3 nightsIstanbulHistoric peninsula + BosphorusBest for
Palaces, mosques, bazaars, yacht
The complete 15-day Türkiye travel guide
Fifteen days across Türkiye, done beautifully.
From the minarets of Istanbul to the balloons of Cappadocia and the turquoise coast of Antalya: a meticulously planned, premium journey with everything you need on the road.
IstanbulIzmir / EphesusCappadociaAntalya
15Days
4Regions
13Nights
20+Iconic sites
The journey at a glance
Four regions, fifteen unforgettable days
This 15-day journey runs Seattle → Istanbul → Izmir / Ephesus → Cappadocia → Antalya → Seattle. International flights are on Turkish Airlines non-stop; domestic legs on AJet, the Turkish Airlines group’s value airline. It pairs recognised luxury hotels with walking routes and live Google Maps links, verified museum hours and closed days, vetted English-speaking tours, full transport and emergency information - with an official source link on every researched item. Always re-check date-sensitive details - flight times, museum hours, prices - on the linked official pages before booking.
3 nightsIstanbulHistoric peninsula + Bosphorus
2 nightsIzmir / EphesusAegean coastBest for
Ephesus, Virgin Mary, Sirince, Urla/Cesme
2 nightsCappadociaBalloon + cave hotelsBest for
Valleys, underground cities, sunrise flight
6 nightsAntalyaMediterranean + ancient sitesBest for
Kaleici, Perge/Aspendos/Side, beaches, relax
Before-booking checklist
- Confirm final dates and Turkish Airlines TK204/TK205 times and IST connection buffers on turkishairlines.com or the app.
- Confirm hotel room category, cancellation policy, airport transfer and concierge contact for each city.
- Book private English-speaking guides: Istanbul Day 3, Ephesus Day 7, Cappadocia Day 9-10, Antalya Day 12-13. Use the Tours section before committing.
- Reserve premium restaurants and the Bosphorus yacht; reconfirm 48 hours before.
- Verify museum hours and closed days on the linked official pages for your exact dates (see Sites & Hours section).
- Install BiTaksi, Uber, AJet app, eSIM, offline Google Maps, Google Translate (Turkish), WhatsApp. Save the Emergency section offline.
- Enroll in STEP at step.state.gov so the US Consulate can reach you in an emergency.
Day by day
The 15-day route
Comfortable, premium pacing - 3 nights Istanbul, 2 Izmir / Ephesus, 2 Cappadocia, 6 Antalya. Tap any day to expand. Times are planning estimates; verify flights, museum hours and bookings for your dates.
Day1 FlightEvening Depart Seattle (SEA) for Istanbul (IST) on Turkish Airlines TK204 non-stop. Online check-in, reserve seats, confirm baggage. Arrive SEA 3 h early.
Walking / distance
Airport walking; use lounge.
Transport
Turkish Airlines; pre-booked car to SEA.
Travel time
SEA-IST ~13 h
Notes & risk control
Departure time varies by date. Use TK app, not screenshots, for final timing.
Day2 IstanbulPM Arrive IST; private transfer to hotel; soft landing. Light waterfront walk near hotel, early dinner, sleep.
Walking / distance
Optional 15-30 min easy walk near hotel.
Transport
Hotel/VIP transfer; avoid street-taxi offers in terminal.
Travel time
IST-hotel 45-75 min
Notes & risk control
Confirm driver and plate before entering car.
Day3 Istanbul08:30-17:30 Historic Peninsula: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace + Harem.
Walking / distance
Sultanahmet walkable: Hagia Sophia-Blue Mosque ~5 min; -Cistern 2-3 min; -Topkapi 10-12 min. Uneven stone, crowds.
Transport
Walk locally; taxi/transfer from hotel to Sultanahmet.
Travel time
Hotel-Sultanahmet 10-35 min
Notes & risk control
Topkapi CLOSED Tuesdays. Hagia Sophia is a mosque - modest dress, avoid Friday 12:30-14:30. Licensed guide only.
Day4 Istanbul09:30-22:00 Dolmabahce Palace, then private Bosphorus yacht at sunset, Bosphorus-side dinner (Lacivert / Feriye / Sunset).
Walking / distance
Shangri-La to Dolmabahce ~10 min walk. Dolmabahce-Feriye ~25 min waterfront; taxi at night.
Transport
Hotel car/taxi; yacht pier arranged by operator.
Travel time
In-city 10-35 min; yacht 2 h
Notes & risk control
Dolmabahce CLOSED Mondays. Verify on millisaraylar.gov.tr before locking the date.
Day5 Istanbul09:30-13:00 Suleymaniye Mosque viewpoint, Spice + Grand Bazaar, Galata. Midday transfer to IST for AJet to Izmir.
Walking / distance
Grand-Spice Bazaar ~15-20 min downhill, crowded.
Transport
Taxi/transfer; then airport transfer.
Travel time
Hotel-IST 60-90 min
Notes & risk control
No carpet/leather side trips unless planned. Keep AJet connection comfortable.
Day6 IzmirMidday / PM Fly IST-ADB on AJet. Check in. Afternoon Kordon waterfront, Konak clock tower, dinner (Deniz / Tavaci Recep Usta).
Walking / distance
Kordon/Alsancak walkable from central hotels (5-20 min). Kemeralti busy.
Transport
AJet; airport transfer; city taxi/app.
Travel time
IST-ADB ~1h20; ADB-center 25-45 min
Notes & risk control
Confirm tonight's Ephesus tour. Keep valuables secure in Kemeralti.
Day7 Izmir / Ephesus07:45-18:30 Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Sirince with private English guide.
Walking / distance
Ephesus 2-3 h walking on marble/uneven ground. Mary House and Sirince not walkable. Sirince uphill cobbles.
Transport
Private English guide/driver, comfort sedan/van.
Travel time
Izmir-Ephesus ~80 km, 1h15-1h30 each way
Notes & risk control
Licensed guide. Ephesus 08:00-20:00 (box office 19:00). Hat/water; little shade.
Day8 Izmir10:00-22:00 Aegean leisure day. Option A: Urla wineries/olive-oil country + dinner (Vino Locale, reserve weeks ahead). Option B: Cesme/Alacati marina, stone streets, beach club.
