2 Weeks in Turkey: 3 itineraries

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When I started researching Turkey as my next holiday destination, I got so excited. It has so much to offer and looks so magical. Not to mention, I can’t wait to be in a country that is located on two continents.

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I actually ended up staying in Turkey for an entire month. This allowed me to see so many places and learn that there are different ways to travel to this historical place, depending on what you prefer. This is why there are three itineraries in this post.

There is a multitude of reasons why you must visit Turkey. It has one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with well-preserved ancient cities and incredibly beautiful destinations. Turkey sits between Europe and Asia, making it even more of a fantastic destination.

Spending 2 weeks in Turkey is perfect. With this amount of time, you can visit up to 3-4 cities. If you prefer to travel slower, you can bring it down to 2-3 cities and focus on the things you enjoy. Istanbul and Ephesus are two perfect locations for those who love to explore historical sites.

If you want to go to the beach, Antalya, Bodrum, and Izmir are glorious. You can hop on a plane and head to the magical region of Cappadocia, where you can ride a hot air balloon while waiting for the sun to rise.

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PINNED MAP OF MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS IN TURKEY

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN TURKEY ITINERARY

To help you get started right away, I put together this rundown of the top itineraries for your 14 days in Turkey. If you want to create your own self-guided tour, here’s a thorough list of the best things to do in Turkey.

You don’t have to strictly follow these travel plans; you can choose only the ones that you’re interested in. 

Package tours

Itinerary #1: First-timer (Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Antalya)

This itinerary is ideal for first-timers in Turkey since it is packed with the country’s top attractions.

The Grand Bazaar, the world’s largest and oldest covered market, the Blue Mosque, and the famous Hagia Sophia are just a few of the historic and fascinating sights you can expect to encounter in Istanbul. When you explore this city, you’ll experience all of these top sites and many more.

The section for Cappadocia is my favourite because of how magical this place is. Enjoy a hot air balloon ride early in the morning, which travels through the canyons of the Cappadocian valleys.

Although it is quite crowded, the experiences are absolutely fantastic, and Göreme, the major town, has an ethereal atmosphere that is distinctive and alluring. There’s also an open-air museum that explains about this incredible region.

Travellers visit Pamukkale for its calcium travertines, which are white and sparkling. It was originally a renowned spa town known for its mineral-rich water. The Antique Pool, also called Cleopatra’s Pool, is still open to visitors today, where you can enjoy soaking in its emerald water.

Bodrum is the prime spot if you want to unwind and recharge as both tourists and residents enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and resting during the day. At night, those seaside towns transform into nightlife till the early hours.

Historic landmarks can be found in Antalya, from Hadrian’s Gate to Lycian Empire ruins spread out over the region. But it’s also known for its beautiful beach shorelines. Your trip ends in Antalya, and from there, you can easily get back to Istanbul by air.

Istanbul for 3 days

Istanbul is a perfect setting to start your itinerary since it has a rich history in every direction and is the capital of four main empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, Latin, and Ottoman empires.

It has a lot to offer in terms of culture and history, with numerous structures connected to these ancient civilizations. Istanbul has long served as a junction of continents, and its fascinating past and dynamic present continue to amaze travellers.

If you enjoy visiting local markets, there are lots of them in Istanbul – those are great spots to find unique souvenirs but don’t forget to haggle as the prices for tourists are often higher.

2 images - Antalya beach and Hagia Sophia - 2 weeks in Turkey itinerary

Cappadocia and Goreme for 3 days

Have you seen those hot air balloon photos of Cappadocia right next to a hotel room? Well, that’s not an exaggeration. I experienced this myself, and most accommodations (cave hotels) are right in the heart of Cappadocia, so finding a hotel to experience this beautiful setting is very easy.

There are several small towns in Cappadocia that offer decent accommodation options, but Göreme is the most popular destination since it is a small town with a modern infrastructure and is close to both the Goreme Open Air Museum and a few valleys.

The flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia is around 1 hr 20 min, and there are two airports in Cappadocia namely Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines.

