Immersive Western & Eastern Türkiye : Culinary & Cultural Tour

14 Days Round trip from Istanbul Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Istanbul’s Old Town, including the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Topkapı Palace
  • 02 Visit the battlefields and memorials of Gallipoli, including ANZAC Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery
  • 03 Discover legendary ancient sites such as Troy, Ephesus, Çatalhöyük, Göbeklitepe, and Karahan Tepe
  • 04 Marvel at the travertines of Pamukkale and the ruins of Hierapolis
  • 05 Experience Cappadocia with valley walks, Derinkuyu underground city, and an optional sunrise balloon ride
  • 06 Enjoy regional food experiences including a Turkish cooking class, meyhane culture, baklava, and family-hosted meals
  • 07 See the monumental stone heads of Mount Nemrut at sunset
  • 08 Visit major museums including the Zeugma Mosaic Museum and Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museum

Discover the rich contrasts of Türkiye on a 14-day journey that brings together iconic landmarks, ancient civilizations, dramatic landscapes, and memorable regional cuisine. From the imperial treasures of Istanbul and the battlefields of Gallipoli to Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, Konya, Cappadocia, Gaziantep, Mount Nemrut, and Şanlıurfa, this itinerary connects the country’s western and eastern highlights in one immersive experience.

Along the way, explore UNESCO-listed sites and remarkable archaeological treasures including Göbeklitepe, Karahan Tepe, Çatalhöyük, Ephesus, and Derinkuyu underground city. Balance cultural discovery with local food experiences such as a Turkish cooking class, meyhane culture, family-hosted meals, regional kebabs, baklava, and traditional specialties that reflect the character of each destination.

With guided visits, included transport, boutique or brand-name stays, and a carefully paced route across Türkiye, this tour is ideal for travellers who want to experience history, heritage, and cuisine together.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 14 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Adiyaman, Antalya, Canakkale, Gaziantep, Istanbul, Konya, Cappadocia, Gallipoli (Battlefield), Ephesus, Troy, Pamukkale, Şanlıurfa, Mount Nemrut
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

istanbul Old Town & Traditional Ottoman Tastes

Merhaba ( Hello ) and Hoşgeldiniz ( Welcome ) to istanbul. Today we are looking forward to see you in the lobby at 1 pm. Your Guide will meet you with full of energy.

After, you will starts old town City Tour With Your Professional Tour Guide. Your guide will show you historic city's hidden gems, including the amazing Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and listen amazing stories and myths...

You will learn lots about Ottoman life in TOPKAPI PALACE...

You will have welcome dinner and your guide will introduce local dishes for you. One of the most famous Ottoman dishes is Hünkar Beğendi and some special starters. Enjoy with traditional welcome dinner.

Overnight in Istanbul

Accomodation : Wyndham Istanbul old town or Similar

2
Day 02

Gallipoli & Meyhane Food Culture

Today we sett off from istanbul to visit famous Gallipoli Anzac site. After a 4 hours short driving, We reach the site of Gallipoli's key Battlefields, Memorials and cemeteries. Reflect at an Anzac cove, Lone Pine cemetery and ChunukBair, while gaining deep insights into bravery and sacrifice of Anzac troops through expert commentary. This journey offers a respectful  and moving tribute to a significant chapter in history.

Today you will experience Meyhane culture which is a central part of traditional Ottoman and modern Turkish social life, especially in Istanbul and coastal cities.

Overnight in Canakkale

Accomodation : Grand Anzac Hotel or Similar

3
Day 03

Legendary Troy & Famous Turkish Cheese Taste

Today we will depart from Çanakkale and head to Ephesus. Our first stop will be the historic site of Troy and Archeologican Museum, where you will explore the legendary ruins of this ancient city.

Today at lunch , We will try Ezine cheese (Ezine peyniri) is one of Türkiye’s most famous and protected cheeses. Ezine cheese , some bread and Traditional Turkish tea is one of the best.

