City

Top Selcuk Places to Add to Your Turkey Itinerary:

• Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus: It is no secret that Ephesus is the most popular ancient city in all of Turkey. It’s Greco-Roman ruins are among the biggest and most well-preserved in the world. 
• Visit the House of Virgin Mary: Just 5 miles from Ephesus is the House of the Virgin Mary. It is said that this is where Mary spent her last years and today is a chapel and pilgrimage for both Christians and Muslims alike. 
• Discover St. John’s Basilica: Wander around this historically significant Basilica that is home to St. John’s tomb. 
• Catch the stunning views from the Byzantine Castle of Ayasuluk: Although the castle itself is merely a skeleton of what it once was, standing atop of the hill will give you phenomenal panoramic views of the sites of Selcuk.
• Revel in the beauty of the Isa Bey Mosque: Built in 1375, this mosque is unique in that it is asymmetrical and its columns were taken from the ruins of Ephesus City. 
• Visit the Temple of Artemis: Being one of the original Ancient 7 Wonders of the World, revel in history that dates back to 550 BC.
• Relax on Pamucak Beach: Just 4 miles outside of Selcuk is the longest stretch of beach in the country.
• Take a day trip to Sirince: Surrounded by orchards and vineyards, this Greek-influenced town has become a tourist hot spot as it boasts unbelievable views and a welcoming atmosphere. 

Add on for 2 Week Turkey Itinerary

Kekova – 1 day.

Kekova is a beautiful coastal village where I was able to board a boat and spend a night at sea.

Sleeping under the stars was unforgettable and having the opportunity to jump off the boat into turquoise blue water while swimming with sea turtles is something that forever will be embedded in my memory.

Dalyan – 2 days

Situated on the southwest coast is the picture-perfect town of Dalyan . Once an old fishing village, it is now part of an environmentally protected area that is home to a meandering river, golden beaches, beautiful lakes and towering mountains. 

Top Dalyan Places to Add to Your Turkey Itinerary:

• Spend the day at Iztuzu Beach: Known to be one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Turkey, Iztuzu is unique in that it stretches out like a long peninsula with a freshwater delta on one side and the Mediterranean on the other. 
• Visit the Sea Turtle Research Rescue Rehabilitation and Information Center: As this 2 and a half-mile stretch of beach is the nesting grounds for the endangered Caretta Caretta Sea Turtle, conservation efforts are heavily supported and monitored. 
• Capture a photograph of the Dalyan Rock Tombs: Catch a water taxi so that you can see one of Dalyan’s most prominent features. Perched above the town are a group of 6 intricately carved tombs that date back to the 4th century BC. 
• Explore the Ancient City of Kaunos: Founded by the Caunos in the 10th century BC, this ancient city was once one of the most important port cities of the Ancient Age. 
• Take a boat ride to the Dalyan Mud Baths: Just a short boat trip from town are the spa-like thermal springs and mud baths. Popular since the Roman era, this is a unique way to pamper yourself Dalyan style.
•   Hike the Dalyan Eco-Trail: Dalyan has no shortage of amazing hiking trails that boast incredible views of the Dalyan vista. 

Canakkale – 1 day

Located in the northwest part of Turkey, Canakkale is the perfect stopping point before heading back to Istanbul. Canakkale is a busy port city with a thriving student population. It is also a place of major significance in the battlefields of WWI.

Top Canakkale Places to Add to Your Turkey Itinerary:

• Tour the Ancient City of Troy: Tour the city that was for many years thought of as just a myth. In the mid 19th century, its ruins were finally discovered. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo with the Trojan horse that was made more famous during the movie with Orlando Bloom and Brad Pitt.
• Pay your respects at Gallipoli: Either take a guided tour of the grounds where the Battle of Gallipoli was fought or explore the area on your own. Either way, it is a touching but beautiful site and a way for you to learn a bit more about the WWI battles. 

Tips for Planning a Turkey Itinerary

Turkish is the official language spoken in Turkey but most people, especially those in the hospitality industry speak English. I don’t speak an ounce of Turkish and I never had a problem finding my way. 

Best Time to Go to Turkey

The high season in Turkey runs from May through September. This is the time when temperatures top the thermostat as well as when the number of tourists peak. 

Not only will you have more crowds to contend with but during the high season, you will likely have to deal with higher airfare prices as well as accommodation rates. This is why I suggest exploring Turkey during its shoulder seasons.

These seasons run on either side of the high season – April as well as October through mid-November. The shoulder seasons are perhaps a little more ideal as there are lesser crowds, moderate temperatures and discounts on accommodations and airfares.

One thing to make note of, however, is that some shops, restaurants, and accommodations close when high season is over so not everything will be open during this time. 

Be sure to check out my comprehensive guide: Best Time to Visit Turkey: Month by Month Breakdown

Getting Around in Turkey

Like I mentioned above, the time I spent traveling around Turkey was on a tour with G Adventures . This tour included all transportation (excluding the time I spent alone in Istanbul).

There was a mix of overnight buses, vans and boats. If you are planning to travel around Turkey on your own you can get around the country in much of the same matter.

One of the great things about Turkey is its well-organized inter-city bus connections. You can find either overnight or day buses that run between every major city. The buses are clean and roomy and make it easy for backpackers to travel around the country.

Renting a car or flying are other options depending on your budget and length of stay. There are plenty of car rental companies to choose from and all you need is an International Drivers License.

There are also quite a few domestic airlines that fly within Turkey so sometimes doing a bit of research ahead of time will allow you to find great deals. 

Costs and Budget

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TL). The exchange rate right now is pretty favorable at approximately 1 USD to 5.7 TL. Euros and US dollars are often accepted by major shops or tour companies.

I always find it easier to withdraw local currency from an ATM or use my credit card when needed. Although I myself have never used one I have also heard of pre-paid Visa cards for international travel.

This allows you to load the card before you leave and buy using the local currency without all the added exchange rates. 

Getting a Visa

All travelers need a Visa to enter Turkey. Rates vary depending on your nationality but you can apply for your visa ahead of time on the official Turkish government e-visa website .  

This Visa will allow you to stay in the country for up to three months with multiple entries. The application process is very simple and the approval is almost immediate. Download a copy of your visa and print out a copy to have when you enter the country.

More on Turkey:

• 30 Best Places to Visit in Turkey
• Ephesus, Turkey: Best Sites to Visit in the Ancient City
• What to Wear in Turkey: Ultimate Turkey Packing List
• 11 Unmissable Things to do in Istanbul
• How To Plan a Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride in Turkey
• 9 Reasons to Visit Selcuk Turkey (Including Ephesus!)
• Foolproof Guide to Pamukkale Turkey
• Cappadocia, Turkey: 10 Things to Know Before You Go
• 5 Reasons to Add Cirali, Turkey to Your itinerary
• Best Time to Visit Turkey: Month by Month Breakdown
• Dalyan, Turkey: Essential Guide & Best Things to Do

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Travel planning resources, about heather halpern.

Based in Edmonton, Canada - I caught the ‘travel bug’ many years ago when I was a competitive rhythmic gymnast and haven’t been able to quench the thirst for exploring the world. Even though I live a pretty regular life with a full time job, I aim to take at least one overseas adventure a year. This means, I skimp, save and try to live the happiest life possible throughout the year so that I can experience my one true love…travel!

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The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Turkey Itinerary

Published on December 21, 2023

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

A 7 to 10-day Turkey itinerary is an exciting prospect as it’s located in one of the most diverse geographical areas, with a beautiful Mediterranean coastline, green valleys, snowy mountains and sparse volcanic areas spread out within its borders.

So for your trip to Turkey, we’ll try to encompass as much of the landscape as possible, while taking you through its most renowned historic sites and cities and sampling its excellent array of local cuisine.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Turkey?

In an area twice the size of Germany and a population of over 85 million people, Turkey is a huge country with a unique culture, blending cuisine and traditions from the Middle East and Greece, and boasting a long and intriguing history. From the Mediterranean coast to the Iranian border, Turkey has so much to offer tourists.

You can see a lot of the country in one go if you take a month-long road trip from Istanbul, down the west coast, across the centre and back via the green landscape of the Black Sea shore in the north.

But for a shorter trip, you can also stick to the west coast to see the remains of several Ancient Greek settlements and open-air museums as well as utilise the cool, clear Mediterranean Sea to cool off in the heat, by renting a car for your Turkey trip.

If you’ve only got 7 days in Turkey, you can still see a great amount of the major cities and beautiful Western coast, but it’s advisable to fly some distances such as Istanbul to Izmir to shorten your journey and make the most of the time you have.

If you’re more interested in city life and taking day trips from a city base, you can happily spend a few days in Istanbul, 2 days in Izmir and 2 days in Bodrum, Fethiye or Antalya to make up a short but diverse itinerary without having to rush around from place to place. You can also easily fly into each of these cities.

For those who would like to spend a bit longer exploring, then plan to spend at least 10 days. Though you’re still not going to be able to see everything, it will give you enough time to get a feel for Istanbul, spend some time along the beautiful coast and also enjoy the splendours to be found in the incredible Cappadocia region.

Getting To & Around Turkey

Istanbul is a huge transport hub, with two major airports, Istanbul IST and Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen SAW, where you can enter the country or transfer on to other cities. You can also arrive by bus from Eastern Europe easily in Istanbul to start your trip to Turkey if you’re on a longer trip.

For our Turkey itinerary, it’s best to rent a car to get from place to place, although if you don’t drive or don’t want to risk driving in a foreign country where the road rules can be slightly different, you can also easily get around by aeroplane and bus.

There are very few trains in Turkey so it’s best not to rely on these for transportation, but stick to coaches. Kamil Koc and Pamukkale are very reputable coach services taking you throughout Turkey, serving water and snacks on board for free. You can view schedules here.

Within cities like Istanbul, Izmir or Bodrum it’s best to use public transport, especially the metro and tram system, as they are much quicker than trying to travel on the roads.

Istanbul is three times the size of London, straddling two continents with approximately 15 million people living there, so you can always guarantee the city will be busy, and not worth trying to drive in – especially from one side of the Bosphorus to the other.

You can arrange your rental car in the city for the day you leave Istanbul for Izmir, so you don’t waste any more and can travel down at your own pace. You can browse options here.

You can expect police stops all over the country, whether you’re in your own car, a public bus or walking in the street, so keep your passport on you at all times to avoid any difficulty identifying yourself.

In some cases, the police will also check the date of the entry stamp in your passport to ensure you haven’t overstayed your 90-day visa-free travel in the country.

7 to 10-Day Turkey Itinerary

Following the Western coastline from Istanbul to Antalya before heading inland to Cappadocia, our itinerary will show you some of the country’s highlights and best-kept secrets.

Day 1 – Istanbul

Istanbul is a spectacular city and one with international prestige among tourists, so you’ll want to spend at least 2 days in Istanbul while you’re in Turkey to be able to see the main highlights and soak in the chaos of city life in one of the world’s largest metropolises.

The most famous attractions are located on the European side of the city, with many concentrated in the Fatih (meaning conqueror) district, so this is where you’ll want to spend most of your first day.

Visit the enormous and beautifully decorated Blue Mosque built in the 17th century by order of Sultan Ahmet who is laid to rest with his family in a mausoleum within the gardens. Then a short walk away is Istanbul’s most famous and one of its oldest attractions, the Hagia Sophia.

Now a mosque, you will have to dress appropriately to enter and avoid prayer times, but the visit remains awe-inspiring as you can gaze up to the layers of history adorning the high ceilings, where large gold medallions decorated with the names of Allah, Prophet Muhammed, four caliphs and two grandsons of Muhammed are hung in front of 6th century Roman mosaics depicting Mary and Jesus.

Then move a short distance again to discover the amazing Cistern Basilica with its Roman medusa heads under pillars in the ancient underground reservoir and the historic bazaar where you can enjoy a kebab or Turkish coffee as well as browse the small shops selling everything from spices to carpets and gold jewellery.

If you have time, the Topkapi Palace is also located in the Fatih district and showcases life in the Ottoman Empire with its exhibits. This visit can take a few hours so make sure you have enough time to cover everything you want to see.

Thanks to the excellent metro system, you can stay wherever is most cost-effective in Istanbul; the European side can be more expensive than the Asian side, but it depends on your tastes.

Because you only have a short time in Istanbul, it can be worth taking a walking tour to ensure you’re able to see all of the top highlights of the city. If you plan to enter several attractions, then consider  getting a Museum Pass.

Where to Stay in Istanbul

Kupeli Hotel – This 3-star hotel is situated in the central Fatih district within easy reach of sites such as the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. They have plenty of rooms and a very good breakfast.

Cronton Design Hotel – Also situated in the Fatih neighbourhood, this luxe hotel has several plush rooms, an inviting spa to relax in and a wonderful breakfast to enjoy each morning.

MySuite Istanbul Cihangir – Located in the cool and central Cihangir neighbourhood, these apartments are perfect for those after a self-catering option. There are plenty on offer and there is A/C in all of them.

Cheers Hostel – This hostel is great for backpackers and budget travellers. Located within a stone’s throw of attractions like the Blue Mosque, there are plenty of room types, social events and good common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Istanbul hotels!

Day 2 – Istanbul

With still plenty to cover in Istanbul, your second day in the former capital of the Ottoman Empire should take you further around the city.

Still on the European side, you should visit the famous Galata Tower where the first unpowered flight took place from the tower across the Bosphorus and enjoy the wonderful views over the rooftops to the sea.

Then move along the coastline to the exquisite Dolmabahçe Palace, designed in the style of Western European palaces such as Versailles and later serving as First President of the Republic Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s residence.

