10-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Turkiye

Day 1: Welcome to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Start your Turkish adventure with a traditional breakfast featuring fresh cheeses, olives, honey, and menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes).
Located in the Beşiktaş district, just a short taxi ride from most hotels.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Topkapi Palace

Step into history at the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans with spectacular views of the Bosphorus.
You can walk or take a tram to Sultanahmet area.
TRY300, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Taste authentic Sultanahmet meatballs served with Turkish bread and a refreshing ayran (yogurt drink).
A short walk from Topkapi Palace.
TRY120, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Hagia Sophia

Marvel at the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia, blending Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
A quick five-minute walk from the restaurant.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Stroll through the Grand Bazaar

Get lost in the vibrant chaos of the Grand Bazaar, shopping for spices, textiles, and ceramics.
Around a 10-minute walk from Hagia Sophia.
FREE, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Karaköy Güllüoğlu

Indulge in the legendary baklava and other Turkish sweets at this famous spot.
A short tram ride from the Grand Bazaar.
TRY100, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Food & Culture in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at MOC – My Own Café

Enjoy delicious Turkish coffee and fresh pastries while soaking in the ambiance of Istanbul.
Located in Karaköy, easily accessible by tram.
TRY130, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Spice Bazaar

Explore the aromatic Spice Bazaar, where a feast for the senses awaits with colorful spices, teas, and sweets.
A short walk from the café.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Taste authentic Turkish kebabs with stunning views of the Golden Horn.
Located a 10-minute walk from the Spice Bazaar.
TRY180, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax on a Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the Bosphorus, taking in the city skyline and riverside palaces.
Catch a ferry near the Spice Bazaar.
TRY200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore the neighborhoods of Balat and Fener

Wander through the quaint streets of these historical neighborhoods, known for their colorful houses and charming cafes.
Take a taxi to Balat.
FREE, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Mikla

Enjoy fine dining with a modern twist on traditional Turkish cuisine, along with a fantastic view of the city.
Take a taxi to Pera.
TRY600, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Heritage in Bursa

Bursa, Turkey

7:00AM

Breakfast at Fırıncı Niyazi

Savor freshly baked simit (sesame-covered bread) and tea at this local bakery.
Travel from Istanbul to Bursa via ferry and bus.
TRY50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Grand Mosque

Experience the breathtaking architecture of the Great Mosque of Bursa, an important example of early Ottoman design.
Short walk from the bakery.
FREE, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Green Tomb and Mosque

Marvel at the intricate tile work and serene atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
A 15-minute cab ride from the Grand Mosque.
TRY25, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at İskender Kebapçısı

Indulge in the famous İskender kebab, a delicious dish of thinly sliced lamb served over bread with yogurt and tomato sauce.
Return to the city center for lunch.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Bursa Silk Market

Shop for authentic silk products at the historic silk market, known for its textiles and local crafts.
A short walk from the restaurant.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Take the Teleferik to Uludağ Mountain

Take a scenic cable car ride to the summit of Uludağ Mountain for panoramic views and fresh air.
Walk to the teleferik station.
TRY75, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Kebapçı Murat

Feast on a variety of kebabs and meze dishes, a wonderful wind-down after a day of exploration.
Return to the city center.
TRY160, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Culinary Delights in Izmir

Izmir, Turkey

7:00AM

Breakfast at Kayalar Pide

Enjoy traditional Turkish pide (flatbread) with various toppings and freshly squeezed juice.
Travel from Bursa to Izmir by bus (approximately 3 hours).
TRY100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the İzmir Clock Tower

Admire the iconic symbol of Izmir located in Konak Square, perfect for a photo opportunity.
Short walk from the restaurant.
FREE, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore the Kemeralti Bazaar

Wander through the bustling market filled with local snacks, spices, and handmade crafts.
A quick walk from the clock tower.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Tasting Tour: Olive Oil and Cheese

Take part in a tasting tour to sample the region's finest olive oils and cheeses.
Join a local tour from the bazaar.
TRY200, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Asansör Restaurant

Dine with an opinion of the city while savoring seafood and Mediterranean dishes.
Located near the famous elevator.
TRY220, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Kadifekale (Velvet Castle)

Explore the historic ruins and enjoy panoramic views of Izmir from this hilltop castle.
Taxi ride to Kadifekale.
TRY30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Kordon

Stroll along the scenic promenade of Kordon, watching the sunset with a refreshing drink.
Walk back to Kordon.
FREE, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Old Bazaar

End your day with authentic local dishes at one of the taverns in the Old Bazaar.
Located within a short distance from Kordon.
TRY150, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Ancient Wonders of Ephesus

