How to Spend Two Weeks in Turkey: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Ah, my beloved Turkey.

This is one of my favourite countries in the world; a country where history, culture, beaches, and food all blend together in the most exciting way possible.

I’ve spent two months of my life travelling around Turkey, basing myself in Istanbul for weeks on end, sailing a yacht along the southern coast, renting a holiday villa in Bodrum, exploring Ephesus, marvelling at Pamukkale, and so much more. Later in 2026, I’m even going to be hiking Turkey’s 500-mile Lycian Way! Needless to say, I’ve seen a hell of a lot of this country and I therefore have even more opinions about how to make the most of your time here.

Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to spend here. You’ll be able to explore world-class cities, sunbathe on beautiful beaches, trek through unique landscapes, and marvel at some of the best preserved ruins in the world. My itinerary is going to ensure sure you experience a little bit of everything: all of the biggest travel highlights of Turkey, plus more than a few hidden gems.

So grab yourself a cup of tea, get yourself comfortable, and start planning. Here’s how to spend two weeks in Turkey.

Day One: Welcome to Istanbul! Lets See Some of the Highlights

If there’s one thing I never stop talking about when it comes to travel in Turkey, it’s the breakfasts. It’s why I always recommend skipping your hotel breakfast in this country; trust me: you can do so much better.

Case in point: Café Privato, where the Turkish breakfast spread is the stuff of dreams. We’re talking Turkish flatbread, buffalo milk cream, regional cheeses, olives, hazelnut paste, wild black walnut jam, ajuka (a spicy red pepper paste), smashed avocado, grilled halloumi, and about a dozen other delicious things. Thankfully, it’s meant for sharing, because this breakfast is next-level.

Stuffed full, it’s time to head to Galata Tower, just a few minutes away. One of Istanbul’s most recognisable landmarks, this medieval watchtower offers a 360-degree panorama of the city: sprawling rooftops, domes, minarets, and the shimmering Bosphorus all laid out before you. The catch? A steep €35▾ entry fee. If you’d rather save your lira, the tower is still impressive from below, and the surrounding Galata neighbourhood is a great spot to wander, lined with cozy cafés and boutique shops.

From here, it’s a short walk down to the Karaköy waterfront and across the Galata Bridge, where fishermen cast their lines into the Golden Horn. The views from the bridge are fantastic, but don’t be tempted by the cafés and restaurants underneath: they’re overpriced tourist traps. Instead, keep going until you reach the striking Yeni Cami (New Mosque), a hidden gem that I’d argue is even more stunning than the Blue Mosque. Step inside to admire its richly decorated ceiling, colourful tiles, and peaceful atmosphere, all without the crowds.

Next up: the Spice Bazaar, where the air is thick with the scent of spices, teas, and Turkish delights. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s still a feast for the senses, and shopkeepers often offer free samples; definitely take them up on that.

If you think this market is chaotic, wait until you step inside the Grand Bazaar. With over 4,000 shops spread across 61 streets, it’s absolute madness in the best possible way. The key? Don’t fight it. Get lost, admire the handcrafted ceramics and lanterns, and haggle like a pro (tip: start at half the quoted price and go from there).

No trip to Istanbul is complete without a visit to the Blue Mosque, and yes, it’s just as stunning as everyone says. Its interior is blanketed in 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles, with a ceiling that looks painted but is actually made of thousands of individual pieces. It’s free to enter, and you’ll want to linger just to take it all in. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Ancient Egyptian Obelisk of Theodosius, a mind-blowing 4,000-year-old relic that was already ancient when it arrived in Istanbul in 390 AD.

Before wrapping up the day, take a breather at Arasta Bazaar, a smaller, more relaxed alternative to the Grand Bazaar, with locally-made crafts, textiles, and Turkish towels. If you’re souvenir hunting, this is a great spot.

Then, save the best for last: an evening visit to the Basilica Cistern. This underground Byzantine reservoir is vast, eerie, and utterly breathtaking, with towering marble columns and the mysterious Medusa heads lurking at its base. It’s pricier at night, but worth every penny; the absence of crowds makes it feel like you have the place to yourself.