Overnight in Selcuk

Accomodation : Celsus Boutique Hotel or Similar

4
Day 04

Ancient Ephesus & Cooking Class

Begin with a visit to the grand Library of Celsus, visit St.john church is an iconic symbol of the city's former glory. Explore the impressive Great Theater and stroll through the Historic Arcadian way. Marvel at the well-preserved Temple of Hadrian and the remains of the Roman Baths. Conclude with a visit to the Terrace Houses, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of Ephesus' elite. This immersive tour offers a deep dive into the rich history and architectural splendor of one of the best-preserved ancient cities.

Today we have Turkish Cooking Class. Are you Ready for it ? Let cook with local chef and have a great dinner all together.

Overnight in Ephesus

Accommodation : Celsus Boutique Hotel or Similar

5
Day 05

Antalya & Traditional Turkish Pide taste

Experience the natural wonder of Pamukkale with our detailed itinerary. Start your day exploring the stunning white terraces of Pamukkale, formed by thermal mineral waters that create cascading pools. Enjoy s soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the thermal pools, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Next, visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can wander through the well-preserved ruins, including the ancient theater and Roman baths.

Overnight in Antalya

Accommodation : Ruin Adalia Boutique Hotel or Similar

6
Day 06

Antalya & Mediterranian Sea Food Experience

This morning, we begin our exploration of the Old Town with a guided city tour. Our first stop is Hadrian’s Gate, one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. From there, we take a pleasant walk to the Roman Necropolis Museum, where you will gain insight into ancient burial traditions and local history.

Along the way, we’ll enjoy a taste of delicious Turkish ice cream before continuing to discover the remains of the Old Seljuk civilization settlements. After the guided visits, you will have some free time to wander through the charming streets and enjoy shopping at your own pace.

In the evening, get ready for a memorable sunset dinner, the perfect way to end a day full of history and culture.

Overnight in Antalya

Accomodation : Ruin Adalia Boutique Hotel or Similar

7
Day 07

Konya - Traditional Central Anatolian Tastes

Today, we embark on a scenic 4-hour drive through the breathtaking Taurus Mountains toward the spiritual heart of Central Anatolia, Konya. Enjoy the changing landscapes along the way as we journey inland.

Upon arrival in the afternoon, we begin exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to the renowned Mevlana Museum, the resting place of the great Sufi mystic Rumi. Here, you will gain a deeper understanding of Sufi philosophy, spirituality, and the Whirling Dervish tradition.

We then continue to the elegant Karatay Tile Museum, where you will admire exquisite examples of 13th-century Seljuk tile art and craftsmanship, reflecting the artistic brilliance of the Seljuk era.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner featuring authentic Central Anatolian cuisine at one of Konya’s well-known traditional restaurants and a perfect opportunity to savor the local flavors and unwind after a culturally enriching day.

Overnight in Konya

Accommodation : Hilton Garden inn Hotel or Similar

8
Day 08

Cappadocia & Catalhoyuk Ancient City

Start with a visit to Çatalhöyük well-preserved 9.000 years old Neolithic settlement, one of the oldest urban centers. This itinerary offers a rich blend of spiritual, historical and cultural experiences in Konya and especially provides a fascinating glimpse into early human civilization and its development.

We drive 3 hours to Cappadocia and most unique part of the country will welcome you. Get ready for unforgettable valley walk with your guide. it is one of the best way to start exploring Cappadocia. At dinner we will have a Cappadocia signature dish Testi Kebabı (Pottery Kebab).

Overnight in Cappadocia

Accommodation : Barceló Cappadocia or Similar

9
Day 09

Cappadocia & Local Family Dinner

Begin the day with a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride ( optional ), offering panoramic views of the region's surreal rock formations and fairy chimneys. after landing, enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast . Next, explore the grime Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its rock-cut churches and frescoes. we drive 30 min. to Derinkuyu underground city is another highlight to discover. Today You eat home-cooked food in a real family house, not a restaurant. You will learn Local recipes, daily life traditions, Table etiquette and family Stories.

