How to Explore Turkey in 7 Days: Magnificent Turkey Tour

Turkey is a timeless destination, offering history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty all rolled into one package. With the Magnificent Turkey Small Group Tour, you’ll experience the best of Turkey with convenience, comfort, and style. This 7-day tour covers Istanbul, Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Cappadocia, four destinations that present a comprehensive insight into Turkish history and culture. Here is an ultimate guide to plan your Magnificent Turkey Tour with ease.

Day 1: Istanbul Arrival

Your Magnificent Turkey tour will begin in Istanbul, the cultural and economic heart of Turkey. Upon arriving at Istanbul, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to spend at your leisure, exploring Istanbul’s bustling streets, delving into its history and culture, and trying out delicious Turkish cuisine.

Day 2: Istanbul City Tour

After you have breakfast, you will start exploring Istanbul’s world-famous attractions. You’ll admire the Blue Mosque, an architectural gem with intricate tile work, domes, and minarets. You’ll also visit the Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO-listed museum that serves as a symbol of Istanbul’s history, and the Topkapi Palace, the Ottoman Empire’s primary residence, now converted into a museum displaying an impressive collection of ancient artifacts.

Day 3: Pamukkale and Hierapolis

After breakfast, we will fly to Denizli Cardak Airport, where we will drive to Pamukkale for a unique experience. Pamukkale is a natural wonder, featuring terraces of hot springs with white mineral deposits, and massive calcium carbonate deposits. Next, we will take a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool and enjoy lunch. We will then move on to an ancient city of Hierapolis that features well-preserved ancient ruins, including the Theater, Necropolis, and Bathhouse.

Day 4: Ephesus Ancient City

After breakfast, we will head to Ephesus Ancient City, one of the world’s most breathtaking ancient sites. The city features ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods, including the Library of Celsus, the Odeon, and the Temple of Hadrian. Ephesus is often called the best-preserved ancient city in Europe and is a must-visit site for history and archeology enthusiasts.

Day 5: Cappadocia Tour

After breakfast, you’ll fly to Kayseri, the starting point of your Cappadocia adventure. Once arrived, you will begin your Cappadocia tour and first visit the Devrent Valley and Monk’s Valley, home to unique rock formations shaped by millions of years of natural erosion. Next, you’ll visit Avanos, a pottery town situated on the banks of the Red River. Afterward, you’ll visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, featuring ancient rock churches and splendid frescoes.

Day 6: Cappadocia Tour Continued

On the sixth day, after breakfast, you will explore the Derinkuyu Underground City, an elaborate system of tunnels and caves created for refuge during wartime. Next, you will visit the Ihlara Valley, a lush green canyon featuring numerous caves, churches, and monasteries. Finally, you will see the Uchisar Rock Castle, a natural fortress carved out of the tuff stone.

Day 7: Departure

After breakfast, your Magnificent Turkey Tour will conclude, and we will transfer you to Kayseri Airport to catch your flight back home.

Tour Inclusions

The Magnificent Turkey Tour is designed to provide you with comfort and convenience, offering carefully curated inclusions to maximize your Turkish experience. The Tour package includes accommodation in 4-star hotels with 2 nights in Istanbul, 2 nights in Kusadasi, and 2 nights in Cappadocia, all meals including breakfast and lunch, all domestic flights, and comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Admission to historical sites and beverages with meals is also included.

Tour Exclusions

You will have to spend on personal expenses, entry tickets to non-inclusive historical sites, and souvenirs to take back home. Although, with our carefully curate itinerary and inclusions, you don’t have to worry about spending a single penny over the top for any activities.

Booking Your Magnificent Turkey Tour

You can book your Magnificent Turkey Tour here at the viator.com booking page: Book the Tour Here or visit Viator Istanbul to book the tour offline. While booking, do read the tour description carefully and always ask for an English-speaking tour guide. The tour allows for a maximum of 12 people per group, ensuring a more personalized and comfortable tour experience.

