Turkey 14-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Istanbul

Arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST), pick up your pre-booked hire car, and drive to your accommodation in the city.

Settle in and prepare for your Turkish adventure.

Blue Mosque Exterior

Admire the stunning exterior of the iconic Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), famous for its six minarets and cascading domes.

Access to the interior may be limited during prayer times. Respectful attire is required if entering (shoulders and knees covered, headscarf for women).

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Experience the architectural grandeur of Hagia Sophia, a historical masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and museum, now a mosque again.

Free entry. Respectful attire is required (shoulders and knees covered, headscarf for women).

Dinner in Sultanahmet

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a restaurant in the historic Sultanahmet area, sampling local specialties like kebabs and mezes.

Topkapı Palace Museum

Visit the opulent Topkapı Palace, once the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans.

Explore its courtyards, treasury, and Harem (optional).

Book tickets online in advance to avoid queues. Closed on Tuesdays.

Lunch in Eminönü

Grab a quick and delicious lunch near the Spice Bazaar or Galata Bridge before starting your drive.

Drive to Safranbolu

Begin your scenic drive from Istanbul eastward towards Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its perfectly preserved Ottoman houses.

Dinner in Safranbolu

Enjoy a traditional dinner in Safranbolu, perhaps trying regional dishes like 'Safranbolu Bükmesi' (pastry) or 'Peruhi' (dumplings).

Explore Safranbolu Old Town

Wander through the cobblestone streets of Safranbolu's UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Visit the Cinci Han caravanserai, the historic Hammam, and the Yemeniciler Arastası (shoemakers bazaar).

Don't miss a visit to the Kaymakamlar Museum House for insight into traditional Safranbolu life.

Local Safranbolu Lunch

Enjoy a final lunch in Safranbolu before heading further east.

Scenic Drive to Black Sea Farmstay

Embark on a longer, scenic drive towards the Eastern Black Sea region (Rize/Artvin provinces).

Your destination will be a charming farmstay nestled in the natural beauty.

The roads in the Black Sea region can be winding. Be prepared for potentially stunning but challenging winter landscapes.

Farmstay Check-in & Dinner

Arrive at your Black Sea farmstay/guesthouse.

Settle into your cozy accommodation and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked dinner featuring local ingredients.

Hearty Farmstay Breakfast

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at your farmstay, featuring fresh, local produce and regional specialties.

Explore Tea Plantations

Discover the lush, terraced tea plantations that define the landscape of Rize.

Learn about tea cultivation and enjoy the panoramic views.

You may be able to visit a local tea factory for a tasting and to purchase fresh tea.

Fırtına Valley Scenic Drive

Take a picturesque drive through the stunning Fırtına Valley (Storm Valley), known for its historical stone bridges, rushing river, and dense forests.

Stop for photos and enjoy the fresh air.

Check local road conditions, especially if venturing into higher parts of the valley in winter. Consider stopping at a local restaurant for lunch along the way.

Relax & Local Dinner

Return to your farmstay for an evening of relaxation.

Enjoy another delicious, home-cooked dinner, embracing the tranquility of the Black Sea countryside.

Morning Nature Walk

Enjoy a peaceful morning walk around your farmstay, breathing in the crisp Black Sea air and admiring the winter scenery.

Look for local flora and fauna.

Visit a Local Village

Drive to a nearby traditional Black Sea village.

Observe the unique wooden architecture, interact with locals, and perhaps find a quaint spot for a cup of Turkish coffee.

Check for local markets or small artisan shops.

Afternoon Relaxation at Farmstay

Spend the afternoon relaxing at your farmstay.

Read a book, enjoy the views, or simply unwind in the serene environment. Prepare for your New Year's Eve celebration.

New Year's Eve Celebration

Enjoy a special New Year's Eve dinner at your farmstay, perhaps with a festive atmosphere arranged by your hosts, or a quiet, memorable meal to ring in 2026 in the peaceful Black Sea countryside.

Leisurely Black Sea Breakfast

Enjoy a traditional Turkish New Year's Day breakfast at your farmstay, savoring local flavors and the peaceful mountain surroundings.

Take some final moments to enjoy the fresh Black Sea air.

Confirm breakfast timings with your accommodation. Pack up your belongings after breakfast for the long journey ahead.

Long Journey to Cappadocia

Embark on a significant road trip from the Eastern Black Sea region to the heart of Cappadocia.

