Unlock Your Turkish Adventure: A 7-Day Itinerary for Vietnamese Travelers
Exciting news for Vietnamese passport holders! Turkey has recently made it easier to visit, now offering online visa applications without the previous requirement of a US or Schengen visa. Drawing from personal experience, I'm thrilled to share a detailed itinerary to help you plan your dream trip to this captivating land.
Your Turkish Journey: A Suggested 7-Day Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival in Istanbul
Fly into Istanbul in the evening and settle into your hotel to rest up for the adventures ahead.
Day 1: Istanbul's Historic Charm
Start your morning by exploring Istanbul's vibrant city center. Wander through the Galata district and ascend the iconic Galata Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, soak in the magnificent sunset from the Galata Bridge. As evening falls, head to the bus station for your overnight journey to Cappadocia (Goreme).
Day 2: Cappadocia's Fairytale Landscapes
Arrive in the charming town of Goreme bright and early at 5 AM. Drop off your luggage at the hotel, as check-out isn't until 2 PM. Enjoy a delightful breakfast on the hotel's rooftop terrace, complete with the magical spectacle of hot air balloons taking flight. At 9 AM, embark on the popular Green Tour, which will immerse you in the region's wonders until 5 PM, after which you'll be dropped back at your hotel. After freshening up, get ready for a delicious evening meal.
Day 3: Balloon Rides and Valley Views
Wake up at 5 AM for an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia's unique terrain. Return to your hotel by 9 AM for breakfast and some well-deserved rest. You can spend the morning relaxing or take a leisurely stroll around the town. Dedicate the rest of the day to exploring the nearby attractions. As the afternoon winds down, find a cozy cafe on a hilltop to witness another spectacular sunset. A great spot to search for is near Arif Cave Hotel, which offers incredible viewpoints.
Day 4: Geological Wonders and Ancient Fortresses
Today is perfect for hiking through the enchanting Love Valley and Red (Rose) Valley, marveling at the extraordinary geological formations. Visit the historic Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient cave churches. In the late afternoon, explore the impressive Uçhisar Castle and enjoy the sunset from its commanding vantage point.
Day 5: Thrilling Adventures and Scenic Valleys
Embrace the spirit of adventure with optional experiences like horseback riding through the Red Valley or a thrilling Quad Safari adventure across the Rose and Love Valleys. Discover the serene Monk's Valley. At 10 PM, board your bus for the return journey to Istanbul.
Day 6: Istanbul's Iconic Landmarks
Arrive back in Istanbul at 5 AM and check into your hotel to relax. After a satisfying lunch, dive into exploring some of Istanbul's most famous sites: the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the breathtaking Blue Mosque, and the opulent Topkapi Palace. Later, visit Taksim Square, a bustling hub and a symbol of modern Istanbul. Conclude your day by experiencing the unique sensation of standing on the Bosphorus Bridge, straddling the continents of Europe and Asia.
Day 7: Shopping and Departure
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul's historic and colorful shopping paradise. Afterwards, explore the charming and picturesque neighborhood of Balat. In the evening, catch your bus to the airport for your flight back to Vietnam.
Estimated Costs
Here's a breakdown of potential expenses to help you budget:
- Flights: 12 million VND (Note: This price reflects a flight from Europe; direct flights from Vietnam may be higher.)
- Visa: 1 million VND
- SIM Card: 500,000 VND
- Food and Drink: 3 million VND
- Accommodation: 3.3 million VND
- Transportation: 2.5 million VND
- Activities and Sightseeing: 4.3 million VND
Total Estimated Cost for 7 Days in Cappadocia and Istanbul: 26.6 million VND
(This total includes the 12 million VND flight from Europe. If you're already in Europe, adding Turkey for 7 days would only cost an additional 14 million VND.)
Credit: Thành Công Lê