Walking / distance
Urla/Cesme not walkable from Izmir. Alacati center walkable, cobbled.
Transport
Private car/driver.
Travel time
Izmir-Urla ~45-60 min; -Alacati/Cesme 60-75 min
Notes & risk control
Michelin-listed spots book out; reserve ahead. Mind Day 9 flight.
Day9 CappadociaMorning / midday Fly ADB-IST-ASR (Kayseri) on AJet. Private transfer to Uchisar/Goreme cave hotel. Sunset viewpoint if arrival allows.
Walking / distance
Airport not walkable. Hotel areas sloped/cobbled; short scenic walks only.
Transport
AJet connecting flights; private hotel transfer.
Travel time
ADB-IST ~1h; IST-ASR ~1h15; ASR-Uchisar 60-75 min
Notes & risk control
No non-stop ADB-Cappadocia; connect via IST. Book balloon for first morning.
Day10 Cappadocia04:30-17:30 Sunrise hot-air balloon (weather permitting). Then Goreme Open-Air Museum, Pasabag/Zelve, Avanos pottery, Uchisar Castle sunset.
Walking / distance
Balloon landing can be bumpy. Museum/valleys uneven trails and stairs.
Transport
Balloon operator transfer; private guide/driver.
Travel time
Balloon 3-4 h door-to-door; site drives 10-25 min
Notes & risk control
SHGM-licensed balloon operator only; confirm weather-cancellation refund.
Day11 Cappadocia09:00-13:00 South Cappadocia: Derinkuyu or Kaymakli underground city, optional Ihlara Valley short route. Midday transfer to ASR for AJet to Antalya.
Walking / distance
Underground cities: stairs, narrow passages, stooping; not for claustrophobia. Ihlara ~3-4 km optional.
Transport
Private guide/driver; then airport transfer.
Travel time
Goreme-Derinkuyu 40-55 min
Notes & risk control
Carry water, light jacket. Choose one underground city unless very keen.
Day12 AntalyaMidday / PM Fly ASR-IST-AYT on AJet. Check into central (Akra/Rixos) or Lara/Belek resort. Evening Kaleici walk + dinner (Seraser / Arma).
Walking / distance
Kaleici walkable but cobbled/stepped; taxi to/from hotel at night.
Transport
AJet connecting flight; airport transfer; taxi for dinner.
Travel time
ASR-AYT via IST; AYT-Kaleici 25-45 min
Notes & risk control
No direct Cappadocia-Antalya flight. Keep TK-group connection on one ticket.
Day13 Antalya08:45-18:30 DAY TOUR 1: Perge, Aspendos Roman theatre, Side old town + Temple of Apollo at sunset.
Walking / distance
Sites require walking in heat on uneven stone. Not walkable from city; do not taxi-hop.
Transport
Private guide/driver (A/C vehicle).
Travel time
Antalya-Perge 25-35 min; -Aspendos +35-45; -Side +35-50; Side-Antalya 75-90 min
Notes & risk control
Start early in summer. Side theatre may be under restoration; verify.
Day14 Antalya09:30-20:30 Beach/nature day. Easy: Konyaalti or Lara beach + spa, Duden Waterfalls, Tunektepe cable car. Active: Phaselis harbor/beach + Kemer, or Termessos (fit walkers).
Walking / distance
Konyaalti/Lara easy. Phaselis uneven ruins + swim coves. Termessos steep uphill; skip in high heat.
Transport
Taxi/private driver; hotel beach transfer; boat via concierge.
Travel time
Antalya-Phaselis/Kemer 60-75 min; -Termessos 45-60 min + hike
Notes & risk control
Avoid midday heat; sunscreen, water, hats. Confirm boat operator safety.
Day15 ReturnDate-dependent Fly AYT-IST-SEA. AJet AYT-IST, connect to TK205 IST-Seattle on one ticket. Generous IST buffer with checked bags.
Walking / distance
Airport walking; request assistance if needed.
Transport
AJet + Turkish Airlines; hotel transfer to AYT.
Travel time
AYT-IST ~1h20; IST-SEA ~13 h; buffer 3+ h
Notes & risk control
Reconfirm flight status 24 h and morning of. Keep passports/meds/chargers in carry-on.
Getting there & around
Flights & transfers
International on Turkish Airlines non-stop; domestic on AJet (the value airline of the Turkish Airlines group). Private transfers by default. Car rental restricted to SIXT or AVIS only, airport desks only.
Seattle (SEA) - Istanbul (IST)
- Carrier
- Turkish Airlines TK204
- Airports
- SEA / IST
- Timing
- Non-stop, ~13 h
- Transfer
- Home-SEA by pre-booked car; IST-hotel by hotel/VIP transfer.
Istanbul (IST) - Izmir (ADB)
- Carrier
- AJet
- Airports
- IST / ADB
- Timing
- Morning, ~1h20
- Transfer
- Hotel-IST 60-90 min buffer; ADB-hotel private transfer.
Izmir (ADB) - Istanbul (IST) - Kayseri (ASR)
- Carrier
- AJet
- Airports
- ADB / IST / ASR
- Timing
- Arrive Cappadocia early afternoon
- Transfer
- Private transfer ASR-cave hotel. ASR has more flights than NAV.
Kayseri (ASR) - Istanbul (IST) - Antalya (AYT)
- Carrier
- AJet
- Airports
- ASR / IST / AYT
- Timing
- Via IST; no non-stop
- Transfer
- Hotel-ASR transfer; AYT-hotel private transfer.
Antalya (AYT) - Istanbul (IST) - Seattle (SEA)
- Carrier
- AJet + Turkish Airlines TK205
- Airports
- AYT / IST / SEA
- Timing
- One ticket; 3+ h IST buffer
- Transfer
- Hotel-AYT 30-60 min by hotel car.
IST, ADB, ASR, AYT
- Carrier
- SIXT only
- Airports
- Airport desks
- Timing
- Day trips only
- Transfer
- Pick up/return at airport. Avoid city-center pickup.
IST, ADB, ASR, AYT
- Carrier
- AVIS only
- Airports
- Airport desks
- Timing
- Day trips only
- Transfer
- Confirm automatic, full insurance, HGS toll policy, one-way fees.