This is a full-day drive through diverse Turkish landscapes, offering many scenic views. Make sure to factor in stops for lunch and stretching.

The drive is long (approx. 9-10 hours). Start early, bring snacks, and utilize navigation. There will be rest stops along the way for meals and breaks.

Cappadocia Arrival & Dinner

Upon arrival in Göreme, check into your unique cave hotel.

After settling in, enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing the first tastes of Cappadocia.

Many cave hotels have restaurants, or you can find charming local eateries within walking distance. Make a reservation if arriving late on New Year's Day.

Hot Air Balloon Flight (Optional)

Wake up early for an unforgettable hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia's surreal landscape. Witness the sunrise illuminating the fairy chimneys and valleys from above. (Weather dependent and highly recommended to book in advance).

This is a prime Cappadocia experience. Flights can be cancelled due to wind or weather, especially in winter. Book well in advance. If cancelled, you will receive a refund or reschedule.

Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, an impressive complex of rock-cut churches and monasteries with stunning Byzantine frescoes, dating back to the 10th-12th centuries.

Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking and climbing. Arrive early to avoid crowds. Photography restrictions apply inside some churches.

Lunch in Göreme

Enjoy a traditional Cappadocian lunch at a local restaurant in Göreme town, perhaps trying a 'pottery kebab' (Testi Kebab).

Red & Rose Valley Hike

Take a scenic hike through the picturesque Red and Rose Valleys, famous for their vibrant rock formations, hidden cave churches, and breathtaking panoramic views, especially beautiful during sunset (though you'll be earlier).

Wear sturdy hiking boots. The trails are well-marked but can be uneven. Consider a local guide for deeper insights into the cave churches.

Dinner in Göreme

Savor another delicious dinner at one of Göreme's unique restaurants, many offering a cozy ambiance within cave settings.

Explore an Underground City

Descend into the fascinating depths of Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı Underground City.

These ancient multi-level cities were carved out by early Christians seeking refuge and are a marvel of engineering.

Choose one of the two main cities. Kaymaklı is slightly smaller but often less crowded. Derinkuyu is larger and deeper. Some passages are narrow, so it's not suitable for those with claustrophobia.

Lunch in a Local Town

Have lunch in a nearby town after your underground city exploration, such as Derinkuyu or Nevşehir, or return towards Göreme.

Uchisar Castle Exploration

Visit Uchisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia.

Climb to the top for spectacular panoramic views of the entire region, including Mount Erciyes.

The climb can be steep in parts. The views are especially stunning in late afternoon light.

Pigeon Valley Stroll

Take a leisurely walk or view from a panoramic point at Pigeon Valley, known for its countless pigeon houses carved into the rock formations.

Pigeons were historically used for fertilizer and messages.

Great photo opportunities. There are cafes with views if you prefer to relax.

Dinner in Uchisar or Göreme

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Uchisar, perhaps with a view, or return to Göreme for more dining options.

Avanos Pottery Experience

Drive to Avanos, a town famous for its pottery tradition dating back to the Hittites.

Visit a local pottery workshop, learn about the craft, and even try your hand at the potter's wheel.

Many workshops offer free demonstrations. You can purchase unique handmade pottery as souvenirs. Some workshops are tourist-oriented, so be prepared for sales pitches.

Riverside Lunch in Avanos

Enjoy a pleasant lunch at a restaurant along the Kızılırmak (Red River) in Avanos, sampling local dishes.

Devrent (Imagination) Valley

Explore Devrent Valley, also known as 'Imagination Valley,' where rock formations resemble various animals and figures.

Use your imagination to spot camels, snakes, and more!

Requires minimal walking, mostly viewing from designated spots. Great for unique photo opportunities.

Pasabag (Monks Valley)

Visit Pasabag Valley, home to some of the most striking fairy chimneys with multiple caps.

You can also see an old hermit's cell carved into one of them.

Easy walking paths. Take your time to admire the unique geological formations.

Dinner & Relaxation

Enjoy a final dinner in Cappadocia, perhaps trying a different restaurant in Göreme or a nearby town, reflecting on the day's unique sights.

Sunrise Views (Optional)

If you didn't do a balloon flight or want to see it again, wake early to watch the sunrise over the valleys, often dotted with hot air balloons (if flying).

A beautiful way to start your last full day in Cappadocia. Check local sunrise times.