Pamukkale for 2 days

Pamukkale, which equates to “cotton castle,” is made up of colourful calcium bicarbonate deposits and natural mineral basins that together create a beautiful landscape.

As one of the trendiest tourist attractions in Turkey, the Travertines of Pamukkale is undoubtedly one of the primary reasons why visitors are flocking to this place.

One can understand why it never ceases to astound visitors, given its distinctive composition, which gave it its brilliant white colours, as well as the thermal pools surrounding the travertines.

The distance between Cappadocia and Pamukkale is 616 km (383 mi). Travelling by land takes between 7 hours to 9 hours, depending on whether you’re taking a private car or a local bus.

You can fly from Cappadocia (Nevsehir or Kayseri) to Denizli-Çardak Airport (DNZ), but it connects to Istanbul. The fastest flight you can book is between 5-6 hours.

Ephesus for 3 days

Ephesus is Turkey’s most well-known ruin and archaeological tourist spot because of its tremendous religious and historical significance. The well-preserved Roman streets draw visitors from all over the world who come to experience the historic spirit of this city.

This is one of the best locations to travel to if you want to embrace a Classical-era city due to how well-maintained the monuments are.

The direct drive from Pamukkale to Ephesus is around 2 hr 40 min, covering a distance of 194 km. You also have an option to ride a bus from Pamukkale to Ephesus, which often takes 3 hr 8 min. Alternatively, you can hop on a train from Pamukkale to Ephesus for a 3 hr 20 min journey.

Antalya or Izmir for 3 days

It’s not difficult to understand why Antalya, which lies in Southern Turkey, is sometimes known as the nation’s crown gem. It has some of the nicest beaches and even landmarks in the league, it is one of those underrated Mediterranean attractions that tourists often skip through.

Izmir, on the other hand, is also known as an incredible beach town. It’s a little busier than Antalya, and there’s a port near there, so the beaches might not be as impressive as Antalya.

However, it’s only an hour from Ephesus to Izmir. While it’s a 5-hour drive or 6-hour bus from Ephesus to Antalya

This city is definitely a great way to end your 2 weeks in Turkey if you want to unwind on the beaches and avoid the crowds.

Itinerary #2: History and Hiking (Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Izmir, Bodrum)

Spending 3 days in Istanbul will let you discover more about the Ottoman legacy and tempt you with all of the mouthwatering treats at the Grand Bazaar. This 2 weeks in Turkey itinerary is perfect for those who want to learn about the oldest civilisation and the history of Turkey.

Istanbul has everything you could ever want to buy all under one roof. With a variety of traditional goods, this city is a great start to your 2 weeks trip to Turkey.

If you fancy exploring historical sites then you’ll be thrilled in Ankara since there are a lot of museums for you to learn more about the city’s capital. Aside from that, there are amusement parks that offer plenty of attractions for everyone to enjoy.

For hiking enthusiasts, Cappadocia is the place to be, surrounded by hiking trails near Goreme that are waiting for you to discover. It’s simple to wander around this city since countless towns and villages are conveniently close to all the major hiking trails.

Izmir is a city rich in culture, making it one of the most valuable assets for the coming generation. It has abundant cultural facilities that regularly host festivals, events, and exhibitions.

If you prefer being one with nature, you’ll have a blast in Bodrum’s peninsula since it is home to numerous beaches, coves, and bays that serve as the focal point of socialization, especially during summer.

2 images - hot air balloon over cappadocia and fairy chimneys in Goreme - 2 weeks in Turkey itinerary

Istanbul for 3 days

In addition to visiting Istanbul’s historical sites and museums, tourists visit the Grand Bazaar since this place is regarded as the largest shopping centre in Istanbul. It is an enormous covered market that occupies an entire city district and is essentially the first retail mall in history.

You are welcome to browse the alleys of the Grand Bazaar, where vendors sell everything from carpets and leather goods to jewellery and souvenirs, including the widely sought-after Nazar evil eye decorations.

One of the cool places to escape to is the 62-metre (205 ft) Galata Tower, where you can wander around the whole perimeter and take a panoramic view of the city’s peninsula and surroundings. It is considered the best place to see the central old city’s skyline, and it even has a restaurant.

