Why do we fall in love with a place? Because its beauty is so profound and mystical. Because the people are open and caring. Because its history is complex and central to our understanding of the world. Because it’s like nowhere we’ve been before.
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That’s why 15 years ago, NextTribe founder Jeannie Ralston was captivated by Turkey and is so eager to return in 2026. Its location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has formed a unique and fascinating cultural identity over millennia. It’s a blend of cultures and of chapters in history—traditions from the East mesh with those of the West. The ancient and medieval co-exist beautifully with modern life.
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Turkey delivers on multiple fronts—from historical treasures like the magnificent Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the stunning turquoise waters and white travertine terraces of Pamukkale to the supernatural landscape of Cappadocia. The cultural immersion is profound--you can experience bustling bazaars, traditional hammams (Turkish baths) and fresh, gourmet meals.
NextTribe is offering 7 glorious days in Istanbul and enchanting Cappadocia, with the opportunity to add on Ephesus and a visit to the beach town of Bodrum, on the Aegean Coast.
Please note that this is a sample itinerary. Accommodations and activities may change but we will always replace them with something of equal or better value.
Eye Candy. Nothing prepares you for the grandeur of Hagia Sofia, the colors of the Grand Bazaar or the enchantment of Cappadocia’s landscape.
Different Perspectives. We’ll cruise along the Bosphorus, soaking in the centuries worth of history that have taken place on these shores. Floating in a hot air balloon, we’ll get a bird’s eye view of the famous rock formations in Cappadocia that once hid early Christians from invaders.
Deep Dives. We’ll get immersive with a traditional cooking class, a water marbling workshop, and a traditional hammam treatment. We’ll learn about carpet weaving and taste Turkish wine. And we’ll learn belly-dancing from a professional dancer.
Two words. Cave Hotel.
Inspirational Women. We’ll meet women artisans, entrepreneurs and winemakers. And of course, your fellow travelers will be interesting, friendly companions who’ll enhance your experience as you explore together.
4 More Reasons if you join us for the Add on
Ancient Ruins.. Ephesus, built by the Romans, is one of the best-preserved historic sites in the world.
Dreamy Landscapes. For centuries, people have flocked to Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we’ll wade in shallow, azure thermal pools, one of which—the Turks say— Antony built for Cleopatra
Idyllic beaches. Greece and Italy are better known for their gorgeous coastlines, but Turkey’s is equally breathtaking. We’ll explore from our base in the seaside town of Bodrum.
Time on the water. We’ll set sail on a gulet, and the sailors will cook us a fresh lunch on board after we swim in the clear, blue water.
Several years ago, when Jeannie Ralston was homeschooling and traveling with her family, she arranged a visit to Turkey as part of an ancient history tour. She was charmed by the warmth of the Turkish people, the delicious food, and the beauty of the country. She has chosen the best features of that trip and offers them in this itinerary. Her route then was Bodrum, Sirince (see above), Istanbul, Cappadocia. This NextTribe trip will take us to the same places, but in a different order.
Arrive in Istanbul and settle into our charming hotel in the heart of the vibrant Karaköy district. Join the group for a welcome drink in the hotel’s stylish lobby, then we’ll head out for our first dinner together.
After a hearty and delicious Turkish breakfast, we’ll set out to explore the center of ancient Istanbul in the historic Sultanahmet and Fatih districts. Our first stop is the breathtaking Blue Mosque, where we’ll see and can photograph the thousands of hand-painted tiles and magnificent dome that has captured and contained the prayers of the faithful for 4 centuries. Just a short walk away, we’ll step inside the magnificent Hagia Sophia—one of the world’s oldest and most remarkable architectural wonders.
For lunch, we’ll grab a quick bite of traditional street food while weaving through the legendary Grand Bazaar. With over 4,000 shops offering everything from antiques and lanterns to jewelry and textiles, our guide will help us locate any special items we’re looking for. We’ll also stop at a carpet gallery and workshop to see how local women weave the fibers to create beautiful rugs.
We’ll then visit the Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar, filled with the aromas and wild colors of spices and teas from around the world, as well as many Turkish delights.
