10 Days in Turkey: A Travel Story Every Indian Should Experience

The East meets the West in the mesmerising land of Turkey. Rich culture, delicious food, ancient history and scenic landscapes, you find it all in a single country-- Turkey. Turkey gives travellers from India both a feeling of familiarity as well as excitement. Since parts of Turkey are in Asia, there are aspects in Turkish life that Indians can relate to. Yet, at the same time, Turkey also has Western modernism. You're sure to love visiting exciting Turkey. We bring you a 10-day travel story in Turkey that every Indian is sure to find fascinating.

A 10-Day Travel Itinerary for Turkey

Here’s a well curated 10-day itinerary for the perfect Turkey tour package from India. It brings you the best of the unique country with both Asian and European influences.

Day 1: Istanbul, a City of Two Continents

We begin the story in Istanbul, a charming city and the only one in the world spread over two continents-- Europe and Asia. Most of the tours start at Sultanahmet which is at the heart of the old city. Historical wonders like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace are located in this area.

As you walk through the streets steeped in history, the aroma of Turkish bread and the call or prayer ringing through the air greet you. Enjoy a ferry ride on the Bosphorus during sunset and admire the stunning views of the Istanbul skyline. You find a wonderful blend of old world charm and modern life in Istanbul.

Day 2-3: Cappadocia, A Dream in the Sky

The tour takes you to Cappadocia next where the landscapes look straight out of a fairytale. The highlight of your visit to Cappadocia is the ride on the hot air balloon. It's absolutely magical watching the sun rise in the horizon as you float gently in the hot air balloon with the rocky valleys and the fairy chimneys below looking beautiful.

You can visit the Goreme Open Air Museum during the day to admire the beautiful frescos in the ancient cave churches. The nights come alive with local shows featuring traditional music and folk dances along with delicious local cuisine. When you visit Cappadocia, you feel like you've stepped into a different world altogether.

Day 4 -5: Pamukkale, The White Wonder

Travelers head to the "cotton castle," Pamukkale from Cappadocia. Mineral rich thermal waters flow down the hillside to create amazing white terraces. You can bathe in the warm pools and also walk on the soft calcium deposits barefoot.

Cleopatra's Pool is another popular spot close by where you can swim amidst ancient Roman columns. Take a glimpse into life in the Roman era in the ruins of Hierapolis nearby where you'll see the grand theatre and old streets. Pamukkale offers visitors peace and it's a very picturesque city too!

Day 6 -7: Antalya, Sun, Sea and History

The next stop on the tour is Antalya, a coastal city of charming beauty by the Turkish Riviera. You'll love swimming in the clear turquoise waters and you may also relax on the sandy beaches. You may choose to stay in Kaleici, a town exuding old world charm with its cobbled streets and wooden houses. The cosy cafes here are wonderful places to relax at.

You can take a day trip to the Duden Waterfalls and enjoy boat trips that take you to peaceful bays and to explore hidden caves. The ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos nearby draw many history lovers. Indians love Antalya for the warm hospitality of its people and the laid back vibe.

Day 8: Konya, A Spiritual Pause

A stop in Konya on the way to Istanbul gives your tour a spiritual side. The city is famous for being the home of the legendary poet and Sufi saint Rumi. You'll be visiting the Mevlana Museum to see Rumi's tomb where you get a feeling of peace and inspiration.

Many tourists attend the Whirling Dervish performance in the evening. The slow and spiritual dance is about inner peace and devotion, it's not just a show. At Konya, you slow down and reflect upon life. It’s a wonderful calming experience you can enjoy with a Turkey tourist visa.

Day 9: Istanbul Bazaars, A Shoppers Paradise

The final days are perfect for shopping and exploring after you're back in Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar is famous for being one of the oldest markets in the world and also one of the largest. Choose from carpets, ceramics, lamps, jewelry and more sold at more than 4,000 shops here. just as in Indian markets, bargaining is common here.

There's also the vibrant spice bazaar nearby where aromas of cinnamon, saffron, Turkish Delight and saffron fill the air. Apple tea, nuts and sweets are popular items Indians take back home as gifts. The bazaars here are lively and colourful, always bustling with activity, much like what you see in India.

Day 10: Turkish Cuisine, A Treat for Indian Taste Buds

Indians love the rich and flavourful Turkish cuisine. Kebabs, mezes (small plates), pide (flatbread pizzas) and sweet desserts like Baklava are the popular dishes in Turkey. Vegetarian travellers aren't disappointed either and they can choose from lentil soups, stuffed vegetables and salads.

You can't miss cay, a Turkish black tea which is served at many places. It brings people together just as Indian chai does. To share a cup of cay is connecting yourself to the warm Turkish hospitality.

Final Thoughts

A 10-day trip to beautiful Turkey fills you with a wave of emotions. Each of the cities in Turkey offers a unique experience– Istanbul’s grand mosques, Cappadocia’s balloons high in the skies, Pamukkale’s thermal pools and Antalya’s sunny beaches, all remain etched in your mind forever. Choose Turkey when you book international tour packages from India for a holiday to remember. A visit to Turkey is a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that stays with you forever.

Turkey is the place to visit if you love exploring places out of the ordinary. The food here offers a different flavour and the places you visit offer unexpected experiences–Turkey will be a memory you’ll cherish.