Crossing the Bosphorus in a small public ferry, you’ll get great views over the two sides of the city and usually a taste of more modern Turkish music thanks to a resident busker.

In Kadikoy, you’ll also see the more modern side of the city, with trendy cafes, bars and restaurants dotted around, frequented by the younger population. This is a great area of the city to stay in and enjoy some great traditional meals with a modern twist and a few Efes beers.

Day 3 – Izmir

Flying or driving down to Izmir for the 3rd day of your Turkish adventure, there’s plenty of history and culture waiting for you. If you choose to drive, plan to get as early a start as possible as it can take about 5 hours.

Once in Izmir, visit the centre of the city, Konak Square, with its iconic clock tower, before heading into Kemeralti, Izmir’s historic bazaar to browse the local products and enjoy a great kebab.

Besides the bazaar is the ancient site of Agora, which was previously the economic centre of Ancient Izmir known as Smyrna.

If you enjoy discovering the country’s history, head on to the Alsancak Tekel Factory which has been turned into the Archaeology and Art Museum of the city, located in the great neighbourhood of Alsancak.

In the museum, you can discover many ancient treasures that have been uncovered in the region, from Foca in the north to Ephesus in the south, making it a perfect introduction to what you can expect to find the following day in Ephesus.

Alsancak is also a great neighbourhood to stay in, with plenty of great places to eat from pizza to sushi, and many bars and pubs as well.

The public transport in Izmir is great, but for one day in the city it’s beneficial to stay more centrally. However, you can expect a lot of noise overnight, from the early morning calls to prayer to the bin collectors and people drinking in the nearby bars. 

Where to Stay in Izmir

Zeniva Hotel – Situated in the centre of Izmir close to Cumhuriyet Square, this hotel is perfect for mid-range visitors. They have an array of cool and modern rooms and a fab breakfast available daily.

Key Hotel – Those looking for a bit of luxury will love this intimate seaside hotel in a central area of Izmir. They have a great view of the sea, a wonderful restaurant and a delicious breakfast each morning.

Lotus Garden Hostel – Great for backpackers or for those looking to experience a great social atmosphere, this hostel has both dorms and private rooms and great common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Izmir hotels!

Day 4 – Ephesus

Just an hour driving south from Izmir you’ll get to the incredible historic site that is the Ancient City of Ephesus. You can stay in nearby Sirince or Selcuk where you can also go wine tasting, or stay in Izmir and join an organised tour to Ephesus for a day trip.

This major archaeological site is still being uncovered, although what has already been discovered will surely impress you and it is a fascinating place to visit.

You can spend a whole day wandering amongst the ancient pillars and friezes, dating back to the 10th century BCE when the Greeks founded the city, and others from the Romans’ take over in the 2nd century CE.

Discover the fantastic 24,000-seater amphitheatre and the ornate facade of the Library of Celsus which was rebuilt in the 1970s.

If you have time you can also head to the nearby museum dedicated to the site, with many more artefacts and information explaining their significance. However long you have, a month or just 7 days when you visit Turkey, you can’t miss out on a trip to Ephesus.

Day 5 – Bodrum

A couple of hours further south or 3 and a half hours on the coach from Izmir, is the sweet seaside town of Bodrum . With its long coastline full of restaurants and bars, and shining white stone streets with shops open until the early hours of the morning, this is a lively summer town and a great place for daytime relaxation and nighttime action.

Although the overall atmosphere is of sunbathing, drinking cocktails and cooling off in the clear water, you can also discover the ancient history of Bodrum, from the amphitheatre and ruins of the mausoleum of Mausolus (a structure once so impressive it gave above-ground tombs their name) to Bodrum castle built by the Order of the Knights of Saint John.

Bodrum Castle uses many historic pieces of rubble from the ancient mausoleum and juts out from the coastline giving visitors amazing views over Bodrum marina and beach. It also houses the underwater archaeology museum, so there’s plenty to discover within the castle walls before heading off into the town for some sun, sea and sweet and savoury delights.

As a popular destination for tourists and cruise ships, you’ll find plenty of hotels and B&Bs across the town for all budgets.

Where to Stay in Bodrum

Hotel Centro Bodrum – This lovely hotel is a great mid-range option in Bodrum. They have a range of gorgeous rooms along with a fantastic swimming pool, on-site restaurant and daily breakfast.

Casa Nonna Bodrum – The perfect hotel for a romantic escape, this adults-only hotel has an excellent location in Bodrum. Situated on the beach, they have a spa and numerous restaurants along with lovely rooms to choose from.

La Luna Hostel – This hostel is great for those visiting on a budget or are after a great social atmosphere. They have lots of dorms and good common areas and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Bodrum!

Day 6 – Day Trip to Kos

Staying in Bodrum, you should also make the most of the incredible coastline as well as your proximity to one of the most popular of the Dodecanese Islands. It may seem unusual or even sacrilegious to include a day trip to Greece in an itinerary for Turkey, however, the two countries share a great deal of culture and history.

A ferry ( can be booked here ) can take you out to the island of Kos in around one hour, making it perfect for a day trip, as you see the fortress in the harbour, built by the same Knights Hospitaller as Bodrum Castle, and the 2,500-year-old Plane Tree of Hippocrates.

Walk around the marina or take a little train or taxi to the other ancient Greek sites located on the island such as the 3rd century BCE medical centre, the Asklepieion.

Kos has plenty to see in a day, and some wonderful restaurants to enjoy as you look over the azure sea back to Turkey.

Day 7 – Kabak

For the end of 1 week in Turkey, you’ll want to set off early to reach the beautiful area of Kabak or the city of Fethiye.

Just north of Fethiye is Dalaman Airport, the main airport for the region, so if you’ve just got 7 days in Turkey, this is a great place to finish and take your flight back home or back up to Istanbul to transfer on further afield.

If you’re lucky enough to spend more time in Turkey, this is a beautiful location for either sunbathing or getting adventurous while en route to Antalya.

Kabak is located in a famous valley with a beautiful seafront; you can stay in one of the many hotels located in the area, each with fantastic views over the sea to the front and the green mountainsides behind.

Spend your day hiking through the valley to reach the pretty waterfall or swim around the coast to the cave. The trails are well marked and your hotel staff give you basic directions. If you do want to hike, the middle of summer may not be the best time to visit this area due to the intense heat.

Or, head to the nearby small town of Ölüdeniz where you can go paragliding for a very reasonable fee, or enjoy the long beaches while watching the paragliders land all around. There’s also a small inlet with shallow water, perfect for families with young children.

If you’re spending 10 days, continue for another few hours driving and plan to spend a couple of nights in Antalya.

Where to Stay in Antalya

Mai İnci Hotel – Located just 800 metres from the beach, this is an excellent mid-range option in Antalya. There is free parking, 2 on-site restaurants, a spa and wellness centre and much more.

Hotel Lykia – This luxe hotel located in the old town of Antalya is another perfect place to make as your base. They have plenty of classic rooms, a lovely swimming pool and countless other amenities available to guests.

City Moonlight Aparthotel – A great option for those after a self-catering accommodation. They have a range of flats to choose from and a great location for exploring Antalya.

Hostel Vague – This hostel is a good budget option for backpackers visiting Turkey. They have a great location in Antalya and lots of room and bed choices available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Antalya hotels!

Day 8 – Antalya

Further south along the coast is the popular destination of Antalya. With its incredible coastline, historic communities dotted around the area, archaeology museums and sand sculpture open-air museum, there’s loads to see and do in a day in Antalya.

Lounge on the beaches, take a day trip out to the cable car in Kemer for fantastic views over the forests and coast or hike into the canyon, you won’t be short of activities in Antalya, whatever your interests.

Antalya is also the start (or end) point of the famous Lycian Way, a 520-mile trail connecting 18 ancient sites along the coast to Ölüdeniz, so a great day out would be to hike along part of the trail.

There are some fantastic hotels and villas in the area surrounding Antalya as well as in the city centre, so you can choose according to your tastes and budget.

Antalya is a walkable city and you can visit the beautiful old town, Kaleiçi, Hadrian’s Gate, the modern centre and the coastal fortress wall easily on foot if you’re staying centrally.

You can also take organised tours to see some of the epic Roman amphitheatres and ruins along the Lycian Way if you don’t have your own transport or enough time for hiking in your Turkey itinerary.

Day 9 – Cappadocia

Quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey is the historic site and national park in the region of Cappadocia. In central Turkey, you’ll either need to spend 6 hours on the road or a couple of hours on a plane from Antalya via Istanbul to Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport.

Since it may take a while to reach if you’re on a Turkey road trip and there’s so much to see, you should definitely spend 2 to 3 days in Cappadocia if possible.

For your first full day, you’ve got to visit Göreme National Park. Wander around the open-air museum, seeing the caves built into the strange volcanic sculpture-like rock formations and visiting the chapels built by the post-iconoclastic former inhabitants, feasting your eyes on the colourful seccos adorning the walls and ceilings for the last 800 – 900 years.

There are many great hikes in this area so feel free to take off and discover the rock formations as a small group, or join a guided tour(such as  a green tour  or  red tour ) to learn about the history of the troglodyte communities that created the communities and why they were forced to do so.

You can stay nearby in the town of Nevşehir to easily get around the region by bus or private taxi if you don’t have a car.

Where to Stay in Cappadocia

Aysel Inn House – This guesthouse in Avcilar is a great base for exploring Cappadocia. They have breakfast, free parking and even provide bikes for guests who want them.

Divan Cave House – Located in Göreme, this hotel is perfect for those who want to stay in a fairy chimney while in Cappadocia. They have several classicly-decorated rooms and a great daily breakfast.

Diadem Cappadocia – Another cosy budget option in Göreme, they have great double rooms along with some dorm rooms to suit all kinds of guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cappadocia hotels!

Day 10 – Cappadocia

To put the cherry on the cake, or the final sprinkle of pistachio on the baklava, of your 10 days in Turkey, you have to finish it off with a magical hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia.

Taking off at sunset, these trips take a couple of hours and show you how vast the volcanic region is and how incredible it looks as the sun rises, before settling back down and providing you with a traditional Turkish breakfast and often a glass of champagne too.

You can either  choose a group trip or splash the cash for  a private trip  you’re looking for a romantic trip.

If the winds are not in your favour and you’re not able to take flight, there’s a fantastic alternative; the Derinkuyu Underground City. 85 metres underground is the almost 3,000-year-old dwelling that can hold up to 20,000 people, with small rooms dotted around, joined by steep staircases.

The underground city is even more impressive with its air circulation system, its plumbing and its own chapel. If you have enough time on your final day in Turkey, check out this fantastic place before catching your flight back to Istanbul.

Have More Time?

If you’ve got more than 1 week in Turkey, there are plenty of other historical sites and beautiful parts of the country to discover. From Cappadocia, you can continue driving for 7 hours to the amazing site of Göbekli Tepe. You can also fly via Istanbul within 5 hours, but this is a great stop on a Turkey road trip.

This ancient site is still being uncovered, but from the statues and engravings of animals and people found so far, it’s possibly the oldest civilisation in the world, showing how prehistoric communities were farming animals and crops even over 11,000 years ago.

If you want to have a round trip from Istanbul, you should also come back via the northern Black Sea coast. This area is much greener than other parts of the country thanks to the sea and surrounding rivers and is a great place to go hiking and camping. Or, continue northeast to Erzurum or Sarıkamış for a ski trip!

Turkey is a huge country with a diverse range of attractions and activities, so it’s impossible to see everything in Turkey in 10 days. But taking a week-long road trip along the west coast or flying from Istanbul to Izmir, to Antalya and Cappadocia, are great ways of discovering the best of the beautiful country.

Are you planning to visit Turkey? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Bodrum Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Izmir Itinerary

Izmir or Bodrum: Which Turkish City to Visit?

About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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Travel along the age-old trading routes that linked East and West, where the Highlights of Turkey are revealed. Haggle in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, daydream through the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia and walk in the footsteps of the ancient Greeks in Ephesus.

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Dine listening to Turkish folk and watching belly dancing

Slip into the Karsilama rhythm for a night of Turkish dance and folk music. The seductive art of belly dancing originated in Egypt but has found an energetic form here in Turkey. Take to the stage and try your hand and hips at these skillful moves. 

See the House of Virgin Mary at Mt. Koressos

A humble stone house dating back to the Apostolic Age, the significance of Mt. Koressos's House of Virgin Mary sits within its Catholic mythology. The site where Jesus's mother was said to spend her last days on earth, this shrine attracts pilgrims from near and far.

Relax in the water of Pamukkale's Cotton Castle Springs

Found in River Menderes valley, the Cotton Castle Springs of Pamukkale will leave you in awe of Mother Nature. Soak in the steaming waters of the travertine terraces that are known for their dense mineral content, allowing plenty of time to photograph the milky blue pools and the snow-like setting.

Savor the intoxicating smells of the Spice Market in Ankara

In the nation's capital, dried fruits, nutty sweets and endless spices will entice your senses. Take time to wander the street of Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu before moving closer to Ankara Castle, where you can shop for silver and ceramics while eating your delicious snacks.

Visit the peculiar landscapes of Cappadocia

One of the top things to do in Turkey, be amazed by the peculiar landscapes of Cappadocia covered in cave hotels and hot air balloons. Visit the so-called fairy chimney rock formations and discover remarkable beauty in the underground Bronze Age homes.

Our top 5 things to do in Turkey

From the otherworldly hot springs of Pamukkale to the balloon covered valleys of Cappadocia, these are just some of the pinch-me moments to experience on our trips to Turkey.

