How to spend 8 days in Turkey: The Ultimate Turkey Itinerary6 min read
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we will receive a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.
Turkey was among the first international destinations we explored on our travel journey. Why choose Turkey? It has something for everyone: ancient ruins, a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches, a lively atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and bustling local markets. So why not make Turkey your next destination? I assure you, adding it to your bucket list will be a decision you won’t regret!
Getting There
Turkey occupies a unique geographical position, straddling both Asia and Europe. This remarkable country is bordered on three sides by the Black Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Aegean Sea. You can arrive at one of Turkey’s major airports, with most travelers flying into Istanbul International Airport (IST). From there, you can easily catch domestic flights to various destinations across the country.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Turkey?
Citizens of certain countries can visit Turkey for tourism without a visa, while others may need to apply for an e-visa. Be sure to check the visa requirements before booking your trip to Turkey.
What is The Best Time to Visit Turkey?
Summer (June to August) is the busiest time to visit Turkey. During this peak season, popular tourist spots can be quite crowded, and temperatures can soar. We visited in August, and I found the heat during outdoor activities, especially in the afternoons, to be intense. For fewer crowds and better deals, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November).
8-Day Ultimate Turkey Itinerary
- Ephesus – 1 Day
- Pamukkale – 1 Day
- Cappadocia – 3 Days
- Istanbul- 3 Days
Travel Days
Most likely, you’ll arrive at Istanbul International Airport (IST). Depending on your arrival time, you can either spend a night in Istanbul or catch a domestic flight to Izmir. We chose to rest and flew to Izmir the next day from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). We arrived in Izmir at night, checked into our hotel, and got some rest. Since there are two airports in Istanbul, be sure to check where you land and from which airport your domestic flight departs.
Take the time to recover from jet lag and ensure you have a good night’s sleep. Also, don’t forget to install your Turkey e-SIM to stay connected with friends and family back home. If you’re still waiting in line at the airport for a SIM card after landing, you might be going about it the wrong way. We were in that situation at first, but once we discovered Airlo, there was no turning back. With Airlo eSIM, you save time, money, and energy, and you won’t have to share your passport details to purchase a local SIM card.
Day 1- Explore Ephesus
Pick up your rental car from Izmir Airport in the early morning and drive to the ancient city of Ephesus, which is about a one-hour drive away. Spend the morning exploring the fascinating ruins of Ephesus, which can take up to half a day, depending on how much time you spend learning about each site.
Read Next – Best Things to Do in Ephesus
After a full day of exploration and lunch, head to Pamukkale in the evening. The drive from Ephesus to Pamukkale will take approximately 2.5 hours.
Day 2 -Explore Pamukkale
Wake up early, enjoy a lavish Turkish breakfast, and prepare to explore Pamukkale. Visit the stunning white travertine terraces and the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, where you’ll find some of the best-preserved ruins. In the evening, drive back to Izmir, which takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes, and then catch your flight to Cappadocia.
Read Next – Best Things to Do in Pamukkale
Day 3, 4 & 5 – Explore Cappadocia
You will spend the next three days in the stunning region of Cappadocia, known for its unique rock formations, canyons, ancient churches, caves, and underground cities. It’s also one of the best places in the world for a hot air balloon ride. There are countless activities to enjoy in this area. For more ideas on things to do, check out our Cappadocia blog. On day 5, take an evening flight from Cappadocia back to Istanbul.
Read Next – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
Day 6, 7 & 8 – Explore Istanbul
Istanbul is the only city that bridges two continents, Asia and Europe. You’ll spend the final three days in Istanbul, immersing yourself in its incredible culture, architecture, and cuisine. On the 8th day, you’ll fly back to your home country.
Read Next – Best Things to Do in Istanbul
Where to Stay?
- Izmir – TAV Airport Hotel
- Pamukkale – Venus Suite Hotel
- Cappadocia – Luvi Cave Hotel Cappadocia
- Istanbul – Henna Hotel Istanbul
These recommendations are based on our personal experiences during our trip to Turkey. Be sure to explore additional options that suit your itinerary and preferences.
What to Eat?
Turkey is a culinary paradise, rich in flavors and traditions that reflect its diverse history and culture. Turkish cuisine is known for its hearty meats, fresh vegetables, fragrant spices, and delectable sweets. There’s an extensive list of must-try dishes to sample during your visit. Explore our Turkey food guide to discover the Turkish dishes that represent the best of this vibrant gastronomy!
