2 Weeks in Turkey: The 4 Best Itinerary Ideas for a 14-Day Vacation

Turkey is a large country and has a wealth of tourism resources, making it an ideal destination for families and couples. The delicious cuisine, stunning beaches, and distinctive geography add to its charm for celebrating a graduation, honeymoon, or anniversary.

Generally, 14 days is sufficient to fully enjoy the key attractions in Turkey at a leisurely pace, including Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale. Additionally, our clients also tend to combine Greece with Turkey for extra culture plus leisure on the Aegean islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos.

Nonetheless, selecting your destinations and figuring out how to connect them could prove challenging.

Continue reading to find out a variety of itinerary ideas for 14 days, ensuring that you make the most of your time.

Itinerary List

Itinerary 1: 2-Week Highlights of Turkey

The Blue Mosque at dusk in Istanbul, Turkey

If this is your first visit to Turkey, this itinerary includes all of the must-see destinations to give you a comprehensive experience of this historic country.

From Istanbul (which has served as the capital of multiple empires) to Cappadocia (see the "fairy chimneys"), then to Izmir (for Ephesus with its Roman ruins) and Pamukkale (for natural hot springs and travertine terraces), and finally to Antalya (a world-famous beach resort city).

Below is the itinerary breakdown:

• Days 1–4: Istanbul (Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, Istiklal Avenue, and a Bosphorus sunset cruise)
• Days 5–8: Cappadocia (Love Valley, Goreme Open-Air Museum, Derinkuyu underground city, an ATV tour, and a hot-air balloon ride)
• Day 9: Izmir (a day trip to Ephesus for the Roman ruins)
• Day 10: Pamukkale (travertine terraces, the ruins of Hierapolis, and Cleopatra's Pool)
• Days 11–14: Antalya (a city tour in Kaleici district, Duden Waterfalls, sunset horseback riding, a day trip to Mount Olympos, and free days for some beach time)

Your journey would begin in Istanbul. Get ready to be amazed by its cultural heritage, modern amenities, and mouthwatering cuisine. The best way to see the beauty of Istanbul is by taking a Bosphorus sunset cruise to enjoy the views of landmarks, such as Bosphorus Bridge and Galata Tower, as they are bathed in the enchanting dusk light.

To enrich your experience, we would arrange a romantic candlelit dinner along the Bosphorus Strait. You could indulge in gourmet food while marveling at the stunning night view.

Then, you would fly to Cappadocia, which is famous for its unique volcanic landscapes. Take a memorable hot-air balloon ride to witness the valleys and "fairy chimneys", and we would provide a champagne toast for you to celebrate this magical experience.

Your journey continues to Izmir for a day trip to Ephesus to see the well-preserved ancient Roman ruins and listen to the old stories passed down through generations as told by your knowledgeable local guide.

Stay for 1 night at Pamukkale to enjoy its ivory-white travertine terraces and natural thermal springs. You would continue to your final stop at Antalya, which is renowned as a beach resort.

As well as 1 day for a city tour of the Kaleici district and a trip to Duden Waterfalls, you could choose day trips to Side to see the ancient Greek amphitheater or Cirali to visit Mount Olympos. For some relaxation, spend a few days enjoying the beaches and engaging in water activities, creating a leisurely conclusion to your vacation.

Our private tours are fully customizable. Please let us know your specific interests and we would personalize a private tour just for you.

Itinerary 2: 2-Week Summer Vacation in Turkey for Families with Teenagers

Ordu City in Turkey

Most families travel with kids in a relatively limited time frame, usually between June and August, which is summer in Turkey.

Given the high temperatures in the inland areas during this period, it is more enjoyable to plan an itinerary that mainly focuses on the coastal regions. This itinerary offers a range of activities that ensure a refreshing and lively vacation experience for you and your family.

Below is the itinerary breakdown:

• Days 1–2: Rize (Ayder Plateau, Gelin Tulu Waterfall, natural thermal springs, and taste some Turkish tea)
• Days 3–4: Trabzon (Sumela Monastery, the Pontic Mountains, and Uzungol Lake)
• Day 5: Ordu (a cable car ride to Boztepe and the Ordu castles)
• Days 6–7: Ankara (Ankara Citadel (the Hisar), the Temple of Augustus and Rome, and Anitkabir)
• Days 8–11: Istanbul (Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Istiklal Avenue, a sunset Bosphorus cruise, and a food tour)
• Days 12–14: Antalya (a tour of the Kaleici district, Duden Waterfalls, sunset horseback riding, and free days for some beach time)

In this itinerary, you would explore the vast Ayder Plateau in Rize, visit Sumela Monastery hidden in the mountains of Trabzon, take a cable car ride to see the panorama of Ordu city, and learn about Turkey's history of revolution by visiting Anitkabir in Ankara.