Leisure & Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy a relaxed morning at your cave hotel, perhaps a final Turkish breakfast.

Afterwards, take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in Göreme's charming streets.

Look for local handicrafts, carpets, ceramics, or delicious dried fruits and nuts.

Cappadocian Cooking Class (Optional)

Immerse yourself in Turkish culinary traditions with a cooking class.

Learn to prepare local dishes and enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch.

Pre-booking is essential. A wonderful cultural experience. Many classes include lunch.

Afternoon Relaxation & Preparation

Spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel, packing, or enjoying a final coffee with a view.

Prepare for the journey south to Pamukkale tomorrow.

Double-check your car hire details and route for the next day's drive.

Farewell Cappadocia Dinner

Enjoy a final evening meal in Cappadocia, savoring the unique atmosphere before continuing your adventure.

Explore Pamukkale Travertines

Walk barefoot on the dazzling white, mineral-rich thermal terraces of Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as 'Cotton Castle'.

Enjoy the unique sensation and take in the panoramic views.

Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to remove your shoes to walk on the terraces. The water can be warm even in winter.

Discover Hierapolis Ancient City

Adjacent to Pamukkale, explore the vast ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Hierapolis, including its impressive theatre, Necropolis, and the Gate of Domitian.

The site is extensive; comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

Swim in Cleopatra's Antique Pools

Relax and swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the Antique Pool (Cleopatra Pools), where ancient Roman columns lie submerged.

There is an additional fee to swim in the pool. Changing facilities are available.

Dinner in Pamukkale Village

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant in Pamukkale village.

Many restaurants offer views of the travertines or serve regional specialties.

Road Trip to Çanakkale

Embark on a scenic drive from Pamukkale northwards towards the Gallipoli Peninsula and the city of Çanakkale. This is a long but rewarding journey through diverse Turkish landscapes.

Make sure your car is fueled, pack snacks and water. Plan for comfort stops along the way. Winter conditions may affect driving times.

Hotel Check-in & Relax

Arrive in Çanakkale, check into your accommodation, and take some time to relax after the long drive.

Evening Stroll & Trojan Horse

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Çanakkale waterfront.

See the famous wooden Trojan Horse, a prop from the movie 'Troy', which is displayed here.

The waterfront is lively with cafes and shops.

Dinner in Çanakkale

Savor fresh seafood or traditional Turkish dishes at a restaurant in Çanakkale, often with views of the Dardanelles.

Plenty of options along the waterfront or in the city center.

ANZAC Sector Exploration

Embark on a poignant guided tour of the Gallipoli battlefields.

Visit key ANZAC sites including ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Memorial, and the trenches at Courtney's and Steel's Post.

Consider hiring a local guide (or joining a small group tour) for deeper insight into the historical significance. Wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain. This is a very moving experience.

Lunch on the Peninsula

Enjoy a simple lunch at a local cafe or a packed lunch amidst the serene, yet historically charged, landscape.

Options are limited on the peninsula itself, so plan accordingly.

Chunuk Bair & Turkish Memorials

Continue your tour by visiting the New Zealand memorial at Chunuk Bair, and explore the Turkish memorials, gaining perspective from all sides of the conflict.

The views from Chunuk Bair are stunning, offering a strategic vantage point that underscores the ferocity of the battles.

Evening & Dinner in Çanakkale

Return to Çanakkale for a relaxing evening and dinner, reflecting on the day's experiences.

Drive to Istanbul

Begin your drive back to Istanbul from Çanakkale, crossing the Dardanelles by ferry or the new Çanakkale 1915 Bridge, and continuing your journey.

Factor in potential ferry waiting times if you choose that route. Return your hire car upon arrival in Istanbul (e.g., at the airport or a city drop-off point).

Car Return & Farewell Lunch

Return your hire car and enjoy a final Turkish lunch in Istanbul, perhaps in a neighbourhood close to your drop-off point.

Confirm hire car drop-off location and time in advance. Allow extra time for Istanbul traffic.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a final opportunity for souvenir shopping or a relaxed coffee to reflect on your trip.

Popular areas like Sultanahmet or around the Grand Bazaar offer many options.

Transfer to Airport & Departure

Head to Istanbul Airport (IST or SAW) for your evening flight, concluding your wonderful two-week adventure in Turkey.

Allow ample time for travel to the airport and check-in procedures, especially considering Istanbul's traffic. Check your flight details for exact departure time.