The rest of the afternoon is free, and we’ll meet in the early evening for dinner.
Discover Istanbul’s timeless treasures with a visit to the opulent Topkapi Palace and the mysterious Basilica Cistern in the old city of Istanbul.
Take a local ferry to the Asian side and enjoy attending a water marbling workshop from a local master, before setting sail on a private Bosphorus cruise.
Glide gracefully between two continents as the sun sets and conclude the evening with a memorable dinner overlooking the shimmering waters.
We’ll have free time at the hotel and can schedule a hammam in the morning. In the afternoon we’ll take a belly dancing class from a professional dancer.
In the morning after breakfast we’ll drive to the airport, fly to Kayseri, and continue by road to Cappadocia. We’ll stop in a charming village near Ürgüp for a traditional Turkish brunch at a local farmhouse.
After checking into our cave hotel, we’ll have enough time to have another hamman before dinner!
We begin the day with an optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise (you can sleep in if you prefer!) for breathtaking views of Cappadocia’s surreal landscape. Then, we’ll begin our full-day guided tour. We’ll visit the Göreme Open Air Museum, Özkonak Underground City, and visit a local woman who will give us a weaving demonstration.
Lunch will be served at Hereni Women’s Cooperative, where local women prepare traditional Anatolian dishes using regional ingredients. In the afternoon, we’ll continue exploring with visits to Zelve and Paşabağ Valley, and Love Valley.
At sunset, we’ll have a chance to taste some of the best local wines of Cappadocia--in a tranquil valley surrounded by breathtaking views, guided by a passionate female entrepreneur.
The main trip ends in Cappadocia. After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll all go to Kayseri Airport for flight back to Istanbul. Book your flights back home from Istanbul after 2:00 PM
Flights to Istanbul and Izmir for the add-on are included.
After an early flight from Kayseri to Izmir, our guide will lead us south toward Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. We’ll walk in the footsteps of Romans as we explore grand avenues lined with marble, the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and beautifully preserved temples, baths, and fountains. Ephesus offers a stunning glimpse into life nearly two millennia ago, and our guide will bring its stories to life.
Just minutes away, we’ll stop at the site of the once-magnificent Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though only a single column remains today, the site’s powerful legacy endures. Then we’ll drive straight to the village of Şirince. Known for its traditional stone houses, artisan shops, and fruit wines, Şirince has a rich culinary heritage. We’ll join a local cooking class to prepare a typical Aegean meal using seasonal ingredients—using fresh herb sand olive oil-based dishes passed down through generations.
Formerly a Greek Village in the Ottoman Empire, Sirince preserves much of its original architecture. Set on acreage in this lovely rural village, the hotel is only a ten-minute drive from Ephesus.
After an early morning departure from Şirince, we’ll take a scenic drive inland toward Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its dazzling white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. With our expert guide, we’ll explore the cascading pools and take in the otherworldly landscape that has drawn visitors for thousands of years.
Just above the terraces lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, once a bustling Roman spa town. We’ll walk among the ruins of temples, colonnaded streets, and one of the most well-preserved Roman theatres in Turkey.
We’ll also have time to see the Antique Pool (also known as Cleopatra’s Pool), where submerged columns hint at the site’s opulent past.
Then we’ll continue to Bodrum to our hotel on the Aegean coast.
We’ll have a free morning to explore the charming streets and shops of Bodrum. After lunch, we’ll head to a local vineyard..
It’s a boutique vineyard in the hills of Bodrum owned and operated by women. Guided by the estate’s resident sommelier, we’ll taste unique grape varieties native to the region while learning about sustainable winemaking practices and the inspiring story behind this women-led company.
We’ll set sail for a day of relaxation and beauty.
After breakfast in our hotel, we’ll head to the harbor to board a private traditional gulet. We’ll settle into the laid-back rhythm of the sea as our captain charts a course through Bodrum’s crystal-clear bays or the serene coves around the nearby peninsula—far from the crowds and noise.
There’ll be swimming and snorkeling stops, each in a secluded spot perfect for soaking up the sun or floating in the calm, warm waters.
Around midday, our crew will serve a freshly cooked lunch on board, often featuring grilled fish or chicken, salad, local mezze, and seasonal fruit. With the sea as our backdrop and the breeze as our soundtrack, it will be a meal to remember.
After a final dip or stretch of sunbathing, the boat returns to the harbor by late afternoon. We’ll go back to the hotel and have the late afternoon and evening free.
After breakfast, we say goodbye. From here, you can continue your travels or make your way home.
The flight from Bodrum to Istanbul is not included in the cost of the trip, but transport to the Bodrum airport is included.
Arrive in Instabul (IST) Saturday, September 26 by 3:00PM
A private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to the hotel.
Depart from the Istanbul Airport Friday, October 2. The flight from Kayseri to Istanbul is included in the cost of the trip.
Upon arrival in Istanbul on Oct. 2, the trip is over. If you book a flight out of Istanbul, please make sure it leaves after 2:00 PM.
If you stay in Istanbul on the night of Oct. 2, you will need to book your own hotel room.
For ADD ON Travelers ONLY
The flight from Kayseri to Izmir is included in the cost of the trip.
Your trip ends in Bodrum. After breakfast, you are free to continue your travels or fly home. The flight from Bodrum to Istanbul is NOT included in the cost of the trip.
Visa: No visa is required for US citizens to enter Turkey. Please make sure your passport is valid for 6 months after the last day of your trip.
Travel Insurance: We require all international travelers to purchase travel insurance. We strongly recommend trip protection insurance to protect your investment. (Scroll down for more details and links for insurance)
You will be receiving periodic communications from us leading up to departure with other important details included. If you have any questions, you can contact our travel manager, Marcy, at travel@nexttribe.com
Inclusions for Main Trip:
6 Nights Lodging
6 Dinners
4 Lunches
6 Breakfasts
Ground Transportation
Domestic Airfare (round trip Istanbul-Kayseri)
Airport Transfers
1 Hammam
All activities noted in the itinerary
Inclusions for Add-On
4 Nights Lodging
3 Dinners
2 Lunches
4 Breakfasts
Airport Transfers
Ground Transportation
Flight from Kayseri to Izmir
All activities noted in the itinerary
Exclusions:
Roundtrip International Airfare
Alcohol not mentioned above
Flight Bodrum to Istanbul at end of travel
Travel Insurance
Gratuities
Gratuities to local guides, drivers, maids and hotel staff, alcohol, unless mentioned in itinerary, travel insurance, round trip airfare, passport and visa fees, personal items such as phone calls, laundry, baggage fees and items not expressly listed as included.
Next Tribe requires all international travelers to purchase travel insurance.
Travel insurance can be a helpful and valuable resource to pack! It can protect the investment of your trip and you while traveling.
We partner with Wanderwell, a Certified B Corporation travel insurance provider that makes it as simple as possible by not overwhelming you with options.
They offer just a few modern, benefit-packed trip protection plans that can cover the most common travel perils related to trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delay, travel Medical Expenses, baggage & personal effects, Emergency Medical Evacuation, and more.
Click Here to create quotes and purchase a plan through Wanderwell from our partner page.
If you prefer to talk to someone, please email support@gowanderwell.com. They will set up a phone call with you and can answer your questions.
For most of history, women past child-bearing years were basically put out to pasture. This was happening even in our mothers’ time. We call bullshit on that. We believe we are at a peak in so many ways and are devoted to helping women our age live the richest, most kick-ass lives possible.
We do that by informing, promoting and connecting women–through our magazine, through our member community and through the transformative experiences of travel.
So many travel choices…so little time. You could spend days and days trying to put together just the right combination of destination, activities, and price.
Or you could stop shopping and start traveling with us for something that feels like the greatest girlfriend trip ever–even if you come solo. We specialize in experiences that deeply connect you to other women–travelers and locals–and create life-lasting memories. Experiences you can’t get on your own. And do it all with flexible payment options.
This video will tell you if you’re a good fit for a NextTribe trip. We are proud that we’ve become known for how quickly and deeply our groups of women bond on our trips. One of our rules: No divas, please.
For more information, please contact our travel manager at travel@nexttribe.com
