20-Day Ultimate Budget Backpacking Route in Turkey
Turkey is a paradise for the budget traveler, offering a rare blend of ancient wonders, efficient public transport, and some of the world's best street food at prices that won't break the bank. This 20-day itinerary is designed for the 'lean' traveler who prefers hostels over hotels and local buses over domestic flights.
You will traverse the country in a logical loop, starting in the chaotic beauty of Istanbul before heading south to the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, then cutting inland to the otherworldly plains of Anatolia. Prepare for long bus rides, endless glasses of çay, and unforgettable hospitality.
Day 1: Istanbul, Turkey - Arrival & Historic Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet Square
Start your journey at the heart of the Old City. This free public space is flanked by the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, offering a perfect introduction to Byzantine and Ottoman history.
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
Visit this iconic architectural masterpiece. Entrance is free, though it is closed to tourists during prayer times. Remember to dress modestly.
Hippodrome of Constantinople
Walk the site of ancient chariot races. View the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpentine Column, all completely free of charge.
Dinner at Eminönü
Head to the waterfront to grab a famous 'Balık Ekmek' (grilled fish sandwich) from the boats for just a few dollars.
Day 2: Istanbul, Turkey - Markets & Bazaars
Grand Bazaar
Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of one of the world's oldest covered markets. It’s free to explore, but keep your budget in check if tempted to buy souvenirs.
Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı)
Inhale the scents of saffron and Sumac. Many vendors offer free samples of Turkish delight, providing a cheap and sweet snack.
Süleymaniye Mosque
Visit Mimar Sinan's masterpiece. It's less crowded than the Blue Mosque and offers a stunning, free panoramic view of the Golden Horn from its courtyard.
Street Food Walk in Sirkeci
Hunt for Lahmacun or Pide in the backstreets of Sirkeci for an authentic and filling meal under $5.
Day 3: Istanbul, Turkey - Golden Horn & Galata
Galata Bridge
Walk across the lower deck of the bridge to watch local fishermen and enjoy the breeze. It's a great spot for budget-friendly photography.
Galata Tower Exterior
While the climb is pricey, the area around the tower is filled with vibe and history. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets for free.
Istiklal Avenue
Window shop along this massive pedestrian street. Watch the vintage red tram go by and soak in the modern Turkish energy.
Gezi Park & Taksim Square
Relax in the park and watch the world go by at Taksim Square, the symbolic heart of modern Istanbul.
Day 4: Istanbul, Turkey - The Asian Side
Bosphorus Ferry to Kadıköy
Use your Istanbulkart for a cheap public ferry ride. It's the best 'cruise' you can get for less than $1.
Kadıköy Fish Market
Explore the vibrant markets on the Asian side. The food here is often cheaper and more authentic than in the tourist districts.
Moda Seaside Park
Walk along the coastline of Moda. It's a popular hangout for local students and a great place for a budget picnic.
Barlar Sokağı (Bar Street)
Kadıköy has a great nightlife scene. Grab a cheap local beer and enjoy the alternative vibe of the Asian side.
Day 5: Selçuk, Turkey - Travel to the Aegean
Intercity Bus to Selçuk
Board a comfortable long-distance bus. Most companies provide free water and snacks, and the journey takes about 8-9 hours.
Arrival in Selçuk
Check into your hostel and take a quick walk to the town center to see the Roman Aqueduct ruins where storks often nest.
Basilica of St. John (Exterior)
Walk up the hill to view the ruins and the nearby Isa Bey Mosque, which is free to enter and architecturally significant.
Backpacker Dinner
Eat at a local 'Lokanta' (cafeteria-style restaurant) for a cheap, home-cooked Turkish meal.
Day 6: Selçuk, Turkey - Ancient Ephesus
Ephesus Archaeological Site
Walk or take a cheap dolmuş (mini-bus) to the gates. Spend the morning exploring the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Temple of Artemis Ruins
Visit the site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Only a single column remains, but entrance is free.
Village of Şirince
Take a local dolmuş up to this historic Greek village. Wander the cobblestone streets and enjoy free fruit wine tastings.
Selçuk Museum Area
Walk around the town’s archaeological park. It’s a peaceful way to end a day of heavy sightseeing.
Day 7: Pamukkale, Turkey - The Cotton Castle
Train to Denizli
Take the regional train from Selçuk to Denizli. It’s slower but much cheaper than the bus and offers scenic views.
Pamukkale Travertines
Walk up the white calcium terraces. Bring your swimwear to dip in the thermal pools included in the entrance price.
