If you only have one week to explore Turkey, this is the itinerary we recommend most often at Puerto Travel. It combines some of the country’s most iconic regions — Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, and Cappadocia — with carefully planned travel logistics and enriching, guided day tours that bring each destination to life.
With efficient domestic flights, one scenic overland journey, and expert local guides in each region, this trip delivers depth, variety, and unforgettable moments in just seven days.
Route Overview
Izmir (Kusadasi for Ephesus) → Pamukkale → Antalya → Cappadocia → Istanbul
Optional: Add one or more days in Istanbul before or after this itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Izmir – Ephesus Tour & Overnight in Kusadasi
Arrive at Izmir Airport and transfer to Kusadasi, a coastal town that serves as the base for exploring one of Turkey’s most important archaeological sites.
Ephesus Tour (Half or Full Day)
- Visit the spectacular Ephesus Ancient City, where highlights include the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the Great Theater, and Curetes Street
- Continue to the House of the Virgin Mary, nestled in the forest above the ruins
- Stop by the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Enjoy free time in Kusadasi’s harbor district for a seaside walk or local shopping
Overnight in Kusadasi. Your hotel will be arranged close to the coast or city center for maximum comfort and convenience.
Day 2: Pamukkale Tour & Drive to Antalya
After breakfast, depart by private transfer to Pamukkale, approximately 3 hours inland. Following your tour, continue another 3.5 to 4 hours to Antalya, arriving in the evening.
Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour
- Walk along the famed white travertine terraces, a natural formation created by thermal mineral waters
- Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, including its Roman theater, necropolis, and colonnaded streets
- Bathe in the thermal waters of Cleopatra’s Pool, where submerged marble columns enhance the surreal experience
- After the tour, continue to Antalya with brief rest stops on the way
Overnight in Antalya. Puerto Travel handles the full transfer from Pamukkale to your hotel on the Mediterranean coast.
Day 3: Antalya City Tour – Old Town, Waterfalls & Boat Trip
Today’s guided tour introduces you to Antalya’s history, nature, and sea. It’s the perfect mix of light exploration and coastal relaxation.
Antalya City & Waterfall Tour (with Boat Trip)
- Begin in Kaleici, Antalya’s atmospheric old town, known for its Ottoman houses, Roman harbor, and historical gates
- See Hadrian’s Gate, the city’s ceremonial entrance, and visit the old harbor for sea views
- Enjoy a short Mediterranean boat tour departing from the marina (weather permitting)
- Visit Lower Duden Waterfall, which spills dramatically into the sea from the cliffs
- Stop for lunch and explore local neighborhoods with free time for shopping or coffee
Overnight in Antalya.
Day 4: Perge, Aspendos & Side Tour – Ancient Cities by the Coast
Step back into the classical world on this full-day excursion from Antalya. The region’s Roman heritage is remarkably preserved at several nearby sites.
Perge – Aspendos – Side Tour
- Visit the ruins of Perge, once a major Roman city with a stadium, theater, bathhouses, and a beautifully preserved agora
- Continue to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. It is still used for performances today.
- End in Side, a charming coastal town where ancient ruins stand beside the sea — explore the Temple of Apollo at sunset if time allows
Overnight in Antalya.
Day 5: Flight to Cappadocia – Travel & Check-In
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and take a domestic flight from Antalya to Cappadocia (via Kayseri or Nevsehir). Upon arrival, Puerto Travel will arrange your transfer to your hotel.
No tours are scheduled today. Take time to settle in, relax, and admire the unique landscape surrounding your hotel.
Overnight in Cappadocia. Cave hotels are the signature experience here — we’ll match you with one suited to your preferences and comfort level.
Day 6: Northern Cappadocia Tour – Valleys, Rock Churches & Pottery Traditions
Explore the northern highlights of Cappadocia, known for its surreal formations, artistic heritage, and panoramic viewpoints.
Northern Cappadocia Tour
- Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with rock-cut churches and well-preserved Byzantine frescoes
- Walk through Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley), known for its whimsical rock shapes
- Explore Pasabag (Monks Valley), where fairy chimneys rise like stone towers from the earth
- Visit the artisan town of Avanos, famous for pottery-making traditions passed down for generations
- Finish with a panoramic stop at Uchisar Castle, the highest natural point in Cappadocia
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 7: Southern Cappadocia Tour & Evening Flight to Istanbul
Your final day is devoted to Cappadocia’s southern highlights — showcasing its hidden underground world and scenic valleys. After the tour, fly to Istanbul for your international connection or onward stay.
Southern Cappadocia Tour
- Begin at Kaymakli or Derinkuyu Underground City, once used by early Christians to hide during invasions
- Walk through Pigeon Valley, known for its dovecotes carved into the cliff walls
- Time and schedule permitting, visit Selime Monastery, an impressive multi-level religious complex carved into rock
- Enjoy a final lunch and return to your hotel for transfer to the airport
Evening flight to Istanbul included. Optional overnight stay in Istanbul or private transfer to international airport upon arrival.
Why Puerto Travel Recommends This Itinerary
- Designed to fit maximum highlights into one week
- Efficient logistics with minimal backtracking
- Fully guided experiences in each region with small group tour and private tour options
- Smart balance of sightseeing and relaxation
- All transfers, domestic flights, and accommodations arranged seamlessly by our team
Customize Your Trip with Puerto Travel
We understand that every traveler is different. Whether you want to add extra nights in Istanbul, extend your stay in Cappadocia, or upgrade your experience with private guides or boutique hotels, we’ll design a custom route tailored to your interests.
Let us build a customized itinerary — one perfectly matched to your time, style, and travel goals.
Contact Puerto Travel today to begin planning your one-week Turkish adventure.