Embark on a memorable National Day journey to Turkey, complete with an in-depth travel guide and charming hand-drawn maps for your reference [Flying Kiss R]. Having explored 32 countries, I’m thrilled to share my experiences. You can find more travel guides on my homepage (including Switzerland, Iceland, Faroe Islands, Italy, and more). The Turkey-specific guides will continue to be updated in the ‘Note Collection’ section.
**【Travel Guide】**
**Route One:**
Istanbul✈️Izmir – Begin your adventure with a self-driving tour that takes you through breathtaking Pamukkale. This route spans approximately 12 days, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
**Route Two:**
Istanbul✈️Dalaman – Opt for this self-driving experience that bypasses Pamukkale but still covers all of Turkey’s must-see attractions. Spanning around 10 days, this itinerary is detailed below.
**Day 1–3: Istanbul**
– Land in the vibrant city of Istanbul.
– Discover iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Archaeological Museum, Gülhane Park, Süleymaniye Mosque, Galata Tower, Museum of Innocence, and Dolmabahçe Palace.
– On Day 3, catch your flight ✈️ from Istanbul to Dalaman, setting the stage for your road trip.
**Day 4–7: Coastal Wonders**
– Collect your rental car at Dalaman Airport and plan to return it in Antalya.
– Embark on a scenic drive along the D400 coastal road 🚗, where the Mediterranean meets the sky in stunning hues.
– **Fethiye**: Thrill-seekers, don’t miss paragliding over Fethiye! For those who love water, island hopping tours are available.
Be sure to visit these two gems:
– **Ölüdeniz Beach**: Where the Aegean Sea merges with the Mediterranean, creating sapphire and turquoise waters that feel almost otherworldly.
– **Butterfly Valley**: A serene escape surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls.
– **Kalkan**: Relax at Kaputaş Beach, a hidden paradise tucked into cliffs.
– **Kaş**: Dive into crystal-clear waters or simply soak up the tranquility.
– **Çamlık Cove**: Marvel at the deep azure sea stretching endlessly before you.
– **Finike Mağralı Bay**: Escape to this secluded bay, untouched by modern civilization.
– **Phaselis**: Wander among ancient ruins steeped in history.
– **Antalya**: Stay overnight here before catching your early morning flight ✈️ to Kayseri.
**Day 8–10: Cappadocia Magic**
– Arrive at Kayseri Airport in the morning and drive for about an hour 🚗 to Cappadocia.
– Settle into Göreme, the heart of Cappadocia, where you can witness mesmerizing hot air balloons drifting gracefully across the horizon at sunrise.
– Key highlights include:
– **Sunset/Sunrise Viewing Points**: Capture unforgettable moments as the sun paints the surreal landscape in golden hues.
– **Göreme Open Air Museum**: Step back in time while exploring cave churches adorned with frescoes.
– **Göreme National Historical Park**: Hike through enchanting valleys like Love Valley, Rose Valley, Imagination Valley, and the Hot Air Balloon Base.
– **Uçhisar Kalesi**: Climb to the highest point in Cappadocia for panoramic views that take your breath away.
– Conclude your journey with a flight ✈️ back to Istanbul, leaving behind memories that will last a lifetime.
Let this guide inspire you to uncover the treasures of Turkey—one unforgettable moment at a time.
