We recently took a trip to Turkey, and began our exploration in Istanbul, a city that straddles both the Asian and European continents. This combination makes for a rich tapestry of experiences and a discovery of new cultures, tasting incredible food, and creating memories that feel immemorial yet still contemporary. We chose a curated itinerary for Turkey that blended with iconic sights and ancient cultural moments of immersion, designed for inspiration and learning.
It has to be one of the most memorable and extraordinary adventures I’ve had in a while. What was most interesting was that we went as a young couple under 30. Although the median age of explorers was over 50, it broadened my love for the social expansion offered by travelling. Let me take you on the journey we took during our 9 day stay in Turkey.
Istanbul: A Grand Entrance
Day One: Arrival & First Impressions
After a stress-free private airport transfer, we were whisked away in a stunning Maybach ride to our hotel in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district. Our choice, the Sura Hagia hotel, a gem. While it offers a premium,authentic, experience, its location is simply unbeatable.
From the hotel, it’s a mere five-minute stroll to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, and the street itself is buzzing with lively restaurants and shops. The staff are welcoming, the service is efficient, and the view of the Hagia Sophia is a visual treat. For those pursuing even more luxury, consider a stay on the Asian side of the city for its higher-end offerings.
Day Two: A Journey Through Time
This is the day we were immersed in Istanbul’s incredible history.
We started with a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. Next, we witnessed the grandeur of the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and 20,000 intricate hand-painted blue tiles. This popular landmark was built between 1609 and 1616 to rival the splendour of the Hagia Sophia.
Once we had been inspired by the divine, our guide took us to Topkapi Palace, the heart of the Ottoman Empire, where we walked through centuries of royal history. Topkapi Palace is one of the world’s largest surviving palaces, built under the orders of Sultan Mehmed II in between 1460 and 1478, after he conquered Constantinople. The kitchen palace has a collection of almost 12,000 porcelain pieces🤯. I pity the poor folks who had to count them.
In the afternoon, we roamed around the buzzing Grand Bazaar, which offers a peek into Turkish craftsmanship and a plethora of trinkets to shop for. This is the place that gave us an opportunity to engage with artisans whose families have been perfecting their trades for generations. When we indulged in a cup of tea, we were invited into a conversion with the stall keeper with wonderful multi-generational stories.
Day Three: Flavours and Views
We started our day at the Spice Market. The colourful displays and scent of saffron, Turkish delight, and countless spices will captivate you. We took our time to speak with the merchants and sample local treats like sweet honey baklava, an absolute taste bud treat.
In the late afternoon, we embarked on a Bosphorus boat tour that was cruising the strait separating Europe and Asia. We saw some iconic landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Fortress and the Bosphorus Bridge. While a private yacht is an option for a premium experience, a public tour boat with a group offers its own charm. The sight of the sun setting over the Bosphorus Strait, where Asia and Europe meet, is truly magical and a moment you won’t soon forget.
Day Four: We prepared for our escape to whimsical Cappadocia.
Cappadocia: A Land of Spectacle & Wonder
Day Five: Arrival & Cave Comforts
A short flight will take you to Kayseri Airport, a convenient gateway to the surreal landscape of Cappadocia. A private transfer to your hotel is essential for a smooth journey. We upgraded to the Taskonaklar Hotel, and it exceeded every expectation. Tucked away in a quaint alley, its threshold opens to a breathtaking panorama of mountains and valleys. The service is impeccable, the amenities are of the highest standard (note the premium kitchen appliances), and the cave suites offer a truly unique stay. The on-site restaurant, Moniq, serves some of the best food you’ll taste in Turkey.
Day Six: Floating Above Fairy Tale Land
Honestly, I’m not a morning person but with this early start, I understood that it’s a non-negotiable part of the experience. At 5:30 a.m., as the sun began to rise, we ascended the glorious skies in a hot air balloon alongside dozens of others. The silence is profound, broken only by the occasional whoosh of the burner and the awe of our fellow travellers. Watching the sun illuminate the fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings from thousands of feet in the air was a moment of pure, unadulterated wonder.
After our airborne experience, we had the rest of the day to explore and I recovered my beauty sleep for a bit before we saw more. You must witness the ethereal rock formations that look like animals and castles, we found out that they were formed by volcanic ash and lava. And visit the historical town of Avanos, where we saw potters using clay from the Kizilirmak River, working with a tradition that dates back 4,000 years. We really enjoyed that
Day Seven: Hidden Wonders & Adventure
Our day started with a sunrise hike through the Rose Valley, named for the beautiful pink glow of the rocks in the morning light. Our exploration led us to ancient cave churches hidden within the landscape, a testament to the courage and commitment of the early Christian communities that once thrived here but they also faced much persecution. What blew our minds was the underground city. I gained a profound appreciation for human ingenuity and resilience here. These incredible subterranean networks once housed thousands of people during sieges. Crawling through the tunnels, you’ll see the clever engineering and resilience that allowed entire communities to survive deep beneath the earth.
Day Eight & Nine: We synthesised everything we had seen and allowed ourselves to aimlessly discover interesting restaurants. We enjoyed the scenery without an agenda and prepared to get back to our ordinary lives, leaving behind enchanted spaces.
Essential Advice & Local Insights
Is Turkey Safe?
Yes, Turkey is very safe for tourists. We found the locals to be incredibly warm and hospitable. Like in any major city, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings, but violent crime is rare. The Turkish people are friendly and eager to help.
What is Culture Like?
Turkey is a modern, secular country with a rich cultural tapestry. While the majority of the population is Muslim, visitors can dress comfortably as they would in any other European city. Modest dress is only required when visiting a mosque, where women will be provided with a headscarf if needed. The atmosphere is vibrant, and the blend of Eastern and Western influences is a constant source of fascination.
What About the Food?
Prepare to be amazed. Turkish food is far more than just kebabs. We were stunned by the quality and flavour of every meal. Make sure to try:
* Dana Kaburg: A slow-cooked beef rib dish that is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
* Nevşehir Tava: A simple yet incredibly flavourful dish of diced lamb with vegetables, served in a traditional iron pan.
* Turkish Breakfast: A culinary event in itself, featuring an incredible spread of cheeses, olives, fresh bread, honey, and jams.
Do I Need to Know Turkish?
While many people in tourist areas speak English, a few Turkish phrases will earn you big smiles and a warm welcome. “Merhaba” (hello), “Teşekkür ederim” (thank you), and “Lütfen” (please) are a great start.
When is the Best Time to Visit Turkey?
We found May to be perfect. The weather was warm but not too hot, there were fewer crowds, and the light for photography was excellent, especially during the sunrise hot air balloon rides and sunset cruises.
Final Thoughts
This trip taught us that travel isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the wonder of discovering just how little we know and being able to engage our curiosity. Turkey offers a unique opportunity to connect with history, experience breathtaking natural wonders, and engage with a culture that is as welcoming as it is beautiful. Don’t put off this adventure—it’s a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