Hagia Sophia

A 6th-century masterpiece showing the opulence of distant eras, Hagia Sophia is a former cathedral transformed into a mosque before finding its current form as a museum. Stare upwards in awe of dome ceilings and ornate chandeliers before stepping outside to take in the external beauty from various angles.

Istanbul Archeology Museum

Connect with an unfathomable depth of history in Turkey's Archaeology Museums. Featuring three buildings, the collections found here unlock the ancient orient and showcase the finest in Islamic art. Allow a whole day to get lost in the depths of distant eras.

Istanbul Modern

Contemporary Turkish artists take the stage in the museum of Istanbul Modern. Housed in a former maritime warehouse, the building now features a cinema, library, gift shop and restaurant with views of the Bosphorus River. Find hours of entertainment within these progressive walls.

Best museums in Turkey

Ready yourself for dazzling cathedrals, contemporary artworks and archaeological marvels on your Turkey trip. Trafalgar will take you under the skin of this country through its soul-stirring museum collection.

Pistachios, pastry and honey come together to create the delicious sweet of baklava. Connected to stories of Sultans and layered with history, sample this treat many times over in the name of culture. Find many moreish trays in any Turkish food market.

Fill your tour of Turkey with copious amounts of the country's famous bread. Typically filled with stringy cheese and spinach, the pie meets pizza snack perfectly compliments a cup of sweet Turkish tea or a stroll around the city.

Balik Ekmek

Balik Ekmek is a popular street food of oily fish wedged between two layers of soft Turkish bread. Traditionally dished up on a boat direct from the fisherman, find this lunch staple and enjoy it while walking along the Bosporus River.

Best food in Turkey

A tantalizing blend between Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, we'll uncover the very best of Turkish food. From baklava to cheesy pides, with many glasses of hot tea in between.

What to pack for Turkey

A thirst for adventure

A Turkish Hammam scrub is a ritual you need to enjoy when visiting this country. Often teamed with communal bathing and occasionally requiring full nudity, pack your confidence to enjoy this tradition that is truly doing as the locals do.

Modest clothing

Turkey is a religious and somewhat traditional country. Pack modest full-length clothing so you can respectfully enjoy momentous religious sights.

A good camera

A smartphone won't suffice when trying to capture a peculiar desert framing a sky of hot air balloons. Pack a good camera so you can snap Turkey to its full beauty.

Old swimwear

Dense in minerals, Turkey's Pamukkale's Cotton Castle Springs may aggravate your swimming clothes should you take a dip. Pack something old and submerge until your heart is content.

Spare suitcase space

Baklava, tea, carpets and jewelry are just some of the goods that will entice you when shopping in Turkey. Leave space for the many treats and trinkets you will want to take home.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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The Best Turkey Itinerary 10 Days: A Detailed Itinerary for Turkey

Looking for a Turkey Itinerary 10 days long?

Turkey is a true land of wonder. With highlights like the bustling streets of Istanbul , the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia , the white terraced Pamukkale thermal pools , the turquoise coastline and the ruins of several ancient cities like Ephesus , Turkey has so much to offer. 

This 10 days Turkey itinerary is the perfect first experience of the country. Taking you through top attractions, historic sites, culture steeped moments, jaw-dropping scenery and scrumptious cuisine, you won’t want to leave. 

* This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

Every itinerary for Turkey should follow a logical loop and make transportation and accommodation easy to plan. This Turkey itinerary for 10 days starts in Istanbul , where the majority of people land in the country and makes a straightforward journey around Turkey, by plane, car, or bus .

I’ve also included a two week Turkey itinerary and 7 day Turkey itinerary options if that’s more suitable to your timeline.

In this Turkey trip planner, you will find a destination breakdown, like things to do and where to stay , and the best way to get from place to place . If you plan to take a Turkey road trip by car, I’ve got you covered there, too.

Turkey Itinerary Essentials

TURKEY TRAVEL INSURANCE Check Prices of HeyMondo Insurance

TURKEY BUS TICKETS Check Bus Prices on 12Go

TURKEY ACCOMMODATION Check Hotel Prices on Booking.com

SHORT HAUL TURKEY FLIGHTS Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

TURKEY CAR RENTAL Check Car Rental Prices on Discover Cars

TURKEY GUIDED TOURS Check Day Tours on Get Your Guide

10 day Turkey Itinerary: Overview

Day 1: Istanbul – Sultanahmet + Balat Day 2: Istanbul – Kadikoy, Galata + Besiktas Day 3: Istanbul – Food Tour + Asian Side Day 4: Cappadocia Day 5: Hot Air Balloon + Cappadocia Red Tour Day 6: Cappadocia Blue Tour Day 7: Antalya Old Town Day 8: Antalya Beach Day Day 9: Pamukkale Thermal Pools Day 10: Ephesus Ancient Ruins

10 Day Itinerary for Turkey: Route Map

Driving in Turkey

Renting a car in turkey.

Looking to take a Turkey road trip? You can find a few different rental car companies located at the Istanbul international airport. But, due to the popularity of the region, I’d highly suggest booking your rental car before you arrive , and at least a couple of weeks in advance if possible. 

DiscoverCars is a great way to find the best cost and type of car that suits you and your Turkey travel itinerary. 

Check out this detailed guide on renting a car in Turkey (plus tips!)

Since your 10 day Turkey itinerary starts in Istanbul, I’d suggest heading into the Istanbul centre first by airport transfer , spending a few days exploring the sights and then picking up your car afterwards. I’ve heard from other travellers that driving in the city limits of the metropolis of Istanbul can be chaotic and stressful. So it’s best to avoid this on your trip.

NOTE | Depending on your nationality, you may require an International Drivers Permit AND a valid national drivers license in Turkey to rent a car . You also need to be over 21 years of age.

Book a Rental Car for your Turkey Itinerary

Tolls While Driving in Turkey

You will likely hit a few toll highways on your Turkey itinerary, but don’t worry, you don’t need to keep cash on hand to pay these tolls. Turkey has an HGS system that charges the toll electronically through a device set in your rental car. Simply slow down to 30km/h and it will register the toll on your car.

Once you’ve returned your Turkey car rental, you will be provided with a bill of tolls you accumulated during your trip. Each toll can be upwards of 30TL ($2.25USD).

Parking in Turkey

Parking in Turkey is straightforward. Except for a few larger cities, you can find free and ample street parking. If you are parking at an attraction, prices may be upwards of 5-10TL which is only $0.75USD). Rural parking is a breeze. This Turkey 10 days itinerary will have plenty of parking available to you via the street, so no worries there.

NOTE | Make sure to contact your hotel before booking to ensure they have parking available for you.

Turkey Itinerary 10 Days : Days 1, 2 + 3

Day 1-3 Emphasis: Culture, Food, Historic Buildings

Day 0: Arrive in Istanbul (evening)

I’ve made the assumption and exclusion of your travel day to Turkey for purposes of streamlining this 10 days in Turkey itinerary. 

Since you may be arriving by a hopper flight from Greece, or far-off places like New York or Vancouver, I am excluding that time from the Turkey itinerary. The itinerary for Turkey’s 10 days starts bright and early in Istanbul’s historic centre . 

Airport Transfer

If you are landing at the Istanbul International Airport or Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, I recommend scheduling an airport transfer to get you from the arrivals gate to your hotel in no time. Plus, it’s relatively economical !

Book an IST Airport Transfer

Book a SAW Airport Transfer

About Istanbul

Istanbul is not the capital of Turkey but can be considered the cultural capital of the country . The metropolis of 15.5 million people is split across two continents: Europe and Asia . The only city in the world to don this title. 

Istanbul Guide: Best Areas to Stay + Things to Do

From the bustling alleyways of historic Sultanahmet to the awe-inspiring architecture of the Hagia Sophia and Dolmabahce Palace , to the spice-heavy local food , Istanbul is a traveller’s dream.

The city can be explored on foot with a good pair of comfy walking shoes and a centrally located boutique hotel in Istanbul . Or, you can take the much accessible city transportation to get to all Istanbul’s attractions. 

Istanbul Hotels

Sultanahmet | Hotel Miniature (my fave!) Eminonu | Regie Ottoman Istanbul Hotel Karakoy | Hotel Sub Karakoy Galata | Galata Times Boutique Hotel

Best Istanbul Tours

Experience the top activities in Istanbul Istanbul Highlights: 1 or 2 Day Private Tour Istanbul Food + Culture Tour: 2 Continents Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

Day 1: Historic Istanbul (Sultanahmet + Balat)

Morning in sultanahmet district.

Rich culture seeps into every nook and cranny of Istanbul’s historic district of Sultanahmet . Iconic buildings like the Hagia Sophia Mosque , the Blue Mosque , and the Grand Bazaar attract millions of tourists every year. 

This district also includes highlights like the underground Basilica Cistern , the expansive grounds of the Topkapi Palace , and the mouth-watering Spice Market . Start day one of your Turkey itinerary in Sultanahmet and explore the neighbourhood on foot . 

The Sultanahmet district is also a great place to base yourself during this leg of your travel itinerary for Turkey. The central location of Sulahanmet (historic district) means transportation to other districts in Istanbul is close and convenient. 

Afternoon in Balat District

Next, make your way to the colourful district of Balat and Fener via the bus stop at Eminonu . The 48E, 99, 99Y, 99A, 36CE and 44B bus routes all journey past the Balat/Fener neighbourhood. The bus trip should take less than 10 minutes depending on traffic. Get off at the ‘ Fener ’ bus stop . You can purchase tickets from the ticket machines located near all major bus, tram and ferry stops in the city.

This area graces the shoreline of the Golden Horn and is chock full of cute cafes and local shops . A few alleyways here are known for picture-perfect rainbow rowhouses and scenic views of the bay. A great neighbourhood to sit and people watch on this itinerary for Turkey 10 days.

End the first day of your epic Turkey itinerary with a good night’s sleep, because day 2 brings more adventures on foot across the Golden Horn!

Tips for Day 1 of your Turkey Travel Itinerary

• Remember a headscarf for visiting mosques today
• If you are limited on time, I recommend visiting the Spice Market over the Grand Bazaar for a more authentic experience
• Save your appetite for Balat’s many quality cafes as Sultanahmet offers inauthentic food catered to tourists

Day 1 Turkey Itinerary Top Attractions:

• Hagia Sophia Mosque
• Blue Mosque
• Basilica Cistern
• Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar
• Spice Market 
• Balat’s Colourful Houses

Day 2: European Istanbul (Karakoy, Galata, Besiktas)

On day two of this Turkey travel itinerary, you’ll spend time in the Beyoglu region of Istanbul . Neighbourhoods like Karakoy, Galata, Taksim and Besiktas are included in the Beyoglu area. This side of the Golden Horn is considered New Istanbul . 

If you are staying in the Sultanahmet district , make your way to the Eminonu tram station . Take the T1 tram to the Kabatas stop near the Dolmabahce Palace . This will be your first Istanbul highlight of the day.

Dolmabahce Palace in the Besiktas District

As one of the highlights of my week spent in Istanbul, I highly recommend adding a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace to your Turkey itinerary.

Make sure to get there early , by opening time if possible. The Dolmabahce Palace opens at 9AM. Note, there are no photos or videos allowed in the palace at any time. I rented out an audio tour of the palace and can say it was worth the extra dollars. 

Lunch in Karakoy District

Jump back on the T1 tram and get off at the Karakoy stop.

Located at the mouth of the Golden Horn where the bay meets the Bosphorus Strait means Karakoy was once a busy port district. While that’s no longer the case, Karakoy has grown into a hipster paradise , full of utterly cool Istanbul boutique hotels .

Quaint cafes and lively main streets make this a great spot to spend your midday and lunch hour. Converted historic buildings now toting trendy digs make Karakoy the newest up-and-coming neighbourhood in Istanbul. 

I wandered around the alleyways and found myself on a self-guided food tour of the neighbourhood. Stopping at hole-in-the-walls along the way for fresh koftas and a small bowl of local soup (amongst other local delicacies).

I think this is a great way to experience Karakoy since it’s considered a foodie hotspot. Make sure to peruse the seaside promenade and do some people-watching.

Optional Karakoy Activity: Have a traditional hammam experience at the Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam , considered one of the top spas in the city. Ladies only during 8am-4:30pm and gentlemen only between 4:30pm-11:30pm. Alternatively, you can check out these top spa hotels in Istanbul and partake in a traditional treatment from the comfort of your accommodation.

Optional Next Stop: Head up to the Taksim district , considered the modern shopping district of Istanbul for your fill of all the big brands and to see the historic tram and peruse the lively Istiklal Street.

Afternoon in Galata District

Head uphill from the Karakoy district towards the Galata Tower. The shining beacon of the Galata neighbourhood as it sweeps the skyline. Along the way duck inside the local shops as you slowly meander the cobbled alleyways . 

Make sure to climb the Galata Tower for unparalleled views of the Golden Horn, the city of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Straight beyond. 

Have early dinner here and then spend sunset on the Galata Bridge with scenic views of the Golden Horn and Galata district. Watch the fishermen take in their evening’s catch. 