Baggage & fares on AJet
- Carrier
- AJet - the Turkish Airlines group's value carrier (formerly AnadoluJet)
- Carry-on
- ~8 kg limit - pack light or check a bag
- Checked bags
- Add at booking to avoid higher airport fees
- Alternative
- Pegasus is a low-cost fallback only if no AJet time suits
Istanbul (IST) connections
- Why via IST
- No non-stop service links Izmir, Cappadocia and Antalya with each other - domestic legs connect through Istanbul
- Ticketing
- Keep all legs on one ticket where possible
- Buffers
- Allow 90+ min for connections; 3+ h for the international return
Where to stay
Premium hotel shortlist
High-recognition luxury brands only, with official URLs. Final choice depends on dates, room category, mobility, and walking-access vs resort tradeoff. Green = walkable base, orange = transfer-based.
Istanbul
Four Seasons Sultanahmet
Top-tier luxury inside the historic district; easiest base for the Hagia Sophia/Topkapi walking day.
- Best for
- History-first, short walks to monuments.
- Walking
- Excellent - monuments within walking distance
- Transfer
- IST transfer by hotel car
The Peninsula Istanbul
Modern ultra-luxury waterfront; strong for Bosphorus, Galata, dining and service.
- Best for
- Best all-around luxury + waterfront.
- Walking
- Walkable to Galata/Karakoy; Sultanahmet by tram/taxi
- Transfer
- Good for yacht pickup coordination
Ciragan Palace Kempinski
Iconic Ottoman palace hotel on the Bosphorus; famous infinity pool.
- Best for
- Special-occasion, palace atmosphere.
- Walking
- Bosphorus waterfront nearby; Old City by car
- Transfer
- Excellent for yacht/dinner; transfer to peninsula
Four Seasons Bosphorus
Restored 19th-c. palace on the strait, gardens, pool, balanced top service.
- Best for
- Bosphorus luxury, next to Besiktas ferry.
- Walking
- Ferry/taxi to Old City
- Transfer
- IST transfer by hotel car
Shangri-La Bosphorus
Asian-inspired elegance, superb spa, indoor pool. Best-value Bosphorus luxury. Dolmabahce ~10 min walk.
- Best for
- Dolmabahce + Bosphorus views.
- Walking
- Dolmabahce ~10 min walk; Old City by taxi
- Transfer
- Good for Day 4; taxi to Sultanahmet
Raffles Istanbul
Contemporary ultra-luxury above Zorlu Center: vast suites, a celebrated spa and skyline-to-Bosphorus views.
- Best for
- Modern luxury, shopping and arts.
- Walking
- Zorlu Center direct; Old City by car
- Transfer
- IST transfer 40-60 min
Izmir
Swissotel Buyuk Efes
Known 5-star deluxe in central Izmir with easy Kordon access.
- Best for
- Central comfort, low-friction base.
- Walking
- Kordon/Alsancak walkable
- Transfer
- ADB transfer 25-45 min; Ephesus day starts here
Izmir Marriott Hotel
5-star waterfront with central access.
- Best for
- Brand familiarity, waterfront walks.
- Walking
- Kordon and center walkable
- Transfer
- ADB transfer 25-45 min
Renaissance Izmir Hotel
Marriott-family 5-star central option near waterfront.
- Best for
- Reliable central stay.
- Walking
- Walkable to Kordon/Alsancak
- Transfer
- ADB transfer 25-45 min
Grand Hyatt Izmir IstinyePark
New luxury Hyatt at a high-end mall; polished but less central.
- Best for
- Shopping, resort-like city stay.
- Walking
- Not ideal for Kordon walking; use car
- Transfer
- Farther from Kordon/Alsancak
Movenpick Hotel Izmir
Polished Swiss-brand 5-star on the central square, steps from the Kordon waterfront.
- Best for
- Central comfort, dependable service.
- Walking
- Kordon and Alsancak walkable
- Transfer
- ADB transfer 25-45 min
Wyndham Grand Izmir Ozdilek
Seafront tower with wide bay views beside the Balcova thermal area.
- Best for
- Sea-view rooms and spa time.
- Walking
- Not central - car to Kordon/Alsancak
- Transfer
- ADB transfer 25-40 min
Cappadocia
Museum Hotel (Relais & Chateaux)
Iconic luxury cave hotel, infinity pool, strong views.
- Best for
- High-end sense of place.
- Walking
- Short scenic walks; uneven/sloped
- Transfer
- NAV 35-45 min; ASR 60-75 min transfer
Argos in Cappadocia
Award-winning luxury cave estate, strong design, dining and views.
- Best for
- Stylish cave luxury.
- Walking
- Uchisar walking possible, hilly/cobbled
- Transfer
- Private transfer required
Kayakapi Premium Caves
Restored historic cave/hillside, premium positioning.
- Best for
- Cave-room experience, quieter base.
- Walking
- Urgup old town reachable, hilly
- Transfer
- Private transfer; farther from Goreme
Sultan Cave Suites
Iconic terrace for balloon sunrise photos, central Goreme.
- Best for
- Photogenic, in the action.
- Walking
- Walk into Goreme center
- Transfer
- Private transfer to airport
AJWA Cappadocia
New-generation ultra-luxury stone estate in Urgup with hammam-style spa and fine dining.
- Best for
- Polished top-tier luxury.
- Walking
- Estate sloped; Urgup center a short drive
- Transfer
- ASR 50-70 min transfer
Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge
Design-led boutique lodge with valley-view terraces and warm, personal service.
- Best for
- Quiet design luxury.
- Walking
- Uchisar walking possible, hilly/cobbled
- Transfer
- ASR 60-75 min transfer
Antalya
Akra Antalya
Premium city-resort with sea views and good access to Kaleici and the Perge road. Best central balance.
- Best for
- City access + sea, sightseeing-focused.
- Walking
- Waterfront paths; Kaleici by taxi
- Transfer
- AYT 25-45 min; good for Day 13
Rixos Downtown Antalya
Urban resort, Mediterranean/Taurus views, Konyaalti access.
- Best for
- City + resort amenities.
