Embark on an immersive 8-day journey through the heart of Turkey, designed specifically for food enthusiasts and culture seekers. This curated itinerary balances hands-on culinary education with visits to the nation's most significant historical landmarks. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, you will experience the diverse regional flavors that define Turkish gastronomy. Our expert-led program ensures you not only witness the beauty of Turkey but actively participate in its vibrant culinary traditions.
Your adventure begins in Istanbul, where you will master authentic recipes during a professional cooking lesson before exploring the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the historic Hippodrome. As you travel south, the tour transitions into the Aegean region, featuring a deep dive into the ancient history of Ephesus and a unique wine-making workshop in the charming village of Sirince. You will also witness the natural splendor of the Pamukkale calcium terraces and the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, providing a perfect backdrop for your gastronomic exploration.
The final leg of your journey takes you to the heart of Central Anatolia, Cappadocia. Here, you will engage in a second cooking session focused on regional specialties like kebabs and local pancakes. Between culinary sessions, you will explore the Goreme Open Air Museum, the cave dwellings of Cavusin, and the fairy chimneys of Pasabagi. With domestic flights linking Istanbul, the Aegean coast and Cappadocia (flight tickets are arranged separately) and a stay in a traditional cave hotel, this tour offers a seamless blend of education, history, and exquisite dining.
| Tour type | Private Β· multi-day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 8 Days 7 Nights |
| Price | From β¬2,104 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | Licensed guide in your language |
| Stops | 8 |
| Entrance fees | Included |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours Β· TΓRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Your full program, day by day β click a day to see every stop.
Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a welcome drink and an introductory chat with our gourmet experts regarding the rich traditions of Turkish cuisine. In the evening, join your fellow travelers and our friendly crew for a welcome dinner, where you will sample authentic local dishes while taking in the enchanting atmosphere of Istanbul by night. Overnight at your hotel in Istanbul.
Following a morning orientation, you will participate in your first Turkish cooking lesson. You will learn to prepare a variety of regional flavors and enjoy the lunch you have helped create. In the afternoon, we visit the Topkapi Palace, home to the Ottoman sultans, the Blue Mosque with its stunning Iznik tile work, and the ancient Hippodrome, featuring the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpentine Column. Overnight at your hotel in Istanbul.
Begin your day with a traditional boat excursion along the Bosphorus, the iconic waterway separating Europe and Asia. After the cruise, enjoy lunch at a local Turkish restaurant before transferring to the airport for your domestic flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kusadasi. Dinner will be served at the hotel, followed by an overnight stay in Kusadasi.
Today is dedicated to the ancient city of Ephesus, where you will visit the Temple of Artemis, the Celsus Library, and the Grand Theatre. After lunch, we travel to the picturesque village of Sirince. Famous for its fruit wines, Sirince offers the perfect setting to learn the art of wine production from local experts. You will also visit a traditional carpet weaving center before returning to Kusadasi for dinner and an overnight stay.
We depart for Pamukkale, the famous "Cotton Castle." Upon arrival, you will have time for lunch before exploring the stunning white calcium terraces and the nearby ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis. You will have the opportunity to walk through this natural phenomenon with the option of relaxing in the thermal spring waters. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in Kusadasi.
After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival in the region, you will be taken to your authentic cave hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this volcanic landscape. Dinner is included at your hotel, where you will spend the night.
Start the day with a second cooking lesson, focusing on the distinct culinary heritage of Central Turkey, including local kebabs and pancakes. In the afternoon, we visit the Goreme Open Air Museum to see 10th-century frescoes, the abandoned cave village of Cavusin, and a traditional pottery workshop. We conclude the sightseeing at Pasabagi to view the unique three-headed fairy chimneys. Dinner and overnight stay in a cave hotel.
Enjoy a final breakfast in Cappadocia and take some free time for shopping in the local area. We will then transfer you to the airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul to connect with your international departure. We hope you leave with wonderful memories and new culinary skills.
Handpicked 3-, 4- and 5-star hotels along your route. Choose your category β the price adapts.
Exact hotels are confirmed on booking based on availability and your chosen category; equivalent alternatives may be offered.
Istanbul β Istanbul to Kusadasi β Kusadasi and Sirince β Kusadasi and Pamukkale β Kusadasi to Cappadocia β Cappadocia β Cappadocia to Istanbul
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles β the same fleet we use on your tour.
π₯ 54 Seats
π₯ 37 Seats (2+1 VIP)
π₯ 55 Seats
π₯ 54 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 46 Seats
π₯ 37+2 Seats
π₯ 37 Seats
π₯ 35 Seats
π₯ 16+1 Seats
π₯ 16+1 Seats
π₯ 12+1 Seats
π₯ 6+1 Seats
Extra day tours you can add along your route β Istanbul, Istanbul to Kusadasi, Kusadasi and Sirince, Kusadasi and Pamukkale, Kusadasi to Cappadocia, Cappadocia, Cappadocia to Istanbul.
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Other private and group tours that visit the same destination.
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Real, verified reviews from travellers who explored Turkey with us.
My husband and I chose Inca Tour for our honeymoon and we are so glad we did. The boutique hotel selection was beautiful and the Bosphorus dinner cruise was so romantic. Thank you for making our trip special!
It was important for us to have a guide who spoke Russian, and Ender was wonderful. He explained every detail at Dolmabahce Palace. The Princes Islands day trip was a beautiful break from the busy city.
Our guide Ender was incredibly knowledgeable about Turkish history. The hot-air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia was the highlight of our trip. Everything was perfectly organized β from airport pick-up to the last d...
Ender was our Italian-speaking guide and we felt like family. He took us to local spots tourists never see. The hotel choice in Sultanahmet was perfect for walking everywhere.
10+ years later we still talk about our Cappadocia balloon ride and the Bosphorus sunset cruise. Some memories are timeless. Thank you Inca Tour!