Hello, I am working on plans for me and my wife to vacation in Western Turkey and I have some questions and would appreciate some advice:
With my current plan (below) I'm left with an extra day; I'm thinking of adding that day to either Istanbul or Cappadocia, but I'm open to other ideas, as well. What would you recommend?
I am also wondering how important people think guides are in Ephesus and Cappadocia; I am usually reluctant to use more than my guidebooks, but have read that maybe it's worth it.
What is a good base for exploring Cappadocia?
I want to stop in Ankara to see the museum and take the night train to Istanbul, but I'm not sure what to do with my luggage during that time. Any suggestions?
Does this itinerary seem reasonable?
Plus, any other comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Current plan:
Flying into Istanbul with transfer flight directly to Izmir; pick up rental car (sleep Selcuk)
Day 1: Ephesus (sleep Selcuk)
Day 2: Day trip to Priene, Miletus, Didyma (sleep Selcuk)
Day 3: Aphrodisias on way to Pamukkale (sleep Pamukkale)
Day 4: Finish Pamukkale sites; drive to Fethiye (sleep Fethiye)
Day 5: 12 island boat cruise (sleep Fethiye)
Day 6: Drive to Kas, stopping at Xanthos, beaches (sleep Kas)
Day 7: Sea kayak tour of Kekova; drive on to Antalya (sleep Antalya)
Day 8: Morning trip to Termessos, then Antalya Museum (sleep Antalya)
Day 9: Long drive to Cappadocia (sleep Cappadocia)
Day 10 & 11: Cappadocia (sleep Cappadocia)
Day 12: Drive to Ankara; visit museum & mausoleum (night train to Istanbul)
Days 13-15: Istanbul (sleep Istanbul)
Fly out of Istanbul on morning of Day 17