- Walking
- Konyaalti park/beach; Kaleici by taxi
- Transfer
- AYT 30-45 min
Tuvana Hotel
Restored 19th-c. mansion, vine courtyard, pool, walk to harbour. Charming boutique.
- Best for
- Walk the old town, atmosphere.
- Walking
- Walk the whole old town
- Transfer
- Taxi to airport and sites
Lara Barut Collection
Top-rated ultra-luxury beach resort (~9.5 guest score), vast grounds, spa.
- Best for
- Beach relaxation finale.
- Walking
- Resort-contained; taxi to old town
- Transfer
- AYT 20-30 min
Titanic Mardan Palace
One of Türkiye's most opulent resorts: marble, canals, huge pools.
- Best for
- Landmark luxury beach stay.
- Walking
- Resort-contained; taxi to old town
- Transfer
- AYT 20-30 min
Regnum Carya / Maxx Royal
Ultra-luxury Belek resorts; golf, beach, top service.
- Best for
- Resort/golf/beach finale.
- Walking
- Resort-contained; no city walking
- Transfer
- Private car for Kaleici/sites
What to see
Sites, hours & closed days
VERIFY all hours and closed days on the official page for your exact dates - they change. Closed-day warnings are highlighted in red text. Source links are in the last column and the Sources section. Closed-day warnings are highlighted in red.
Istanbul
Hagia Sophia (mosque)
Open daily; CLOSED to tourists during prayers, esp. Friday 12:30-14:30
- Best window
- Day 3, 09:00
- Time on site
- 60-90 min
- Mobility
- Interior walking/stairs; modest dress, head covering; crowded
- Guide
- Licensed guide or audio; no unsolicited guides
Basilica Cistern
- Best window
- Day 3, late morning
- Hours
- Open daily ~09:00-22:00
- Time on site
- 45-60 min
- Mobility
- Stairs/ramps, low light, damp floor
- Guide
- Pre-book timed ticket if available
Topkapi Palace + Harem
09:00-17:00; CLOSED TUESDAYS (last entry ~16:30)
- Best window
- Day 3, 13:30
- Time on site
- 2.5-3.5 h
- Mobility
- Large grounds, courtyards, some stairs/crowds
- Guide
- Private licensed guide; check Harem ticket
Dolmabahce Palace
09:00-18:00; CLOSED MONDAYS (last entry 17:00)
- Best window
- Day 4 morning
- Time on site
- 2-3 h
- Mobility
- Indoor route, standing/walking, crowds
- Guide
- Book via Milli Saraylar or concierge
Private Bosphorus yacht
- Best window
- Day 4 sunset
- Hours
- Operator/concierge; English host on some
- Time on site
- 2 h
- Mobility
- Minimal walking; boarding gangway
- Guide
- Book private via concierge; confirm pier/weather
Grand + Spice Bazaar
Public bazaars; no ticket; closed Sundays (Grand Bazaar)
- Best window
- Day 5
- Time on site
- 1-2 h
- Mobility
- Crowded walking, uneven thresholds
- Guide
- Optional guide; skip shopping pressure
Izmir
Ephesus Archaeological Site
- Best window
- Day 7, 09:15
- Hours
- 08:00-20:00 (box office 19:00), open daily; restoration zones
- Time on site
- 2.5-3 h
- Mobility
- Extensive marble/uneven walking; little shade
- Guide
- Private English guide/driver
House of Virgin Mary
- Best window
- Day 7 midday
- Hours
- Part of Ephesus tour; small separate entry fee
- Time on site
- 45-60 min
- Mobility
- Short walk, slopes; car required from Ephesus
- Guide
- Include in private Ephesus tour
Sirince village
- Best window
- Day 7 afternoon
- Hours
- Village; open access
- Time on site
- 60-90 min
- Mobility
- Uphill cobblestones; not a long hike
- Guide
- Private driver/guide
Urla / Cesme-Alacati (Day 8)
- Best window
- Day 8
- Hours
- Restaurants/marina; reserve dining ahead
- Time on site
- Half/full day
- Mobility
- Minimal walking (Urla); Alacati cobbled
- Guide
- Private driver; book restaurants ahead
Ephesus Terrace Houses
- Best window
- Day 7, inside Ephesus
- Hours
- Within Ephesus; separate timed ticket; covered walkways
- Time on site
- 45-60 min
- Mobility
- Stairs and raised walkways under a protective roof
- Guide
- Add to the private Ephesus tour - the mosaics justify it
Ephesus Museum (Selcuk)
- Best window
- Day 7, after the site
- Hours
- Museum hours ~08:30-17:30 - verify for your date
- Time on site
- 45-60 min
- Mobility
- Indoor, level galleries; easy walking
- Guide
- Home of the Artemis statues; pairs with the ruins
Cappadocia
Hot air balloon
- Best window
- Day 10 sunrise
- Hours
- SHGM-licensed operators; weather dependent
- Time on site
- 3-4 h door-to-door
- Mobility
- Basket standing; landing can be bumpy
- Guide
- Book first morning; confirm refund policy
Goreme Open Air Museum
- Best window
- Day 10 late AM
- Hours
- 08:00-20:00 (box office 19:15), open daily
- Time on site
- 1.5-2 h
- Mobility
- Uneven paths, stairs, churches; sun
- Guide
- Private guide for the frescoes
Zelve / Pasabag
- Best window
- Day 10 afternoon
- Hours
- Open daily; official museum page
- Time on site
- 1-1.5 h
- Mobility
- Uneven valley paths, dusty
- Guide
- Private guide/driver
Derinkuyu / Kaymakli underground
- Best window
- Day 11 morning
- Hours
- Open daily; official museum pages
- Time on site
- 60-90 min
- Mobility
- Narrow passages, stairs, low ceilings; not for claustrophobia
- Guide
- Guide recommended for safety/context
Uchisar Castle
- Best window
- Day 10 sunset
- Hours
- Open daily until sunset; small entry fee
- Time on site
- 45-60 min
- Mobility
- Steep steps to the summit - the highest point in Cappadocia
- Guide
- Go 60-90 min before sunset for the light
Ihlara Valley
- Best window
- Day 11 optional
- Hours
- Seasonal ~08:00-19:00 - verify locally
- Time on site
- 2-3 h
- Mobility