Hierapolis Ancient City
Explore the ruins of this ancient spa city located right at the top of the travertines. The Necropolis is free to walk through.
Sunset over the Terraces
Watch the sunset from the top of the white cliffs; the colors reflecting off the water are world-class and free.
Day 8: Fethiye, Turkey - Coastal Transition
Bus to Fethiye
Take a 4-hour bus from Denizli to the coastal town of Fethiye. The route passes through beautiful mountain scenery.
Fethiye Old Town (Paspatur)
Wander the shaded streets of the old town. It’s free to explore and full of colorful shops and cheap tea houses.
Telmessos Rock Tombs
Walk up the hill to see the Amyntas Rock Tomb. You can see them from the street for free, or pay a small fee to climb the steps.
Fethiye Harbor Walk
Stroll along the harbor as the sun sets. It’s the perfect spot for a cheap dinner of roasted corn or midye dolma (stuffed mussels).
Day 9: Fethiye, Turkey - The Ghost Village
Kayaköy Ghost Village
Take a dolmuş to this abandoned Greek village. It’s a hauntingly beautiful site that is very affordable to enter and explore.
Hiking to Cold Water Bay
Follow the marked trail from Kayaköy down to the sea. It’s a free, scenic hike that rewards you with a swim in crystal clear water.
Fethiye Promenade
Walk back or take the bus and spend time at the public squares where locals gather. Great for people watching.
Fethiye Fish Market
Experience the market atmosphere. You can buy fresh fish and have a nearby restaurant cook it for a small service fee.
Day 10: Fethiye, Turkey - Ölüdeniz Vibes
Ölüdeniz Beach
Take the local bus to one of Turkey’s most famous beaches. The public section of the beach is free to use.
The Blue Lagoon
Walk to the end of the beach to the protected lagoon. There is a small entry fee, but it’s worth it for the calm, turquoise waters.
Lycian Way (Short Hike)
Walk the very beginning of the famous Lycian Way trail for stunning views over the coast without needing professional gear.
Hisarönü Evening Walk
Explore this lively tourist town on the way back to Fethiye. It’s a bit 'touristy,' but great for finding cheap happy hour deals.
Day 11: Antalya, Turkey - Scenic Coastline
Coastal Bus to Antalya
Take the bus along the D400 highway. This is widely considered one of the most beautiful bus rides in the world.
Arrival in Antalya
Check into your accommodation in the Kaleiçi (Old Town) district, which is full of budget-friendly pensions.
Hadrian’s Gate
Visit the triumphal arch built in the name of the Roman emperor. It’s a free landmark that marks the entrance to the Old Town.
Karaalioglu Park
Enjoy a free walk through this large park with views over the Gulf of Antalya and the Taurus Mountains.
Day 12: Antalya, Turkey - Kaleiçi Exploration
Old City Marina
Walk down the steep steps to the Roman-era harbor. It’s free to stroll and provides great photos of the city walls.
Broken Minaret (Korkut Mosque)
View the ruins of this structure that has served as a Roman temple, Byzantine church, and Ottoman mosque.
Mermerli Beach
Relax at this small, historic beach tucked into the cliffs of the Old Town. There is a small fee, but it’s the most convenient swim in the city.
Dinner at Republic Square
Eat with the locals near the statue of Atatürk. Look for 'Tavuk Pilav' (chicken and rice) street carts for a very cheap meal.
Day 13: Antalya, Turkey - Waterfalls & Sand
Lower Düden Waterfalls
Take a public bus to the park where the waterfall drops directly into the Mediterranean Sea. The park is free to enter.
Lara Beach
Continue on the bus to Lara Beach. It’s a long stretch of sand with many free public areas and cheap snacks.
Antalya Clock Tower
Head back to the center to see the Last Tower of the ancient city walls, a great meeting point for budget walking tours.
Kaleiçi Night Market
Explore the evening markets in the narrow streets. It’s the best time to see the local crafts without the daytime heat.
Day 14: Cappadocia, Turkey - The Long Haul
Bus to Göreme
Prepare for a 9-hour journey into the heart of Anatolia. The change in landscape from the coast to the volcanic plains is dramatic.
Arrival in Göreme
Walk from the bus station to your cave hostel. Göreme is small and very easy to navigate on foot.
Sunset Viewpoint
Hike up to the 'Lovers Hill' (Asiklar Tepesi) above the town for a free and spectacular 360-degree view of the valley.
Anatolian Stew Dinner
Try 'Testi Kebab' (pottery kebab). While some are pricey, look for small family-run spots for a budget version.