Ankara for 2  days

You might easily spend 2 days or more getting to know Ankara with the abundance of museums, ancient sites, parks, and performing arts venues available. In 1923, Turkey changed its capital city from Istanbul to Ankara when the Ottoman Empire fell.

Whether you want to witness a performance at the city’s opera house or enjoy live music in a more relaxed setting, it is guaranteed that some kind of performance will suit your taste. If you want to embrace a more authentic side of Turkey with fewer crowds, this makes it a terrific location.

The direct drive from Istanbul to Ankara is around 4 hr 55 min via Kuzey Marmara Otoyolu/O-7 and Anadolu Otoyolu/O-4, covering a distance of 447 km.

Whereas the train ride via Turkish Railways often takes 5 hr 30 min, Typically, 14 trains run weekly, although you must check the schedules in advance because it may vary during holidays.

Cappadocia and Goreme for 3 days

2 weeks in Turkey is incomplete without a visit to this region. Göreme is the heart of Cappadocia’s tourism economy since many traditional homes have been converted into elegant cave hotels. For good reason, it has consistently been named one of the most stunning villages in the world by travel publications.

The village serves as the main starting point for hikers eager to get outside because all the major valleys provide a variety of paths that go through bizarre rock formations known as fairy chimneys in the area and up to panoramic viewpoints.

The direct drive from Ankara to Goreme is around 2 hr 20 min via Ankara – Niğde Otoyolu/Ankara – Tarsus Otoyolu/O-21, covering a distance of 300 km. Whereas the fastest bus ride from Ankara to Goreme via Nevsehirliler often takes 3 hr 37 min.

Izmir for 3 days

Izmir has long been a city with a diverse population, and it is also famous for its range of delicacies that are influenced by Turkish, Cretan, Greek, and Balkan cuisines.

You can even find Ephesus and Pergamon here, which are among the 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you want to explore Roman and Greek artefacts more, then head to the Izmir Archaeology Museum. 

The fastest way to get to Izmir from Goreme is by flight via Turkish Airlines with 1 layover, which is around 4 hr.

Bodrum for 3 days

The Bodrum Peninsula’s beaches outside of the town are the main attraction for tourists in the summer, where the shorefront is bustling with people lounging in the sun.

The beaches in Bitez, Ortakent, Gümbet, and Turgetreis are the most popular since they include free public beaches and private beach clubs.

For those who want to relax and tan after exploring the country, this is the perfect place to end your 14 days in Turkey.

The direct drive from Izmir to Bodrum is around 3 hr 13 min via E87 and Milas Soke Yolu/D25, covering a distance of 236 km. Alternatively, you can ride a bus via Kale Seyahat and Pamukkale Turizm, which often takes 3 hr 15 min.

Itinerary #3: Beach Holiday (Istanbul, Izmir, Bodrum, Antalya)

With a vast number of beach resorts and delicacies, this next itinerary for 2 weeks in Turkey is suitable for beach lovers. If you like your vacation served with the coastal highlights of Turkey, then this travel plan is perfect for you. 

Istanbul is encircled by the city’s narrow coastline and mountains that set it apart from the rest of the nation. If you’re up for a food exploration whilst soaking in crystal clear beaches or going on a ferry ride, then Izmir is for you.

Make sure to drop by Kemaralt Market since there’s a variety of cuisines for you to choose from.

Bodrum provides the best of both worlds because, while daytime pursuits are centred on the sunny beach, night-time activities are when the quest for pleasure comes to life. The extensive selection of entertainment keeps everyone busy.

If you’re not sailing, shopping, enjoying the nightlife, or indulging in the cuisine, start sightseeing by going to Saint Peter’s Castle.

Antalya is a distinctive summer destination because of its fascinating natural setting. From the looming majesty of the Taurus Mountains to remote beaches and water activities that lead to old towns of former empires, these are just a few reasons why you should go here.

