Turkey in 8 Days: 4 Recommended 8-Day Itineraries to Turkey

Are you spending 8 days in Turkey? Sail the turquoise waters in Marmaris on a gulet cruise, and discover ancient history at Ephesus with our Turkey 8-day itinerary ideas.

If you’re looking for a trip that spends the majority of your 8 days in Istanbul why not bookend it on either side? Spend 8 days filled with opportunities to cruise the Bosphorus, explore Topkapi Palace, gaze in wonder at the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, or haggle for a bargain in the Grand Bazaar. Once you’ve had your fill of Istanbul, journey out to the historic ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair Memorials in Gallipoli. Follow this with days exploring the ancient world, including the Acropolis of Pergamon, the Temple of Hadrian, and the mighty ruins of the Library of Celsus, the Agora, and aqueducts at Ephesus, and even learn about the ancient carpet weaving traditions in Sirince. Before heading back to Istanbul, soak up the healing properties of the ancient Roman natural springs in Pamukkale. See all tour packages in Turkey.

Spend a super active 8 days in Turkey, combining hikes along the legendary Lycian Way with kayaking excursions along the Mediterranean coastline and diving opportunities in the community of Kas. As you hike, take in views of neighboring Greek islands like Kastellirizo, visit the fortress of Simena, and the tree-lined village of Yazirbeli. Enjoy your free time around the former fishing village of Kas, which is full of watersports like snorkeling, paragliding, diving, and open water swimming in the sunny surroundings of the Turquoise Coast. Check out our water sports tours in Turkey.

A hiking trip through Turkey’s remote Lycian Coast is a dream for many travelers. Start your journey in the coastal city of Fethiye. Encounter spectacular coastal views and stumble upon historic ruins as you hike through forests, villages, and mountains. Relax on Patara beach and visit the village of Gey. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and spend your evenings discovering small, tranquil villages. Describe your ideal 8-day holiday for a customized trip to Turkey.

For a relaxing 8-day Turkish itinerary, hit the water on a gulet cruise from the picturesque nightlife hub of Marmaris. Cruise carefree along the Mediterranean coast, visiting iconic sights like the Lycian Rock Tombs, the Byzantine and Ottoman-era shipyards on Tersane Island, and the delightful Gocek Island chain. After this, enjoy a free day in bustling Fethiye, where you can head inland on an adrenaline-filled jeep tour. Bring your swimsuit as the crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling in, with numerous stops at places like Caretta Beach, Samanlik Bay, Sarsala Bay, Bedri Rahmi Bay, and the bay of Kadirga. Once you’re back in Marmaris, get your best outfit on for a night out before saying goodbye! Here are our cruise tours in Turkey.

With 8 days in Turkey, you can explore by foot along the Lycian Way, by luxury yacht through the Mediterranean, or on a jam-packed escorted tour through the top tourist sights and cities like Cappadocia, Gallipoli, and Istanbul. If you have more time to spare or are unsure how long to stay in Turkey, check out our handy guide.

For customized trips and itineraries, chat with our friendly local travel experts who can put together the perfect tailor made trips to Turkey according to your needs. For more information, check our guide on 7 days in Turkey and 9 days in Turkey. For seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Turkey.

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