Istanbul City Break

Welcome to Istanbul! Upon arriving at Istanbul Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel and check in. Explore the city on your own. Istanbul is filled with stylish bars and taverns, have a wonderful night as you sip in one of them.

Today, you will visit some of the most important cultural and historical sites in Istanbul. Start with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, an imperial residence of Ottoman sultans for about four centuries. Marvel at some of the splendid collections inside the palace, and then go through the maze of narrow courtyards and passages to visit the Imperial Harem.

Continue to explore the Hagia Sophia, which is said to have changed the history of architecture. After that, head to the Basilica Cistern to learn about its function in ancient times. Next, visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, which impressed tourists with its graceful interior with a grand dome. Finally, visit the ancient Hippodrome, Egyptian Obelisk, and Serpentine Column before returning to your hotel.

This morning, enjoy a one-hour Bosphorus cruise. Soak up the scenic views as the ship takes you along the strait that divides Europe and Asia and connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara.

After disembarkation, you'll visit the Dolmabahçe Palace, an architectural masterpiece on the shores of the Bosphorus lavishly decorated in Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles.

Later, discover Taksim Square and Istiklal Street during a walking tour. Take in the trendy vibe and learn about another side of local life. Wrap up the day at the Galata Tower, a landmark of Istanbul offering sweeping views of the city from its observatory.

Start your day with a visit to the Istanbul Naval Museum and the Tomb of Barbaros Hayrettin, an Ottoman admiral. Then, take the ferry to the Asian Side to visit a series of architecture, including the Ottoman-style Mihrimah Sultan Mosque and the Fountain of Ahmed III. Lunch at a time-honored restaurant serving home-style Ottoman & Turkish Food (your own expense).

Move on to Kadikoy for the Kadikoy Municipality Building (exterior view) and the vibrant Kadikoy Balik Pazari, one of the oldest fish markets in Istanbul.

Ferry back to the European Side later in the afternoon. Delight in the flavors of exquisite Turkish dessert, visit Kurukahveci Mehmed Efendi, established since 1871, for a cup of authentic Turkish coffee, and discover the bustling Spice Market. At Yeni Mosque, a striking landmark often surrounded by local shoe shiners, you'll be immersed in an old-world charm.

It is time to say goodbye. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.