Istanbul on both sides of the water, Cappadocia for the mornings, then the Aegean coast at walking pace.
Estimates say estimate. Forecasts say risk. Every line carries where it came from and the day it was read.
Topkapi Palace
Closed Tuesdays, check before planning the morning
Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism · checked 05/09/2026
Cappadocia cave hotel, double
A$260 a night, estimate not a quote
Planning estimate · checked 05/09/2026
Balloon flights
Cancelled on wind, allow two mornings not one
Turkish State Meteorological Service · checked 05/09/2026
Flights are cancelled on wind more often than people expect. Booking the first morning in Cappadocia leaves a second one spare, and the money comes back if the first one flies.
The big sites are within walking distance of each other, so the mornings are short and the afternoons are yours.
Change sides, change city. Ferries, meyhane dinners and the modern galleries.
Three nights buys two balloon mornings and a valley walk that is not rushed.
Ephesus early, then swimming. The trip ends at walking pace on purpose.