In addition, you won't want to miss the chance to take a Bosphorus cruise and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Istanbul from a different perspective. Another highlight of this trip is the opportunity to ride a horse along the beach in Antalya and witness the stunning sunset scenery.

For a special experience, we would arrange a day trip to our handpicked tea garden in Rize, allowing you to savor the most authentic flavors and learn how to roast tea leaves. Your kids could also make their own "flavor" and save it as a unique souvenir for their friends.

This itinerary is perfect for families with teenagers as it offers a variety of activities, family-friendly accommodations, and flexible schedules. It is a perfect choice for celebrating a graduation or a birthday.

If this itinerary doesn't meet your requirements, please feel free to contact us. We would be happy to personalize a private tour for you, ensuring a hassle-free and tailored experience.

Itinerary 3: 2-Week Turkey Inland City Tour for Winter Scenery

Walking to Atakule through botanical garden under snow, Ankara, Turkey

Winter may not be the top choice for travelers considering Turkey as their destination, due to the cold weather. However, this season offers unique experiences at a more affordable cost.

This itinerary covers northern Turkey, allowing you to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, witness the passion of the Turkish people, and experience the local way of life.

Below is the itinerary breakdown:

• Days 1–4: Istanbul (the largest city in Turkey, which was the capital of many empires)
• Days 5–6: Bursa (the first capital of the Ottoman Empire)
• Days 7–8: Bolu (famous for its stunning natural scenery)
• Days 9–10: Ankara (the current capital city of Turkey)
• Days 11–14: Cappadocia (renowned for its unique volcanic features)

In Istanbul, we have carefully selected a traditional Turkish bath, called a hammam, where you could enjoy a warm and relaxing afternoon, surrounded by foam and receiving a gentle massage. This is a perfect way to escape the cold wind outside while learning about the origins of this historic indulgence.

Bursa and Bolu both boast stunning natural scenery and are even more beautiful under the silver snow. In Bursa's Uludag National Park, you could take a cable car ride to savor the awe-inspiring views. In Bolu's Golcuk Nature Park, try your hand at fishing on the frozen lake, then grill your catch over a campfire.

Cappadocia is particularly popular among tourists during winter. Picture yourself in a silvery wonderland, soaring in a hot-air balloon, and marveling at the magical world around you. It's an experience beyond words.

However, it could be stressful to plan a winter vacation during the peak tourist period of Christmas and New Year. Please feel free to reach out to us at Global Highlights and we will plan a hassle-free private tour just for you.

Itinerary 4: 2-Week Romantic Tour in Turkey and Greece

Santorini, Greece

With a well-planned itinerary, 2 weeks is also enough to plan a trip with Greece included, typically spending 1 week in Turkey and another in Greece.

Immerse yourselves in the romantic atmosphere of the Aegean Sea, wandering hand in hand among the white Greek-style buildings, and getting lost in the myth of Olympus.

Below is the itinerary breakdown:

• Days 1–4: Istanbul (the largest city in Turkey, which was the capital of many empires)
• Days 5–6: Bursa (the first capital of the Ottoman Empire)
• Days 7–8: Bolu (famous for its stunning natural scenery)
• Days 9–10: Ankara (the current capital city of Turkey)
• Days 11–14: Cappadocia (renowned for its unique volcanic features)

After experiencing the historical heritage of Istanbul, exploring the unique lunar landscape of Cappadocia, and strolling through the ancient Roman city of Ephesus, Greece awaits to impress you on a whole different level.

Santorini is known for its breathtaking views as a picturesque island. Explore the iconic blue-domed churches and immerse yourself in the charm of Amoudi Bay with a stunning sunset. It would be a shame not to visit the Santo Wines Winery for a taste of exquisite local wines.

Then, transfer to Mykonos to visit Ano Mera village and discover the rich history in the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos, which houses fascinating artifacts. For a unique experience, you could enjoy horseback riding along Megali Ammos Beach, creating unforgettable memories with your loved one.

Conclude your trip in Athens, the captivating capital city of Greece. Marvel at the Temple of Olympian Zeus, discover the vibrant Athens Central Market and delicious Greek cuisine, and cherish a romantic sunset alongside your loved one.

Contact us now to create a personalized, hassle-free private tour.