Turkey-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Istanbul

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Start your day with a delicious Turkish breakfast at a local café. Try some simit (Turkish bread) with cheese and honey.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church, Ottoman mosque, and now a museum. Be amazed by its stunning architecture and history.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Take a short walk to the nearby Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), one of the most beautiful mosques in Turkey. Admire its intricate blue tiles and six minarets.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the bustling Grand Bazaar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with thousands of shops selling everything from carpets to jewelry.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant, like Karaköy Balıkçısı. Try some grilled fish or meat kebabs.
  • 8:00 PM: End your day by taking a romantic Bosphorus cruise (optional), watching the city lights reflect off the water.

Things to Know

  • Language: Turkish is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. You can exchange your money at banks or use ATMs.
  • Weather: Istanbul has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.

Day 2: Cappadocia

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Take an early morning flight from Istanbul to Kayseri or Nevşehir (approximately 1.5 hours). You can also drive or take a bus, but flying is the most convenient option.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the breathtaking Göreme National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the unique fairy chimneys and honeycombed hills.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Take a guided tour of the nearby Derinkuyu underground city, an ancient complex built to protect against earthquakes.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the picturesque Avanos village and explore its shops, restaurants, and traditional Turkish homes.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Avanos or Cappadocia, trying some local delicacies like manti (Turkish ravioli) or sarmaç (stuffed grape leaves).
  • 8:00 PM: Return to Kayseri or Nevşehir for the night.

Things to Know

  • Language: Turkish is the official language. English is not as widely spoken in Cappadocia compared to Istanbul.
  • Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency.
  • Weather: Cappadocia has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.

Transportation

  • Istanbul: Use public transportation like buses or metro lines, or take taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber.
  • Cappadocia: Fly from Istanbul to Kayseri or Nevşehir. From there, use local transportation like minivans (dolmuş) or hire a private car and driver.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of the European Union, USA, Canada, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for tourism in Turkey.
  • Other nationalities: Check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country to see if you require a visa.