Where to stay in Istanbul: I always recommend that first-time visitors to Istanbul opt to stay in Sultanahmet. It’s the neighbourhood that’s home to the greatest number of tourist attractions, and there’s nothing quite like waking up to a panoramic view of the Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque.

I’ve tried multiple overpriced, mediocre hotels in this city, but there are fortunately a few gems to be found. I stayed in Tin Suites in my late-2024 trip to Istanbul and loved it; it’s now where I send all of my friends when they visit the city! The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed, and the balcony overlooking the Hagia Sofia is incredible because — yes, the location can’t be beaten. The staff are super friendly and the rooms are silent, despite their central location.

Day Two: The Most Vibrant Neighbourhoods of Istanbul

Balat is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and photogenic neighbourhoods, and getting there is a breeze; just hop on the T1 tram to Eminönü and switch to the T5. Once you arrive, fuel up with a stellar Turkish breakfast at Botein Balat. Their rooftop terrace offers gorgeous views over the colourful streets below, and the menemen plate is a must-try. If you haven’t had menemen before, think of it as shakshuka’s Turkish cousin: scrambled eggs cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and spices, served with fresh bread and an array of delicious sides.

With breakfast sorted, it’s time to explore Balat’s charming streets, packed with colorful homes, street art, and quirky shops. Balart specializes in miniature ceramic houses modeled after Balat’s real-life buildings, Sevda Gazozcusu serves up Ottoman-era sodas (lime and bergamot was a winner for me), and Magic Lantern is a treasure trove of antiques and vintage finds. Grab a coffee at Cumbali Kahve, take plenty of photos, and enjoy Balat’s laidback vibe.

If you’re looking for a hidden gem, head to Merdivenli Yks. Unlike Balat’s more famous photo spots, this pastel-coloured street remains relatively undiscovered, probably because the steep hill deters influencers! Another must-see is Saint Stephen’s Orthodox Church, aka the Bulgarian Iron Church, the world’s only surviving cast-iron church. Its fascinating history involves over 500 tons of iron slabs being shipped from Vienna in the 19th century. Climb up to the balcony for the best views of the golden iconostasis and intricate iron framework.

A short walk brings you into Fener, which has an even livelier atmosphere. Expect more tourists, but don’t let that deter you—this part of the city is packed with character. A stop at Aşk Gazozcusu is essential for sampling Turkey’s traditional soda, gazoz. The sheer variety is wild: chocolate, lavender, tamarind, coconut, and even mastic gum. I went for mango-pineapple, while Dave tried watermelon-lemon. Nearby, Göç Antik is a tiny family-run antique store bursting with unique finds, from gramophones to vintage oil lamps. Don’t be surprised if you end up chatting with the friendly owner over a cup of tea.

Make your way uphill to the Fener Greek High School, aka the Red Castle of Istanbul. This imposing red-brick building looks like it belongs in a gothic novel, but it’s actually a still-operating school. You can’t go inside, but it’s worth the stop just to admire its dramatic facade. From here, follow the path down Kiremit Cd., the most photographed street in Fener. It’s undeniably beautiful, but expect a crowd of Instagrammers. If you’re patient, you’ll find a moment to snap your own picture between waves of visitors.

Before wrapping up the morning, swing by the Venerable Patriarchal Church of Saint George. Despite its unassuming exterior, this cathedral is one of the most important Orthodox sites in the world. Inside, you’ll find an ornate golden iconostasis, 11th-century mosaics, and even a column believed to be from Christ’s Flagellation. Afterwards, hop back on the T5 tram and head to Küçükpazar for one of Istanbul’s best street food experiences, balık ekmek. At Balıkçı Hakkı, fresh mackerel is grilled right on a fishing boat and served in a crusty sandwich. For the full experience, pair it with pickled turnip juice, if you dare!

The best way to cap off the day? A Bosphorus cruise. Land & Sea Tours offers a three-hour journey for just €12▾, taking you past landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and Maiden’s Tower. Finally, time your visit to the Hagia Sophia just before sunset. Yes, the entrance fees are steep, and the experience isn’t what it used to be, but it’s still one of the world’s most iconic buildings. If you can justify the cost, it’s worth seeing its grandeur with your own eyes. And with that, you’ve experienced a perfect day in Balat and Fener—packed with history, colour, and a whole lot of good food.