Tips for Day 2 of your Travel Turkey Itinerary

• Visit the Dolmabahce Palace early (at opening time – 9AM)
• Schedule your hammam experience a few days beforehand – Kilic Ali Pasa is popular! And wear a bathing suit under your clothes
• Skip Taksim district if shopping isn’t a priority

Day 2 Travel Itinerary Turkey – Top Attractions:

• Dolmabahce Palace
• Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam
• Taksim historic tram
• Istiklal Street
• Galata Tower
• Galata Bridge

Day 3: Food Tour + Asian Istanbul (Kadikoy + Moda)

On the Asian side of Istanbul, you’ll find a more authentic look at life in a metropolitan Turkish city. This is also where long-term expats and digital nomads tend to stay in Istanbul, away from the touristic centre and where apartments are offered at a more economical price.

Nevertheless, for the purposes of a Turkey trip itinerary for 10 days, this will be the core of day 3. I’ve opted to add a food tour to your time spent in Istanbul because I believe a food tour is the best way to start your time in this country . 

A food culture speaks volumes about whatever country you choose to visit, and Turkey is no exception. With small share plates and quick street foods eaten by hand, you can already tell that the Turkish people prioritize family, community and fast solutions to busy city life. 

You can either choose a daytime food tour or an evening food tour. Each tour will start in the historic centre of Sultanahmet and include a ferry ride across the Bosphorus to the Asian neighbourhoods of Kadikoy and Moda. 

NOTE | If requested beforehand , your food tour guide can arrange a fully vegetarian experience for you, but unfortunately vegan is not possible .

Book an Evening Istanbul Food Tour

Book a Daytime Istanbul Food Tour

Tips for Day 3 of your Turkey Trip Itinerary

• If you opt for an evening food tour, spend the day in Moda and Kadikoy and request your tour guide meet you there
• Wear good walking shoes because you will be on your feet a lot on your food tour
• Try to eat conservatively before your food tour . You will be stuffed by the end!

Day 3 Turkey Tour Itinerary – Top Attractions:

• Ferry Ride on the Bosphorus
• Tasting traditional Turkish food
• Discovering less-visited districts of Moda and Kadikoy

Turkey Itinerary 10 Days : Days 4, 5 + 6

Day 4-6 Emphasis: Adventure, Bucket List Experiences, History

Day 4: Arrive in Cappadocia

How to get to cappadocia from istanbul .

The fastest way to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia is by plane . And since there are plenty of flights departing the IST and SAW airport in Istanbul daily, it’s also the most convenient. Prices start at $27 USD so it’s also really affordable . 

I use Skyscanner to book short-haul flights globally.

Book a Flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia

For other options like train and bus , check out my complete guide on how to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia .

How to Get from Istanbul to Cappadocia: Ultimate Guide

If you are following a Turkey road trip itinerary , head back to the IST airport and pick up your car rental for driving to Cappadocia .

Book a Rental Car for your 10 Days in Turkey

Cappadocia Airport Transfer

If you are arriving by plane, you will land in either the Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport or Kayseri Erkilet Airport. No matter what airport you arrive at, you can schedule a shared Cappadocia airport transfer that will bring you to your hotel in Goreme (the main tourist town).

Book Cappadocia Airport Transfer

About Cappadocia 

The region of Cappadocia is probably the most popular tourist destination in Turkey , and there’s no wondering why. This area of Turkey is full of scenic landscapes, unique rock formations, picturesque valleys and bucket list experiences. 

Gaining popularity on Instagram with sunrise images of hot air balloon rides and novelty cave hotels , Cappadocia is a once-in-a-life-time spot.

You can read all about the history of Cappadocia, the best places to stay, how to get around and top things to do (plus much more) in my complete Cappadocia travel guide .

The best Turkey itinerary will always include a stop in Cappadocia.

Cappadocia Guide: Where to Stay + Things to Do

How to Get Around Cappadocia

Cappadocia isn’t one town, it’s an entire region comprised of 5 main towns and a few smaller villages. Given that, the area’s attractions are quite distant from each other and cannot be visited on foot . 

If you are staying in Goreme, the central tourist town of Cappadocia, you can reach the central attractions like Pigeon, Rose and Love Valley by hiking, but if you are looking to see all the region has to offer, including the fairy chimneys, underground cities and open-air museums, I’d suggest either a guided day tour or rental car in Cappadocia .

You can have a rental car waiting for you at either Cappadocia airport by booking ahead. Since Cappadocia is a popular region, I suggest booking your rental car at least 2 weeks out . >>>> CHECK PRICES + AVAILABILITY OF RENTAL CARS IN TURKEY

Cappadocia Hotels

Top Pick | Sultan Cave Suites (my fave!) Cave Hotel | Koza Cave Hotel Cave Hotel | Mithra Cave Hotel Budget Hotel | Antique Terrace Suites

Best Cappadocia Tours

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride Cappadocia Red Tour Cappadocia Blue Tour Private Cappadocia Custom Tour (my fave!)

Pigeon Valley Walk + Red Valley Sunset Viewpoint

If you’ve arrived in Cappadocia midday, venture out to Pigeon Valley and stroll through the picturesque canyon. Here you will see small pigeon caves carved into the rock face, which once housed thousands of pigeons.

Next, grab your rental car or hop in a taxi and enjoy the sunset from the scenic Red Valley Cappadocia sunset spot .

Day 5: Hot Air Balloon Ride + Cappadocia Red Tour

Sunrise hot air balloon ride.

Today brings an early wake-up call , so make sure to get to bed early on your arrival day. Depending on the time of year, a sunrise hot air balloon tour can start anywhere between 4:30 and 7:30AM. It’s time to tick off this bucket list experience !

All sunrise hot air balloon tours start by picking you up at your hotel within central Cappadocia (Goreme and Uchisar). Enjoy a light breakfast and then head to the balloon launching site and watch the pilot and crew ready your epic flight. 

You can opt for a private, semi-private, or group balloon tour, but nevertheless, it will end with a champagne toast and certificate of completion. This is an absolute must on your 10 days Turkey itinerary.

If your time is truly limited in Cappadocia, opt to stay at a hotel in Cappadocia with a view of the balloons at sunrise .

Book a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

Red Tour of North Cappadocia

Generally speaking, all tours either cover the red, blue or green sections of the Cappadocia region. The Cappadocia Red Tour will explore the attractions that are located at the north end of Cappadocia . 

Highlights of the Cappadocia Red Tour include:

• Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
• Pasabagi Valley (Fairy Chimneys)
• Goreme Open Air Museum
• Uchisar Castle

Book the Cappadocia Red Tour

The red tour is a great addition to your itinerary for Turkey because it i ncludes transportation, lunch and a knowledgeable guide to teach you about Cappadocia history and attraction-specific information. It also departs at 10AM which gives you ample time to return from your morning’s hot air balloon adventure.

End your day having dinner on the panoramic patio of Seten Restaurant located in the iconic Sultan Cave Suites (easily one of my favourite Cappadocia hotels). Or enjoy a traditional home-cooked 3 course meal cozied up inside Pumpkin restaurant .

Day 6: Sunrise + Cappadocia Blue Tour 

Watching hot air balloons at sunrise.

I highly recommend booking a Goreme hotel that comes with a panoramic veranda to watch the hot air balloons fly at sunrise.

If you are feeling more adventurous, make your way to this Love Valley Cappadocia sunrise spot to watch the hot air balloons float by , easily one of my favourite experiences while in Cappadocia.

Blue Tour of Central + Southern Cappadocia

Your guided Cappadocia Blue Tour will depart at 10AM. After enjoying a traditional Turkish breakfast spread at your hotel, your tour guide will pick you up for day 6 of your Turkey itinerary 10 days. Today you will be exploring the central and southern attractions of the Cappadocia region . 

Highlights of the Cappadocia blue tour include :

• Red and Rose Valley Hike
• Cavusin Cave Village (Old Greek Rock Houses)
• Underground City
• Pigeon Valley
• Ortahisar Castle

Book the Cappadocia Blue Tour

Opting for a Private Cappadocia Tour

I f you’d prefer a more exclusive private experience, I’d recommend booking this private Cappadocia day tour . I can highly recommend it since it’s the tour I took and was super pleased with . 

I ended up paying more because I wanted to start my tour at sunrise at the Love Valley viewpoint and end at sunset at Red Valley. Usually, tours start at 10 AM . It was well worth it, in my opinion. You can also customize it to visit only the Cappadocia attractions you are interested in, which I found very appealing.

Book the Cappadocia Private Tour

End your third day in Cappadocia at Turkish Ravioli restaurant indulging in the local ravioli meal called manti with a glass of Anatolian wine in hand.

Turkey Itinerary 10 Days : Day 7 + 8

Day 7-8 Emphasis: Relaxation

Day 7: Arrive in Antalya + Antalya Old Town

Arriving in antalya.

The best way to get from Cappadocia to Antalya is by plane . You can book a flight through the Kayseri Airport through Turkish Airlines or Pegasus (the low-budget airline in Turkey). Flights are direct and take just over an hour.

Flights from Cappadocia to Antalya start at $40USD, so it also makes it a really economical option .

>>> Check Skyscanner for Flights to Antalya

Remember to book your Kayseri airport transfer . The journey from Goreme town to Kayseri should take just over an hour.

You can also get from Cappadocia to Antalya along your Turkey travel itinerary by boarding the bus . The bus departs from the Goreme bus station and reaches the Antalya bus station in approximately 10-11 hours (including rest stops) and bus ticket prices start at $8USD .

>>> Check Bus Prices + Schedule for Antalya on 12Go

Of course, you can also make the journey via rental car . I’d recommend a stop in Konya halfway through your drive for a good night’s sleep if you have the time. The journey should take 8 hours and is easily navigated through Google Maps .

>>> Check Prices + Availability of Rental Cars in Turkey

Only have 7 days? Head straight from Cappadocia to Pamukkale

How to Get Around Antalya

The city of Antalya is sprawled across the coastline of Turkey with the old town located on the far east and the famous Konyaalti Beach situated on the west. 

If you base yourself on the outskirts of the old town (which is where I stayed) you can easily meander the alleyways of the old town when you arrive on foot . 

The next morning will be a beach day, so you can either take the 45-minute walk along the coastline to the beach or grab the city bus . I opted to walk.

Since it was a hot day even in late October, we took a taxi back to Antalya’s old town after the beach. You can find them waiting in this area .

About Antalya

Antalya, (known as the Turkish Riviera), the crowning jewel of Turkey’s turquoise coast is a busy and relaxed metropolis (almost 1.5 million people call Antalya home). 

With the backdrop of the Taurus mountains and the large stretch of sand gracing the shoreline, Antalya attracts tourists from near and far for a Mediterranean beach vacation. Antalya was one of the first cities to introduce mass tourism in Turkey in the 1980s and has become popular ever since. Originally settled by the Greeks in 200 BC and quickly taken over by the Romans, Antalya has been a thriving coastal city and port for centuries and boasts a quaint and lively old town to prove it.

Antalya Hotels

Top Pick | Sibel Pension (my fave!) Apartment | Mavi Avlu Old Town Midrange Hotel | Mai Inci Hotel

Best Antalya Tours

Koprulu Ziplining + Rafting Tour Perge, Aspendoes + Waterfall Tour Taurus Mountain Jeep Safari Tour

Exploring Antalya Old Town

Nestled on the clifftop of eastern Antalya is the lively and charming old town district , also known as Kaleici (‘within the castle’ in Turkish ) . Once you’ve arrived in Antalya, make your way to the winding enchanting streets of old town.

You can spend the afternoon ducking into shops, people watching while sipping Turkish coffee, purchasing souvenirs and walking the scenic coastline promenade over the Roman Harbour . 

The architecture in old town is a mix of well preserved Ottoman mansions and Roman ruins like Hadrian’s Gate .

I particularly loved the trendy coffee spot called The Sudd , so if you are a coffee person make sure to grab a cappuccino there. If night life is your goal, there are many pubs in the area that offer late night entertainment and beer drinking culture . 

Or, for something quieter , grab a glass of wine at Karaf Bistro and sit by the window.

NOTE | If you’d like to stay in Antalya old town like me, make sure to book a place on the outskirts . The centre of old town can get quite loud and stay loud until very late at night.

Day 8: Antalya Beach Day + Evening Bus to Pamukkale

Spend the day at konyaalti beach.

Since day 8 of your Turkey itinerary for 10 days is prioritizing relaxation, you can lie in as late as you want. Today you will be heading to the famous Konyaalti Beach , the main attraction for holiday goers in Antalya. 

This pebble beach is 7kms long with many amenities. If you are staying in old town, you can reach the eastern most point of Konyaalti beach in a 45 minute walk. If walking that far in the heat isn’t your cup of tea, grab the city bus . 

Looking for more adventure? Try this Antalya ancient ruins and waterfall day tour

Evening Bus to Pamukkale

After a day of frolicking in the waves and catching some sun, its time to move on to the Pamukkale thermal pools, a unique highlight of Turkey.

How to Get from Antalya to Pamukkale

Catch the afternoon or evening bus from Antalya bus station to the town of Denizli , just outside of Pamukkale. You can use 12Go to book your bus tickets. The bus journey on this leg of your Turkey 10 days itinerary will take approximately 4 hours with ticket prices starting at $6USD. 

>>> Check Bus Price + Schedule for Pamukkale on 12Go

NOTE | The bus will not take you directly to the town of Pamukkale, so you will need to catch the minibus from platform 76 at the Denizli bus station to make the 30 minute journey to Pamukkale. The flight itinerary from Antalya to Pamukkale is indirect (transferring in Istanbul or Izmir) and more hassle than it’s worth . Taking the bus is the best way to get from Antalya to Pamukkale if you aren’t renting a car.

Turkey Itinerary 10 Days : Day 9

Day 9 Emphasis: Natural Wonder, Ancient Ruins + Relaxation

Day 9: Pamukkale Thermal Pools + Evening Bus to Ephesus (Selcuk)

How to get around pamukkale.