Day 15: Cappadocia, Turkey - Valleys & Views
Balloon Watching
You don’t need to pay $200 to enjoy the balloons. Wake up early and watch them fill the sky from the ridge for free.
Rose Valley Hike
One of the best free activities in Turkey. Hike through the pink-hued rock formations and discover hidden cave churches.
Cavusin Village
Walk to this nearby village to see the massive rock castle ruins. It’s less touristy than Göreme and has cheaper cafes.
Red Valley Sunset
The Red Valley is world-famous for its sunset colors. Bring your own drinks and snacks for a cheap and romantic evening.
Day 16: Cappadocia, Turkey - Fairy Chimneys
Love Valley
Hike into Love Valley to see the most iconic phallic-shaped fairy chimneys. The trail is free and relatively easy.
Pasabag (Monks Valley)
Take a cheap local bus to see some of the best-preserved multi-headed fairy chimneys in the region.
Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
Look for the rock that looks like a camel. There are no churches here, just incredible natural sculptures and it’s free.
Göreme Center Tea Houses
Spend your evening like a local at a tea house (Kiraathane) playing backgammon and sipping çay.
Day 17: Cappadocia, Turkey - Underground History
Derinkuyu Underground City
Take a public bus via Nevşehir to this incredible 8-story deep ancient city. It’s a budget-friendly way to see a world wonder.
Pigeon Valley Walk
Walk the trail from Uçhisar back to Göreme. The valley is named after the thousands of pigeon houses carved into the soft tuff.
Uçhisar Castle Exterior
While the entrance to the castle has a fee, walking around the base of this giant rock outcrop offers amazing views for free.
Souvenir Browsing
Check out the local ceramics. Even if you don't buy, the workshops are often happy to show you their craft for free.
Day 18: Ankara, Turkey - Moving to the Capital
Bus to Ankara
Take a 5-hour bus ride to the Turkish capital. It’s a smooth, efficient trip through the Anatolian heartland.
Anıtkabir (Atatürk Mausoleum)
Visit the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This massive, impressive complex is completely free and a must-visit.
Gençlik Park
Relax in this central city park. It features a large lake and a nostalgic feel, perfect for a budget afternoon walk.
Dinner in Kızılay
Ankara's central district is full of students, meaning plenty of cheap, high-quality street food and döner shops.
Day 19: Ankara, Turkey - Citadel & History
Ankara Castle (Citadel)
Walk up to the historic citadel. Entrance is free, and it offers the best panoramic views of Ankara’s sprawling landscape.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
Located near the castle, this is one of the most important museums in the country. Use your Museum Pass here.
Hamamönü Restored District
Wander through these beautifully restored Ottoman-style houses. It’s a great area for free photos and cheap Turkish coffee.
Kocatepe Mosque
Visit one of the largest mosques in the world. Its sheer size and modern Ottoman architecture are impressive and free to see.
Day 20: Istanbul, Turkey - Full Circle Departure
High-Speed Train to Istanbul
Take the YHT (High-Speed Train) from Ankara to Istanbul. It’s fast, modern, and very affordable if booked a few days early.
Last Minute Shopping at Arasta Bazaar
A smaller, quieter bazaar near the Blue Mosque, perfect for picking up some final spices or tea for the journey home.
Sultanahmet Tea Garden
Spend your last few hours sipping tea with a view of the Hagia Sophia, reflecting on an epic 20-day journey.
Havaist Bus to Airport
Catch the efficient airport shuttle bus. It’s the cheapest and most reliable way to reach Istanbul Airport for your flight.
Best Time to Visit Turkey
The best time to visit Turkey for budget backpackers is during the shoulder seasons of Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild enough for hiking in Cappadocia and exploring ruins in Ephesus, and prices for hostels are lower than the peak summer months. Winter can be very cheap, but expect snow in Anatolia and rain along the coast.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While credit cards are widely accepted in cities and at major tourist sites, you should always carry cash for small purchases, local buses (dolmuş), and street food. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill at small eateries is a common local practice. ATMs are everywhere, but try to use those attached to banks to avoid high third-party fees.
Getting Around Turkey
Intercity travel in Turkey is efficient and affordable. The most common method is the long-distance coach bus system; companies like Kamil Koç and Metro offer comfortable seats, Wi-Fi, and snacks. For longer distances, like Ankara to Istanbul, the High-Speed Train (YHT) is an excellent and budget-friendly option. Within cities, use public transport cards (like the Istanbulkart) to access subways, ferries, and trams for the lowest possible price.