Day Three: Crossing into the Asian Side of Istanbul

Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents, so you obviously can’t leave without setting foot on the Asian side. But first, we’re kicking off the day with breakfast in Sultanahmet — although not at the usual tourist-packed rooftop spots.

Instead, I found a hidden gem: Mesopotamian Terrace Restaurant. This place delivers an epic Turkish breakfast spread with unbeatable views of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and even the Asian side. Think cheeses, pastries, jams, Turkish tea, and so much more; enough to make you want to take a nap after. But no time for that; we’ve got a palace to explore!

Topkapi Palace is next, and if you can get in right at opening time, you’ll avoid the worst of the crowds. This sprawling complex was home to Ottoman sultans for centuries, filled with treasures like an 86-carat diamond, jewel-encrusted swords, and relics that may or may not include Moses’ staff. The Harem section is a must-visit for its stunning tilework and air of intrigue, and the palace terrace serves up sweeping Bosphorus views. We spent four hours here before palace-fatigue kicked in: Topkapi is massive!

After all that grandeur, Gülhane Park offers a much-needed breather. Once the private gardens of the sultans, it’s now a peaceful escape from the city’s chaos. If you’re visiting in April, expect a sea of tulips to rival the fields of the Netherlands. We grabbed Turkish tea at Setüstü Tea Garden, perched on a hill with Bosphorus views, and just soaked up the calm. It’s the perfect way to reset before heading across to the Asian side.

Üsküdar is our first stop in Asia, where I’d booked a Turkish coffee-making class as a birthday surprise for Dave. Even though neither of us are huge Turkish coffee fans, we both left with a newfound appreciation for it. The class, run by Istanbul Workshops, included history, hands-on brewing, fortune-telling from our coffee grounds, and a ceramic cup and saucer to take home. If coffee’s not your thing, they also offer mosaic lamp-making, tile painting, and perfume workshops, all at great prices.

Since Üsküdar is quieter and more traditional than Sultanahmet, we took some time to wander its waterfront and check out Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, a stunning yet tourist-free gem. If you’re up for more exploring, hop over to Kadıköy; a total contrast, buzzing with street art, indie bookstores, and cool cafés. We even stopped at Walter’s Coffee Roastery, a Breaking Bad-themed café where you can don a yellow hazmat suit before sipping your espresso!

When hunger strikes, hop on a ferry back to Eminönü. Istanbul’s ferries aren’t just transport — they’re an experience. We sat out on the deck, sipped Turkish tea from the onboard café, and watched fearless seagulls hover next to outstretched hands for scraps of simit. If you time it with sunset, it’s pure magic.

Before wrapping up, there’s one last underrated spot worth visiting: Binbirdirek Cistern. Think Basilica Cistern but with fewer tourists and more atmosphere. With 212 towering marble pillars, it feels like stepping into an ancient underground temple; moody, quiet, and slightly eerie in the best way.

Finally, for a fiery send-off dinner, we headed to Old Ottoman Café & Restaurant, where I had to try the Testi Kebab. It’s slow-cooked inside a sealed clay pot, which they dramatically crack open at your table — flaming, of course. A little performance with your meal? Yes, please.

A perfect way to end an unforgettable day in Istanbul.

Day Four: Head to Canakkale via Bursa

I used Flixbus to get around Turkey, as they made it so easy to book buses in advance and for a reasonable price. I recommend jumping on the 8:30 a.m. bus from Istanbul to Bursa, which leaves from Istanbul Dudullu station, and arrives in Bursa at 10:30 a.m.

Bursa is an incredible UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the capital of the Ottoman empire. At its heart is the bazaar, which is particularly famous for the Kozi Han courtyard, dotted with cafes and surrounded by luxurious silk emporiums for big spenders. We just stuck with a coffee and some solid people-watching.

Next door is the city’s Grand Mosque, a 20-domed building with a beautiful marble fountain at the heart of its gold-accented white walls, though overall it’s fairly plain compared to what you’ll see in Istanbul.

