DAILY TOURS

Embark on a scenic cruise across the Marmara Sea to Büyükada, a charming island renowned for its lush pine forests and elegant wooden mansions, once serving as luxurious retreats for Byzantine princes. Take a leisurely walking tour of the island, exploring its beautiful landscapes and historical sites. Afterward, enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening, you'll return to Istanbul and be transferred back to your hotel, completing a memorable day of exploration.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque (Ayasofya-i Kebir Cami-i Şerifi)

Originally built as the Church of Divine Wisdom, this architectural masterpiece has withstood the test of time, serving as a cathedral, imperial mosque, and now a grand mosque. Built three times on the same site, it was the largest church of the Eastern Roman Empire and remains one of the world's oldest and fastest-constructed cathedrals.

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

Located directly across from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is renowned for its striking İznik tiles and unique design featuring six minarets. Built in honor of Sultan Ahmet I, it remains an architectural icon of Istanbul.

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Once the epicenter of Byzantine chariot races, athletic competitions, and political gatherings, the Hippodrome now houses several significant monuments, including:

• The Serpentine Column, brought from Delphi, Greece.
• The Obelisk of Theodosius, an ancient Egyptian relic.
• The German Fountain of Wilhelm II, a gift from the German Emperor.

Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)

Explore the world's largest and most historic covered market, with nearly 4,000 shops offering antique treasures, exquisite jewelry, fine gold, handcrafted carpets, premium leather goods, and unique souvenirs. Upon request, guests can witness an art demonstration of traditional Turkish carpet weaving.

Lunch at a Traditional Turkish Restaurant

Topkapı Palace

The opulent residence of the Ottoman Sultans, Topkapı Palace showcases:

• The Imperial Treasury, featuring rare jewels and artifacts.
• Sacred Islamic relics, including belongings of Prophet Mohammed.
• The Palace Kitchens, home to an impressive Chinese porcelain collection.
• Weapons and calligraphy exhibitions, displaying the craftsmanship of the Ottoman era.

(Please note: The Harem section is not included in the standard program. Live guide commentary is restricted in certain areas.)

Hagia Irene Church

Nestled in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace, Hagia Irene is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire and the second largest Byzantine church in Istanbul after Hagia Sophia. Built in 330 AD on the site of an ancient temple, it remains a remarkable example of early Byzantine architecture.

Sultan Tombs at Hagia Sophia

Within the Hagia Sophia complex, five Ottoman Sultans are laid to rest in beautifully adorned tombs. These tombs feature 16th-century ceramic panels in hues of purple, red, green, and blue, showcasing intricate floral motifs. Displayed alongside the sarcophagi are ceremonial prince robes and a piece of the Kaaba cover, reflecting Ottoman respect for Islamic heritage.

Süleymaniye Mosque - The largest imperial mosque in Istanbul and one of its most iconic landmarks. Commissioned by Süleyman the Magnificent and designed by Master Architect Sinan, the mosque stands atop a hill, offering breathtaking views over the Golden Horn. Within its garden lie the mausoleums of Sultan Süleyman I and his wife, Hürrem Sultan (Roxelana). Just outside the mosque walls, visitors can also see the Tomb of Architect Sinan.

Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum - Housed in the former palace of İbrahim Paşa, Grand Vizier to Süleyman the Magnificent, this museum has had a fascinating history, once serving as a prison, an ambassadorial residence, a clothing factory, and barracks before becoming a museum. It boasts an exceptional collection, including illuminated Qurans and one of the world's finest Turkish carpet collections, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.

Lunch Break

Arasta Bazaar - Dating back to the 17th century, this traditional market in Sultanahmet features around 40 shops offering souvenirs, ceramics, textiles, and more, preserving the spirit of Istanbul's historic bazaars.

Great Palace of Constantinople - Once the ceremonial and administrative center of the Byzantine Empire for nearly a millennium, this grand palace stretched between the Hippodrome and the sea walls, in what is now the Sultanahmet district.

Mosaic Museum - A hidden gem of Istanbul, home to remarkable Byzantine mosaics that once adorned the floors of the Great Palace of Constantinople.

The Cistern - A vast underground water reservoir from the Byzantine era, showcasing the empire's ingenious engineering.

Million Stone - Erected in the 4th century AD, this monument served as the zero-mile marker for all roads leading to cities across the Byzantine Empire, much like Rome's Milliarium Aureum.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque (Ayasofya-i Kebir Cami-i Şerifi)

Originally built as the Church of Divine Wisdom, Hagia Sophia is an architectural and historical marvel. Constructed three times on the same site, it was the largest church of the Eastern Roman Empire and remains one of the world's oldest and fastest-built cathedrals. With its immense dome and rich legacy, it continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

Standing majestically across from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is world-famous for its exquisite İznik tiles, which give it its name, and its six towering minarets—a unique architectural feature. Built in honor of Sultan Ahmet I, it remains a place of worship and an architectural gem.

(Please note: Due to Friday noon prayers, the mosque is not open for visits during this time.)

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Once the sporting and social hub of the Byzantine Empire, the Hippodrome hosted thrilling chariot races, athletic contests, and imperial ceremonies. Today, visitors can admire its historic landmarks:

• The Serpentine Column, an ancient Greek relic from Delphi.
• The Obelisk of Theodosius, an Egyptian monument dating back thousands of years.
• The German Fountain of Wilhelm II, a symbol of Turkish German friendship.

Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. With nearly 4,000 shops, it offers a dazzling selection of antiques, fine jewelry, gold, handwoven carpets, premium leather goods, and unique souvenirs.

(Upon request, visitors can witness a live demonstration of traditional Turkish carpet weaving.)

Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı)

The last residence of Ottoman Sultans, Dolmabahçe Palace was built by Ottoman architects Karabet and Nikogos Balyan on an expansive 110,000 m² area. Serving as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in its final years, the palace is renowned for its European-style architecture, luxurious furnishings, and an impressive collection of European antiquities. A highlight of the palace is its grand 4.5-ton chandelier, one of the largest in the world. The palace boasts 285 rooms and 46 halls, offering visitors a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the late Ottoman era.

Bosphorus Bridge (Boğaziçi Köprüsü)

A one-of-a-kind experience, the Bosphorus Bridge provides the unique opportunity to cross between two continents, Europe and Asia—in just two minutes. This iconic suspension bridge connects the historic and modern aspects of Istanbul, offering stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait.

Çamlıca Hill (Çamlıca Tepesi)

One of the highest and most scenic viewpoints in Istanbul, Çamlıca Hill offers a breathtaking panoramic view stretching from the Marmara Sea to the Black Sea. Overlooking the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, this picturesque hill is the perfect spot to admire Istanbul's skyline from above.

Note: Dolmabahçe can be replaced with Beylerbeyi Palace due to unforseen reasons

Eyüp Sultan Mosque & Tomb

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Tomb are among the most sacred sites in Istanbul, second only to Mecca and Jerusalem. Every day, thousands of faithful visitors come to pay their respects at this revered location. Eyüp El-Ensari, the flagbearer of Prophet Mohammed, died here during the Arabic siege of the city in the 7th century. The ancient trees, pigeons, devout worshippers, and the crowds of visitors create a mystical, colorful atmosphere that envelops the mosque.

Pierre Loti Coffee House

Take a cable car ride (Teleferique) up to Pierre Loti Coffee House, nestled among lush greenery on a hill. From here, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Golden Horn. The cable car provides a bird's-eye view of the area, covering 550 meters in just 115 seconds, offering an unforgettable experience. The coffee house is named after Pierre Loti, the French author and poet who fell in love with Istanbul and often wrote while enjoying the view from this very spot.

Miniatürk

Discover Miniatürk, a miniature park that showcases scaled models of iconic masterpieces from Istanbul, Anatolia, and the former Ottoman territories. This enchanting park, often referred to as a "storyland" brings the rich cultural and historical heritage of Turkey to life, offering a fairy-tale ambiance. It also reflects the diverse history and lifestyle of Turkish society through detailed models, such as a railroad worker, Muslims praying in a mosque, Jews at a synagogue, and flower sellers, illustrating the changing cultural tapestry of the region over time.

Meet in front of Starbucks near The Marmara Hotel at Taksim Square. Your culinary adventure begins with a delicious taste of ‘Wet Burger', a local favorite.

Next, visit the historic Hacıbekir Sweet Shop, a confectioner since 1777, where you can savor the finest Lokum (Turkish Delight) and colorful "Bonbon Turc” treats.

Wander through the vibrant Flower Passage and Nevizade Street, where you'll experience a variety of sidewalk flavors and hidden gems. Explore the charming, uncharted side streets of Pera, the cultural heart of Istanbul.

Savor kebap wraps at Dürümzade, a spot made famous by Anthony Bourdain. Continue to Hazzapoulo Passage for a taste of Turkish Coffee and experience the intriguing tradition of coffee fortune telling.

Finally, enjoy a visit to a typical Meyhane (Turkish Tavern), where you'll indulge in Turkish Meze and the iconic Turkish Rakı.

(Note: Minimum 10 participants required.)

Embark on a fascinating four-hour walking tour through the vibrant quarters of Old Istanbul, where you'll uncover the city's rich history and unique culture. This tour takes you through ancient fortifications, elegant boulevards, and includes a visit to the Mevlevi Sufi Lodge, home to the famous Whirling Dervishes.

A knowledgeable local guide will bring the bustling historic neighborhoods around the Golden Horn and Pera to life with a captivating commentary, offering an unforgettable experience.

Your journey begins with a visit to the Galata Tower, an iconic stone fortification built by the Genoese in 1348. Standing tall with its conical roof, it has been a dominating feature of the Istanbul skyline. Climb 70 meters to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus.

From the tower, we'll take a stroll down Istiklal Avenue, one of the city's most important commercial streets. Located in the historic Pera district, this pedestrianized avenue is a favorite evening spot for locals. As you wander, you'll pass exquisite boutiques, music and bookstores, art galleries, cinemas, theaters, libraries, cafes, pubs, nightclubs with live music, as well as historical patisseries, chocolatiers, and restaurants.

Our final stop is the beautifully preserved Mevlevi Sufi Lodge, dating back to 1491. Originally built by Divane Mehmed Dede, the Sheikh of Afyon, during the reign of Sultan Bayezid II, this monastery offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere where you can learn about the traditions of the Sufi order.

(Note: Minimum 10 participants required.)