How to Plan Your Turkey 7 Day Tour of 5 Cities Starting from Istanbul

Turkey is a land teeming with history, from the Byzantine Empire to the Ottoman Empire, and boasts of spectacular natural beauty with thermal pools and striking rock formations. A 7-night tour through Istanbul, Ephesus, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia is the perfect way to explore the best of Turkey. GetYourGuide’s Turkey 7 Day Tour of 5 Cities Starting from Istanbul takes you through some of the country’s most spectacular highlights where you can fully immerse yourself in Turkish culture. In this ultimate guide, we have compiled everything you need to know to plan your trip to Turkey.

Tour Experience

This 7-day tour is an ideal way to discover the cultural richness and historical splendor of Turkey under the guidance of expert local guides. The tour package includes hotel accommodations, transfers, guided tours, breakfasts, and domestic flights, so you don’t have to worry about any logistical matters. During your trip, you’ll be stopping at five different cities, including Istanbul, Ephesus, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia. You will have the opportunity to see the country’s main attractions, gain insight into Turkish culture, and enjoy the striking natural beauty of Turkey.

Itinerary

The Turkey 7 Day Tour of 5 Cities Starting from Istanbul itinerary includes the following highlights:

Starting location: Istanbul

The tour begins in Istanbul, where you’ll have the chance to visit Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. These iconic attractions have played an essential role in Turkish culture and history.

Izmir

The tour includes a guided visit to Ephesus, one of the world’s largest and well-preserved ancient city with stunning Roman ruins. The tour also includes a stopover in Kusadasi, a lovely beach town in Turkey where you can soak up the sun and the Mediterranean Sea’s refreshing waters.

Pamukkale Hot Springs

The thermal springs and travertines of Pamukkale are another highlight of the tour. You’ll have a chance to swim in the hot water or take a relaxing dip as you enjoy the unforgettable scenery.

Hierapolis

You will get a guided tour of the ancient city of Hierapolis. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Roman bathhouses and the Temple of Apollo.

Cappadocia Turkey

Cappadocia is known for its natural beauty, including Uchisar Castle, Kaymakli Underground City, Goreme Open Air Museum, Devrent Valley, and Avanos Turkey. You’ll also get a chance to experience the traditional Turkish culture at Cappadocian cave homes and see some of the unique architecture the region has to offer.

Kayseri

Finally, your tour will be concluded with a return to Istanbul, where you will get a chance to reflect on the experiences you have had in Turkey, like getting a taste of Turkish food.

Highlights

GetYourGuide’s Turkey 7 Day Tour of 5 Cities Starting from Istanbul is an exciting trip into the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Turkey. The tour guarantees spectacular highlights such as: – Visiting some of Turkey’s most iconic attractions. – Swimming in thermal pools in Pamukkale. – Seeing the beauty and unique architecture in Cappadocia. – Stopover in five different cities.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Turkey 7 Day Tour of 5 Cities Starting from Istanbul is easy. Just click on the following link to book the tour: book the tour here. In conclusion, if you’re planning to see the best of Turkey, there is no better way than taking GetYourGuide’s Turkey 7 Day Tour of 5 Cities Starting from Istanbul. With expert local guides and carefully curated activities, you’ll leave Turkey with an unforgettable holiday experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most interesting and culturally rich cities in the world. It is the largest city in Turkey, and its rich history dates back thousands of years to ancient times. Whether you are planning a trip to Istanbul or are simply curious about this fascinating city, this FAQ has all the answers you need!

1. Where is Istanbul located?

Istanbul is located in the northwest of Turkey, straddling two continents: Europe and Asia. The European and Asian sides of the city are connected by two suspension bridges: the Bosphorus Bridge and the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge.

2. What is the weather like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a Mediterranean climate, which means it has hot summers and mild winters. The average high temperature in the summer months of June to August is around 28°C (82°F), while the average temperature in the winter months of December to February is around 8°C (46°F).

3. What language is spoken in Istanbul?

The official language in Istanbul is Turkish. However, many people also speak English, particularly in tourist areas such as Sultanahmet.

