Turkey, an enchanting country acting as a bridge between Europe and Asia, invites wanderers with its abundant heritage, lively culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you’re a lover of history, a gourmand searching for tantalizing flavors, a beach enthusiast, or an adventurous soul, Turkey holds a wealth of experiences that will leave you captivated. Join us on an expedition through this captivating land as we uncover its hidden treasures, iconic landmarks, and the warm embrace of its locals.
We are talking about a beautiful country with a rich history and diverse landscapes. If you have 15 days to travel, there are plenty of amazing things to see and do. Here are some suggestions for an itinerary:
Istanbul (3 days): Start your trip in Istanbul, the vibrant capital. Explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Take a boat tour on the Bosphorus Strait and indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine.
Topkapi Palace: Visit this magnificent palace complex that was once home to Ottoman sultans. Explore its beautiful gardens, courtyards, and museums showcasing Ottoman artifacts.
Hagia Sophia: Marvel at the stunning architecture of this iconic building, which has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Admire the intricate mosaics, grand dome, and historical significance.
Grand Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Explore thousands of shops selling carpets, handicrafts, spices, jewelry, and more.
Spice Bazaar: Discover a treasure trove of aromatic spices, teas, sweets, and traditional Turkish delights. Enjoy the vibrant colors, scents, and flavors in this bustling marketplace.
Bosphorus Cruise: Take a boat tour along the beautiful Bosphorus Strait that separates Europe and Asia. Enjoy breathtaking views of palaces, mosques, and stunning waterfront mansions.
Dolmabahce Palace: Marvel at the opulence of this 19th-century palace, which blends Ottoman and European architectural styles. Explore its lavish interiors, including chandeliers, grand staircases, and a large crystal collection.
Chora Church: Visit this Byzantine church, also known as the Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora. Be mesmerized by its breathtaking mosaics and stunning frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
Princes’ Islands: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, rent a bike or horse carriage, and explore the scenic landscape and charming historical buildings.
Suleymaniye Mosque: Discover one of Istanbul’s most impressive mosques, built by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. Admire its grand architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its courtyard.
Istanbul Modern Art Museum: If you’re interested in contemporary art, visit this museum showcasing the works of Turkish and international artists. Explore diverse exhibitions, installations, and enjoy the views of the Bosphorus.
Cappadocia (3 days): Fly from Istanbul to Cappadocia, known for its unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides. Discover the underground cities, explore the fairy chimneys, and visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum.
Cappadocia Turkey : Cappadocia is famous for its surreal rock formations called “fairy chimneys.” These cone-shaped rock formations were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The region’s stunning landscapes, hot air balloon rides, ancient churches, and cave dwellings make it a popular tourist destination.
Göreme Open-Air Museum: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit in Cappadocia. It showcases the region’s rock-cut churches and monasteries with beautiful frescoes dating back to the Byzantine period.
Underground Cities: Cappadocia is home to several underground cities, which were constructed as hiding places during times of invasion. These cities were carved into the soft volcanic rock by early Christians and offer an intriguing glimpse into ancient life. Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu are the most well-known underground cities, featuring multiple levels, hidden tunnels, ventilation shafts, and various rooms.
Kaymaklı Underground City: Kaymaklı is one of the largest and deepest underground cities in Cappadocia. It can accommodate thousands of people and features numerous chambers, including stables, storage rooms, kitchens, churches, and wineries. Visitors can explore several levels of this fascinating underground complex.
Derinkuyu Underground City: Derinkuyu is another impressive underground city, extending approximately 85 meters underground. It has similar features to Kaymaklı but boasts additional features like a school, communal areas, and a complex ventilation system. It’s amazing to see how these cities were ingeniously designed to provide refuge to the inhabitants.
Exploring the Underground Cities: While visiting these underground cities, you’ll have the opportunity to walk through narrow passages, climb stairs carved into the rock, and see the different chambers. It’s a unique and immersive experience that allows you to understand the historical significance of these underground complexes.
Remember to dress comfortably and wear appropriate footwear as you explore the underground cities, as some areas may be uneven or narrow. Also, consider joining a guided tour to fully understand the history and significance of these fascinating underground cities.
Cappadocia and its underground cities offer an incredible journey through history and natural wonders. It’s an experience you shouldn’t miss when visiting Turkey.
Pamukkale and Ephesus (2 days): Head south to Pamukkale, famous for its white terraces and thermal springs. Then, visit Ephesus, an ancient Greek city with well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater.
Antalya (2 days): Travel to Antalya, a coastal city known for its stunning beaches and historical sites. Explore the old town, visit the Antalya Museum, and take a boat tour along the beautiful Mediterranean coastline.
Bodrum (2 days): Continue west to Bodrum, a popular resort town with beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife. Visit Bodrum Castle, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, and relax on the sandy beaches.
Troy and Gallipoli (2 days): Journey north to visit the ancient city of Troy, known from Greek mythology. Then, visit Gallipoli, a significant World War I battlefield, and pay your respects at the memorials.
Back to Istanbul (1 day): Return to Istanbul for your last day, perhaps to explore any missed attractions or do some souvenir shopping in the Grand Bazaar.
Of course, this itinerary can be adjusted based on your interests and preferences. Turkey has so much to offer, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty. Just remember to plan enough time to fully immerse yourself in each destination and make unforgettable memories along the way.
