📍 Türkiye

TURKEY CROSSROADS: AEGEAN RUINS TO CAPPADOCIA MOONSCAPE

Acropoles crowning coastal hills, travertine terraces cascading like frozen falls, fairy chimneys piercing rose dawn. Turkey, bridge between worlds.

≈ 9
Days
1595
Km
5
Stops
📖 4 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Follow the Aegean coast from Pergamon and its perched acropolis, then wander through Izmir between bazaars and seafront. Reach Pamukkale for its white terraces and hot waters, before ending in Göreme, at the heart of Cappadocia. There, fairy chimneys and carved stone give the impression of entering another world.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Bergama

pergamon acropolis asklepion healing center ruins

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6 photos
Day 1
🔍

Discover

1
Visit to the archaeological site of Troy, famous for its ancient ruins and the legend of the wooden horse.
2
Stop in Eceabat to see the replica of the Trojan horse from the movie.
🎯

Activities

→
Ferry crossing from Eceabat to Çanakkale.
→
Sunset stroll through the quiet streets of Bergama.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 175 km
Travel time: 3h
2
Day

Izmir

aegean metropolis kordon seafront agora bazaar

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4 photos
Day 2
🔍

Discover

1
Cable car ride up to the Acropolis of Pergamon and exploration of ancient ruins.
2
Free stroll in downtown Izmir in the evening, particularly along the Kordon waterfront.
🎯

Activities

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Coffee and fresh juice break near the archaeological site.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 105 km
Travel time: 2h
3
Day

Pamukkale

cotton castle travertines hierapolis ancient spa

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6 photos
Day 3
🔍

Discover

1
Walk on the travertines of Pamukkale and exploration of the ancient site of Hierapolis.
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Activities

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Sunset observation over the white pools of Pamukkale.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 240 km
Travel time: 3h30
4
Day

Goreme

fairy chimneys cave hotels balloon paradise

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6 photos
Day 4
🔍

Discover

1
Journey through Anatolian landscapes to Göreme.
🎯

Activities

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Stops in local villages and cafés along the route.
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Sunset walk in Göreme among the fairy chimneys.
🚗
Next stop
⏱️ Long drive (5h+)
Distance: 520 km
Travel time: 7h30
5
Day

Goreme

fairy chimneys cave hotels balloon paradise

Goreme - Photo 1Goreme - Photo 2Goreme - Photo 3Goreme - Photo 4Goreme - Photo 5Goreme - Photo 6
6 photos
Day 5
🔍

Discover

1
Hot air balloon flight at sunrise over Cappadocia.
2
Walking discovery of the troglodyte village of Göreme.
3
Excursion to Mustafapaşa, former Greek village with stone houses and picturesque alleys.
🎯

Activities

→
Visit to the Göreme Open Air Museum.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 25 km
Travel time: 30min
6
Day

Mudurnu

ottoman town wooden houses mountain retreat

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6 photos
Day 6
🔍

Discover

1
Discovery of the abandoned site of Burj Al Babas, a complex of unfinished castles.
2
Walk through the old Ottoman city of Mudurnu.
🎯

Activities

→
Stop at Lake Abant, famous for its mountain landscapes and forest trails.
🚗
Next stop
⏱️ Long drive (5h+)
Distance: 530 km
Travel time: 9h

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🛡️ Travel advice - Türkiye

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather (15-25°C) with blooming landscapes, comfortable temperatures, and excellent conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Ideal for Istanbul, Cappadocia, and coastal regions.

Autumn (September-October): Excellent temperatures after summer heat with stable weather and fewer crowds. Perfect for all regions, cultural exploration, and outdoor adventures.

Summer (June-August): Hot temperatures (25-40°C) with peak tourist season and crowded attractions. Excellent for Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, challenging for inland areas.

Winter (December-February): Cool temperatures (5-15°C) with occasional snow but lowest prices and authentic experiences. Good for Istanbul and covered attractions, limited beach activities.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 7 and 11 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in Türkiye?

Cultural bridge between Europe and Asia with ancient heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant traditions. Experience Byzantine and Ottoman treasures, incredible cuisine, and authentic Turkish hospitality. The country offers cultural immersion with natural beauty and historical significance. Turkey provides transformative cultural experiences with natural wonders and culinary excellence. ⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Generally safe but avoid areas near Syrian border due to conflict spillover and terrorism risks. Exercise caution regarding petty crime in tourist areas, political tensions occasionally, and earthquake risks. Monitor current political situation and regional developments.