Turkey Highlights: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Ephesus

5 days · 5 suggested stays

Day 1 — Arrive in Istanbul, explore Sultanahmet district (overnight: Istanbul)

Basilica Cistern
Ancient underground water reservoir with Medusa heads
Blue Mosque
Famous Ottoman mosque with blue Iznik tiles
Grand Bazaar
Historic covered market with 4000+ shops
Blue House Hostel — More hotels
Budget-friendly stay in Sultanahmet area

Day 2 — Fly to Cappadocia, explore Goreme open-air museum (overnight: Cappadocia)

Flight Istanbul to Cappadocia
Domestic flight to Nevşehir/Kayseri airport
Göreme Open Air Museum
UNESCO site with rock-cut churches and frescoes
Uchisar Castle
Volcanic castle with panoramic valley views
Goreme Cave Lodge — More hotels
Traditional cave hotel in Göreme center

Day 3 — Cappadocia valleys and underground city tour (overnight: Cappadocia)

Kaymakli Underground City
Ancient multi-level underground city complex
Pigeon Valley Hike
Scenic trail through rock formations and caves
Göreme Sunset Point
Panoramic viewpoint over fairy chimneys
Goreme Cave Lodge — More hotels
Traditional cave hotel in Göreme center

Day 4 — Fly to Izmir, transfer to Kusadasi for Ephesus (overnight: Kusadasi)

Flight Cappadocia to Izmir
Domestic flight to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport
Library of Celsus
Iconic Roman temple facade and ancient library
Great Theatre of Ephesus
Massive ancient theatre seating 25,000 people
Sea Side Beach Resort — More hotels
Beachfront resort in Kusadasi with pool

Day 5 — Final Ephesus sights and departure prep (overnight: Kusadasi)

Terrace Houses
Luxurious Roman homes with mosaic floors
Temple of Artemis
Site of one of Seven Wonders of Ancient World
Sirince Village
Charming Greek-style village known for raki
Sea Side Beach Resort — More hotels
Beachfront resort in Kusadasi with pool

Planning a trip? Get a free day-by-day itinerary.
Plan yours with AI →

TWARP