2 images - Ankara's capital building and Izmir clock tower - 2 weeks in Turkey itinerary

Istanbul for 4 days

For many tourists, a vacation to Istanbul wouldn’t be complete without taking a cruise on the city’s renowned waterway, the Bosphorus, which connects the Black Sea to Marmara’s sea. The Bosphorus voyage is all about lounging back and taking in the scenery. 

Istanbul is renowned for its flashy nightlife, which is lively with its distinctive neon lights close to the river. You can even taste a variety of drinks at clubs that stay up until midnight and are packed with people dancing and singing.

The most popular kebabs in Istanbul are made using a variety of meats, but don’t miss out on lamb kebabs since they’re a must-try.

Izmir for 3 days

Izmir is regarded as one of the most prominent cruise ship ports in the Aegean region, and many visitors travel to Turkey from Europe via this Aegean route.

It has also earned a reputation as a top cruise destination thanks to its friendly crew, who can converse with visitors in ten different languages.

In addition, it is home to the historical Kemeralti Bazaar, known as the world’s largest outdoor shopping mall and where many well-known brands are sold at discounts.

The fastest way to travel from Istanbul to Izmir is to catch a flight via Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Airlines, which often takes 1 hr and 10 min. Whereas the direct drive from Istanbul to Izmir is around 5 hr 15 min via O-5, covering a distance of 482 km.

Alternatively, the journey time when you ride a bus via Pamukkale Turizm or Kamil Koc is approximately 7 hrs due to the stops made along the way.

Bodrum for 3 days

Although boat journeys are frequently used to access the ocean in Bodrum, more adventurous tourists can pick from a variety of water sports available at the many beaches of the peninsula.

Kayak rentals are popular, and if you’re seeking greater thrills, you can go parasailing at beaches such as Bitez, Gumber, and Ortakent.

In recent years, paddleboarding has also grown in popularity and is currently available at several beaches on the peninsula, notably Turgutreis and Camel Beach.

The direct drive from Izmir to Bodrum is around 3 hr 3 min via E87 and Milas Soke Yolu/D2525, covering a distance of 236 km. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus ride via Kale Seyahat or Pamukkale Turizm, which usually takes 3 hr and 15 min.

Antalya for 3 days

If you have 2 weeks in Turkey, you must visit the coastline at least once. One of the top destinations for water enthusiasts and anyone seeking an adrenaline rush would be the Köprülü Canyon National Park, 90 km Northeast of Antalya.

Enjoy a river rafting adventure with your family or friends along the Köprülü River or soak in the crystal clear water.

If you don’t fancy water activities, then there are tons of riverbank cafes with spectacular canyon views for you to unwind, which makes Antalya a perfect place to end your 2 weeks in Turkey.

The direct drive from Bodrum to Antalya is around 5 hr 17 min via D330, covering a distance of 422 km. Meanwhile, the fastest bus from Bodrum to Antalya often takes 6 hr 40 min via Pamukkale Turizm. If you prefer travelling overnight, 5 buses depart from 6:30 pm – 11:00 pm.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN TURKEY (by city)

2 images - travertines of Pamukkale and the Library of Ephesus 2 weeks in Turkey itinerary

Now that you have some ideas on how to spend 2 weeks in Turkey, it’s time to show you a quick and easy list of activities and tours that you can book.

While I love a DIY trip, there are parts of Turkey where booking a tour is the only option, such as the hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.

Ankara

  • Ankara Castle
  • Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
  • Eymir Lake
  • Anitkabir
  • The Youth Park
  • Wonderland Garden
  • The Roman bath museum
  • Stroll at the Citadel neighbourhood
  • Ankara art galleries
  • Hattusa day trip
  • You can make the most out of your time if you book a full-day tour around Ankara and spend the 2nd day relaxing/trying out restaurants

Antalya

Bodrum

Cappadocia/Goreme

Ephesus

Istanbul

  • Hagia Sophia Mosque
  • Blue Mosque
  • Istanbul Archaeology Museum
  • Basilica Cistern
  • Misir Carsisi – exciting spice and textile market
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Shop in the Grand Bazaar
  • Watch a Mevlevi Sema and Dervishes Show
  • Dolmabahce Palace
  • Bosphorus Cruise/day trip to Bosphorus
  • Yedikule Fortress
  • Day trips to Troy
  • Maiden’s Tower
  • Princes’ Islands day trip
  • Galta Tower
  • Food tour