Ephesus, Turkey

6:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Travel from Izmir to Ephesus by bus (around 1.5 hours).
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Explore Ephesus Ancient Ruins

Marvel at the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Take a short taxi to the ancient site.
TRY400, 3 hours

12:00PM

Visit House of Virgin Mary

Pay your respects at this sacred site believed to be the final home of Virgin Mary.
Short drive from the ruins.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Aydin Grill

Enjoy a hearty meal featuring local dishes such as lamb skewers and stuffed vine leaves.
Located on the way back to Izmir.
TRY160, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Sirince Village

Visit the charming village known for its local wine production and historic architecture.
Taxi ride from Aydin Grill.
TRY90, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sirince Wine House

Sample local wines and pair them with traditional meze for a perfect ending to the day.
Located in Sirince.
TRY180, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Natural Wonders of Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a healthy breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Travel from Ephesus to Pamukkale by bus (around 2.5 hours).
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Pamukkale Thermal Pools

Experience the stunning travertine pools of Pamukkale, famous for their warm, mineral-rich waters.
Walk to the pools from your hotel.
TRY300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Discover the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, including the well-preserved amphitheater.
Short walk from the thermal pools.
TRY200, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at White Springs Restaurant

Enjoy a meal in this scenic restaurant, famous for its fresh local dishes.
Located near the thermal pools.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax in Cleopatra’s Pool

Take a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool, an ancient spa with submerged ruins and warm waters.
Walk back to the ancient site.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Meat & Fish Grill

Treat yourself to grilled meats and seafood at a highly-rated local restaurant.
A short taxi ride from the thermal area.
TRY170, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Coastal Escapade in Fethiye

Fethiye, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a buffet breakfast spread before setting off to Fethiye.
Travel from Pamukkale to Fethiye by bus (approximately 3 hours).
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Ölüdeniz Beach

Relax at the stunning Ölüdeniz Beach, known for its turquoise waters and sandy shores.
Take a taxi from the bus terminal.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Blue Lagoon Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the beachside view.
A short walk from the beach.
TRY200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Paragliding over Ölüdeniz

Experience breathtaking views while paragliding over the beautiful Ölüdeniz coast.
Sign up with a local tour company.
TRY800, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Butterfly Valley

Discover this gorgeous natural preserve that is home to various butterfly species.
Take a boat ride from Ölüdeniz.
TRY150, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Mozaik Bahçe

Dine under the stars with a menu that emphasizes local produce and freshly caught seafood.
Taxi back to Fethiye.
TRY200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Beach Lifestyle in Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Piyale Restaurant

Enjoy a rich breakfast featuring gözleme (stuffed flatbread) and Turkish tea.
Travel from Fethiye to Antalya by bus (around 3 hours).
TRY120, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Kaleiçi (Old Town)

Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of Kaleiçi, lined with historic Ottoman houses.
Short taxi ride from the bus station.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Seraser Fine Dining

Indulge in a sophisticated meal with a fusion of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine.
Located within Kaleiçi.
TRY400, 2 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Konyaaltı Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking up the sun at one of Antalya's best beaches.
Take a bus to Konyaaltı.
FREE, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at 7 Mehmet

A famous restaurant offering a diverse menu of exquisite Turkish dishes.
Bus back to Kaleiçi.
TRY250, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a nourishing breakfast at your accommodation.
Travel from Antalya to Cappadocia by bus (approximately 8 hours).
Included, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia.
Join a local tour operator.
TRY1000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site featuring rock-cut churches and stunning frescoes.
Take a taxi from your accommodation.
TRY300, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Top Deck Cave Restaurant

Experience unique dining in a cave setting, enjoying local specialties.
A short walk from the museum.
TRY350, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Final Day & Farewell to Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before traveling back to Istanbul.
Catch a flight or bus from Cappadocia to Istanbul.
Included, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore Dolmabahçe Palace

Wander through the stunning Dolmabahçe Palace, known for its opulent architecture and lush gardens.
Take a taxi from the airport to the palace.
TRY400, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Çınaraltı

Enjoy a scenic lunch by the Bosphorus with fresh seafood and traditional Turkish fare.
Nearby Dolmabahçe Palace.
TRY210, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Last-minute Shopping at Nişantaşı

Pick up some souvenirs and enjoy the chic boutiques in Nişantaşı.
A short taxi ride away.
FREE, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Pandeli Restaurant

Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner featuring exquisite Turkish cuisine and views of the Spice Bazaar.
Located in Eminönü district.
TRY350, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability