Middle East

Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in the world and it's impossible not to be attracted to it. Touring Istanbul is like taking a trip to the past, as you will find a lot of history and fun at the same time! The place is simply the historically richest city in the world, surrounded by traditions, culture, incredible architecture, hospitality and excellent cuisine.

Arrival in Istanbul.
Guests will be met on arrival at Istanbul airport, then transferred to the hotel.

After breakfast, the driver will pick up passengers at the hotel

Tour – REGULAR Tour (SIC) of Istanbul's Old City: Meet your professional English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby for the Tour.
First you will visit the magnificent TOPKAPI PALACE, residence of the sultans for nearly three centuries. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government of the Ottoman Empire. In the Treasure section you will see breathtaking displays including the 7th largest diamond in the world, the “Spoon Maker Diamond”. In the Holy Cloak chamber you can see the holy remains of the Prophet Mohammad (PBU). (The entrance fee to the Harem section is not included.) Next, you will visit the HIPPODROME, which was one of the largest chariot racing grounds in the Byzantine Empire. Here you can see the Egyptian Obelisk brought from Egypt by Emperor Theodosius; the Serpentine Column (Tripod of Plataea) from the Temple of Apollo at Delphi and the Tiled Column (walled) erected by Constantine Porphyrogenitus in the 10th century AD. Next, you'll visit the serene BLUE MOSQUE, one of Istanbul's most treasured monuments. It was built in 7 years (1606-1609 AD) with the order of the Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I. From the courtyard you will enjoy the impressive view of the cascading domes and semi-domes. Once inside, you'll see how the mosque got its name, noting the colorful blue Iznik tiles that adorn the interior. These tiles were made at the height of Iznik tile production in the early 17th century. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will visit ST. SOPHIA, the Church of Divine Wisdom. The architectural wonder of all time. It was built during the reign of Emperor Justinian (AD 537) and remained the largest church in Christendom until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by Sultan Mehmet II, who ordered the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque. In 1934, proclaimed as a museum. After St. Sophia, you will visit the GRAND BAZAAR, the oldest and largest covered bazaar in Turkey, with over 4,000 stores. A variety of handicrafts, rugs, rare jewels and souvenirs, all sold in shops close to each other. Merchants are selling everything from antiques, homewares, books, copperware, pottery, gold and souvenirs. Venture into hidden courtyards or hans, look for marble fountains and ornate kiosks. The streets are named after the trades and the easternmost atmosphere of Istanbul is to be found in the bazaar. At the end of your tour, return to your hotel.
Dinner on your own. Overnight at the hotel.

(Buffet Breakfast and Local Lunch included)

After the tour ends, return to the hotel.

After breakfast, the driver will pick up passengers at the hotel.

Tour – Princess Islands Tour: Today will be spent on Istanbul's Princess Islands, a favorite of locals to escape the stressful city life of Istanbul and experience a different atmosphere. Upon arrival on the island, you will see luxurious Ottoman mansions and other beautiful Victorian summer villas. A horse-drawn carriage is the only transport, as motor vehicles are strictly prohibited. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch at a cozy seaside fish restaurant. Return by ferry and drop-off at your hotel.
(Breakfast and local lunch included)

After the tour return to the Hotel.

After breakfast, check-out, transfer to the airport.