Planning a trip to Turkey? This curated 7-day itinerary covers the best of Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya—perfect for first-time visitors or return travelers seeking an unforgettable mix of culture, food, adventure, and relaxation. Discover hot air balloon rides, Turkish hammams, stunning hotels, and top-rated restaurants in this Turkey travel guide.
Day 1–2: Exploring Istanbul — Culture, Cuisine & Rooftop Views
Where to Stay in Istanbul
We checked into the World Heritage Center Hotel, perfectly located with breathtaking views of the Blue Mosque. The central location made it easy to explore the historic Sultanahmet district on foot.
Dinner with a View: Roof Mezze 360
For our first dinner, we headed to the highly rated Roof Mezze 360. With panoramic views of the Bosphorus and a menu full of flavorful mezes, fresh seafood, and local wines, this spot is a must for foodies.
Turkish Hammam Experience
A traditional Turkish hammam experience at Çukurcuma Hamami 1831 is a truly rejuvenating experience, where you’re laid on a heated marble bed and scrubbed by a skilled staff member using a kese, a rough exfoliating rag that leaves your skin feeling incredibly soft. Afterward, you’re treated to a luxurious oily bubble wash that envelops you in warmth. Unlike some traditional hammams where nudity is required, this one allows you to wear a swimsuit, offering a more comfortable experience. Plus, you can take the exfoliating kese home as a souvenir—I still use mine!
Grand Bazaar & Sunset Cruise
Later that afternoon, we wandered through the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. From spices to handmade ceramics, it’s a treasure trove of Turkish goods. We capped off the day with a sunset cruise (note: this was on the Bosphorus, not the Danube), offering magical views of Istanbul’s skyline from the water.
Day 3–4: Magical Landscapes with Fairy Chimneys in Cappadocia
Getting There
We flew from Istanbul to Kayseri Airport and from there, we took this shuttle transfer to our hotel in Göreme.
Stay: Anatolian Houses Cave Hotel & Spa
We checked into the Anatolian Houses Cave Hotel & Spa—a stunning boutique hotel carved into the rock. Each room felt like a private cave retreat, complete with spa amenities and panoramic views of Cappadocia’s unique rock formations.
Dinner: Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant & Art Gallery
This was my second visit to Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant, and it was just as memorable as the first. The owner, always so welcoming, remembered me and made us feel at home. This time, bringing my family along, he surprised us with a thoughtful treat. It’s such a treat to watch him crack open his famous pottery kebab, revealing the delicious marinated meat inside. The owner’s generosity and the authentic Turkish hospitality made this meal one to remember. If you’re in Cappadocia, don’t miss out on this incredible dining experience!
Activities
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride – Voyager Balloons
The next morning, we soared above Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys with Voyager Balloons. This bucket-list experience delivered breathtaking views and a champagne toast upon landing.
Sunset Horseback Ride
That afternoon, we opted for a sunset horseback ride through Cappadocia’s valleys. As horse lovers, it was a much more immersive way to explore the terrain than a camel ride. Here’s the tour we booked.
Optional: Dervish Show
While not a must-do for everyone, the Dervish Show offers a glimpse into the spiritual side of Turkish culture through traditional Sufi music and whirling dance.
Day 5–7: Coastal Relaxation in Antalya
Flight to Antalya
We flew from Cappadocia to Antalya, trading rocky landscapes for sunny beaches.
Stay: Day One Beach Resort & Spa
We checked into Day One Beach Resort & Spa, a stylish beachfront property ideal for winding down after a packed itinerary. With beach access, spa treatments, and modern amenities, it’s perfect for travelers looking to relax.
Things to Do in Antalya (Suggestions)
- Relax at Konyaaltı or Lara Beach
- Explore the old town (Kaleiçi) with its charming Ottoman houses and boutique shops
- Visit Düden Waterfalls
- Sample fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant
Final Thoughts: A Perfect 7-Day Turkey Itinerary
Whether it’s watching the sunrise from a hot air balloon or dining under the stars in Istanbul, this 7-day Turkey itinerary offers the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. With unforgettable food, incredible hospitality, and rich history, Turkey is truly a destination that has it all.
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📌 Quick Links for Planning
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