Venture 20 minutes to the northwest where the Muradiye Complex boasts a number of early Ottoman tombs in greatly varying degrees of splendor, though the most ornate have some truly dazzling bright blue Iznik tiles.

You’ll want to give yourself three or four hours to spend in Bursa, walking through all of those atmospheric alleyways and diving into the city’s history. Once you’ve finished up, it’ll be time to head over to Canakkale. I recommend booking the 2:30 p.m. bus via FlixBus, but if you want to give yourself more time in Bursa, there is one at 5 p.m., too. It takes four hours to get to Canakkale.

Canakkale is the best place to base yourself to explore the two important sites in this area: Troy and Gallipoli. We’ll be heading to both of them tomorrow.

Where to stay in Canakkale: We chose the budget guesthouse NR1 Hotel as our base in Canakkale and couldn’t have been happier with it. Friendly staff were happy to give advice on how best to get around, the rooms were clean and comfortable (with A/C), and the downtown area was within walking distance of the hotel — there were a couple of great restaurants nearby, too; I recommend heading to Bigalı Ömür Restaurant for their excellent homemade meatballs!

Day Five: Canakkale, Troy, and Gallipoli

You could manage to cross off both Troy and Gallipoli by using public transport (buses run throughout the day), but this is one situation where I recommend taking a tour instead.

These two sites couldn’t be more different. One is all about ancient myths and wooden horses while the other is a sobering memorial to one of WWI’s most brutal campaigns. Visiting both in a day gives you a fascinating blend of history, legend, and reflection. Plus, it saves you from the logistical headache of figuring out transport between them.

The tours kicks off with Troy, because, let’s be real, you can’t come all this way and not see the ruins of the city that launched a thousand ships. Now, I’ll be honest: Troy isn’t the most visually impressive ancient site you’ll ever see. If you’re expecting a fully intact city, you might be a little underwhelmed. But what makes it special is the sheer depth of history here. Archaeologists have uncovered nine layers of civilisation[!] stacked on top of each other, dating back over 4,000 years! You’ll get to see remnants of city walls, ancient roads, and of course, the (modern) wooden horse that makes for a fun photo opportunity. Whether you’re a history buff or just someone who vaguely remembers Brad Pitt in Troy, it’s a cool place to explore.

After wrapping up at Troy, you’ll have a break back for lunch before heading off to Gallipoli in the afternoon.

This is where the tone shifts. Gallipoli is one of the most significant battlefields of WWI, and it’s a place that carries a lot of emotional weight, especially for Australians and New Zealanders. Even if you don’t have a personal connection to the ANZAC story, the sheer scale of the loss here is staggering. The tour takes you through key sites like ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, and Chunuk Bair, where you’ll hear stories of courage, tragedy, and the unexpected friendships that formed between enemies.

One of the most moving parts of the visit is standing at the cemeteries, reading the inscriptions on the gravestones. Many of the soldiers who died here were heartbreakingly young, and the personal messages from their families — full of love, pride, and grief — make it impossible to stay emotionally detached. The landscape itself is also surprisingly beautiful, with rolling hills and sweeping views of the Dardanelles, which makes the whole experience even more poignant.

By the end of the tour, you’ll probably feel a mix of emotions: awed by Troy’s ancient history, humbled by Gallipoli’s sacrifices, and maybe even a little mentally drained from taking it all in. It’s a long day, but one that’s absolutely worth doing if you’re in this part of Turkey. History here isn’t just something you read about; it’s something you stand in the middle of, surrounded by echoes of the past.

After returning to Çanakkale in the evening, you’ll probably want to wind down with a good meal and some time to process everything you’ve seen. My recommendation? Find a waterfront spot, order a plate of meze, and watch the ferries glide across the Dardanelles. It’s the perfect way to end a day filled with stories that you won’t forget anytime soon.

Day Six: Onwards to Izmir!

While Izmir itself has limited appeal as a tourist destination, it is a great jumping off point to reach one of Turkey’s most iconic destinations: Ephesus. Once a prominent Ancient Greek city, it is now a collection of picturesque ruins that attract biblical tour groups (thanks to its association with the New Testament) as much as history buffs. It also lends its name to Turkey’s most popular (and least delicious) beer, Efes.