4. What currency is used in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY). You can exchange your currency at exchange bureaus, banks, and some hotels.

5. How do I get to Istanbul?

Istanbul can be reached by air, sea, and land. Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Ataturk Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport, both of which are well-connected to major cities around the world. Istanbul can also be reached by train, bus, or car.

6. What are the top tourist attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a wealth of tourist attractions to explore. Here are some of the top must-visit destinations:

• Hagia Sophia: This stunning building was originally constructed as a church in the 6th century, then converted to a mosque in the 15th century, and now serves as a museum.
• Blue Mosque: This iconic mosque is famous for its stunning blue tiled interior and six towering minarets.
• Topkapi Palace: The former residence of Ottoman sultans, this palace is now a museum and offers an insight into the opulent lifestyle of Ottoman royalty.
• Grand Bazaar: This is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, where you can find everything from spices and textiles to ceramics and jewelry.
• Bosphorus Cruise: A scenic boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait offers an incredible view of Istanbul’s stunning skyline.

7. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these times, the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer than during the peak summer months of June to August.

8. What should I wear when visiting Istanbul?

Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city with a mix of modern and traditional dress styles. However, it is respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as mosques and churches. It is also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking in Istanbul.

9. Is Istanbul a safe city to visit?

Istanbul is a very safe city to visit. However, as with any major city, it is always wise to take precautions such as avoiding quiet, dark streets at night and being aware of your surroundings.

10. What is the local cuisine in Istanbul like?

Istanbul is famous for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Some top dishes to try include kebabs, meze plates, Turkish breakfast, baklava, and Turkish delight.

Book Your Tour Now

Now that you have all the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Istanbul, you can confidently plan your trip and make the most of your time in this incredible city. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, Istanbul has something to offer everyone.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Planning a trip to Istanbul? This vibrant city is often referred to as the bridge between Europe and Asia and is full of history, culture, and delicious food. With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to narrow down your itinerary. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve put together a guide of the top things to do and see in Istanbul.

1. Visit the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul and for good reason. This former church turned mosque turned museum is full of stunning architecture and art. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

2. Explore the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices to textiles to jewelry, it’s easy to get lost in its maze-like structure. Pro tip: be prepared to haggle for the best prices.

3. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus Strait divides Istanbul into two continents and a cruise along its waters offers stunning views of the city skyline. Make sure to take a camera and snap some photos of the iconic Istanbul landmarks as you sail by.

4. Visit the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, with its six minarets and stunning blue tiles, is a must-see when visiting Istanbul. Tourists are welcome outside of prayer times, but make sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.

5. Indulge in Turkish Cuisine

Istanbul is known for its delicious food and there’s no shortage of places to try it. Be sure to sample some Turkish tea, baklava, and doner kebab while you’re there. For an authentic experience, consider taking a cooking class to learn how to make some of these traditional dishes.

6. Visit Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was once the residence of Ottoman sultans and today houses a museum filled with treasures from Turkish history. Don’t miss the Harem, an ornate and often overlooked part of the palace.

7. Take a Turkish Bath

Experience the ultimate relaxation by visiting a traditional Turkish bath, or hammam. These steam rooms and baths have been part of Turkish culture for centuries and are the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

8. Visit the Chora Church

The Chora Church, also known as the Kariye Museum, is a hidden gem in Istanbul. The church, which dates back to the 4th century, is filled with gorgeous mosaics and frescoes that have been restored to their former glory.

9. Walk Across the Galata Bridge

The Galata Bridge spans the Golden Horn and offers a great view of the waterfront. Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge while enjoying a snack of freshly caught fish from the vendors on its lower level.

10. Explore the Asian Side of Istanbul

While much of the tourist action is on the European side of Istanbul, don’t overlook the Asian side. Kadikoy and Moda are two neighborhoods worth exploring, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to check out.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a city full of history, culture, and delicious food. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. By including these top 10 things to do and see in Istanbul, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to this incredible city. Remember to book your tickets and tours in advance to avoid long lines and make the most of your time in Istanbul.