- Long stair descent, then a level riverside path (3-4 km)
- Guide
- Combine with Derinkuyu on the south loop
Antalya
Perge Ancient City
- Best window
- Day 13 morning
- Hours
- 08:00-20:00 (box office 19:30), open daily
- Time on site
- 1.5-2 h
- Mobility
- Large open site, uneven stones, heat
- Guide
- Private archaeology guide/driver
Aspendos Theatre
- Best window
- Day 13 late AM
- Hours
- 08:00-21:00 (box office 20:30), open daily
- Time on site
- 60-90 min
- Mobility
- Stairs/stone seating; manageable
- Guide
- Guide helpful, or self-guided with driver
Side / Apollo Temple
- Best window
- Day 13 sunset
- Hours
- Open; theatre may be under restoration - verify
- Time on site
- 1.5-2 h
- Mobility
- Old town walking, ruins, waterfront
- Guide
- Driver/guide; sunset option
Antalya Archaeology Museum
CLOSED - demolished/rebuilding, reopening planned end of 2026. Verify before going
- Best window
- SKIP unless reopened
- Time on site
- -
- Mobility
- Indoor if reopened
- Guide
- Do not schedule unless official page says open. Alternative: Antalya Necropolis Museum
Phaselis Ancient City + beach
- Best window
- Day 14 option
- Hours
- 08:00-20:00, open daily
- Time on site
- 2-3 h
- Mobility
- Ruin paths + swim coves; uneven but scenic
- Guide
- Private driver; swimsuit/towels
Termessos
- Best window
- Day 14 active option
- Hours
- Open; verify official page
- Time on site
- 2-4 h
- Mobility
- Steep/uneven hike-like site; not casual
- Guide
- Private driver; skip in high heat
Where to eat
Restaurants: fine dining and classics
A mix of fine dining and beloved classics. Reserve premium and waterfront tables ahead, and reconfirm 48 h before. Wine regions and waterfront bar-restaurants are included as standard options for travelers.
Istanbul
$$$Reserve ahead
Matbah
Ottoman palace cuisine, historic recipes
- Area
- Sultanahmet
- Good to know
- Inside Ottoman Hotel Imperial
$$$Reserve ahead
Seven Hills
Rooftop, Hagia Sophia + Blue Mosque views
- Area
- Sultanahmet
- Good to know
- Book a terrace table at sunset
$$Reserve ahead
Hamdi Restaurant
Kebabs, Golden Horn terrace
- Area
- Eminonu
- Good to know
- Istanbul classic; reserve for the view
$$$Reserve ahead
Lacivert
Waterfront fine dining under the bridge
- Area
- Anadolu Hisari
- Good to know
- Reachable by yacht drop-off
$$$Reserve ahead
Tugra (Ciragan Palace)
Ottoman fine dining on the Bosphorus
- Area
- Besiktas
- Good to know
- Special-occasion dinner on the water
$$Reserve ahead
Karakoy Lokantasi
Modern Turkish meze, tiled room
- Area
- Karakoy
- Good to know
- Lunch easier; reserve dinner
Izmir
$$$Reserve ahead
Deniz Restaurant
Top Aegean seafood, waterfront
- Area
- Alsancak
- Good to know
- Inside Izmir Palas Hotel
$$Reserve recommended
Tavaci Recep Usta
Classic kebabs/meze, English menu
- Area
- Alsancak
- Good to know
- Reliable and welcoming
$$$Reserve ahead
Kordon Balik
Fresh fish, sea views
- Area
- Kordon
- Good to know
- Lovely at sunset over the bay
$$$Reserve ahead
Vino Locale (Urla)
Aegean farm-to-table + local wine
- Area
- Urla
- Good to know
- Michelin-listed; reserve weeks ahead
$$Reserve recommended
Topcu'nun Yeri
Legendary Alsancak grill - kofte and Izmir classics
- Area
- Alsancak
- Good to know
- Casual and busy at lunch; English menu
$$Reserve recommended
Sakiz Alsancak
Modern Aegean cooking with olive oil and wild herbs
- Area
- Alsancak
- Good to know
- Seasonal menu; good for a lighter dinner
Cappadocia
$$$Reserve ahead
Seki Restaurant (Argos)
Fine dining, valley views, local wine
- Area
- Uchisar
- Good to know
- Best meal in the region
$$Reserve ahead
Topdeck Cave
Home-style Anatolian in a cave
- Area
- Goreme
- Good to know
- Small; reserve a day ahead
$$Reserve recommended
Dibek Traditional
Slow-cooked testi kebab (clay pot)
- Area
- Goreme
- Good to know
- Order testi kebab hours ahead
$$$Reserve ahead
Lil'a (Museum Hotel)
Elegant terrace dining, balloon views
- Area
- Uchisar
- Good to know
- Sunrise and sunset spectacular
$$Reserve ahead
Ziggy Cafe
Set menus of meze on a terraced Urgup hillside
- Area
- Urgup
- Good to know
- Book a terrace table for sunset
$$$Reserve ahead
Seten Restaurant
Refined Anatolian classics above Goreme
- Area
- Goreme
- Good to know
- Terrace views toward the valley; reserve for dinner
Antalya
$$$Reserve ahead
Seraser Fine Dining
Elegant dining in a Kaleici mansion
- Area
- Kaleici
- Good to know
- Special-occasion choice
$$$Reserve ahead
Arma Restaurant
Seafood, old harbour and sea views
- Area
- Kaleici harbour
- Good to know
- Sunset tables; reserve
$$$Reserve recommended
7 Mehmet
Grills and meze, big garden
- Area
- Konyaalti
- Good to know
- Local landmark; English menu
$$$Reserve ahead
Vanilla Restaurant
Modern Mediterranean and Turkish
- Area
- Kaleici
- Good to know
- Intimate room; reserve
$$Reserve recommended
Mermerli Restaurant
Terrace over the old harbour with its own beach below
- Area
- Kaleici harbour
- Good to know
- Arrive before sunset for the view
$$$Reserve recommended
Lara Balik Evi
Fresh fish and meze - a local seafood favorite
- Area
- Lara
- Good to know
- Ask for the daily catch; reserve at weekends
Eat like a local
Street food you must try
Street food is one of Türkiye's great joys, and the golden rule is simple: eat where locals queue. Busy stalls and long-established spots with high turnover are the freshest and the safest. Browse the icons below with the arrows.