Make sure to book a hotel in the centre of Pamukkale town. That way you can reach the Pamukkale main gates within a 10-15 minute walk (maximum). You can always get your hotel reception to call you a taxi, too.

About Pamukkale

Pamukkale hot springs has become a medicinal destination known the world over. Mineral rich water is pushed from deep down under the earth and cascades over the hill above Pamukkale. Once the calcium hardens, it creates small tiered pools . 

The water has been known to treat chronic disorders like skin, eyes and digestive issues. Right behind the pools are the ancient ruins of Hierapolis . Make sure to spend an hour or two exploring the property.

Visiting Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Since you only have one morning at the Pamukkale hot springs in this 10 day itinerary Turkey, I suggest you get an early start. The main gate to Pamukkale doesn’t open until 8AM, causing most people to miss sunrise atop the pools.

If you grab a quick 5 minute taxi to the south entrance , you can enter the Pamukkale grounds at 6AM. Well worth the early wake up call. Make your way toward the hilltop and watch the hot air balloons fly over the unique landscape. 

Pamukkale Guide: Where to Stay + Things to Do

Before wading through the natural pools, visit the Hierapolis ancient ruins . The most famous ruins is the Roman amphitheatre , which is still well preserved today. 

Next, take an hour and soak in Cleopatra’s Pool (at a small extra cost). Finally, make your way to the top of the white terraces, remove your shoes and wade through the pools and exit through the main gate. 

Pamukkale Hotels

Top Pick | Pamukkale Whiteheaven Hotel Apartment | Venus Suite Hotel Midrange Hotel | Bellamaritimo Hotel

Best Pamukkale Tours

Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Ride

Evening Bus to Ephesus (Selcuk)

Once you enjoy a leisurely traditional lunch at Hiera Coffee + Tea House , hop in a taxi or arrange a shuttle from your hotel to the Denizli bus station. From here, you can board a comfortable bus to the town of Selcuk, just outside the ruins of Ephesus. 

As always, I book my bus tickets through 12Go . The trip takes a scenic 4 hours and costs $6USD to start .

>>> Check Bus Price + Schedule for Ephesus on 12Go

How to Get from Pamukkale to Ephesus (Selcuk)

Like the Antalya to Pamukkale trip, flying from Pamukkale to Ephesus is a bit of a hassle . You will have a long layover in Istanbul from Denizli to Izmir. And then you’ll have to take a bus from Izmir to Selcuk. The direct bus is a lot more efficient and cost-effective.

If you are renting a car for your Turkey vacation itinerary, the drive will be pleasant and last about 3 hours.

Skipping Ephesus? Find out how to get from Pamukkale to Istanbul

Turkey Itinerary 10 Days: Day 10

Day 10 Emphasis: History

Day 10: Ephesus + Evening Flight to Istanbul/Home

Arriving in selcuk.

The bus will drop you at the Selcuk central bus station. From here, most hotels in Selcuk are within walking distance (10 minutes max). 

After you check in, head into the old town of Selcuk and enjoy a meal at Artemis Koftecisi Ali Usta . They specialize in traditional Turkish koftas but also have some great vegetarian sides that can be eaten as a meal. Make sure to indulge in a pint of Ephesus beer.

How to Get to the Ephesus Ruins from Selcuk

Either arrange a complimentary shuttle with your hotel, like I had at Nilya Hotel , or grab a taxi on the main street to reach the Ephesus ruins. The drive is only 10 minutes, and you will arrive at the upper gate of Ephesus. 

About Ephesus

The ancient city of Ephesus can be dated back as far as the 11th century BC. Originally established by the Greeks (with worship to the goddess Artemis), the Romans ruled over Ephesus for centuries and introduced Christianity to the region. 

Visiting Ephesus: Where to Stay + Things to See

The city of Ephesus was a thriving Mediterranean port for a significant amount of time, with its decline occurring during the 3rd century AD by the goths.

Major sites here include the Library of Celsus, the Great Amphitheatre and the terrace houses. You can read all about what to see at Ephesus in my complete Ephesus guide .

Ephesus Hotels

Top Pick | Nilya Hotel (where I stayed) Luxury Hotel | Livia Hotel Ephesus Midrange Hotel | Ayasoluk Hotel

Evening Flight from Izmir to Istanbul/Home

Once you’ve had your fill of the ancient ruins of Ephesus, it’s time to go home. I know, its sad but true. 

You can head to the Selcuk bus station and hop on one of the minibusses heading to Izmir. It should take 1.5 hours to reach the airport. From Izmir, you can either transfer via Istanbul or fly out to an international destination.

Alternatively, you can grab a ticket at the Selcuk train station and take the frequent trip to the Izmir Basmane train station . From here, grab a taxi to the airport. Train tickets will start at 7.5TL ($0.50USD) and will take 80 minutes.

>>> Check Bus Price + Schedule on 12Go

>>> Check Flight Price + Schedule on Skyscanner

Two Week Turkey Itinerary Option

If you have more time to spend in this beautiful country, I’ve put together a 2 week Turkey itinerary for you. Generally speaking, the difference between the Turkey 2 week itinerary and the Turkey itinerary 10 days is the addition of a road trip along the turquoise coast. 

Between Antalya and Pamukkale, take a road trip along the turquoise coast . Rent a car at the Antalya airport and make your way along the scenic coastal road towards the small town of Kas . Stay a night here and then move on to Fethiye for two nights, stopping in Oludeniz on the way. 

Return your rental car to the Dalaman Airport and grab the bus to Pamukkale.

• Day 1-3: Istanbul 
• Day 4-6: Cappadocia 
• Day 7-9: Antalya 
• Day 10-12: Road trip from Antalya to Fethiye with a stop in Kas 
• Day 13:Pamukkale  
• Day 14: Ephesus 

7 Days Turkey Itinerary Option

If you only have a week in Turkey, I recommend skipping Antalya and the Turkish Riviera all together and spending one less day in Cappadocia. Or opt to include Antalya instead of Pamukkale or Ephesus. 

Don’t subtract time spent in Istanbul as it requires at least 3 days (ideally more!) to properly explore. 

Spend less time in Cappadocia + Cut Antalya altogether

• Day 1-3: Istanbul
• Day 4-5: Cappadocia

Head straight from Cappadocia to Pamukkale

• Day 6: Pamukkale
• Day 7: Ephesus

Get your FREE Turkey Trip Planner

Plan and book your trip to Turkey with this simple checklist.

Turkey Travel Planning Guide

► what is the best way to book my turkey accommodation.

I always use booking.com for all my accommodations worldwide, and Turkey is no exception. I stayed in some really epic places on my adventure around this beautiful country.

For more cozy apartment-style accommodation try VRBO (better and safer than Airbnb).

► What are the best day tours in Turkey?

Taking a day tour in Turkey, whether in Istanbul, Cappadocia or elsewhere is a great way to experience the top attractions and learn from a knowledgeable guide.

I highly recommend these Turkey tours:

• Istanbul : Bosphorus Sunset Cruise
• Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Guided Tour
• Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes Show
• Cappadocia: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight
• Cappadocia: Highlights Red Tour

► Should I rent a car in Turkey?

If you are flying in and out of Istanbul and don’t plan to leave the city, I don’t recommend renting a car . You can quickly get around Istanbul by walking or taking public transportation.

If you plan to visit Cappadocia I highly recommend renting a car . The region’s highlights are spread apart and transportation options are limited and infrequent.

The best way to see the country is by renting a car in Turkey for an epic road trip!

► What is the best site to buy flights to Turkey?

For finding cheap flights to Turkey and within the country, I recommend booking through Skyscanner .

► Can you drink tap water in Turkey?

Yes! You can drink straight from the tap in Turkey. Although most foreigners are not accustomed to the taste of tap water in Turkey and choose to drink bottled water. Since plastic waste has a negative impact on our environment, I recommend not choosing this option when the water is safe to drink.

If you plan to do a lot of walking or hiking in Turkey, I recommend bringing my favourite self-filtering water bottle with you, just in case.

More Turkey Travel Guides

• Tips for Renting a Car in Turkey
• Where to Stay in Istanbul for First Timers
• Best Spa Hotels in Istanbul
• Top Istanbul Boutique Hotels
• Detailed Guide to Visiting Cappadocia
• Best Cappadocia Hotels with a View of Balloons
• Top Luxury Hotels in Cappadocia for an Unforgettable Trip
• Pamukkale Thermal Pools Complete Guide
• Visiting the Ephesus Ancient Ruins

Haley is the founder of the global travel blog, Haley Blackall Travel. She has travelled to 40+ countries across 5 continents over the last 15 years and is considered an expert in her field.

She loves to share honest first hand experience from her travels. Her goal is to help readers planning their next trip by providing in-depth travel guides and recommendations for her favourite boutique hotels, things to do and travel itineraries.

Haley focuses her expertise on countries such as Greece, Turkey, Italy, Costa Rica, Australia, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

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22 Comments

This is amazing, thank you for the details, I’m visiting turkey for the 3rd time this September, and I’m definitely following your guide

Thanks, Tarik,

I’m so glad that this guide will be helpful for you. September is such an amazing time to visit Turkey.

I am going in about a week and so excited with the help of your blog. I am looking forward to seeing Turkey through your eyes 🙂

I am so happy for you, Turkey is one of my favourite countries! Such rich diversity, culture and natural beauty. And the food is so incredible! If you have time, definitely rent a car and check out the coastline between Antalya and Fethiye, including a stop in Kas. Otherwise, this 10 day Turkey itinerary should cover all the highlights for you.

I hope you enjoy your trip! Let me know how it goes.

AMAZING Agenda! Thank you.

Thanks, Cathy!

Turkey is such an amazing country. I hope you have the chance to visit soon.

Happy travels, Haley

What a great itinerary. This is so helpful. I am curious did you do all this in 2022? Just making sure the different types of buses you mentioned and flights are still a “normal ” thing. I am looking to do this late September 2022 and would love to just “cut/paste” this itinerary. Thanks for all the info and any extra advice. Solo traveler so doing it all myself and generally have not done “city to city” so pretty excited.

So excited to hear about your trip to Turkey. It is honestly one of my favourite countries in the world. I completed my trip in the Fall of 2021, but I don’t think you’ll find a big change in bus and flight options even now in 2022. I’ve included the best way to get from each city in the blog.

From Istanbul to Cappadocia, most definitely an economical flight is the way to go. If you are travelling from Cappadocia to Antalya or Pamukkale, also a flight is a good option. Throughout the rest of the itinerary, I would recommend taking the bus as the best option to get from A to B. Alternatively, exploring the country by car is a beautiful way to see all the in-between destinations not many other visitors see, and the flexibility is great.

I hope this helps, and happy travels!

Amazing itinerary, I am following this when I visit in October 2022 and I am so excited!

Would you recommend hiring a car for the time in Cappadocia? We can’t decide whether to hire a car and visit the sites ourselves or go on the tours you have suggested. If we went on the tours then I think a car wouldn’t be needed?

Also we are visiting similar time I think you did 2021, so tips on clothes to pack would be amazing.

Many thanks!

That’s so exciting that you will be visiting Turkey in October, I think it’s a lovely time to go.

In regards to your question about Cappadocia, there are, of course, pros and cons to renting a car or taking a tour. But I can give you my two cents based on my personal experience. We took a Cappadocia Private Customizable Tour (the one mentioned in this blog) and I can highly recommend it. The company that offers this is absolutely amazing and I really appreciated having a knowledgeable guide to give me insight into the region that I wouldn’t be able to get if I visited on my own.

This is generally what I requested of our guide for our full-day tour: -Sunrise at Love Valley to see the hot air balloons flying -Uchisar Castle -Kaymalki Underground City -Ortahisar Castle -Goreme Open Air Museum -Pasabag Valley Fairy Chimneys -Zelve Open Air Museum -Pigeon Valley -Red Valley Viewpoint for sunset and wine

Then you can leave it in the guide’s hands to schedule the ideal stops and timing for each. Combine this with a hot air balloon ride one morning, and you will experience most of the highlights in Cappadocia.

It wasn’t difficult to find good restaurants around Goreme in the evenings, so it’s not like you will feel super stuck without a rental car.

In regards to your question about what to pack, I would suggest layers. The weather in Cappadocia in mid-October is warm and sunny in the daytime (22 degrees C) and cold in the evenings and mornings (like 4 degrees C). I wore my athletic leggings, runners with socks, long sleeve shirt or t-shirt and sweater for the entire trip to Cappadocia. Combined with my light puffer jacket and a blanket scarf (that I was frequently taking off and putting back on), it was the perfect outfit.

I hope this helps, and let me know if you have any other questions.

Happy travels! Haley

Amazing itinerary.. I am planning to visit March end with my husband and 8 month old Do you think for travel within city we could use the public transportation?? We are on a tight budget trip so just figuring out alternatives as car rental and guide would get expensive.

Thank you Ekta

Absolutely, you can utilize public transportation in any of the larger cities on this itinerary. I used the bus and tram system in Istanbul to get everywhere and it was super convenient. Just note that you will have to purchase a loadable transit card (in Istanbul it is called the Istanbul Kart). These can be purchased at select kiosks and stations and cost ~25TL (just under $1.50USD). Then you will need to load it with funds before boarding. I think its a really great way to get around the cities. Antalya was super easy to navigate on bus, too.

If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Enjoy your trip.

Hello! Thank you for documenting with so many details! I was searching for the part where you have the cost break down and over all cost for the trip. I will be flying from USA if that helps. Can you please point me to that detail.

