12 day itinerary for Turkey

Itinerary

Turkey is a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. With 12 days to explore, we can create a relaxed itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights and sounds without feeling rushed. Here’s a suggested itinerary for your trip:

## Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

• Morning: Arrive in Istanbul. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around Sultanahmet Square. Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia and marvel at its stunning architecture.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs or mezes.

## Day 2: Istanbul

• Morning: Visit the Topkapi Palace and explore the opulent rooms and beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Head to the Basilica Cistern for a unique underground experience. Then, wander through the Grand Bazaar for some shopping and local snacks.
• Evening: Take a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus. Enjoy the views of the city skyline and the bridges.

## Day 3: Istanbul

• Morning: Visit the Blue Mosque and take some time to admire its stunning interior.
• Afternoon: Explore the Spice Bazaar and indulge in some Turkish delight and spices.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner and perhaps catch a Whirling Dervishes show.

## Day 4: Cappadocia

• Morning: Fly to Cappadocia (about 1.5 hours). Check into a cave hotel for a unique experience.
• Afternoon: Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum to see ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

## Day 5: Cappadocia

• Morning: Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for breathtaking views of the fairy chimneys (book in advance!).
• Afternoon: Explore the Pasabag Valley (Monks Valley) and the Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley).
• Evening: Have dinner in a local restaurant and enjoy some live music or traditional dance.

## Day 6: Cappadocia

• Morning: Visit the underground city of Kaymakli or Derinkuyu.
• Afternoon: Hike through the Ihlara Valley and enjoy the beautiful scenery and ancient churches.
• Evening: Relax at your hotel or enjoy a Turkish bath (hamam) experience.

## Day 7: Pamukkale

• Morning: Travel to Pamukkale (about 10 hours by bus or a short flight to Denizli). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the stunning travertine terraces and take a dip in the thermal waters.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and relax.

## Day 8: Pamukkale and Hierapolis

• Morning: Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, including the well-preserved theater and the ancient necropolis.
• Afternoon: Spend more time at the travertines or relax in the Cleopatra’s Pool.
• Evening: Have a leisurely dinner and enjoy the sunset over the terraces.

## Day 9: Ephesus

• Morning: Travel to Ephesus (about 3 hours by bus). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the nearby town of Selçuk.

## Day 10: Ephesus and Sirince

• Morning: Visit the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis.
• Afternoon: Head to the charming village of Sirince for wine tasting and exploring the quaint streets.
• Evening: Return to Selçuk for dinner and relax.

## Day 11: Return to Istanbul

• Morning: Travel back to Istanbul (about 1 hour by flight). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Chora Church to see its stunning mosaics and frescoes.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the Bosphorus.

## Day 12: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or a visit to the Dolmabahçe Palace.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for a Relaxed Pace:

• Take your time at each site; there’s no rush!
• Enjoy leisurely meals and try local specialties.
• Consider using domestic flights for longer distances to save time.
• Don’t hesitate to take breaks and enjoy the local cafes or parks.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful and relaxed trip to Turkey! If you have any specific interests or adjustments, feel free to let me know!