One-Week Travel Itinerary to Turkey

Last updated: January 2025

Turkey is a country of contrasts: the rich history, the diverse landscapes, and the vibrant cultures. Turkey has something in store for every traveler, from ancient ruins to bustling bazaars, from stunning coastlines to mouth-watering foods. One-Week Travel Itinerary to Turkey – Make the most of your week in Turkey! Explore Istanbul’s vibrant culture, Pamukkale’s natural wonders, and Cappadocia’s unique landscapes. Don’t forget to check if you need a Turkey eVisa—read this blog for all the details and plan your adventure!

Day 1-2: Istanbul – The Cultural and Historical Hub

Istanbul highlights include: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus Cruise

The journey to Turkey begins in Istanbul, the largest city in the country and a gateway between Europe and Asia. The iconic skyline, dominated by a number of minarets and domes, portrays Istanbul as a blend of history, culture, and modernity.

Morning: Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque

Start the day off with the visitation to the Hagia Sophia, which is this grand building that was once a cathedral, then a mosque, and is now a museum. Be fascinated by the mosaics in detail, the tall domes, and the fascinating mix of both Christian and Islamic history.

Directly opposite Hagia Sophia is the Blue Mosque or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famous for its six minarets and striking blue-tiled interior. These two sites are a must for understanding Istanbul's religious and cultural significance.

Afternoon: Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar

After a typical Turkish lunch-try kebabs or mezze platter-head to Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Stroll into its courtyards, royal chambers, and treasure rooms with a panoramic view of the Bosphorus.

Next, make your way to the colorful Grand Bazaar, which is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Feel free to do some browsing for souvenirs, such as Turkish carpets, ceramics, and spices in the colorful atmosphere.

Evening: Bosphorus Cruise

End your day with a pleasant Bosphorus Cruise, where one can see the skyline of Istanbul-its bridges and palaces by the water-and catch the sunset. It is the most serene way to take in the beauty of the city.

Day 3: Istanbul’s Hidden Gems and Departure for Cappadocia

Highlights: Basilica Cistern, Galata Tower, Taksim Square, Istiklal Street

On your last day in Istanbul, explore some of the city’s lesser-known but equally captivating sights.

Morning: Basilica Cistern

Start your day by visiting the Basilica Cistern, which is an underground water container in Byzantine times. It has been one of the most interesting places to visit because it's dimly lit, making everything mystic in an atmosphere of quiet.

Afternoon: Galata Tower and Taksim Square

Continue to Galata Tower for a panoramic view of Istanbul. This historic tower offers one of the greatest views of the city, Golden Horn, and Bosphorus. Later, take a walk along Istiklal Street that leads to Taksim Square, which is considered the cultural hub of the modern city.

Evening: Flight to Cappadocia

In the evening, take a short flight to Cappadocia, a surreal landscape of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and underground cities. It takes only two hours to reach Cappadocia from Istanbul by flight, with several local airlines flying the route at reasonable rates and frequency.

Day 4-5: Cappadocia – The Land of Fairy Chimneys

High-lights: Hot Air Balloon Ride, Goreme Open Air Museum, Underground Cities, Valley Hikes

Cappadocia is a fairyland in central Turkey, with its landscapes of topographic oddities, rock formations, and home to historical cave dwellers. Two days shall be the optimum allocation for this place.

Day 4 Morning: Hot Air Balloon Ride

Begin your first day in Cappadocia with a hot air balloon ride above its surreal landscape. It is a unique experience-watching the sunrise while flying across fairy chimneys, valleys, and cave houses.

Day 4 Afternoon: Goreme Open Air Museum

After the balloon ride, you could stop at the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is a rock-carved monastic complex that contains various churches with frescoes as old as the 10th century.

Day 4 Evening: Uchisar Castle and Sunset Point

Panoramic views at the highest point in Cappadocia on an evening hike up Uchisar Castle. Alternatively, you can also watch the sunset of Cappadocia from a fine viewpoint.

Day 5 Morning: Underground City

Among the best-known underground cities of Cappadocia are Derinkuyu and Kaymakli; both served as a refuge by early Christians. Take a walk around the multilevel underground chambers, tunnels, and ventilation shafts that once sheltered thousands of people.

Afternoon Day 5: Hiking in the Valleys

Spend your last day hiking through the most beautiful valleys in Cappadocia, such as Rose Valley and Love Valley. It would be ideal for open-air activities and taking photos.

Day 6-7: Antalya – The Turkish Riviera

Highlights: Old Town Kaleici, Hadrian's Gate, Antalya Museum, Beaches

After two days in Cappadocia, take your time to enjoy the warm sun on the shore of the Mediterranean. Flight in the morning from Cappadocia to Antalya-a beautiful coastal city with beaches, historical sites, and warm weather.

Day 6 Morning: Kaleici-Old Town of Antalya

Start your exploration by walking around Kaleici, a charming old part of the city Antalya has to offer. Take in the views against the narrow streets lined with Ottoman-era houses and historic monuments like Hadrian's Gate and the Clock Tower.

Day 6 Afternoon: Antalya Museum and Beach Time

Spend the afternoon at the Antalya Museum, which is one of thebest archaeological museums in Turkey. It contains an impressive collection of items from ancient civilizations that once called this region their home.

After that, take your time to relax along one of the beaches close to Antalya with crystal-clear waters and a scenic coastline.

Day 7: Day Trip to the Ancient City of Perge or Pamukkale

If you are game for some more adventure, take a day trip to the ancient city of Perge-nearby-a well-preserved archaeological site from Roman times. Alternatively, you could visit Pamukkale, famous for its thermal springs and travertine terraces, 3 hours away from Antalya.

Evening: Enjoy a Turkish Dinner by the Mediterranean

Conclude your Turkish adventure with fresh seafood and traditional Turkish dinner including mezes, kebabs, and baklava in a seafront restaurant.

Final Thoughts

This one-week itinerary gives a glimpse of the historical treasures, natural wonders, and vibrant cities of Turkey. You are sure to leave this country with lots of memories from the hustling streets of Istanbul to the dreamland-like landscapes of Cappadocia and the soothing shores of Antalya. You might want to stay longer to take in some of the other famous spots like Ephesus and the Turquoise Coast.

Disclaimer: This travel itinerary is intended as a general guide and may not be suitable for all individuals. It is recommended to research and customize your itinerary based on your personal preferences, interests, and travel style. Please note that travel conditions and restrictions may change with time.