Aim to get on the first bus out of Canakkale, which leaves at 10 a.m. and gets you into Izmir at 3:30 p.m. — it’s another long day of travel, but absolutely worth it when you wake up the following morning and get to explore Ephesus.

Day Seven: It’s All About Ephesus!

Today, get ready for a day of wandering through one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. This place is seriously impressive, with grand ruins that actually give you a sense of what life was like here thousands of years ago. Think towering columns, intricate carvings, and streets worn smooth by centuries of footsteps. It’s also huge, so comfy shoes and a big bottle of water are a must.

A strenuous recommendation here: wake up early to ensure you’re at the complex by 8 a.m., which is when it opens. I made the mistake of arriving at 9:30 a.m., at which point the ruins were full to the brim with crowds. That combined with the heat (there’s no shade in the complex either) made for quite an unpleasant experience when midday rolled around.

The first stop you’ll want to make? The Magnesia Gate, where you’ll enter the city and immediately feel like you’ve stepped back in time. As you wander down Curetes Street, you’ll pass ancient shops, fountains, and even a few surviving frescoes. But let’s be honest: everyone’s really here for the big-ticket sights, and the Library of Celsus does not disappoint. It’s easily the most iconic spot in Ephesus, and for good reason. This stunning two-story structure was once one of the largest libraries in the ancient world, and even in ruins, it’s jaw-dropping. Expect to take way too many photos.

Next, swing by the Grand Theatre (said to once hold 25,000 people, although we didn’t count the seats). It’s said that St. Paul once preached here, though the acoustics are so good that you could probably whisper from the stage and still be heard at the top.

Make sure you head to the Temple of Artemis, too. Well, what’s left of it. This was once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, but today, all that remains is a single column and some scattered ruins. It’s not the most visually exciting stop, but knowing it was once a grand, sprawling temple makes it worth the visit. Plus, it’s a quick stop, so you won’t need to linger too long.

After a solid morning of exploring, it’s time to take a breather. The site itself doesn’t have many food options, so I’d recommend leaving the complex and heading to nearby Selçuk for lunch. This little town is the perfect place to refuel, with plenty of spots serving up gözleme (Turkish stuffed flatbread) and fresh pomegranate juice. While you’re here, make a quick detour to the Basilica of St. John, where the apostle is said to be buried. It’s not as famous as Ephesus, but it’s got great views and a much more relaxed vibe.

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Ephesus Museum, where you can see some of the incredible statues and artefacts that were found at the site. It’s a great way to put everything you just saw into context, and it’s also air-conditioned — an absolute blessing after a long, sweaty day in the sun.

Where to stay in Izmir: While Izmir isn’t short of well-known, brand-name hotels, we like the small, local spot called Deka Evleri because everything feels more personalised and unique. Plus, it’s in a good location for the train to Ephesus.

Day Eight: To Pamukkale and Onwards to Antalya

We’ll be back on the bus again today, setting off for the southern coast of Turkey — but you can’t travel in that direction without first stopping off in Pamukkale.

Aim to get on the 8:00 a.m. or 8:45 a.m. bus from Izmir bus station, taking it to Denizli bus station; you’ll arrive between midday and 1 p.m. From there, there are shuttles running every 10 minutes or so to the entrance of Pamukkale. It was super-easy to do this.

You’ll want to spend around two hours at Pamukkale — it’s well-worth seeing, but the site itself is pretty compact, so you don’t need a lot time. That’s why I don’t recommend spending the night in Pamukkale; it’s so small that you might as well save time and move on to your next destination.

And don’t worry: you can still see the highlights without feeling like you’re sprinting through a UNESCO site. This place is famous for its dazzling white travertine terraces and ancient ruins, and while you could spend a whole day here, two hours is enough to hit the must-sees and soak up the magic (quite literally, if you bring your swimsuit).

First things first: head straight for the travertines. These natural thermal pools look like something out of a dream, with bright white limestone cascading down the hillside like frozen waterfalls. You’ll need to take your shoes off to walk on them, partly to protect the formations and partly because they’re surprisingly smooth underfoot. Some sections are warm, others are refreshingly cool, and all of them are incredibly photogenic. Wading through the pools with that unreal backdrop? It’s enough to have you wondering if you’ve stepped foot on a whole new planet.

