11-Day Explore Turkish Flavors: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Urla & Izmir

Today begins in the historic heart of the city. Visit the Blue Mosque, an iconic example of 17th-century Ottoman architecture, followed by Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has served as church, mosque, and museum across its long history. Continue to the Basilica Cistern, an extraordinary underground structure built to supply water to the imperial city. Lunch features classic Turkish köfte at a long-established local restaurant. In the afternoon, enjoy a private Bosphorus cruise, offering views of palaces, mansions, and waterfront neighborhoods that once defined imperial life. Later, visit a local Turkish home for a hands-on cooking class, learning traditional family recipes and sharing the meal you prepare together — a rare insight into everyday Istanbul life. Overnight in Istanbul. (B, L, D)

This morning visit Topkapı Palace, the residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Special focus is given to the Palace Kitchens and Helvahane, where you learn about the structure, ingredients, and rituals of Ottoman court cuisine. Lunch features Ottoman palace-inspired dishes. In the afternoon, visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, the masterpiece of architect Sinan, followed by time in the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest covered markets. End the day with a tasting of traditional baklava from a renowned local shop. Dinner and overnight in Istanbul. (B, L, D)

Begin the day at the Spice Bazaar, historically linked to global trade routes bringing spices from Asia via Egypt. Visit the richly tiled Rüstem Pasha Mosque, another jewel of Ottoman architecture. Cross to the Asian side by ferry to explore Kadıköy Market, where Istanbul residents shop daily for fresh produce, fish, meats, and baked goods. Lunch is at Çiya Restaurant, known for preserving regional recipes from across Anatolia. In the afternoon, fly to Cappadocia and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia. (B, L)

Today focuses on Anatolian village life and cuisine. Visit a local village home where you cook with village women, preparing dishes such as stuffed vine leaves and mantı, reflecting Central Asian culinary roots. After lunch, explore Cappadocia’s unique landscape at Devrent Valley and Zelve Open-Air Museum, an early monastic settlement carved into volcanic rock. Visit Paşabağ Fairy Chimneys, then continue to Avanos for a traditional pottery workshop. End the day with a sunset wine experience in one of Cappadocia’s scenic valleys. Dinner and overnight in Cappadocia. (B, L, D)

Optional early morning hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia’s valleys. Later, visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, home to rock-cut churches decorated with Byzantine frescoes. After lunch, explore one of Cappadocia’s underground cities, originally used as shelters during times of instability. Enjoy a demonstration of Turkish carpet weaving, learning about motifs and techniques, followed by a visit to Saruhan Caravanserai for a Whirling Dervish Sema ceremony, reflecting Anatolia’s spiritual traditions. Overnight in Cappadocia. (B, L)

After a relaxed morning, join a Turkish marbling (Ebru) workshop. Later, visit a village to observe the preparation of grape molasses and homemade baklava. Evening flight to Izmir and transfer to your hotel near Ephesus. Overnight near Ephesus. (B, D)

Visit Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the Mediterranean. Lunch is served at an ecological farm, followed by a visit to the Oleatrium Olive Oil Museum, tracing olive oil production from antiquity to today. Tour the farm to see traditional preservation methods such as sun-dried vegetables and homemade pastes. Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight near Ephesus. (B, L, D)

After visiting the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, drive to Urla, a center of contemporary Aegean gastronomy. Explore historic streets, visit the ancient olive oil press of Klazomenai, and learn about ancient maritime trade. Select fresh ingredients from the local market before joining a hands-on Aegean cooking workshop. Enjoy your meal with local wines, followed by a visit to an award-winning winery. Overnight in Izmir. (B, L)

Enjoy a street food walking tour through Izmir’s historic Kemeraltı Bazaar, then fly back to Istanbul. Overnight in Istanbul. (B, L)

Transfer to the airport for your international departure.