Türkiye Tour for Traditional Crafts and Modern Design

Day 1-3: Istanbul – The Melting Pot of Tradition and Modernity

Day 1:

• Morning: Begin your journey in Istanbul by exploring the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, teeming with traditional crafts like jewelry, ceramics, and textiles.

• Afternoon: Visit contemporary design shops in Nişantaşı, offering a modern contrast to the traditional crafts of the Grand Bazaar.

• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a stylish restaurant in Nişantaşı, blending traditional Turkish flavors with modern culinary techniques.

Day 2:

• Morning: Attend a workshop in Sultanahmet to learn about traditional Turkish arts such as Ebru (marbling), calligraphy, or carpet weaving.

• Afternoon: Explore the historic sites of Sultanahmet, including the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.

• Evening: Visit the vibrant art scene in Karaköy, known for its galleries, street art, and creative spaces. Dine at a trendy restaurant in the area.

Day 3:

• Morning: Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands for a day of exploration. Visit local artisans and see traditional wooden Ottoman houses.

• Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside café on the islands.

• Evening: Return to Istanbul and visit the Istanbul Design Center to see contemporary Turkish design and craftsmanship.

Day 4-5: Gaziantep – The Culinary and Craft Capital

Day 4:

• Morning: Fly to Gaziantep, renowned for its culinary arts and copper craftsmanship.
• Afternoon: Visit the Gaziantep Bazaar to see traditional crafts and the Kitchen Museum to learn about the region’s rich culinary heritage.

• Evening: Dine at a local restaurant, tasting Gaziantep’s famous kebabs and baklava.

Day 5:

• Morning: Join a Culinary workshop to learn about traditional Gaziantep cuisine, including dishes like kebabs, baklava, and local stews.

• Afternoon: Explore the city’s historical mosques and the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to some of the world’s finest mosaics.

• Evening: Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, featuring dishes made from recipes passed down through generations.

Day 6-7: Iznik – The Ceramics Heartland

Day 6:

• Morning: Travel to Iznik, historically known for its exquisite ceramics and tiles that adorned many Ottoman mosques.

• Afternoon: Visit ceramic workshops to see the traditional tile-making process and explore the ancient city walls.

• Evening: Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying dishes inspired by the region’s rich history.

Day 7:

• Morning: Participate in a ceramics workshop, creating your piece of Iznik pottery.

• Afternoon: Visit the Iznik Museum to learn more about the city’s historical significance and its role in Ottoman art and culture.

• Evening: Relax with a stroll along the shores of Lake Iznik, taking in the serene views.

Day 8: Return to Istanbul

• Morning: Travel back to Istanbul.

• Afternoon: Enjoy leisure time for last-minute shopping or visiting any missed sights in Istanbul.

• Evening: Reflect on your journey with a farewell dinner at a renowned Istanbul restaurant.

Tour Highlights:

• Istanbul: Grand Bazaar, contemporary design shops in Nişantaşı, traditional arts workshop in Sultanahmet, and the vibrant art scene in Karaköy.
• Gaziantep: Culinary and craft workshops, Gaziantep Bazaar, Kitchen Museum, and Zeugma Mosaic Museum.
• Iznik: Ceramics workshops, ancient city walls, and Iznik Museum.

Join us on this Cultural and Craftsmanship Tour of Turkey to explore the rich tapestry of Turkish arts, crafts, and culinary traditions, blending the old with the new across this fascinating country.