Guides & experiences
Vetted tours & booking rules
Ratings change by platform and provider. Use the 'final verification rule' before committing to any operator. Prefer hotel concierge for truly private experiences; use marketplace listings as a quality benchmark.
Istanbul
Private Bosphorus yacht
- Book via
- Concierge for private; Viator/GetYourGuide for rated backup
- Quality signal
- Viator sunset yacht listing showed ~4.9/5, 2000+ reviews
- English
- Yes, on many listings
- We suggest
- Book private via concierge; use marketplace as benchmark
Verify before you commit
Rating >=4.7/5, recent English reviews, licensed captain, clean private yacht, clear pier, weather/cancellation policy.
Istanbul
Old City private guide
- Book via
- Concierge or TURSAB-licensed guide
- Quality signal
- Guide-specific live ratings
- English
- Fluent English, history-focused
- We suggest
- Use a licensed guide Day 3 for queues, prayer closures, scam avoidance
Verify before you commit
License number, WhatsApp, no retail commissions, recent 5-star English reviews.
Izmir
Ephesus + Sirince private tour
- Book via
- GetYourGuide or hotel-arranged private guide/driver
- Quality signal
- GetYourGuide listing showed ~4.6/5
- English
- English listed
- We suggest
- Add House of Virgin Mary explicitly if wanted
Verify before you commit
Rating >=4.6/5, recent reviews, private vehicle, entry fees clarified, no compulsory carpet/leather stop.
Izmir
House of Virgin Mary add-on
- Book via
- Add to Ephesus private tour
- Quality signal
- GetYourGuide attraction ~4.7/5, thousands of reviews
- English
- English options
- We suggest
- Include if interested in Christian history/pilgrimage
Verify before you commit
Confirm itinerary explicitly includes the House, not only Ephesus city.
Cappadocia
Hot air balloon
- Book via
- Direct with operator or concierge; verify SHGM licensing
- Quality signal
- Top operators show strong recent verified reviews
- English
- Yes, confirm
- We suggest
- Book first morning; compare Royal, Voyager, Butterfly
Verify before you commit
Rating >=4.7/5, SHGM-compliant, hotel pickup, refund/reschedule policy, no flying if weather-cancelled.
Cappadocia
North/South private guide
- Book via
- Concierge or reputable private guide
- Quality signal
- Guide-specific
- English
- Fluent English, senior-friendly pacing
- We suggest
- Private guide/driver for valleys + underground city
Verify before you commit
Recent English reviews, private vehicle, no factory-shopping stops unless requested.
Antalya
Perge + Aspendos + Side day
- Book via
- Concierge or vetted private guide/driver
- Quality signal
- Provider-specific
- English
- Fluent English, history-capable
- We suggest
- Private guide/driver - sites spread out, heat matters
Verify before you commit
Rating >=4.7/5, A/C vehicle, licensed guide, clear ticket handling, flexible heat breaks.
Antalya
Kaleici / Old Harbor boat
- Book via
- Concierge preferred
- Quality signal
- Small operators vary
- English
- English host/captain preferred
- We suggest
- Optional if Istanbul yacht already booked
Verify before you commit
Licensed boat, life jackets, clear route/duration, no overcrowded party boat.
Istanbul
Historic hamam (Turkish bath)
- Book via
- Hotel concierge or the historic hamams' official pages
- Quality signal
- Restored 16th-century hamams hold strong recent visitor ratings
- English
- English briefing and menus at the historic houses
- We suggest
- A scrub-and-foam session the morning after the big Day 3 walking day
Verify before you commit
Book on the official page, confirm the session type (self-service vs full scrub), and men's/women's hours.
On the ground
Getting around: walks & drives
Approximate planning estimates - use Google Maps day-of for live traffic and pedestrian routing. Walkability warnings are conservative. Green = walk, orange = car/transfer. The last column is a ready Google Maps directions link. Every Get Directions button starts from wherever you are standing.
Istanbul
WalkWalkable
Hagia Sophia - Blue Mosque
~300 m / 5 min
WalkWalkable
Hagia Sophia - Basilica Cistern
~150 m / 2-3 min
WalkWalkable
Basilica Cistern - Topkapi Palace
~700 m / 10-12 min
WalkWalkable
Shangri-La Bosphorus - Dolmabahce
~700 m / 10 min
Walk/TaxiMaybe
Dolmabahce - Feriye
~1.8 km / 25 min
Walk + guideMaybe
Grand Bazaar - Spice Bazaar
~1.2 km / 15-20 min
Izmir
WalkWalkable
Central hotel - Kordon
5-20 min depending hotel
CarDrive / transfer
Izmir center - Ephesus
~80-85 km / 1h15-1h30
CarDrive / transfer
Ephesus - House of Virgin Mary
~8-9 km / 15 min
CarDrive / transfer
Ephesus - Sirince
~10-12 km / 20 min
CarDrive / transfer
Izmir - Urla
~45-60 min
CarDrive / transfer
Izmir - Cesme / Alacati
~80-90 km / 60-75 min
Cappadocia
TransferDrive / transfer
Kayseri Airport - Uchisar/Goreme
~60-75 min
CarNot for schedule
Uchisar - Goreme Open Air Museum
~5-6 km / 10-15 min
CarDrive / transfer
Goreme/Uchisar - Derinkuyu
~35-45 km / 40-55 min
Antalya
TransferDrive / transfer
AYT Airport - Kaleici/Akra
~15-20 km / 25-45 min
WalkWalkable
Kaleici: Hadrian's Gate - Old Harbor
~700 m / 10-15 min
CarDrive / transfer
Antalya - Perge
~17-20 km / 25-35 min
CarDrive / transfer
Perge - Aspendos
~35-40 km / 35-45 min
CarDrive / transfer
Aspendos - Side
~35-45 km / 35-50 min
CarDrive / transfer
Side - Antalya
~75-80 km / 75-90 min
CarDrive / transfer
Antalya - Phaselis/Kemer
~50-60 km / 60-75 min
CarDrive / transfer
Antalya - Duden Waterfalls
~12-15 km / 20-30 min
CarDrive / transfer
Antalya - Termessos
~35-40 km / 45-60 min, then a steep site
Connectivity & convenience
Apps, eSIM & rentals
Set these up before you land: a data eSIM, ride apps, offline maps and translation. Install WhatsApp first - many Turkish services verify by WhatsApp.