Book Your Tour Now

Traveling to Turkey can be overwhelming, especially if you are planning to explore the country’s diverse regions in a limited time frame. The Magnificent Turkey Tour is an ideal package, covering Turkey’s top attractions, offering comfort, and convenience. The tour offers you the opportunity to explore Turkey with like-minded people, making memories that will last a lifetime. So, book your Magnificent Turkey Tour today and get ready to experience the beauty and history of Turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

If you’re planning on visiting Istanbul, Turkey, you might have some questions about what to expect. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and their answers:

1. What’s the weather like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are generally hot and humid, while winters can be quite cold and rainy. The best time to visit Istanbul is in the spring (April to May) or the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

2. What is the currency used in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY). You can exchange your money at banks, currency exchange offices, or ATMs. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

3. What language do people in Istanbul speak?

The official language of Istanbul is Turkish, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

4. What are the must-see attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a city with a lot to see and do. Some of the top attractions include:

• The Blue Mosque
• Hagia Sophia
• The Grand Bazaar
• Topkapi Palace
• The Basilica Cistern
• The Bosphorus

5. What is the best way to get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trams, subway, and ferries. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. Walking is also a great way to explore the city, especially in areas like Sultanahmet where many of the top attractions are located.

6. Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any big city, there is always the risk of petty theft and scams. It’s important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.

7. What is the food like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a rich culinary tradition that includes a mix of Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Kebabs
• Lahmacun
• Meze platters
• Börek
• Baklava
• Turkish coffee

8. What is the nightlife like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Some of the top neighborhoods for nightlife include Beyoglu, Kadikoy, and Ortakoy.

9. Do I need a visa to visit Istanbul?

Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin. You can check the visa requirements for Turkey on the official Turkish government website.

10. What are some cultural customs to be aware of in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a city with a rich cultural heritage, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Some things to keep in mind include:

• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
• Remove your shoes before entering a mosque
• Avoid public displays of affection
• Never point the soles of your feet towards someone
• Use your right hand for greeting, eating, and passing items

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a fascinating city with a lot to discover. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you should be better prepared for your visit. Remember to be respectful of the local culture, stay safe, and have fun exploring all that Istanbul has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most beautiful and historically significant cities in the world. With such a rich history and a plethora of sights, it can be challenging for tourists to figure out how to spend their time in Istanbul. In this guide, we will provide you the best recommendations on how to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul.

Explore the Top Historical Landmarks

Istanbul has so many historical landmarks that it’s hard to know where to start. Here are some of the top historical landmarks that you should explore:

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s oldest and most famous landmarks. It is a former church and mosque that has been transformed into a museum. Make sure to take in the intricate mosaics, such as the Deesis Mosaic, before leaving the building.

Topkapı Palace

A short distance from Hagia Sophia is the Topkapi Palace, which was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. You can explore over 300 rooms, beautiful gardens, and stunning courtyards. Make sure to see the treasury, which has several beautiful pieces of jewelry, porcelains, and other precious objects.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most beautiful mosques. It is known for its stunning blue tiles and is a must-see during your trip. Don’t forget to dress modestly and take off your shoes before entering the mosque.

Visit the Local Markets

Istanbul is famous for its markets, and they’re a great way to experience the local culture. Here are some you should explore:

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 stalls selling everything from jewelry to Turkish delight, you’re sure to find something to take home as a souvenir. Make sure to bargain and haggle before buying anything.

Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar is another famous market in Istanbul, where you can find a wide variety of spices, teas, and other goods. Make sure to try some of the local Turkish delights.

Take a Boat Cruise on the Bosphorus

The Bosphorus is the famous strait that separates Europe from Asia. Taking a boat cruise on the Bosphorus is one of the best ways to see Istanbul’s stunning architecture from a new perspective. Sunset is a particularly lovely time to take this tour.

Eat the Local Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is amongst the world’s most vibrant and flavorful. While in Istanbul, make sure to try some of the delicious dishes on offer. Here are some traditional dishes you should try:

Meze Platters

Meze platters typically consist of small plates of appetizers and dips, including hummus, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh. They’re a great way to sample different flavors and textures.

Kebabs

Kebabs are a staple in Turkish cuisine. They’re typically meat or vegetables grilled on skewers and are delicious when eaten hot off the grill.

Attend a Whirling Dervish Ceremony

A Whirling Dervish ceremony is a traditional Sufi ceremony where dancers spin around to music to achieve a spiritual state. It’s a beautiful and unique experience, and several organizations offer performances in Istanbul.

Final Words

Istanbul is a city that truly has something for everyone. By visiting historical landmarks, markets, and sampling the delicious local cuisine, and taking a boat cruise on the Bosphorus, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to explore more secluded places or try to experience things that are not very popular among tourists. Always take care of yourself and have a safe journey.