12 Days in Turkey: The 4 Best Itinerary Ideas

Turkey is a vibrant and diverse country, offering a variety of experiences to visitors. There are plenty of places to explore for a diverse experience, including the most famous sights, such as in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus, making it a perfect destination for families and couples.

With a 12-day time frame, you could explore the main highlights of Turkey at a leisurely pace, allowing for additional activities tailored to your preferences, such as a visit to a coastal resort or a historic city.

A 12-day itinerary combining Greece with Turkey is also a trendy choice to enjoy two civilizations in one trip. From cozy islands and stunning beaches to ancient ruins that hold stories of the past, this itinerary promises an immersive experience for all.

Read on to get more itinerary ideas for planning your upcoming trip.

Itinerary List

Itinerary 1: 12-Day Classic Highlights of Turkey

Ancient city of Ephesus, Turkey

This itinerary contains all of the must-see sights with a time-smart schedule, including Istanbul (the largest city in Turkey, which served as the capital of multiple empires), Cappadocia (famous for its unique volcanic landforms and strange rock formations), Ephesus (an ancient city with well-preserved Roman ruins), and Pamukkale (natural travertine terraces with thermal springs). This is perfect for first-timers to Turkey.

Below is the itinerary breakdown:

• Days 1–4: Istanbul (Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Istiklal Avenue, a sunset Bosphorus cruise, and a food tour)
• Days 5–7: Cappadocia (a hot-air balloon ride and a stay in a cave hotel)
• Days 8–9: Izmir (a day trip to Ephesus and a city tour)
• Day 10: Pamukkale (natural thermal springs and travertine terraces)
• Days 11–12: Antalya (a free day for beach fun, Duden Waterfalls, and a city tour)

You would start your trip in Istanbul. Apart from the first day, which would be to get over the jet lag, we recommend that you explore the old and new parts of the city and relish the local cuisine for a comprehensive experience.

Admire historical heritages, such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, which are influenced by the Ottoman and Byzantine cultures, and enjoy a leisurely stroll in modern sites, such as Istiklal Avenue, to soak up the lively local atmosphere.

Additionally, your knowledgeable local guide would accompany you to taste some delicious Turkish cuisine from two continents while providing insights into their origins and evolution.

Next, you would fly to Cappadocia to explore the stunning landscape via hot-air balloon rides and hiking. Stay at a unique cave hotel and marvel at the sight of balloons floating over the valleys.

Then, you would transfer to Izmir for a day trip to the ancient city of Ephesus, famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins, which date back to the 1st century BC. It is believed that both the apostle John and Mary, the mother of Jesus, resided in Ephesus for years.

Before concluding your trip with some leisure time by the tranquil sea in Antalya, spend a night in Pamukkale. This picturesque destination boasts stunning white terraces and azure thermal springs, providing a serene and captivating atmosphere.

Are there aspects of this itinerary that you would like to change? Contact us now to start customizing your own private trip to Turkey that tends to all of your needs.

Itinerary 2: 12-Day Historic City Tour of Turkey

Citadel of Ankara, Turkey

If you want to learn more about the culture and history of Turkey, this itinerary may suit you well.

Start your trip from Istanbul, then transfer to Bursa (known as Yesil Bursa for its parks and gardens), travel through Bolu (stunning natural scenery) and Ankara (the capital of Turkey), and end up in Cappadocia.

Below is the itinerary breakdown:

• Days 1–3: Istanbul (the largest city in Turkey, which was the capital of many empires)
• Days 4–5: Bursa (the first capital of the Ottoman Empire)
• Days 6–7: Bolu (famous for its stunning natural scenery)
• Days 8–9: Ankara (the capital city of Turkey)
• Days 10–12: Cappadocia (an area with unique volcanic features)

Your trip begins in Istanbul, which offers a mix of historical and modern attractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this vibrant metropolis.

Afterward, you would travel to Bursa and explore the ancient sites, including the Grand Mosque and Bursa Citadel. Then, you would go to Bolu, a city surrounded by picturesque landscapes. You could also visit the famous Abant Lake and breathe in its fresh air and peaceful atmosphere.

Continuing your trip to Ankara, the capital of Turkey, you could uncover the fascinating history and culture of the country at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Mausoleum of Ataturk.

Your final stop would be Cappadocia, a unique destination known for its volcanic landscapes and peculiar rock formations. The best way to appreciate the incredible scenery is by taking a hot-air balloon ride. We would prepare a champagne toast for you after you have landed to celebrate this magical day and stunning scenery.