Ride & Taxi Apps
BiTaksi
App Store / Google Play- How It Works
- Türkiye's most used app; licensed metered taxis
- Where
- Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, Ankara
- Pay
- Card in app or cash
Uber
App Store / Google Play- How It Works
- Summons licensed taxis (not private cars)
- Where
- Mainly Istanbul (weak in Antalya)
- Pay
- Card in app
iTaksi
App Store / Google Play- How It Works
- Istanbul's official city taxi app
- Where
- Istanbul
- Pay
- Card or cash
Marti / Marti TAG
App Store / Google Play- How It Works
- E-scooters and taxi-matching
- Where
- Istanbul and major cities
- Pay
- Card in app
Some Turkish taxi apps send the verification code by WhatsApp rather than SMS, which is easier on a US number. Install WhatsApp first. If hailing on the street, ask for the meter ('taksimetre') or use an app.
eSIM - set up before landing
Airalo
airalo.com / app- Good For
- Easy, popular, app-based
- Networks
- Turkish networks
- Note
- 10 GB plenty for 2 weeks
Nomad
nomad app- Good For
- Reliable, good value
- Networks
- Turkish networks
- Note
- Simple top-ups
SimOptions
simoptions.com- Good For
- Cheapest 10 GB in 2026 comparisons
- Networks
- Turkish networks
- Note
- Good budget pick
Sim Local
sim-local.com- Good For
- Best rural redundancy (multi-network)
- Networks
- Turkcell/Vodafone/Turk Telekom
- Note
- Safest for Cappadocia valleys
Food & Grocery Delivery
Uber Eats
App Store / Google Play- What
- Restaurant delivery; now in Türkiye
- Where
- Major cities
- Note
- Familiar for US travelers
Yemeksepeti
App Store / Google Play- What
- Türkiye's top food delivery app
- Where
- Nationwide
- Note
- Street food to fine dining
Getir
App Store / Google Play- What
- Groceries, snacks, water in minutes
- Where
- Major cities
- Note
- Late-night water lifesaver
Getir Yemek
App Store / Google Play- What
- Getir's restaurant food arm
- Where
- Major cities
- Note
- Pairs with Getir grocery
Airport car rental (these two only)
SIXT
sixt.com- Where
- IST, ADB, ASR, AYT airport desks
- Book
- Online before arrival
- Note
- Premium fleet, English service
AVIS
avis.com.tr/en- Where
- IST, ADB, ASR, AYT airport desks
- Book
- Online before arrival
- Note
- Confirm automatic, insurance, HGS tolls
Everyday Apps
Google Maps
Pre-download Turkey offline- Use
- Navigation, walking routes, transit
Google Translate
Download Turkish offline- Use
- Menus, signs, conversations
- Use
- Guides, drivers, hotels
AJet app
Mobile boarding passes- Use
- Domestic check-in and changes
Istanbulkart / Izmirkart
Buy physical card at stations- Use
- Tap-to-ride public transport
XE Currency
App Store / Google Play- Use
- Live Turkish lira rates; save rates offline for markets and tipping
Travel smart
Safety, customs & etiquette
Türkiye is welcoming and safe for visitors - the main risk is overcharging, not crime. A little etiquette goes a long way.
Mosque & Religious Etiquette
- DressCover shoulders and knees; women cover hair with a scarf (usually lent at the entrance).
- Shoes offRemove shoes before entering; bags or shelves are provided.
- Prayer timesMosques close to tourists during the five daily prayers and Friday midday.
- Working mosquesHagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are active mosques; avoid Friday 12:30-14:30.
- RespectSpeak softly, never walk in front of someone praying, silence your phone.
Warmth & Manners
- HospitalityTea (çay) is offered everywhere; accepting is friendly, never an obligation to buy.
- GreetingsA handshake is standard. Try 'Merhaba' (hello) and 'Teşekkür ederim' (thank you).
- LanguageTurkish; English is common in hotels and tours. Google Translate bridges the gap.
- BargainingNormal in bazaars; walking away improves the price. Not in shops or restaurants.
- Photos of peopleAsk before photographing individuals, especially in villages.
Practical & Health
- Money & tippingLira; cards almost everywhere. Cash for markets and tips: round up taxis, ~10% in restaurants.
- Electricity220V, European two-pin plugs (Type C/F); bring a US-to-Europe adapter.
- Heat & terrainStrong sun at ancient sites: hat, water, sunscreen. Cobblestones: comfortable shoes.
- InsuranceCarry medical insurance; private hospitals are excellent but verify coverage first.
- MobilityUnderground cities involve stooping and stairs; balloon baskets need a step-up.
Staying Safe
- TaxisUse BiTaksi or Uber; if hailing, insist on the meter ('taksimetre').
- Unsolicited guidesPolitely decline 'free tours'. Real guides come via your hotel or a licensed booking.
- Crowds & valuablesPhone and wallet in front pockets on trams, ferries and in bazaars.
- DemonstrationsAvoid political gatherings and carry a passport copy.
- Emergency numberSave 112 offline: one number for ambulance, fire and police, with English help.
Food & Drink
- Turkish breakfastA daily highlight: cheeses, olives, eggs, tomatoes, breads, honey.
- Must-triesSimit, döner, lahmacun, gözleme, baklava, Turkish delight, fresh pomegranate juice.
- Tea & coffeeTurkish tea and coffee are everywhere; try salep in cool weather.
- Wine & rakıAegean wine around Urla; rakı with meze is the classic meyhane evening.
- WaterDrink bottled water, cheap and everywhere. Avoid tap water for drinking.
Scams to Dodge
- 'Come to my friend's bar'Never follow a stranger to a bar or club: inflated bills, sometimes aggressive.