Once you’ve filled your quota of barefoot wandering and dramatic terrace photos, make your way up to Hierapolis. This ancient Roman spa city sits right above the travertines, and it’s packed with well-preserved ruins that give you a glimpse into how people were living it up here thousands of years ago. The theatre is a must-see; climb up a few rows for the best view, and imagine what it was like when 12,000 people were packed in, watching gladiator fights or theatrical performances.

If you’re in the mood for a little extra indulgence, pop into Cleopatra’s Pool. Legend has it that Cleopatra herself once took a dip here (though let’s be real, she seemed to bathe everywhere). The pool is warm, naturally mineral-rich, and filled with fallen Roman columns, so you’re literally swimming through history. There’s an extra fee to get in, but if you’re keen on a quick, surreal soak, it’s worth it.

By this point, you’ve probably got about 20-30 minutes left, so use that time to wander through what’s left of the necropolis. It might sound a little morbid, but this ancient cemetery is oddly beautiful, with ornate tombs scattered across the landscape. Some of them are impressively grand; it turns out even in Roman times, people wanted to go out in style.

Take the shuttle back to Denizli bus station and it’s time to venture onwards to Antalya!

Day Nine: A Day in Antalya

You can’t visit Turkey for two weeks and not spend some time by the sea. Built overlooking beautiful blue water, Antalya is one of the easternmost points of the Turkish Riviera, a region filled with seaside resorts that trace their way along the southwest of the country. 

In Antalya, Konyaalti Beach is the city’s most easily accessible hotspot, its pebbled surface stretching for eight kilometers and framed by the Taurus Mountains, which make for a rather lovely backdrop.

Once (or perhaps if) you tire of lounging beside the cooling waters, head into Antalya’s old town, where you’ll find such landmarks as the stocky Hadrian’s Gate and the Hidirlik Tower, both built in the 2nd century. Mainly, though, the point of visiting this part of Antalya is just to enjoy meandering through the quaint streets, before eventually ending up at the old marina for a meal and to watch the sun set.

Where to stay in Antalya: The big question in Antalya is whether you want to be closer to Konyaalti Beach or closer to the old town. Despite the fact that, from what we’ve seen, rooms in the old town tend to be a bit more compact, we still lean that way because the buildings are more atmospheric, in particular Hotel Lykia, which is located in a cute stone edifice and offers a lovely patio and pool area.

Day 10: Turkey’s Beautiful Coastline

Turkey isn’t short of pretty beach towns. If you’ve rented a car, we’d recommend driving along the coast, stopping at the various villages as you go. If you’re going by public transport and have to travel according to the set timetables, however, it might be wise to limit your meanderings.

There are three spots we particularly recommend visiting. Kas is the smallest of the trio but perhaps all the more charming for that, with a relaxed vibe and cool bars. Whitewashed houses with terracotta roofs crowd a small piece of land encircled by hills.

Oludeniz’s Blue Lagoon is surrounded by some of the nicest beaches we saw in Turkey. Not only that, but paragliding off the nearby Babadag Mountain is a legendary (if terrifying) experience. 

Fethiye is the largest of the three and also has the most interesting historical sight, the Lycian rock tombs. These final resting places are carved out of the cliff wall above the town. Climbing up a series of steps set into the slope, you can even enter one, the Tomb of Amyntos, though most people will probably find the views down upon Fethiye more engaging than the now-barren stone vault. 

Where to stay in Fethiye: We particularly love the crisp modern furnishings at the Yacht Boheme Hotel – as well as lounging about by the pool. As its name suggests, this boutique spot overlooks the marina, where luxury yachts are berthed. It’s also about 15 minutes’ walk from the downtown area.

Day 11: Antalya then Onwards to Konya

Konya has a long-standing association with Sufism, and several of the city’s attractions are connected to this Islamic practice. Turn up on the right day of the week and you can even see a mystic dance performance by whirling dervishes at the Mevlana Cultural Center.