For a special treat before your departure, we would like to arrange a traditional Turkish spa, also known as a hammam, which is carefully handpicked by us, providing an amazing setting to unwind and rejuvenate from days of traveling.

Contact us now and let us create a customized private trip in this enchanting country.

Itinerary 3: 12-Day Coastline Exploration in Turkey for a Summer Vacation

The Kaputas beach, Antalya, Turkey

Turkey's summer from June to August is a hot time to visit, as average high temperatures get up to 35°C (95°F).

This itinerary is designed to cater to those looking for an amazing adventure along the captivating coastline cities, escaping from the sweltering summer heat.

From the blue sea to the vast highlands, this itinerary leaves summer's heat behind and covers various beautiful natural landscapes, which would surely leave you in awe during this summer vacation trip.

Below is the itinerary breakdown:

• Days 1–3: Antalya (a day trip to Koprulu Canyon National Park and a city tour in Kaleici)
• Days 4–5: Kas (the Hellenistic theater and Kaputas Beach)
• Days 6–7: Fethiye (the Lycian Way, Butterfly Valley, and a day trip to Kayakoy)
• Day 8: Pamukkale (natural thermal springs and travertine terraces)
• Days 9–10: Trabzon (Sumela Monastery, the Long Lake, and the viewpoint on the peak of Boztepe)
• Days 11–12: Rize (Ayder Plateau and a visit to a tea garden)

Antalya, Kas, and Fethiye are renowned beach resorts located on the Turquoise Coast of the Mediterranean. Each destination offers a unique and diverse range of experiences and features.

Antalya boasts the enchanting Kaleici District, characterized by its historic Ottoman houses. Meanwhile, Kas houses the fascinating ancient Greek theater, adding historical charm to its appeal. Lastly, Fethiye showcases the stunningly beautiful coastline of the Lycian Way, making it a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Before you fly to Trabzon, take a stop at spectacular Pamukkale, famous for its stunning white terraces and thermal springs. Take your family for a dip in the warm waters and marvel at the magic of nature.

Trabzon is a city mix of history, natural beauty, and mystery. Visit the stunning Sumela Monastery hidden amid lush greenery and explore Long Lake. Some routes are only known by a few, but, with your local guide, you wouldn't miss any hidden gems.

Finally, you would arrive in Rize, where you could explore tea plantations and enjoy the breathtaking scenery on the Ayder Plateau. Your kids would be thrilled to learn how to toast tea leaves and save them as a unique souvenir for their friends.

If this itinerary doesn't completely meet your preferences, feel free to contact us to tailor a private trip to Turkey that caters to all of your specific needs.

Itinerary 4: 12-Day Romantic Journey in Turkey and Greece

Oia village in Santorini, Greece on a sunny day

It is possible to plan a trip combining Turkey and Greece in 12 days. With this well-planned itinerary, you could fully enjoy a relaxed-pace vacation and experience the best that both countries could offer.

Your trip would start from Istanbul in Turkey, exploring the historic city, and then you would fly to Cappadocia to take in its unique volcanic landscapes. Afterward, you would catch a flight to Athens, the capital of Greece, via Izmir. You would conclude your trip in Mykonos, known for its vibrant nightlife, right after spending some amazing days in Santorini amongst its stunning scenery and architecture.

Below is the itinerary breakdown:

• Days 1–3: Istanbul, Turkey (city tours for historical heritage and modern sites)
• Days 4–5: Cappadocia (known for its unique volcanic landscapes)
• Days 6–8: Athens, Greece (the ancient capital city of Greece)
• Days 9–10: Santorini (famous for its beautiful shores and white seaside buildings)
• Days 11–12: Mykonos (an island famous for vibrant nightlife and an inclusive ambiance)

One of the highlights of this itinerary is that you could enjoy beautiful scenery in diverse ways. Experience the stunning beauty of Cappadocia from high above by taking a hot-air balloon ride and bask in bright azure surroundings while cruising the Aegean Sea aboard a private yacht.

Another highlight is the chance to enjoy delicious Aegean cuisine while watching a stunning sunset over Santorini. After the sun slowly sinks below the horizon, a waiter would light a candle for you, and you would spend an unforgettable night with your loved one in the flickering candlelight.

Traveling with Global Highlights ensures a hassle-free itinerary, allowing you to make the most of your time and conserve energy to fully enjoy your vacation.

This itinerary could be customized according to your preferences, contact us now and feel free to add or modify destinations and experiences based on your interests.