Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 55 travelers

A Gastronomic Journey Through Turkey

Sunday April 14: Istanbul

Start your culinary adventure in Istanbul, the vibrant capital of Turkey. Begin your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi, where you can indulge in a wide variety of cheeses, olives, pastries, and rich Turkish tea. In the afternoon, explore the Grand Bazaar, a bustling marketplace where you can sample delectable Turkish delights like baklava, Turkish delight, and freshly roasted nuts. For dinner, head to Çiya Sofrası in Kadıköy, known for its authentic Anatolian cuisine.

  • Van Kahvaltı Evi: Approximate cost: $15, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Grand Bazaar: Free admission, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Çiya Sofrası: Approximate cost: $25, Time spent: 2 hours
Monday April 15: Cappadocia

Embark on a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia during sunrise, followed by a delightful breakfast at one of the local cave hotels. Afterward, visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum to explore the ancient cave churches adorned with intricate frescoes. Experience an authentic Turkish cooking class in the afternoon, learning to prepare traditional dishes such as manti (Turkish dumplings) or kebabs. For dinner, savor the local specialty, testi kebab, at a traditional Cappadocian restaurant.

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Approximate cost: $250, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Göreme Open-Air Museum: Approximate cost: $15, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Turkish Cooking Class: Approximate cost: $50, Time spent: 4 hours
  • Traditional Cappadocian Restaurant: Approximate cost: $30, Time spent: 2 hours
Tuesday April 16: Izmir

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Kemeraltı Market in Izmir, where you can taste a variety of local fruits, vegetables, and spices. Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at one of the local meyhane (taverns), experiencing the lively atmosphere and sampling dishes like şakşuka and grilled seafood. In the afternoon, explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the world. End your day with a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant in the charming coastal town of Alaçatı.

  • Kemeraltı Market: Free admission, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Traditional Turkish Lunch: Approximate cost: $20, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Ephesus: Approximate cost: $15, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Seafood Dinner in Alaçatı: Approximate cost: $35, Time spent: 2 hours
Wednesday April 17: Antalya

Indulge in a delightful breakfast at the Kaleiçi neighborhood in Antalya, known for its charming streets and historic buildings. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque marina and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. In the afternoon, visit the Antalya Museum to explore its impressive collection of ancient artifacts and learn about the local cuisine's rich history. For dinner, head to a traditional Turkish lokanta (eatery) and savor dishes like kebabs, pide, and baklava.

  • Kaleiçi Breakfast: Approximate cost: $10, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Antalya Marina: Free admission, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Antalya Museum: Approximate cost: $10, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Traditional Turkish Lokanta: Approximate cost: $20, Time spent: 2 hours
Thursday April 18: Pamukkale

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning terraces of Pamukkale, where you can relax in the mineral-rich thermal waters. Afterward, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis and discover its well-preserved ruins, including the theater, necropolis, and Roman baths. Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch in Pamukkale town, trying local specialties like gözleme and pide. In the evening, participate in a Turkish wine tasting experience to sample the country's finest wines.

  • Pamukkale Terraces: Approximate cost: $25, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Hierapolis: Approximate cost: $15, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Traditional Turkish Lunch: Approximate cost: $15, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Turkish Wine Tasting: Approximate cost: $30, Time spent: 2 hours
Friday April 19: Bodrum

Explore the vibrant Bodrum Marina in the morning and enjoy a leisurely Turkish breakfast overlooking the picturesque Aegean Sea. Visit the ancient Bodrum Amphitheater, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. In the afternoon, head to a local fish market and choose your own fresh seafood to be prepared at a nearby restaurant. End your day with a visit to a traditional Turkish tea house, where you can relax and savor a cup of Turkish tea.

  • Bodrum Marina: Free admission, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Bodrum Amphitheater: Approximate cost: $10, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Local Fish Market: Cost of seafood, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Turkish Tea House: Approximate cost: $5, Time spent: 1 hour
Saturday April 20: Ankara

Start your day with a visit to the bustling Ulus neighborhood in Ankara and indulge in a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local cafe. Explore the impressive Atatürk Mausoleum, dedicated to the founder of modern Turkey. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and immerse yourself in the rich history of the region. For your final dinner in Turkey, try the famous Ankara kebab at one of the local kebab houses.

  • Ulus Neighborhood: Free admission, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Atatürk Mausoleum: Free admission, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: Approximate cost: $10, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Ankara Kebab: Approximate cost: $20, Time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly authentic and off the beaten path experience, venture to the southeastern region of Gaziantep, known as the culinary capital of Turkey. Explore the local markets and taste the delicious flavors of Gaziantep cuisine, including dishes like baklava, kebabs, and pistachio-based desserts. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous Gaziantep Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmiths' Bazaar) and witness the traditional craftsmanship. You'll be captivated by the rich culinary traditions and warm hospitality of the locals.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version