Even if your schedule doesn’t coincide with the ritual, however, there are still informative exhibits about Sufism at the Mevlana Museum. This modest complex sticks out of the cityscape like a sore thumb thanks to its copper-green tower. Here, you can learn about the Sufi beliefs and visit the rather grand mausoleum of one its most famous adherents, the poet Rumi. 

Just a short walk away, the Aziziye Mosque is worth visiting just to get a glimpse of the unusual blending of Ottoman and Western architecture into a curious puzzle of a building. 

Spend the rest of your time in the city wandering around Alaaddin Hill, where another beautiful mosque awaits. Don’t miss the dazzling domed ceiling of the nearby Karatay Madrasa, a museum whose display of Seljuk tiles is underwhelming compared to the tiled décor of the building.

Where to stay in Konya: Accommodation options in Konya are limited, so don’t expect anything as spectacular or unique as you’ll find in Cappadocia. Bablin Butik is a reliable option, situated nearby the main sights and with clean rooms. We have to admit the somewhat over-egged décor might not be to everyone’s taste, but as long as you plump for at least a king room, you won’t find yourself overwhelmed by the dark wood furniture. 

Day 12: Konya and Onwards to Cappadocia

Get up early to catch the sunrise and ride a hot-air balloon. There are numerous tour companies offering different kinds of packages to suit your desires, including this one that includes hotel transfers and a light breakfast prior to the ascent.

While riding over the gorgeous scenery as the morning light filters through it is an utterly incredible experience, those who really can’t bear heights can rest assured that hiking up to a nearby hill and watching the sky fill with colorful balloons is an incredible vista in itself. In fact, if you decide to spend an extra day in Cappadocia, it’s definitely worth forcing yourself out of bed early twice and experiencing both sides of the coin.

Another thing you absolutely have to do while in Cappadocia is visit one of the underground cities. Personally, we’d recommend Kaymakli, partly because it’s a bit closer to Goreme (you’ll still need to hire a taxi) and partly because it’s generally less crowded than the other main option, Derinkuyu. Parts of the city are almost 3,000 years old, though it’s been expanded many times over the centuries. Only a small portion is open to visitors today, however, for safety reasons. 

At the entrance, you’ll find people offering their services as guides. While you might not need their assistance to find your way through (the one-way route is clearly marked), it’s worth hiring someone to give you context about the purpose of the different rooms, especially because most of them are hard to identify without aid.

Be aware that it can get a bit claustrophobic underground, as many of the passageways between the rooms are narrow – not so much that you will get stuck, but you should at least expect to crouch down to fit through. In fact, it’s incredible to think that people once inhabited these rooms, admittedly usually only for short periods of time in order to flee persecution.

If you’re still aching for adventure once you return to Goreme, you can take a leisurely stroll through the Rose Valley, admiring the pink hue of the landscape under the sun. 

Day 13: Balloons and Peens in Cappadoccia

Cappadocia is one of the most magical places you’ll spend your 14 days in Turkey, a landscape full of fairy chimneys, hidden cities, and rugged terrain that’s perfect for energetic hiking. We recommend basing yourself out of Goreme, which is a convenient village from which to reach most of the major sights.

Start your day at the Goreme Open Air Museum, a complex of churches cut out of the rock face just 15 minutes from the town center. Each of these has its own distinctive shape and its own distinctive frescoes, many of which are incredibly preserved considering they date mostly from the 10th, 11th and 12th centuries. 

In the afternoon, head out to Love Valley, named because the rock spires (coyly called fairy chimneys) resemble enormous phallic pillars. There are well-worn trails through the countryside, though that didn’t prevent us from getting lost. Still, with the help of Google Maps it’s fairly easy to get yourself back on track. If you have the time, we recommend hiking all the way to Uchisar Castle and back, as it has great views over the surrounding country and is itself a landmark, visible for miles around.

Where to stay in Cappadocia: Cappadocia is as famous for its cave hotels as it is for anything else, but not all are created equal. We love Luvi Cave because it has spacious stone rooms, a great location and one of the best terrace views in Goreme.

