Türkiye, Istanbul

Culinary Türkiye 3^*

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Istanbul airport, where an airport representative will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Take a moment to settle in, freshen up, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead. Enjoy the first day at your leisure.

(No meals are included on this day)

Start the day by meeting your guide in the hotel lobby for a fascinating walking tour of Istanbul. Begin with a stroll across the famous Galata Bridge, ideal for taking in some breathtaking views of the city and its bustling waterfront life. Explore the majestic Hagia Sophia, a monument that has evolved over time from basilica to church, then mosque, museum and now mosque again. Continue and visit the beautiful Blue Mosque, famous for its magnificent blue Iznik tiles and harmonious design.
Finish your morning with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, the oldest covered market in the world, where you can wander through a maze of shops selling everything from antiques to handicrafts.
At lunchtime, take a culinary tour of the streets of Istanbul, starting with the vibrant Spice Market. Sample a variety of authentic Turkish delicacies as you cross the city from the European to the Asian side. Finish your culinary adventure at Çiya Restaurant, renowned for its unique Anatolian flavours.

(Breakfast and street food lunch included for this day).

This morning you will depart for Bursa, known as the home of Turkish silk and the birthplace of the famous Iskender kebab. The journey takes around two hours and takes you through a historically rich and culturally vibrant city, often nicknamed 'Green Bursa' due to its lush surroundings.
Soak up the authentic atmosphere of Bursa with its elegant mosques, bustling markets and popular teahouses.
In the evening, dine at a restaurant famous for its Iskender kebab. Discover the origins of this popular dish and savour its unique flavours in the city where it was invented. End your day with a Whirling Dervish ceremony at a local dervish house. Watch this spiritual dance performed by members of the Sufi community and talk to them to learn more about their mystical traditions.

(Breakfast and dinner are included on this day).

Start your day with a scenic drive to the charming fishing town of Ayvalık, famous for its exceptional olive-based products and vibrant culinary scene. The journey takes around four hours and offers stunning views along the way.
On arrival, visit a local olive and oil producer where you will learn about Ayvalık's renowned olive-growing traditions. Take the opportunity to sample the finest olive oils and discover the expertise behind these local treasures.
Then take a walk with your knowledgeable guide through the narrow streets of Ayvalik. Explore the bustling local market filled with fresh produce, handicrafts and regional delicacies, and stroll through the town centre to discover Ayvalık's unique cultural and culinary heritage.
In the evening, take a fishing boat to Cunda Island, the culinary heart of the region. Soak up the island's half-Greek, half-Turkish charm and indulge in local desserts such as honey balls (lokma) and mastic ice cream. Finish the day with a delicious seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant where the flavours of the Aegean come alive.

(Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included on this day).

Today you leave the charming town of Ayvalik for Izmir, Turkey's third largest city. On the way, stop off at Bergama, the historic site of the ancient city of Pergamon.
In Bergama, visit a local workshop set in a picturesque garden where you can take part in a unique carpet weaving class. Observe the intricate art of local women weaving rugs as part of an ancient tradition. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch in the courtyard, surrounded by the peaceful ambience of the garden.
Continue your journey to Ephesus, one of Turkey's most extraordinary ancient sites. Once the capital of Roman Asia Minor, Ephesus has a rich history that your expert guide will bring to life before your eyes. Marvel at monuments such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre and the Temple of Artemis and immerse yourself in the grandeur of this ancient metropolis. Continue on to Izmir and spend the night there.

(Breakfast and lunch are included on this day).

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local pastry shop and enjoy freshly baked treats accompanied by Turkish coffee or tea.
Begin your visit by exploring Kemeraltı, Izmir's historic and bustling bazaar. Stroll through the maze of streets full of shops, artisans and lively market stalls and soak up the unique atmosphere of this cultural hub.
Then take a scenic drive to the charming town of Urla, famous for its vineyards and culinary heritage. Enjoy a wine tasting experience and discover the local wines produced from the region's unique soils. Follow this experience with a street food tour, where you will sample a variety of authentic Aegean bites, from mezes to local pastries, guided by your expert.
Return to Izmir in the evening for a traditional dinner at a local meyhane, a classic Turkish tavern. Enjoy delicious mezes, grilled specialities and live music in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

(Breakfast is included on this day).