Izmir

Pamukkale

  • Travertines of Pamukkale – book a guided tour
  • Hierapolis City Ruins/Archaeological Museum
  • Hot Air Balloon Flight – check the tour price
  • Salda Lake
  • Cleopatra Antique Pool
  • Pamukkale Amphi Theatre
  • Northern Necropolis
  • Aphrodisias
  • Karahayit Hot Springs
  • Ride Denizli Cable Cars

MUST-TRY TURKISH DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

3 images of Turkish food and drink - Turkish tea, Mercimek Kofte, and Kebab - 2 weeks in Turkey itinerary

Turkey has some tasty local dishes that you must try during your visit. Gaziantep is the country’s food capital, but if you don’t make it there, you can easily find these dishes and drinks anywhere in the country.

For those exploring the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, plenty of restaurants and food stalls are around the area. You can’t spend 2 weeks in Turkey and not try the local cuisine.

Here’s a quick list of must-eat dishes, snacks, and drinks in Turkey:

  • Kebap – Grilled meat dishes such as the famous Adana and Urfa kebap.
  • Meze – A selection of small dishes served as appetizers, like hummus, cacık (yoghurt with cucumber), and ezme (spicy tomato dip).
  • Manti – Turkish dumplings typically filled with ground meat, topped with yoghurt and garlic, and spiced with red pepper oil.
  • Lahmacun – Often referred to as Turkish pizza, it’s a thin flatbread topped with minced meat, vegetables, and herbs.
  • İskender Kebap – Döner kebab served over cut pita bread with hot tomato sauce and melted sheep butter and yoghurt.
  • Köfte – Seasoned ground meatballs, which can be grilled, fried, or stewed.
  • Dolma and Sarma – Vegetables or grape leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and spices, often with meat.

  • Baklava – A sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts, sweetened with syrup or honey.
  • Künefe – A hot dessert made from kadayıf (thin, shredded dough) with a layer of melted cheese, soaked in sweet syrup.
  • Lokum (Turkish Delight) – Confectionery made from starch and sugar, often flavoured with rosewater, lemon, or mastic.
  • Çay (Turkish Tea) – Black tea served in a small tulip-shaped glass, commonly consumed throughout the day.
  • Ayran – A cold yoghurt beverage mixed with salt.
  • Türk Kahvesi (Turkish Coffee) – Coffee prepared using very finely ground coffee beans, sugar, and water, served in a small cup.

ACCOMMODATIONS IN TURKEY (by city)

Hotels are super affordable in Turkey; it’s probably the only country I have visited where I have stayed in really beautiful hotels and resorts and paid no more than $80 a night. So, here are my recommended accommodations in Turkey arranged by budget:

Ankara

Antalya

Bodrum

Cappadocia/Goreme

Ephesus

  • Affordable:
  • Mid-range:
  • Luxury:

Izmir

Pamukkale

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN TURKEY

Turkey is an ideal destination for people who want to see both European and Asian cultures come together. Turkey has been called the “gateway between the west and the east,” which is what they deserve.

It’s fascinating to see how the culture, language, and traditions can be so different, only a few hours from Europe and East Asia. This country has so much to offer.

With picturesque landscapes, tasty local dishes, rich history, and an affordable destination for a trip, Turkey is a must-see at least once in your lifetime.

I hope you found this list of itineraries for spending 2 weeks in Turkey. You don’t have to follow everything listed here, but hopefully, you were able to find a thing or two that can be helpful in planning your own trip.

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A 2-week Turkey itinerary includes exploring Istanbul's historic sites, visiting Cappadocia's unique landscapes, and relaxing on Antalya's beaches. Discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus, Pamukkale's thermal pools, and the vibrant bazaars of Izmir. via @twoweektraveller