Day 14: A Morning Day Tour and Back to Istanbul

Day Nine: Konya

Day Ten: Antalya

Day Twelve: Bodrum 

The last stop on our exploration of the Turquoise Coast, Bodrum has more of a party atmosphere than the other beach destinations we’ve mentioned so far, probably because it’s somehow simultaneously gained a reputation for being a good option for a cheap getaway and become a destination where the wealthy anchor their yachts. Many resorts have staked a claim to sections of sand here, but there’s also the sizable public Yahsi Beach, which packs in the loungers and umbrellas.

Thanks to its advantageous coastal position, Bodrum also boasts an impressive fortification. Officially called the Castle of St. Peter, it was originally constructed by crusader knights but later seized by the Ottomans. Today, its battlements are patrolled by peacocks. There are great views of the harbor from the stone walls, but also spend a little time exploring the building’s (amusingly random) museum of underwater archaeology, which details the finds that have been retrieved in the nearby waters.

If, like us, this inspires you to go on your own treasure hunt of sorts, there are several scuba diving businesses in operation, which rent equipment and take visitors down into the blue depths of the ocean in search of reefs and wrecks.

Where to stay in Bodrum: There are a ton of enormous resorts in this part of the world, but with just three rooms the Townhouse offers something much more unique and personalized. The accommodation boasts spectacular views as well as its own bar and restaurant if you’re feeling too lazy to go anywhere. Having said that, the prime location means you’re not far from a host of alternative eating options.

Day Thirteen: Pamukkale and Hierapolis

Pamukkale is arguably one of Turkey’s most Instagram-famous attractions. Its name literally means ‘cotton castle’ due to the white mineral deposits that have formed over the years as a result of the thermal springs. These waters have been revered for their healing properties at least since Ancient Greek times, when a spa town, Hierapolis, was built here to cater for tourists.

You can still bathe in the pools even today, though there are strict rules around where you can and can’t go, as the Turkish government attempts to preserve the site from rampant tourism. Regardless of these restrictions, it’s worth making the trip to see the strange formations of travertine, which lend everything here a slightly otherworldly appearance, like the surface of a foreign planet.

While in the area, you may as well visit Hierapolis, though it is little more than ruins bar an impressive theater and some tombs in the necropolis. Nearby, the Antique Pool feels rather more like a water park than the remnants of a Roman bathing place, though there is something romantic about the ruined pillar fragments submerged beneath the transparent waters.

Where to stay in Pamukkale: The large rooms at the WhiteHeaven Suite Hotel make up for some of the, um, questionable designs on the soft furnishings. We are particularly keen on the breakfast, served poolside, and the complimentary shuttle bus to the travertines.

Day Fourteen: Istanbul

After gallivanting across the country, you’ll probably be in need of some much-deserved rest and relaxation. Fortunately, Istanbul is not just famous for its delicious cuisine and storied historical sites. It’s also renowned for its traditional Turkish baths, where visitors are steamed, scrubbed, and massaged into bliss. One of our favorites is the Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam, which maintains its beautiful old stonework but also offers the comfort of modern-day amenities. 

If you didn’t manage to pack in everything we recommended from the first two days in Istanbul – and it is admittedly a very full schedule – you can squeeze the rest in today. Alternatively, prolong your post-hamam relaxed state by ending your trip at one of the chilled bars overlooking the Bosphorus, gulping back a nice cold Efes as you watch the boats go by, before making your way to the airport to catch your flight out.

And That’s How to Spend Two Weeks in Turkey!

Traversing Turkey in just 14 days is bound to be an exhausting experience, but there are just so many wonderful experiences you won’t want to miss. If you feel you absolutely must simplify your visit and spend a couple of extra days just chilling out, we would recommend skipping Konya (which is culturally fascinating and breaks the journey between Cappadocia and Antalya, but still not as interesting as the other cities listed here) or picking one of the Turquoise Coast locales and sticking there for a few days, rather than visiting them all

If, on the other hand, you want to extend your trip, it’s worth exploring some of the cities further east, like Gaziantep and Mardin. In recent times, visits here have been curtailed due to their proximity to the Syrian border. As government advice about travel to the region relaxes, however, it’s worth considering exploring a different aspect of Turkey’s culture and history.