- Shoe-shiner trickA brush 'drops' near you; returning it leads to a demanded fee. Keep walking.
- 'Duty-free' sellersSomeone 'from the airport free shop' offers sealed perfume or electronics cheap. It's fake.
- Meter & bill games'Broken meter', the long way round, padded bills. Use an app, check bills line by line.
- Fake goods'Genuine' brands at too-good prices are counterfeit. Buy from real shops; count your change.
Keep this offline
Emergency contacts
In any accident, fire or medical emergency anywhere in Türkiye, call or text 112 (English interpretation available). Save the US Consulate and your hotel numbers in your phone now. Verify any direct hospital line with a quick web check before relying on it.
112
One nationwide number for ambulance, fire and police, with English interpretation available anywhere in Türkiye.
Nationwide numbers
112
Single nationwide number, English help
Source: travel.state.gov Turkey page155
May still route; 112 is primary
Source: travel.state.gov+1-202-501-4444
US State Dept, 24/7
Source: travel.state.gov+1-888-407-4747
US State Dept, 24/7
Source: travel.state.govUS diplomatic posts
US Consulate General Istanbul
- Covers
- Istinye, Sariyer, Istanbul
- When to use
- US-citizen emergency, lost passport, arrest, serious incident
- Note
- After-hours same number for life/death
US Embassy Ankara
- Covers
- Cankaya, Ankara
- When to use
- Cappadocia/central Turkey consular emergency
- Note
- Call 112 first for medical/police
US Consular Agent Izmir
- Covers
- Izmir; Izmir@state.gov
- When to use
- Aegean US-citizen emergency
- Note
- For immediate danger call 112 first
Antalya (no consulate)
- Covers
- No US post in Antalya
- When to use
- Serious US-citizen emergency after 112
- Note
- Adana services suspended; use Ankara/Istanbul
Private hospitals (international standard)
Istanbul
American Hospital (Amerikan Hastanesi)
- Area
- Nisantasi / Sisli
- When
- Founded 1920, English-speaking, top choice for US travelers
Istanbul
Acibadem Taksim
- Area
- Sisli, near Taksim/Beyoglu
- When
- Convenient to Old City/Taksim stays
Istanbul
Acibadem Maslak
- Area
- Buyukdere Cad. No:40, Maslak
- When
- Large JCI-accredited flagship, full services
Istanbul
Acibadem International desk
- Area
- Istanbul
- When
- English assistance for foreign patients
Izmir
Acibadem Kent Hospital
- Area
- Cigli / Izmir
- When
- Major private hospital, English service
Izmir
Medical Park Izmir
- Area
- Izmir
- When
- Large private hospital network
Cappadocia
Nevsehir State Hospital
- Area
- Nevsehir
- When
- Nearest full hospital to Goreme/Uchisar
Cappadocia/Kayseri
Acibadem Kayseri
- Area
- Melikgazi / Kayseri
- When
- Larger private facility near ASR airport
Antalya
Medical Park Antalya
- Area
- Muratpasa / Antalya
- When
- Major private hospital, English service
Antalya
Memorial Antalya
- Area
- Kepez / Antalya
- When
- Private hospital, international patients
Tourist police & airports
Istanbul Tourism Police
- Scope
- Tourist areas
- Note
- Theft, scams, police report help; 112/155 for emergencies
Istanbul Airport
- Scope
- IST
- Note
- Lost items, transport; use airline for flights
Keep these on you (fill in privately, save offline)
- Hotel Istanbul + phone - Add after booking
- Hotel Izmir + phone - Add after booking
- Hotel Cappadocia + phone - Add after booking
- Hotel Antalya + phone - Add after booking
- Travel insurance line - Medical evacuation, payment guarantee; carry offline PDF
- Passport number / blood type - Fill in privately
Trust & verification
Official sources
Every researched, date-sensitive item - flight times, museum hours, prices, ratings - should be re-checked on these official or primary pages for your exact travel dates.
Flights
Hotels
Four Seasons Sultanahmetfourseasons.com/istanbul/
OpenThe Peninsula Istanbulpeninsula.com/en/istanbul
OpenCiragan Palace Kempinskikempinski.com/en/istanbul
OpenFour Seasons Bosphorusfourseasons.com/bosphorus/
OpenShangri-La Bosphorusshangri-la.com/istanbul/shangrila/
OpenSwissotel Izmirswissotel.com/hotels/izmir/
OpenMuseum Hotel Cappadociamuseumhotel.com.tr/en/main
OpenArgos in Cappadociaargosincappadocia.com/
OpenAkra Antalyaakrahotels.com/en/hotels/akra-antalya/
OpenLara Barut Collectionbaruthotels.com
OpenSites
Hagia Sophia (hours)muze.gen.tr/muze-detay/ayasofya
OpenBasilica Cisternyerebatan.com/en/
OpenTopkapi Palace (closed Tue)millisaraylar.gov.tr/Lokasyon/2/topkapi-sarayi
OpenNational Palaces tickets (Dolmabahce closed Mon)millisaraylar.gov.tr/Bilet/BiletAl?culture=en
OpenEphesusmuze.gov.tr · DistId=EFS
OpenGoreme Open Air Museummuze.gov.tr · sectionId=GRM01
OpenDerinkuyu undergroundmuze.gov.tr · DistId=DKY
OpenPergemuze.gov.tr · DistId=PRG
OpenAspendosmuze.gov.tr · DistId=ASP
OpenSidemuze.gov.tr · DistId=SDO
OpenPhaselismuze.gov.tr · DistId=PHS
OpenAntalya Museum CLOSED (rebuild to end 2026)hurriyetdailynews.com/antalya-archaeological-museum-closed-for-renovations-211582
OpenTours
Dining
Michelin Izmir listguide.michelin.com/us/en/izmir/restaurants
OpenTransport
BiTaksibitaksi.com/en
OpeneSIM
Airalo Turkeyairalo.com/blog/best-esim-for-turkey
OpenSafety
US State Dept Turkey pagetravel.state.gov · Turkey Country Information
OpenEmergency
Hospital
Enrollment
STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment)step.state.gov
Open