How to Explore Turkey on Your First Visit | 10-Day Itinerary

🍂 Autumn is here, the perfect season for travel! This fall, let's experience the romance of Turkey together!

About Turkey: Located in western Asia and southeastern Europe, Turkey spans both continents and serves as the endpoint of the Silk Road. With a rich history, it is the birthplace of many ancient civilizations and home to half of the "Seven Wonders of the Ancient World." Once ruled by the Ottoman Empire, it is often referred to as "the place closest to heaven."

🗺️ Suggested Itinerary
DAY 1 - 2: Shanghai ✈️ Istanbul ✈️ Izmir. After landing in Istanbul, transfer to Izmir and visit the Aegean coastal town of Alaçatı.
DAY 3 - 4: Izmir to Pamukkale. Explore the ancient city of Ephesus to admire Roman ruins, then fly to Fethiye in the afternoon for a paragliding experience.
DAY 5 - 6: Pamukkale to Antalya. Drive along the D400 highway, then fly to Cappadocia to enjoy a traditional meal.
DAY 7 - 8: Cappadocia to Istanbul. After sightseeing, return to Istanbul to visit Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, shop at the Grand Bazaar, and take a Bosphorus Strait cruise.
DAY 9 - 10: Return to Shanghai.

🌟 Recommended Attractions in Turkey:
Ephesus Ancient City 🏛️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: Over 2,000 years of history with stunning Roman ruins. Opening hours vary from June to December. Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours.
Pamukkale 🏰⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: Ancient thermal springs with white, cotton-like terraces against a blue sky. Open from 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM. Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours.
Hagia Sophia ⛪️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: A symbol of Turkey and a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Open from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM. Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours.
Topkapi Palace ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: The residence and treasury museum of Ottoman sultans. Open Monday, Wednesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Suggested visit time: 2-3 hours.
Bosphorus Strait 🚢⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: The dividing line between Europe and Asia with stunning scenery. Open all day. Suggested visit time: 2 hours.

✅ Travel Tips
1. Souvenirs: Carpets, ceramics, etc.
2. Time difference: Turkey is 4-6 hours behind China. China time + 6/7 = Turkey time.
3. Airport transportation: Istanbul Airport to the city center takes about 1 hour.
4. Cuisine: Grilled meats, fish, and more.