Overnight in Cappadocia

Accomodation : Barceló Cappadocia or Similar

10
Day 10

Gaziantep & Famous Antep Baklava

Visit the world-renowned Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to some of the most stunning Roman mosaics ever discovered, including the iconic “Gypsy Girl.” This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient past. Wander through the charming alleys of the old bazaar area, including Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmith Bazaar), where you can watch artisans at work and shop for handcrafted souvenirs. For dinner, indulge in Gaziantep’s legendary cuisine at İmam Çağdaş, one of the most famous kebab restaurants in the country. Try local specialties such as Ali Nazik kebab, lamb skewers, and freshly baked lahmacun.

Overnight in Gaziantep

Accomodation : Hilton Garden inn or Similar

11
Day 11

Adiyaman & Local Family Lunch

Enjoy a warmlocal family lunch in a village before continuing your journey to Mount Nemrut. In Adıyaman, you’ll experience authentic daily life as we visit a local Kurdish family in their home. Share a traditional meal, learn about their culture, and discover the stories behind their special dishes. Afterward, we drive to Mount Nemrut to see the giant stone heads and Watch the sun set over the colossal statues of this UNESCO World Heritage Site at 2,000 m.  Overnight in Adıyaman.

Accommodation : Ramada by Wyndham Adiyaman or Similar

12
Day 12

Göbeklitepe Temple & Traditional Sıra Gecesi Activity

Explore Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex and a UNESCO site.

Get ready this evening for enjoyable activity. Sıra Gecesi is a traditional social gathering from Şanlıurfa, combining music, food, and friendship into one unforgettable night.

Accommodation : Hilton Garden inn or similar

13
Day 13

Şanlıurfa Old Town & Urfa Kebap Night

Head to Karahantepe and Soğmatar, mysterious ancient settlements linked to early civilizations. Overnight in Şanlıurfa. Visit the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum and the Mosaic Museum, home to the famous “Urfa Man” statue.

Today you will try Urfa Kebab – The iconic local kebab made from seasoned minced meat grilled over charcoal. Less spicy than some other regional kebabs but deeply flavorful. Enjoy your meal.

Accommodation : Hilton Garden inn or similar

14
Day 14

Fly Back to istanbul & Tour Ends

This morning, bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and timeless heritage of Eastern Turkey as you fly back to Istanbul, where your unforgettable journey began. Upon arrival in Istanbul, your tour comes to an end — but the memories of majestic palaces, mystical ruins, sacred sites, and the vibrant spirit of Anatolia will stay with you long after you return home.

Safe travels and may your path ahead be as enriching and joyful as your time here. Until we meet again, cherish the moments and carry a piece of Turkey's spirit with you wherever you go.

Farewell and best wishes for your future adventures!

Atlas Global Tours LLC

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Istanbul 13 cities · 14 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Handpicked Boutique or Brand hotels
  • Professional English-speaking tour leader throughout the tour
  • Local expert guides at the archaeological sites and museums
  • All entrance fees
  • All ground transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
  • Domestic flight (Şanlıurfa → Istanbul )
  • Most Local meals

What's Not Included

  • International flights to/from Turkey
  • Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover domestic flights and activities)
  • Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
  • Visa fees (if applicable, depending on nationality)

What to bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes and lightweight clothing
  • A warm layer or jacket for cool evenings, especially in Cappadocia and Nemrut
  • Modest attire for mosque and village visits (shoulders and knees covered)
  • Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Personal toiletries and any required medications
  • Travel adapter (Type F plug, 220V)
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
  • Small daypack for daily excursions

Know before you go

  • Start Point: Tour begins in Istanbul with a welcome meeting at 6:00 PM on Day 1. Arrive early to settle in.
  • Accommodation: Comfortable Boutique stays.
  • Transport: Private air-conditioned coach and domestic flights. Some long travel days between regions.
  • Activity Level: Moderate walking and hiking; wear comfortable shoes.
  • Dress Code: Modest clothing required for mosque visits; women may need to cover their heads.
  • Weather: Varies by region — pack layers for changing conditions.
  • Meals: Daily breakfast included; some local dinners. Advise dietary needs in advance.
  • Optional Tour: Cappadocia hot air balloon ride (weather dependent; book early).
  • Group Size: Small group, led by a professional English-speaking guide.
  • Visa: Check Turkey e-Visa requirements before travel.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Istanbul, TR
Tour start
Istanbul, TR
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 14 days finish where they began, in Istanbul.

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