Hi Saranya,

Thanks for the question.

Unfortunately, there are so many factors that go into budgeting for a trip to Turkey like your style of travel, what type of accommodations you like and if you will be renting a car or taking day tours, etc.

But, good news – since a major devaluation of the Turkish Lira a couple of years back, your US dollar will stretch quite significantly when planning your travels to Turkey. For an average traveller, I would assume roughly $60-100USD for a nightly stay, $2-10USD for a meal and $25USD a day for a car rental.

I hope this helps! And happy travels.

Hi, We are planning our first trip to Turkey in March and your blog is very helpful in planning our trip. We would also like to go to Bursa (Uludag ski resort), as kids want to enjoy snow. Could you please guide us where to fix it in your itinerary. We can reduce one day in istanbul and don’t mind making it a 12-14 days trip. Please guide.

Thanks in advance Subha

So glad to hear you are visiting Turkey in March, should be a great trip!

I recommend fixing Bursa (the Uludag ski resort) as your last stop before returning to Istanbul or flying out of Turkey, right after Ephesus.

Let me know if you have any additional questions.

Amazing itinerary! My friends and i are hoping to visit early Oct 2023. We are torn between visiting Antalya or Bodrum.

What are your thoughts on Bodrum?

So happy you decided to visit Turkey! I absolutely loved my trip in October. Unfortunately, I have not been to Bodrum, but from what I have heard it’s more quaint, has a higher-end feeling (similar to the French Riviera) and has sandy beaches outside of town. You can explore Bodrum’s attractions in about a day. Antayla, on the other hand, is much bigger, with a large and lively old town, and expansive central beach (pebbles).

It really depends on what you are looking for from your holiday, but I definitely loved my stay in Antalya.

Let me know if you have any other questions and happy travels!

I am visiting Turkey in April for 8 plays; planning to spend 2.5 days in Istanbul, then 2 in capa and 2 atleast in Antalya, Have one extra day and debating if i should spend that extra day in Antalya or go somewhere else. Any recommendation

April in Antalya will be pleasant exploring weather, but not necessarily beach-going weather (about 21 degrees Celsius), depending on what you’re used to. I’d recommend spending the 2 days checking out the old town and then making your way inland to Pammukale to see the thermal pools and ancient ruins of Hieropolis. You can easily see these sites in one day.

Alternatively, if you want to explore more of the Turquoise Coast (Turkish Riviera) and have a rental car at your disposal, you can take the coastal road from Antalya to Fethiye, stopping briefly in Kas and Oludeniz before flying out of Fethiye (about a 4.5 hour drive).

Lastly, you could always allocate that additional day to exploring more of Istanbul or Cappadocia, both have a ton to see!

Safe and happy travels, Haley

Very informative and detailed. I will follow your 10-day itinerary. Thank you for blogging about this. Helpful!

My pleasure, Clint. Enjoy your trip to Turkey!

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Wonders of Turkey Luxury Tour

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Istanbul
• Day 2 Istanbul City Tour
• Day 3 Istanbul – Gallipoli – Canakkale
• Day 4 Canakkale – Troy – Pergamon – Izmir
• Day 5 Izmir – Ephesus – Pamukkale
• Day 6 Pamukkale – Fethiye – Konya
• Day 7 Konya - Cappadocia
• Day 8 Cappadocia
• Day 9 Cappadocia - Istanbul ( By Flight)
• Day 10 Istanbul

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Home > Turkey 10 Day Itinerary Ideas – 6 Epic Itineraries

Turkey 10 Day Itinerary Ideas – 6 Epic Itineraries

Written by our local expert Enes

Originally from North Macedonia, Enes is a well-traveled enthusiast residing in Türkiye. He combines his extensive knowledge and avid wanderlust to bring you insightful narratives of his Turkish adventures.

Let us be your local guide for 10 days in Turkey. There are six itinerary options. We know one of these 10-day Turkey itinerary ideas will suit you!

Turkey is an ideal holiday destination for many reasons. The country offers its visitors an opportunity to experience a different culture, catch extraordinary scenery, and eat delicious foods. From Ancient Greece to the Ottoman Empire, many civilizations left their marks in this unique land.

And Turkey gives you a chance to discover the beauty of its rich history. In short, Turkey is the perfect destination for all kinds of travelers , from history geeks to nature enthusiasts to those who want to relax and unwind.

Since each region and city of Turkey has its own characteristics, visiting the country without a solid plan isn’t ideal for total immersion. Nevertheless, planning a thorough itinerary is challenging for most visitors, especially in a big country like Turkey.

You should know where to go and what to expect for a true adventure. But you need not worry! We created this complete guide to help you plan a perfect 10-day itinerary in Turkey.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Overview Of Turkey

Get ready for your 10-day itinerary in Turkey with all of this info! Türkiye is a fascinating country with a rich culture and history. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia , Turkey has been home to many civilizations throughout its long history. From the Roman and Byzantine Empires to the Ottoman Empire, Turkey has a wealth of cultural and historical sites to explore.

And I have to say, you can not plan a trip to Turkey without seeing Istanbul.

Istanbul, the country’s largest city , is often considered the gateway to Turkey. With its mix of European and Asian influences, Istanbul is a truly unique city. Visitors can explore the city’s many mosques, palaces , and museums or enjoy its vibrant nightlife and shopping scene.

Ankara, the capital of Turkey , is another must-visit destination. Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites , Ankara offers visitors a chance to learn about Turkey’s past while also enjoying its modern amenities. The city is also home to several Turkish government buildings, including the Presidential Palace.

Other notable destinations in Turkey that we have loved include:

Each of these cities has its own unique attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins or soaking up the sun on one of Turkey’s beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone in this incredible country.

Are 10 Days Enough To Discover Turkey

We can answer this question with a short “maybe.” If you plan to spend your holidays discovering the famous destinations in Turkey, basking in the majestic Mediterranean sun, and swimming in the turquoise coves, then yes, a 10-day itinerary might be enough to discover Turkey.

Ten days in Turkey are also sufficient to explore several big cities, such as Istanbul, Izmir , Antalya , Eskisehir, or Mugla . Suppose you’ve already been to well-known towns in Turkey. In that case, you can even fit a small town or two on your Turkish 10-day itinerary.

Considering the large size of the country and the fact that it has 81 cities, a complete trip to Turkey might take months if not years. Each town in Turkey has a lot to offer, from cultural riches to historical monuments, making it difficult for a short trip to provide a real immersion.

Therefore, it is not ideal to expect a ten-day trip to offer you all the riches Turkey has. Still, a well-prepared itinerary might be enough to discover the prominent cities in Turkey. You can keep reading the article to find great itinerary ideas for discovering popular destinations in Turkey you can enjoy in ten days.

So, How Many Days In Turkey Is Enough

Turkey is rich in culture and history; there is much to see and do. How many days you spend in Turkey depends on your interests and how much time you have – as we said, you’ll need MONTHS!

If you’re interested in exploring one ancient ruin, visiting a few museums, and getting a taste of the local cuisine , then 3-4 days are enough. However, if you want to touch on some of Turkey’s unique experiences, then 10-14 days are ideal.

• 5 Day Itinerary In Turkey
• 7 Day Itinerary In Turkey

The Best 10-Day Turkey Itinerary Ideas

Is this your first visit to Turkey? Have you visited most cities in the country and want to see something new? Do you want to explore different aspects of Turkey? No matter your purpose, this inclusive list of 10-day Turkey itinerary ideas offers you what you need: adventure, fun, thrill, and curiosity. If you’re ready to start planning your Turkey trip itinerary, take a cup of coffee, prepare your notebook and pen, and let’s begin!

Discover Turkey Northwest To Northeast

If you plan a complete Black Sea tour, we congratulate you! You’re a real explorer! Although it’s not as famous as the western regions, the Black Sea region is home to some genuine natural beauty. The cities in this region are literally gems hidden in the unfathomable Black Sea Mountain ranges.

You’ll start your journey in Istanbul . The first destination is the old city area, where you’ll visit Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. After seeing the majestic marks of ancient civilizations, you’ll take a Bosphorus cruise to watch the city from the sea.

At night, you’ll take a bus to Izmit. Alternatively, you can prefer air travel, yet Izmit is close to Istanbul; renting a car might be another option. In Izmit, you’ll visit the famous Clock Tower and Izmit Archaeological Museum. If you’re into snowboarding, Izmit is a popular destination for mountain tourism, with its large winter sports complex.

After Izmit, you’ll travel to Bolu. Bolu is home to the ancient city of Bithynia and Abant Lake National Park; both are must-see destinations in the Black Sea region. You can spend your night at one of the luxury hotels in the national park.

On day four, you can continue exploring Bolu – we particularly recommend the Bolu Museum of Archaeology, which features various ancient artifacts. Once you finish discovering Bolu, you can travel to Bartın, another small Black Sea city. You’ll visit Amasra Castle and Bartin Ethnography Museum. If you have your swimwear, you can visit Inkumu Beach.

Sinop is your next destination after Bartın. As an ancient port city in the Black Sea region, Sinop boasts many ancient monuments and structures. Sinop Castle, Balatlar Church, and Alaaddin Mosque are all significant monuments one should see.

On day seven, you’ll travel to Trabzon , a city of majestic scenery. Trabzon also features a Hagia Sophia Museum, a structure every history-lover needs to visit. The historical center of Trabzon is also worth visiting for its many old houses and souvenir shops.

After Trabzon, travel to Rize, a small city next to Trabzon. The city is famous for its tea production. Since you’ll spend two days in Rize, you can take it easy on the first day. Visit the Rize Museum and Ziraat Park; if you have time, you can also see the wonderful Fırtına Valley. On day 8, you’ll visit the Ayder Plateau, one of the most famous destinations in the Black Sea region. Since the area is known for its hot springs, you can enjoy a soak in one of the Turkish baths in Ayder. The facilities in the area offer many activities, including horse riding and hiking.

On days 9 and 10, we’ll visit Artvin, a border city and the northeasternmost part of Turkey. The day you arrive in Artvin, you can see the old Artvin Castle, the Şavşat Karagöl Nature Park, and the Karagöl-Sahra National Park. The next day, you’ll take a day trip to Yusufeli and visit the Tortum Waterfall, the Yusufeli Castle, and the village of Bilbilan.

• Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
• Day 2: Bus trip to Izmit
• Day 3: Travel to Bolu
• Day 4: Explore Bolu & visit Bartın
• Day 5: Travel to Sinop
• Day 6: Go to Trabzon
• Day 7: Visit Rize
• Day 8: Explore Ayder Plateau
• Day 9: Travel to Artvin
• Day 10: See Yusufeli

Discover Inner Anatolia

While it’s not a popular route, a trip to Inner Anatolia might be an eye-opening and inspiring experience for those who want to explore a different part of Turkey. The region is culturally and economically distinct from the Western cities, making it an exciting place to visit.

On your first day, you’ll arrive in Konya. Here, you’ll visit the Mevlana Museum to learn about the life and teachings of Rumi, the famous Sufi poet who promoted peace and became a symbol of inclusivity. You can also explore the Alaaddin Mosque and the Karatay Medrese, both famous for their architecture. On your second day in Konya, you’ll visit the Ince Minaret Medrese and the Aziziye Mosque. You can also explore the Konya Archaeological Museum and the Seljuk Palace to learn more about the city’s rich history and culture.

On your third day, you’ll travel to Karaman, a small city south of Konya . You can visit the Karaman Museum and the Karaman Castle to learn more about the region’s history. On the evening of your third day, you can travel to Cappadocia, where you’ll spend two days.

Day four will be full of exploration; visit the Göreme Open Air Museum to see the unique rock formations formed over thousands of years and the cave churches, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscape on your second day in Cappadocia. You can also visit the underground cities and hike in the Ihlara Valley to see the unique natural formations.

On your sixth day, you’ll travel to Kayseri. When you arrive in the city, you can explore the city’s historic center and the Grand Mosque . On day seven, visit the Kültepe Archaeological Site, known as Kanesh, and see the ancient ruins. You can also explore the Soğanlı Valley and see the rock-cut churches.

After exploring Kayseri, you can visit Kırıkkale, a small city next to Ankara. Here, you can see the Atatürk House Museum and Kırıkkale Museum. Except for these, the city is known for its local artisans, who make wood ornaments and souvenirs.

Your next destination is Ankara, the capital. Your first day in Ankara will include the Ankara Citadel, the Ataturk Mausoleum, and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which will provide you with more information about the history of both Turkey and the region.  

On your final day, you’ll visit the Kocatepe Mosque and the Ankara Ethnography Museum. Plus, you can see the old town area, Ulus, before departing.

• Day 1: Arrive in Konya
• Day 2: Explore the city
• Day 3: Travel to Karaman and explore the city
• Day 4: Travel to Cappadocia
• Day 5: See the wonders of Cappadocia
• Day 6: Visit Kayseri
• Day 7: See the archaeological sites and rock-cut churches of Kayseri
• Day 8: Travel to Kırıkkale
• Day 9: Go to Ankara to finish your journey
• Day 10: Ankara

Real Turkish Mediterranean Experience

While this might seem like a classic trail, this itinerary will give you an actual Mediterranean experience. You’ll start your journey from Bodrum, a famous and scenic town in Mugla, and finalize it in Mersin.

