ISTANBUL SPECIAL

We welcome you to Istanbul, Turkiye’s cultural, historical, and financial center. Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökcen Airport (SAW) you will be transferred to your hotel in the Old City or Taksim areas. After Check-in you take the much-needed rest. A leisurely walk in the historic Sultanahmet district or the ever-awake Istiklal Street in Taksim is always a great idea to spend your first evening in the city.

If your check-in is completed by the afternoon, the unforgettable Turkish Night on the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise awaits you. You will be picked up from your hotel around 7:30 in the evening and transferred to the Cruise Ship. While having your Turkish Dinner and relishing unlimited cocktails and drinks, you will enjoy the cultural dances and traditional Turkish shows. This colorful experience is enhanced by the panoramic views of Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress on the West coast and Beylerbeyi Palace, Camlica Mosque, and Anadolu Fortress on the East coast of the Bosphorus Straight. After about 4 hours of fun and entertainment you will be dropped at the pier and transferred to your hotel around midnight.

(Bosphorus Dinner Cruise will be provided on any other mutually agreed day if it cannot be taken on the first night due to late check-in)

– Meal: Dinner on Cruise

– Overnight stay in Istanbul.

The best of Istanbul’s historic and cultural treasures unfold on this comprehensive tour. After breakfast, you meet your guide at your hotel lobby. The guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you on a tour of Istanbul’s Old City  The first milestone is the iconic Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Admire its striking blue tiles and tranquil atmosphere. Next, explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia (Church of Holy Wisdom, a museum that used the be the biggest Orthodox church in the World), a marvel of Byzantine engineering and artistry. You witness its grandeur and historical significance. Afterward, step into the magnificent world of the Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans and now a museum. Discover its ornate rooms, courtyards, priceless treasures, and the holy Muslim relics within.

After Lunch Break, head to the Grand Bazaar (the oldest and the largest covered market in the world), a bustling market where you can shop for a wide collection of traditional Turkish goods including Lamps, Carpets, Jewelry and Spices. This lets you plunge deep into Istanbul’s heritage, art, and culture, making it a memorable exploration of the city’s most iconic attractions. Later you explore the Spice Bazaar to experience the scents and tastes of traditional Turkish spices and sweets. End of the tour return to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.

Visited Places: Blue Mosque – Hagia Sophia – Topkapi Palace – Hippodromme and Obelisk – Grand Bazaar – Basilica Cistern

Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

– Overnight stay in Istanbul.

This day is for you to experience the heavenly beauty of Istanbul. You can have a walk on Istiklal Avenue in Taksim and visit Galata tower for its panoramic view of the Bosphorus and the historical peninsula. Shopping is always one of the premium options for immersing in the local culture along with buying your desired stuff. There are other optional tours for you to choose from. Descending into the mysterious depths of the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir near blue mosque square with intriguing history could be a spellbinding experience. Please have a look at the optional Istanbul Tours page or consult your tour operator/guide for details.

– Meal: Breakfast / (lunch can be added depending on your optional tour selection)

– Overnight stay in Istanbul.

This is your Istanbul see-off day. After having your breakfast at the hotel you complete your check-out. You will be transferred to the airport for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of Istanbul.

Visit the traditional neighborhoods or go shopping for Turkish Delight or Turkish Soevineers, if time allows.

-Meal: Breakfast