Depart Izmir this morning and transfer to the airport for your flight to Antalya. On arrival, enjoy a local lunch of two of the region's signature dishes: Antalya-style piyaz and meatballs, a popular Turkish comfort food.
After lunch, meet your guide for a tour of Kaleiçi, Antalya's charming old town. Wander the narrow, winding streets lined with historic houses and Roman ruins. Discover the rich mix of cultures and architecture that makes Kaleiçi a unique part of Antalya's history.
In the evening, dine at 7 Mehmet, a legendary local restaurant renowned for its exceptional Turkish cuisine and warm atmosphere.

(Breakfast and lunch are included on this day).

Leave the coast behind this morning for a scenic five-hour drive to Konya, over the majestic Toros Mountains. Although the journey is long, the breathtaking scenery will captivate you on your way to one of Turkey's most spiritually significant cities.
Konya is known for its deep connection to Sufism and the legacy of Celaleddin Rumi, one of Islam's greatest Sufi mystics. Rumi's teachings emphasise the transformative power of music and dance, and it was here that he developed the whirling sema ritual, a meditative dance symbolising divine love and union.
On arrival, you'll learn more about his profound spiritual journey and the philosophy of Sufism. After your visit, take a walk to Alaaddin Hill in the heart of Konya. Explore the remains of the Seljuk Sultan's palace and the Alâeddin Mosque, which houses artefacts dating back to the Stone Age, and catch a glimpse of the region's rich history.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specialising in Sufi cuisine, where you'll discover dishes inspired by the region's mystical traditions.

(Breakfast and dinner are included on this day).

This morning you will make the scenic 3.5 hour drive to Cappadocia, a region famous for its surreal landscapes, fairy chimneys and rich history. The journey takes you to the land of the magnificent horses, where you'll fall in love with the distinctive culture and natural beauty.
On arrival, settle into your troglodyte room for an authentic and unique experience that reflects the historic charm of the region. Discover the underground city of Özkonak, an ancient wonder carved out of soft volcanic rock. Explore the tunnels and chambers of this underground city, where the first Christians sought refuge, and discover the fascinating history of its hidden spaces.
Then visit a local pottery workshop where you can try your hand at making a traditional pot. Learn this ancient craft and create your own piece under the guidance of a local craftsman and go home with your own bit of Cappadocia's heritage.
In the evening, join a local family for a cooking class and learn how to prepare authentic Cappadocian dishes. Take the opportunity to chat with the locals and discover the unique flavours of this region.

(Breakfast and dinner are included on this day).

Visit the open-air museum at Göreme, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important cultural sites in Cappadocia. This monastic complex of ancient churches, dwellings and presbyteries carved into the rock was one of the first centres of Christian religious education. Explore the intricate frescoes and learn about the region's rich religious history.
For lunch, visit a women's cooperative where you can sample traditional local cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic flavours. This experience supports local women and their culinary traditions and gives you a taste of the heart and soul of the region.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a private wine tasting in a picturesque valley. Learn about the local winemaking process, taste wines made from Cappadocian grapes and learn about the region's deep connection to wine production. The setting will be as memorable as the experience, with breathtaking views and a warm atmosphere.

(Breakfast and lunch are included on this day).

This morning, leave the magical landscapes of Cappadocia behind and drive to Kayseri airport for your flight to Istanbul. On arrival, transfer to your hotel, check-in, and enjoy some free time to relax and explore the vibrant city.
Take this opportunity to explore Istanbul at your own pace: why not revisit your favourite spots, do some last-minute shopping, or simply soak up the city's lively atmosphere?

(Breakfast is included on this day.)

Today, depending on your flight time, you'll have free time to enjoy Istanbul one last time before your transfer to the airport for your return flight. You'll leave with unforgettable memories of your adventure in Turkey, immersed in its magnificent landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

(Breakfast is included on this day.)

Please note: This itinerary is subject to change due to technical or weather-related reasons or other unforeseen events relating to the organisation of the trip.

English-speaking guide provided.