Upon arriving in Bodrum, you’ll stroll through the city center to explore the majestic town. You can visit the Bodrum Castle, the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, and the Bodrum Amphitheatre. On your second day in Bodrum, take a day trip to the nearby beach town of Gumbet, visit the Myndos Gate, and unwind on the beach. Remember to swim in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

On your third day, you’ll travel to Marmaris or Kaş . Since both are picturesque Mediterranean towns, you won’t regret visiting. Spend the day exploring the city and tasting local dishes.

The next day, you’ll travel to Alanya, a holiday town in Antalya . You’ll discover the town’s pristine beaches, try out Mediterranean food, and dive into the city’s vibrant nightlife.

On day seven, you’ll travel to Bozyazı, a town in Mersin famous for its historical structures and beautiful beaches. You’ll visit the Mamure Castle, a historic castle with scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The town is also known for its rich seafood-based cuisine.

After basking in the Mediterranean perfection in Bozyazı, you can complete your journey by traveling to Mersin. Due to its rich and well-preserved history, the city has many museums. Visit the Mersin Museum of Archaeology, Mersin Naval Museum, and Ataturk House Museum. Exploring the Old Town might also allow you to purchase memorable souvenirs. Also, before departing, don’t forget to stroll along the Mersin Marina.

• Day 1: Arrival in Bodrum
• Day 2: Enjoy the town
• Day 3: Visit Marmaris or Kaş
• Day 4: Travel to Alanya
• Day 5: Discover the city’s nightlife
• Day 6: See the beaches and historical sites of Alanya
• Day 7: Travel to Bozyazı
• Day 8: Spend a marvelous day in Bozyazı
• Day 9: Go to Mersin and explore the city
• Day 10: Visit the museums and tourist attractions in Mersin

Brands We Use And Trust

10 days turkey itinerary from my turkish friend.

I asked my Turkish friend to give me his best 10-day route to Turkey, and here is what he suggested. 

Day 1: Arrive In Istanbul

After a long flight , you’ll finally arrive in Istanbul! Head straight to your hotel, dump your bags, and then set off – Istanbul is huge, so you need to make the most of it. Explore the city as you wish; some of the famous sights not to be missed are:

• Blue Mosque: one of Istanbul’s most beautiful mosques
• Hagia Sophia:   a former Byzantine Cathedral and museum that is now a mosque
• Topkapi Palace  was once the home of the Ottoman sultans.
• Whirling Dervish:   a religious & cultural experience
• Delicious Turkish dinner: try a kebab and some baklava

Day 2 & 3: Exploring More Of Istanbul

On the second and third days of your Turkey trip, take some time to explore Istanbul – remember when we said it was huge?! Suggestions for the day are:

• Stroll through the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar – where you can shop for Turkish carpets, souvenirs, spices, and more
• Walk the Galata bridge, climb the Galata Tower – views of Istanbul to die
• Eat lunch in the colorful Balata district
• Explore the palaces of Istanbul – you can find palace choices here
• Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Cistern)
• Exploring the streets of Karakoy
• Taking The Ferry To Moda, In Kadikoy – the Asian side of Istanbul
• Eat dinner on a rooftop restaurant – try here for top choices

It is far too hard to list exactly what to do in Istanbul for a few days, as there is so much on offer. So, take your pick from the ideas below. These Istanbul guides will ensure your few days in this metropolis are a total blast.

• Exploring Istanbul With Kids
• Istanbul Beaches
• Here Is How Many Days In Istanbul Is Enough
• Where To Eat In Istanbul
• Best Turkish Bath In Istanbul
• 4 Days In Istanbul Itinerary
• 16 Things To Do In Istanbul, Turkey
• Whirling Dervishes In Istanbul
• Your Guide To Sultanahmet Istanbul
• Top Palaces In Istanbul
• 48 Hours In Istanbul 
• Is Istanbul Safe
• 18 Best Mosques In Istanbul
• Istanbul Nightlife
• Shopping In Istanbul
• Where To Stay In Istanbul
• Best Hotels In Taksim Square In Istanbul
• The Best Festivals in Istanbul
•  A Day In The Colorful Balat Istanbul
• Best Museums In Istanbul
• Top Hotels Near The Blue Mosque
• 5 Biggest Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid
• Best Breakfast In Istanbul
• Romantic Places In Istanbul
• Things To Do In Istanbul In Winter

Day 4 Head To Pamukkale-Hierapolis & Ephesus

On day four of your exploration of Turkey, you will travel to Denilzi by plane early in the morning and then transfer to Pamukkale-Hierapolis.

• How To Get To Pamukkale From Istanbul

This beautiful town is home to thermal springs and travertine terraces. The water in the springs is said to have healing properties, making Pamukkale a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Just next to the hot springs are the remains of Hierapolis, a once-ancient city. The two combines will take around 4 plus hours to explore.

• A Guide To Hierapolis
• A Guide To Pammukale

Day 5: Make Your Way To Ephesus & Selcuk

Get on the road to discover the ancient city of Ephesus. This city was once one of the world’s most important cultural and trade centers. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Turkey’s most popular tourist destinations. The ruins of Ephesus are incredibly well-preserved and provide a fascinating glimpse into the past.

After spending some time exploring Ephesus, you will head to the town of Selcuk for a visit to the museum, wander the streets, or take a pottery class; the choice is yours. 

Make your way to Izmir for the night , ready for the early morning flight. Here are the top Izmir airport hotels to consider. 

Day 6 & 7: Cappadocia, Goreme And Uchisar

Cappadocia is a region in central Turkey known for its unique landscape of tall, cone-shaped rock formations called “fairy chimneys.” Once you land here on your flight from Izmir, you can begin the Cappadocia part of your itinerary.  

• Day 6: Start your day with a visit to Goreme National Park, where you can explore the many Byzantine cave churches and monasteries. Then head to Uchisar Castle, which offers excellent views over the surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, take a hike through one Red or Love valley. Or take a hot air balloon flight for an unforgettable experience.
• Day 7: On your last day in Cappadocia, make sure to visit the Open Air Museum to see some of the best-preserved cave churches. Then, stroll through Goreme village and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere before returning to Istanbul.

There are several tours of Cappadocia that help you see as much as possible in such a short time; here are a few ideas;

• Red & Green Tours Of Cappadocia
• Blue Tours Of Cappadocia
• Hot Air Ballooning In Cappadocia
• Things To Do In Cappadocia
• Best Airports In Cappadocia
• Best Hotels In Cappadocia
• A Guide To Pigeon Valley
• Is Cappadocia Expensive

Day 8-9: Ankara

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is a bustling city with a rich history, and you can get there in a few hours on the bus (or rent a car) from Cappadocia. In Ankara, be sure to visit:

• The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations – which houses artifacts from the Bronze Age to the Ottoman Empire
• The Mausoleum of Ataturk –  the founder of modern Turkey,
• Outside of the city, you can visit the ruins of Gordium, the ancient capital of Phrygia
• A Guide To Ankara

Day 10: More Of Ankara Or Istanbul

Today is your last day, so you can enjoy more of Ankara or take an early morning flight to Istanbul (we assume your flight leaves from here anyway.) and see more of what you missed in Istanbul.

• Make sure to wake up early to catch a glimpse of the city as the sun rises, and start your day with a delicious Turkish breakfast at one of the local cafes .
• Spend time exploring the city’s many mosques, palaces, and markets
• In the afternoon, take a cruise down the Bosphorus Strait . This is a great way to see Istanbul’s skyline and get a different perspective of the city

More Turkey Itinerary 10-Day Options

Want even more ideas for Turkey trip planning? Here are some more ten-day routes for Turkey. While we won’t dive into these in detail, you can consider these plans for going on a different and exciting trip to other parts of Turkey.

From The Pearl Of Aegean To The Easternmost City Of Turkey

Here is another idea for a 10 day trip to Turkey:

• Day 1: Arrival in İzmir
• Day 3: Take a train to Eskişehir
• Day 4: Visit Eskişehir’s museums
• Day 5: Take a train to Ankara
• Day 6: Discover the hidden gems of Ankara
• Day 7: Take a train to Kars
• Day 8: Explore the rich history of Kars
• Day 9: Take a bus to Iğdır
• Day 10: Explore the Easternmost city of Turkey

Eastern Turkey Tour

• Day 1: Arrival in Kars
• Day 2: Explore the marks of the Russian rule
• Day 3: Go on a gastro-adventure and visit the local restaurants
• Day 4: Travel to Ağrı
• Day 5: Explore the city and visit historical monuments
• Day 6: Visit the winter sports center on the Ağrı Mountain
• Day 7: Travel to Erzurum
• Day 8: Discover the hidden gem of the East
• Day 9: Travel to Erzincan
• Day 10: Explore the city and buy souvenirs

How To Get To Turkey

Compared to most countries in the region, Turkey is a very accessible destination. The country receives thousands of international flights from Asian and European countries daily, and the national airline of Turkey, Turkish Airlines , is known as one of the world’s largest airlines, with 340 destinations.

• Istanbul Airport Guide

Besides air travel, one can also get to Turkey by sea. 97% of the country’s lands are located in the Anatolian peninsula, surrounded by sea from the northern, western, and southern parts. As a result, there are many international cruise tours to Turkey from Italy, Greece, and other European countries. Plus, the Black Sea region of Turkey can be accessible by sea from Romania, Bulgaria, Russia, and Ukraine.

Another alternative way to Turkey is by land – ideally by a personal vehicle. If you don’t own a car, you might prefer various bus tours to Turkey, which might not be as comfortable as you imagine. On the other hand, several train routes can take you to Turkey through scenic and exciting trails. But they might not be ideal for travelers on a budget, as international train routes are usually way more expensive than air travel.

Get a quote on a car rental here.

Did you find the right Turkey travel itinerary and the best things to do in Türkiye for you? If so, all you have to do is pack your Turkish Lira and head to the small towns and ancient cities, snack on Turkish street food, and enjoy.

When is the best time to go to Turkey?

The best time to visit Turkey depends on what you want to see and do. The country has a diverse range of things to offer, from its vibrant cities to its stunning coastal towns, so it’s worth considering what you want to get out of your trip before booking.

If you’re looking for a relaxed holiday by the beach, the best time to go to Turkey is between May and October when the weather is warm and sunny. If you want to explore Turkey’s cultural heritage, autumn or spring are the ideal times to visit, as the weather is cooler and fewer tourists are around.

No matter when you decide to go, make sure you allow plenty of time to see all that Turkey has to offer. A week is really not enough time to do justice to this fascinating country, so try and plan for at least 10 days if possible.

Is Turkey expensive?

Turkey has a wide range of prices, depending on the city and area you are visiting. Generally, Istanbul and Cappadocia are more expensive than other parts of Turkey. However, there are plenty of ways to visit Turkey on a budget. Here are some tips:

• Stay in hostels or guesthouses rather than hotels
• Eat at local restaurants further away rather than places in tourist areas
• Take advantage of free activities like walking tours and museum visits
• Visit less popular (and therefore less expensive) destinations like Konya or Cesme
• Use this budget in Turkey guide

Can I road trip these 10-day itineraries in Turkey?

We loved our recent Turkey road trip and found driving easy, but the distances were long. Turkey is a vast and varied country with a rich history and culture that can be explored for days on end. While seeing many of the highlights in just 10 days is possible, you will need to fly sections of these itinerary ideas just because the distances are so huge. But don’t worry; you can 100% rent a car in Turkey and drive portions of these itineraries.  

Now that you have these six itinerary options for how to spend ten days in Turkey, we hope that you love your 10 day Turkey tour!

• Your Guide To Fethiye
• Things To Do In Oludeniz
• Winter In Cappadocia
• The Best Time To Visit Turkey
• Best Islands To Visit In Turkey

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Enjoy the unique landscapes and treasured history during your custom-tailored 10-day Turkey tour. The ancient city of Ephesus will take you back in time to view elegant Ionian architecture. The breathtaking boulders of Cappadocia will reveal spellbinding natural beauty during your Turkey trip to showcase where dramatic scenery and vibrant culture combine.

Customizable Itinerary

Istanbul – the city of istanbul.

Your private transfer will meet you at the airport and escort you to your luxurious accommodation in the heart of Istanbul. The ceramic tiles adorning the facades along the historic city have a lively sheen. The trolley car will run along the center of the Beyoglu district. The daily crowd will exude a welcoming energy. The buildings will highlight the European influence, filled with restaurants and cafes with seating spilling onto the sidewalks. You will find charming narrow alleys where old men play dominoes accompanied by the rich aroma of fresh Turkish coffee.

What's Included:

Istanbul – Culture and History

The morning will bring with it the savory and sweet scents of breakfast, such as tantalizing baked breads and honey. The familiar aroma of Turkish coffee will welcome the memory of the strong flavor. Your guide will meet you at your hotel after breakfast ready to show you the beauty of Istanbul on a half-day tour beginning with the Blue Mosque. The structure was built in the 17th century under the patronage of Sultan Ahmet I. The sultan wanted to construct a place of worship that was grander than the Hagia Sophia.

Istanbul – Cruise the Bosphorus

The morning will fill with rapid color and energy as locals enjoy their morning Turkish coffee and sweet pastries. After breakfast, you are taken to the Spice Bazaar with your private guide finding the marketplace that dates back to the 17th century. After your visit to the marketplace, you will step aboard a boat and begin your cruise of the Bosphorus. You will stop at Dolmabahce Palace to see the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The palace was constructed in the 19th century and is the largest palace in Turkey with over 285 rooms.

