Turkey Itinerary - December 2023/24

I visited Turkey in December 2023 for 14 days, extending into January 2024. My itinerary is mentioned below. Since it was supposedly the winter season (although actual winter did not set in until we left) and it was my anniversary in the last week of December, my hotel options were a bit expensive (first one in every list). However, overall leisure activities were cheaper compared to the top Turkey tourist season, which is in the summer. Here was my itinerary -

Istanbul: Days 1-4

Hotel Options:

Titanic City Taksim: This modern hotel in the heart of Istanbul, offers comfortable rooms, excellent amenities, and proximity to Taksim Square.

Pera Palace Hotel: A historic hotel offering luxurious accommodations in the heart of Istanbul, known for its timeless elegance and rich heritage.

Swissotel The Bosphorus: Modern hotel with stunning views of the Bosphorus and excellent amenities, providing a blend of comfort and sophistication.

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet: Luxury hotel located in a converted Ottoman-era prison, close to major attractions and offering exceptional service and amenities.

Day 1:

Private arrival transfer in Istanbul: Convenient and hassle-free transfer from the airport to your hotel.

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise Tour with dinner: Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus Strait with a delicious dinner onboard, experiencing the city’s skyline at sunset.

Day 2:

Grand Bazaar: Explore one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops.

Hippodrome: Visit the historic site that was once the sporting and social center of Constantinople.

Blue Mosque: Admire the stunning architecture of this historic mosque known for its blue tiles.

Hagia Sophia: Discover the iconic former cathedral and mosque, which is now a museum showcasing Byzantine architecture.

Topkapi Palace: Tour the lavish palace that served as the residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans.

Day 3:

Full-Day Troy Tour with local lunch on Seat in coach basis: Visit the ancient city of Troy, famous for its historical significance and the legendary Trojan War.

Day 4:

Private departure transfer in Istanbul: Early morning transfer from your hotel to the airport for your onward journey.

Kusadasi: Days 4-8

Hotel Options:

Charisma De Luxe Hotel: A luxurious hotel offering stunning sea views, modern amenities, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel: Modern hotel with sea views and convenient access to local attractions, offering a blend of comfort and style.

DoubleTree by Hilton Kusadasi: Stylish hotel offering comfortable accommodations, excellent amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere.

LaVista Boutique Hotel & SPA: Boutique hotel with stunning views, a relaxing atmosphere, and personalized service, perfect for a serene getaway.

Day 4:

- Reach Kusadasi: Travel to Kusadasi with a private arrival transfer from ADB Airport.

- Private arrival transfer in Kusadasi (ADB Airport): Comfortable transfer from the airport to your hotel.

Day 5:

Full Day Ephesus & Virgin Mary Tour with local lunch on Seat in coach basis: Explore the ancient city of Ephesus and visit the House of the Virgin Mary, with lunch included.

Day 6:

Leisure: Enjoy a day at your own pace, relaxing or exploring Kusadasi.

Day 7:

Leisure - Kusadasi Castle / Ladies Beach: Visit the historic Kusadasi Castle or relax at the popular Ladies Beach.

Day 8:

Private departure transfer in Kusadasi (ADB Airport): Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your next destination.

Antalya: Days 8-11

Hotel Options:

DoubleTree by Hilton Antalya City Centre: Modern hotel with excellent amenities, central location, and comfortable rooms.

Akra Hotel: Luxury hotel with beautiful sea views, modern amenities, and multiple dining options, perfect for a relaxing stay.

Rixos Downtown Antalya: This elegant hotel offers a mix of comfort and luxury with excellent service and beautiful surroundings.

Hotel Su & Aqualand: Contemporary hotel with a minimalist design, featuring a water park and spa for a fun and relaxing stay.

Day 8:

- Reach Antalya: Arrive in Antalya with a private transfer from AYT Airport.

- Private arrival transfer in Antalya (AYT Airport): Smooth transfer from the airport to your hotel.

Day 9:

Full-Day Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour with local lunch on Seat in coach basis: Visit the natural thermal pools of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis, with lunch included.

Day 10:

Explore the city: Spend the day exploring the beautiful city of Antalya, its beaches, and historical sites.

Day 11:

Private departure transfer in Antalya (AYT Airport): Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your onward journey.

Cappadocia: Days 11-14

Hotel Options:

Cappadocia Cave Suite: This unique cave hotel offers an authentic Cappadocian experience with modern amenities and stunning views.

Museum Hotel: A unique luxury hotel offering authentic cave rooms and stunning views, with a blend of history and modern comfort.

Argos in Cappadocia: Boutique hotel with beautifully restored cave rooms and modern amenities, providing a unique and luxurious experience.

Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge: Eco-friendly luxury lodge with breathtaking views, top-notch service, and a focus on sustainability.

Day 11:

Reach Cappadocia: Travel to Cappadocia with a private arrival transfer from ASR/NAV Airport.

Private arrival transfer in Cappadocia (ASR/NAV Airport): Comfortable transfer from the airport to your hotel.

Day 12:

Hot air balloon ride: Experience a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia. Note: Prebook your hot air balloon flight in advance. Popular booking websites include:

• Butterfly Balloons (https://www.butterflyballoons.com)

• Royal Balloon (https://www.royalballoon.com)

• Kapadokya Balloons (https://www.kapadokyaballoons.com)

Day 13:

Explore the city: Spend the day discovering the fascinating rock formations, caves, and local culture of Cappadocia.

Day 14:

Private departure transfer in Cappadocia (ASR/NAV Airport): Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your return to Istanbul.

Istanbul - Day 14

Return: Complete your Turkey trip with a return to Istanbul for your departure.

Prices:

• Sunset Bosphorus Cruise Tour with dinner: 20 EUR / 600 TL / 2000 INR

• Grand Bazaar, Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace: 60 EUR / 1800 TL / 5000 INR +

• Full Day Troy Tour with local lunch on Seat in coach basis: 12 EUR / 360 TL / 1000 INR

• Private arrival transfer in Kusadasi (ADB Airport): 12 EUR / 360 TL / 1000 INR

• Leisure in Kusadasi: 120 EUR / 3600 TL / 10000 INR

• Leisure - Kusadasi Castle / Ladies Beach: 24 EUR / 720 TL / 2000 INR

• Private arrival transfer in Antalya (AYT Airport): 12 EUR / 360 TL / 1000 INR

• Full Day Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour with local lunch on Seat in coach basis: 144 EUR / 4320 TL / 12000 INR

• Private arrival transfer in Cappadocia (ASR/NAV Airport): 48 EUR / 1440 TL / 4000 INR

• Hot air balloon ride: 420 EUR / 12600 TL / 35000 INR

• Explore city in Cappadocia: 60 EUR / 1800 TL / 5000 INR

Disclaimer: The prices mentioned are approximate and could vary as per tourist seasons. 

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