🇹🇷7-day trip to Türkiye - Istanbul and Cappadocia

🚩Route

Day 1: Depart from Japan → Arrive in Istanbul (Walk around the Old City)

Day 2: Mosque tour (Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia) + Grand Bazaar

Day 3: Cafe hopping in Galata Tower and Karakoy district

Day 4: Bosphorus cruise + Asian side (Kadikoy) cat spot search

Day 5: Depart from Istanbul → Arrive in Nevishir (Cappadocia)

Day 6: Early morning balloon experience + Red Tour or Green Tour

Day 7: Horseback riding experience + Depart from Nevishir → Return home

🚇Transportation

Trams and subways are convenient in Istanbul.

The IC card "Istanbul Card" is economical as it can be shared among groups. Access from the airport is also smooth, and it is compatible with buses and metro.

The mainstream way to get to Cappadocia is by plane (Istanbul → Nevishir Airport or Kayseri Airport) + transfer.

📷Recommended photo locations

Ayasofya Square (beautiful lighting)
From the roof of the Grand Bazaar (some stores require prior reservation)
Fishing with fishermen on Galata Bridge with the Bosphorus in the background
"Rose Valley" or "Love Valley" with hot air balloons in the background
A photo of a rocky mountain while horseback riding

🍜Exquisite gourmet

-Various kebabs (Adana, Iskender, etc.): fragrant and juicy
-Meze (appetizers) and bread: eggplant and yogurt-based dips are delicious
-Baklava: An almost too-sweet pistachio dessert. Pair with chai.・Turkish pizza "Lahmacun": Thin and crispy, easy to eat

Mackerel sandwich (Eminönü specialty): The best part is eating it by the sea

🏠Recommended accommodations

・Istanbul (Old City): Small boutique hotels around Sultanahmet Station are in a great location and great value for money

・Nevisehir (Cappadocia): Staying in a cave hotel is a must. Many accommodations have hot air balloons visible from the breakfast area

💡Notes

・Price negotiations are common in bazaars and souvenir shops. Prices can drop to less than half of the initial asking price

・Women must cover their heads with a scarf when entering a mosque (they will lend you one at the entrance)

・Turkish summers are dry, so don't forget to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun

・Credit cards are accepted, but cash is often required (especially in Cappadocia)

・Hot air balloon tours may be canceled due to weather. It's recommended to plan your trip with plenty of time

🛍️ Recommended souvenirs

Turkish lamp (packaged to prevent shattering)
Chai glass and Turkish tea
Baklava and Turkish delight
Nazar Boncug (blue eye charm) 🧿

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