7 Days in Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Antalya Itinerary

Turkey is a country that effortlessly blends the charm of Europe and Asia, where ancient ruins, fairy chimneys, turquoise beaches, and vibrant bazaars create a travel experience like no other. If you only have one week to explore, this 7-day Turkey itinerary takes you through the must-see highlights: the bustling city of Istanbul, the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, and the coastal beauty of Antalya.

Day 1: Arrive in Istanbul — Exploring the Historic Old City

Morning:

Check into your hotel in Sultanahmet (the Old City)
Visit the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

Afternoon:

Explore Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans
Stroll through Gülhane Park

Evening:

Head to the Grand Bazaar for souvenirs and Turkish delights
Dinner in a rooftop restaurant with a view of the Bosphorus

Where to Stay: Hotel in Sultanahmet or Karaköy

Day 2: Istanbul — Bosphorus Cruise & Modern Istanbul

Morning:

Take a scenic Bosphorus cruise to see Istanbul from the water
Stop at Ortaköy Mosque and grab a local snack (kumpir)

Afternoon:

Visit Dolmabahçe Palace
Explore the trendy streets of Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square

Evening:

Enjoy traditional Turkish food and music at a meyhane (tavern)

Day 3: Travel to Cappadocia — Underground Cities & Villages

Morning:

Early flight to Nevşehir or Kayseri (Cappadocia region)
Check into a cave hotel in Göreme

Afternoon:

Visit Derinkuyu Underground City
Explore Uchisar Castle and Pigeon Valley

Evening:

Dinner in Göreme with local wine and views of the fairy chimneys
Where to Stay: Cave hotel in Göreme or Uçhisar

Day 4: Cappadocia — Hot Air Balloons & Rock Formations

Early Morning:

Hot air balloon ride at sunrise (book in advance)
Morning:
Breakfast back at hotel
Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum

Afternoon:

Explore Pasabag (Monks Valley) and Devrent Valley
Try pottery-making in Avanos

Evening:

Turkish Night Show with folk dancing and dinner

Day 5: Travel to Antalya — Arrival & Old Town Exploration

Morning:

Flight from Cappadocia to Antalya (usually via Istanbul)
Check into hotel near Kaleiçi, the Old Town

Afternoon:

Walk the cobbled streets of Kaleiçi
Visit Hadrian's Gate and Hidirlik Tower
Evening:
Enjoy dinner by the marina or at a local Turkish grill

Where to Stay: Boutique hotel in Kaleiçi or a resort along Lara Beach

Day 6: Antalya — Waterfalls, Ruins & Relaxation

Morning:

Day trip to Düden Waterfalls and Perge Ancient City
Afternoon:
Swim and relax at Konyaaltı Beach or visit Antalya Museum

Evening:

Optional Turkish bath (hammam) experience
Sunset walk along the cliffs

Day 7: Departure or Optional Day Trip

If time allows:

Take a boat tour from Antalya's harbor
Visit Aspendos for its well-preserved Roman theater

Departure:

Fly from Antalya to Istanbul for your international connection

Travel Tips for This Itinerary

Internal Flights: Book domestic flights early for the best prices (Pegasus, Turkish Airlines)
SIM Card: Get a local SIM at the airport for easy maps and communication
Dress Modestly: Especially in mosques and rural areas
Currency: Turkish Lira (carry some cash; cards accepted in most places)

This 7-day Turkey itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the country’s top highlights without feeling overwhelmed. From Istanbul's cultural treasures to the magical skies of Cappadocia and the laid-back coast of Antalya, each stop offers something completely different yet equally memorable. Whether you're a history buff, adventure seeker, or beach lover, Turkey delivers more than you can imagine in just one week.

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