Cappadocia – The Scenery of Cappadocia

The culture of Istanbul is an image of the city’s history, from the mosques to the coffee, the spices to the palaces. Your private transfer will meet you in the hotel lobby and escort you from your hotel to the airport where you will board your flight bound for Cappadocia. You will arrive in the stunning region to find the famous landscape encompassing honeycombed hills and boulders towering over the unearthly plain. The foothills roll and the mountains shift from orange to cream. The stone is soft and has been carved into homes and churches in order to create shelter for local residents for thousands of years.

Cappadocia – Visit Cavusin Village

Sunrise over Cappadocia will offer a breathtaking rainbow of colors as the light peeks over the ridge. After breakfast, your private guide will meet you at the hotel and lead you to the famous Goreme Open-Air Museum, where Byzantine monks carved churches out of the soft rock and created tremendous chapels and monasteries. In the 17th century, the collection of churches became a pilgrimage site. The complex is hidden in the mountainside and could have gone unnoticed if you did not know it was there.

Cappadocia – A Day at your Pace

The day will be yours to spend as you wish in the tremendous setting of Cappadocia. The sky will show a clear blue. You will see the remarkable boulders rise into the air and twist like independent karsts. To enjoy the impressive landscape, you could indulge in a hot air balloon ride. The magnificent balloon will inflate and carry you away into the sky. The rush of the flame and the swelling balloon will take you into the air. There are a remarkable number of other balloons in the sky that will look like vivacious clouds.

Izmir – The Port City of Izmir

The rugged and spellbinding landscape of Cappadocia will disappear beyond the horizon in the morning when your private transfer takes you to the Kayseri Airport. You will soon arrive in the coastal city of Kusadasi for a short tour before arriving in Izmir. The city sits on the sapphire shores of the Aegean Sea. That famous beach of Kadinlar Denizi pulses with a distinctive energy adding to the inviting whir of beachside and luxury ambiance. Umbrellas will help create comfortable shade under the hot, Mediterranean sun. The water will lap gently at the sand.

Izmir – The Ancient Ruins of Ephesus

The aroma of sweet mint tea will emanate from the cafes in the morning. You will hear the Turkish coffee percolating. After breakfast, you will make your way to the ancient city of Ephesus with your guide for a private tour of Europe’s best-preserved classical metropolis. Attic-Ionian Greek colonists founded the city in the 10th century BC. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once towered over the cityscape. A single pillar remains and stands over sixty feet tall.

Izmir – Majestic Scenery

The day will be at your leisure to enjoy the charming coastline along the Aegean Sea. The sand will feel warm and the water will offer a refreshing cool feeling against the golden Mediterranean light. You could also enjoy another trip into the ancient history of the surrounding countryside with a visit to Pergamon. The ancient city remains filled with tranquil streets and a classic splendor. The Acropolis retains the adornments of grand temples and the dramatic theater.

Istanbul – Departure

You will hear the morning tide brush against the shore. The sun will rise and cast a golden glower over the sand. The water will continue to glow a remarkable sapphire as the scent of Turkish coffee accompanies breakfast. Your private transfer will meet you in the hotel lobby to escort you to the airport for your return flight.

Trip Highlights

• Witness the elegant design and captivating artistry of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in Istanbul
• Indulge in the rich culture of the Grand Bazaar where carpets, lamps, and tea sets decorate the aisles
• View the extravagant architecture and opulent décor of historic Ottoman palaces
• Discover the treasured cave churches and surprising underground villages in the region of Cappadocia
• Experience the renowned natural scenery of Cappadocia, known for its distinctive mars-like topography
• Visit the magnificent ancient metropolis of Ephesus for insight into the Greek and Roman history of the region
• Explore the vast ancient streets of Pergamom, a city mentioned in the Book of Revelations

Starting Price

$3,375  per person (excluding international flights)

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Money latest: Supermarket caught out over 'fake farm'; bank boss reveals interest rate prediction

Our series on how to eat more healthily for less is back - and we're looking at breakfast. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment in the box.

Friday 3 May 2024 19:30, UK

• Lidl rushes to remove 'fake farm' references after MP grilling
• HSBC chair predicts when interest rate cut will come
• Prescription charges rose this week - but there are ways to pay less
• Weak US jobs news sparks rise in bets on interest rate cut

Essential reads

• Mortgage rates are rising - here's everything you need to know if you're a first-time buyer right now
• Which cereals have least sugar? Your guide to a healthier breakfast without paying a fortune
• How to nab yourself a free upgrade on a flight
• You're probably washing and storing your clothes wrong. Here's what you should do instead
• Money Problem : 'Builders won't repair dodgy work - what are my rights?'

Ask a question or make a comment

A cash ISA offering an interest rate of 4.5% has been launched today by Melton Building Society .

The interest is paid annually on 31 March and can be added to the account, transferred to your bank account or transferred to an existing Melton savings account.

Here's what you need to know...

How do you open an account?

• You must be a UK resident and be aged 16; 
• Accounts can be opened with a minimum amount of £25 and the maximum that can be held in this account is £500,000.

Can you withdraw money?

Yes, you can withdraw money as long as you give the bank 180 days' notice in branch, by post or phone

Once you have done this, all or part of the investments in the ISA, including any interest earned, will be transferred to you.

You can also access your money without giving notice, but you will be charged 180 days' interest on the amount you withdraw. 

A lack of demand for new electric cars has led some brands to begin slashing prices. 

Even some of the UK's best-selling electric cars are thousands of pounds cheaper than a year ago, according to Auto Trader figures shared with The Times . 

Among the most heavily discounted vehicles are the Honda E, down 20% versus a year ago at £29,600, and the Peugeot E-2008, which has fallen in price by 15% to £30,000. 

The Vauxhall Corsa-e and Mokka-e are both being advertised at a 20% off sale price, while the MG ZS and MG5 are discounted by 15%. 

Meanwhile, Ford's flagship electric car, the Mustang Mach-E, has fallen in price by 14%. 

Ian Plummer, Auto Trader's commercial director, said lower prices are good news for car buyers and that it was "encouraging" to see more affordable electric cars on the market. 

He said the discounts had been "driven by a softening in consumer demand, coupled with the introduction of the zero-emissions vehicle mandate, which is putting pressure on manufacturers to comply with the new regulations or face heavy fines". 

The government's zero-emission vehicle ( ZEV ) mandate requirers manufacturers to produce a certain percentage of zero-emission cars and vans each year.

It started when comedian Peter Kay, who was supposed to be the first official act for the new Manchester Co-op Live on 23 April, had his performances rescheduled.

Rick Astley's performance on 20 April was a "test event" for the venue but ticket capacity was slashed just hours before his gig was due to begin.

Astley fans who had their tickets cancelled were instead offered seats to see US rock band The Black Keys play - but their show has also been affected.

And to add to the chaos, this week Olivia Rodrigo's concerts, scheduled for 3 and 4 May, were postponed.

Then, Take That announced they were moving their shows from the venue to the AO Arena in Manchester.

A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie concert was also postponed just over an hour before the rapper was set to perform.

Today, Barry Manilow also said he had a "back-up plan" to move his Manchester performance from the beleaguered venue. 

The ongoing mayhem has left disgruntled concert-goers voicing their frustration, with some calling for travel and accommodation to be reimbursed and others calling the situation "embarrassing".

"There will be countless people who would've booked travel and hotels just for you to stitch them up because you couldn't meet assured deadlines," one person wrote on X.

Another person said the music venue should "at the very minimum" be "looking at refunding travel/hotel costs for people that can prove they paid for cancelled dates".

And another person asked: "How do I get a refund for parking? There's no info on your site or app."

Organisers at Co-op Live said the venue would be taking "a short pause to events" before welcoming members of the public to the arena from 14 May.

A Co-op Live statement said: "At this time, we do not expect further impact on our opening season. We are aware our actions have frustrated and angered ticketholders."

Tim Leiweke, chairman and chief executive of Oak View Group, which developed Co-op Live in partnership with the City Football Group, has said they cannot run any event until it is "absolutely safe to do so".

A Co-op Group spokesperson said: "As naming rights sponsor for Co-op Live we are disappointed with these further schedule changes.

"Co-op is a sponsor and does not own or run the venue, and we have made it clear to Oak View Group, who are responsible for the building, that the impact on ticketholders must be addressed as a priority."

An Itsu freezer product is being urgently recalled over fears it could contain plastic. 

Customers are being told not to eat Itsu's sizzling pork gyoza, which is sold at Asda and Sainsbury's.

The 240g packs with a best before date of 8 March 2025 are those affected by the recall.

A 200-year-old Edinburgh attraction is reopening this month after being closed for four years. 

The Nelson Monument is a 150ft tower overlooking the city, and was built to commemorate Admiral Horatio Nelson's victory at the Battle of Trafalgar.

It has been shut for essential works for years, but visitors will soon be able to climb its 143 steps again.

An official opening date has not yet been given.

HMRC's Welsh-language app is only being used by two in every 100 native speakers, according to a new report by The Telegraph .

A freedom of information request by the paper found that 13,831 Welsh speakers have used the app since its launch in June 2022.

That equates to 1.5% of the nearly 900,000 people who say they speak the language.

Jonathan Eida, researcher at the TaxPayers' Alliance pressure group, told the newspaper he thought the move was a "gimmick".

Gig ticket prices may be eye-wateringly high at the moment (just like everything else, let's face it) but a big sale next week will see tens of thousands of tickets at discounted prices. 

LiveNation is holding a sale for 24 hours from noon on Thursday until noon on Friday, with prices starting from £25. 

Artists who you can get discounted tickets to see include Doja Cat, Meghan Thee Stallion, Shania Twain, Becky Hill, Avril Lavigne, Eric Prydz, Giggs, Glass Animals, James Arthur, JLS, Jungle, Kaiser Chiefs, Limp Bizkit, Offset, McFly, Olly Murs, Paloma Faith, Placebo, Tom Jones, Tiesto and The Streets. 

You can find the full line-up of artists and venues with discounted tickets  on the LiveNation website here .

The company will also be holding promotions and competitions throughout next week. 

By James Sillars , business news reporter

Financial markets are strange beasts.

You would think that fewer new jobs being created in the United States would be a cause for concern.

Hardly. It is being positively celebrated.

Closely watched figures out at 1.30pm showed an easing in both jobs and wage growth by more than expected last month.

It has led to greater bets on the US Federal Reserve, the central bank, introducing its first interest rate cut in September.

A hot economy and stubborn inflation have dragged on market sentiment in recent weeks.

Investors desperately want to see cheaper borrowing costs.

In reaction, US stock market futures showed the S&P 500 would open more than 1% higher.

The FTSE 100 was also on track for another record close. It was trading 0.8% higher at 8,234.

That was despite a big weakening in the dollar.

The pound gained three-quarters of a cent to $1.26 versus the US currency after the jobs data dropped.

Tech giant Apple has recorded the biggest drop in iPhone sales since the early months of the COVID pandemic.

Sales for January to March were down 10% on the same period last year - something not seen since the 2020 iPhone model was delayed due to lockdown factory closures.

Overall, Apple earned $90.8bn (£72.4bn) in the latest quarter - down 4% from a year ago. It was the fifth consecutive three-month period that the company's revenue dipped from the previous year.

Apple's profit in the past quarter was $23.64bn (£18.85bn) - a 2% dip from a year ago.

It was good news, however, for the overall value of the company as its share price rose nearly 7% after investors had expected a bigger drop in sales.

You can read more here ...

The chair of HSBC has predicted the Bank of England will cut interest rates in June.

Speaking at HSBC's annual general meeting today, Mark Tucker said he expected the European Central Bank and Bank of England to cut rates next month, both lowering by 150 basis points by the end of 2025.

He also said he expected the US Federal Reserve to cut rates in September.

However, yesterday, one of the world's leading economic authorities, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, said interest rates, which are at a post-2008 era high of 5.25%, should stay there.

"The fiscal and monetary policy mix is adequately restrictive and should remain so until inflation returns durably to target," the OECD's economic outlook for 2024 said.

Mango plans to open 20 new stores this year as it continues to strengthen its UK presence.

The Spanish fashion retailer, which arrived in the UK in 1999, will be opening stores in several cities in Northern Ireland and central and southern England, as well as Scotland.

There are also plans to open four stores in London. 

Daniel Lopez, Mango director of expansion and franchising, told Retail Gazette the expansion "will consolidate the Mango brand" and help "strengthen it internationally".

The retailer recently unveiled a spring/summer collection in collaboration with Victoria Beckham.

Lidl has rushed to remove old references to so-called fake farm branding on its website after being questioned by MPs.

The retail chain told MPs yesterday that a picture of its "Strathvale farm chicken" was a "mistake" after telling them they did not use so-called fake farms.

Appearing in front of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee on fairness in the food supply chain, Lidl GB's chief commercial officer Richard Bourns was questioned on the fairness of supermarkets using fake farms to market their food.

Mr Bourns, who was questioned by committee member Rosie Duffield on using "Strathvale farm" branding for meat products, replied: "We don't use Strathvale farms, we use Strathvale.

"We do not use farm brands, just to be absolutely clear."

Committee chairman Robert Goodwill, who had access to the internet, said: "Oh wait a minute, we have here a Strathvale farm Scottish large chicken, for £3.85. Gosh that's cheap.

"So there is on the website at least, a reference to Strathvale farm."

Mr Bourns replied: "If there is a reference to Strathvale farms on our website I'd want to take that away and correct it.

"It could be the case that our website is not up to date.

"We do not have an online offering but I can categorically tell you we do not have farms brands in our business, just to be absolutely clear."

After the committee hearing a Lidl spokesperson said: "Any historic web pages featuring old packaging that appear via a search engine are in the process of being removed to ensure complete accuracy."

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