Byzantine Relics (Half Day – Morning)
Departure from hotel and visit to St.Sophia Museum which is one of the great architectural marvels of the ancient world. We continue on to the Hippodrome, the sportive and political center of the Old City. We will then browse around the exciting Grand Bazaar, a maze of over 4000 tiny shops selling gold, jeweler, leather-work and fine carpets. We finally visit the Underground Cistern, storage of 80,000 tons water capacity for the Old City. (except Mondays)
Ottoman Relics (Half Day – Afternoon)
Departure from hotel and visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, masterpiece of famous architect Sinan, built during the reign of Sultan Suleyman the magnificent. We then visit Topkapi Palace , seat of the Ottoman Empire for four centuries and visit the Imperial Treasury and Chinese Porcelain Afterwards, we visit the Blue Mosque, facing St.Sophia and famous for its delicate blue tiles, and 6-minaret design. We finish with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, a maze of over 4000 tiny shops selling gold jeweler, leather-work and fine carpet…(except Tuesdays)
Two Continents (Half Day)
Before we cross the Bosphorus Bridge, we visit the majestic Dolmabahce Palace, residence of latter-day Sultans of the Ottoman Empire, with over 370 rooms and a 4.5 ton glass chandelier. On the Asian side we visit Camlica Hill which is one of the highest points in Istanbul, offering breathtaking views in all directions. There will also be a chance for shopping at Beylerbeyi, a typical Istanbul suburb. (except Monday and Thursday)
Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)
Departure from the hotel for a visit to the Spice Bazaar where we will experience the smells of cinnamon, cloves and thyme rising from every store, the same smells that filled the air over 400 years ago. We then embark on a scenic tour of the Bosphorus, the natural waterway that divides Asia from Europe, passing palaces, castles, palatial homes, and the two magnificent suspension bridges.
Istanbul by Night (Night tour incl. dinner)
You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to an exclusive restaurant for dinner. A live floor show will include Belly Dancing and Anatolian Folk singers and dancers.
