Tour Details
Explore the historical heart of Istanbul on this 4-day tour, starting with the enchanting Old City. Visit iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, offering stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and famous palaces. With expert guides and comfortable travel, this tour provides an immersive experience in Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Istanbul
- Warm Welcome to Istanbul: Upon arriving at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, our dedicated team will be there to greet you warmly and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel.
- Unwind and Explore: After checking in, you have the rest of the day to relax or begin exploring nearby attractions at your own pace.
- First Night in Istanbul: Enjoy your first overnight stay in Istanbul, embracing the vibrant atmosphere of this dynamic city.
Day 2: Discover Istanbul's Byzantine and Ottoman Legacy
- Morning Pick-up (08:00 - 09:15): Begin your day with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or designated location between 08:00 and 09:15, ensuring a smooth start to your city tour.
- Hagia Sophia: Also known as the Church of Divine Wisdom, Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel that blends Byzantine and Ottoman influences. This iconic site is revered by both the Christian West and Islamic East, standing as one of the world's greatest treasures.
- Blue Mosque: Behold the magnificence of the Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and stunning blue İznik tiles. A visit here will leave you awestruck by its beauty and historical significance.
- Hippodrome and Obelisk: Explore the historical Hippodrome, once the heart of Constantinople’s social and political life. Now known as At Meydanı ("Plaza of the Horses"), it features several monuments, including the Egyptian Obelisk, a reminder of the city's ancient past.
- Shopping Opportunity: Enjoy a brief chance to shop for authentic Turkish goods and souvenirs, adding a touch of Istanbul's vibrant culture to your experience.
- Grand Bazaar: Step into the captivating world of the Grand Bazaar, the oldest and largest covered marketplace in the world. Stroll through its endless corridors filled with shops offering everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and antiques.
- Lunch Break: Take a break and savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, giving you the energy to continue your exploration.
- Topkapi Palace: Visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the heart of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years. This sprawling palace served as the Sultan's residence and the administrative center of the empire. Explore the audience chambers, treasure-filled rooms, and royal courtyards that once housed Ottoman royalty and officials.
- End of Tour (5:00 PM): At the conclusion of the tour around 5:00 PM, you will be transferred back to your hotel. This full-day exploration of Byzantine and Ottoman relics will leave you with unforgettable memories of Istanbul's rich historical legacy.
- Overnight Stay: Enjoy another night in Istanbul, ready to continue your adventure.
Day 3: Afternoon Bosphorus Cruise and City Sights
- Hotel Pick-up (12:00 - 12:30): Start your afternoon with a personalized pick-up from your hotel between 12:00 and 12:30. Our team ensures a smooth and comfortable beginning to your Bosphorus adventure.
- Bosphorus Boat Trip: Set sail on a Bosphorus boat tour, gliding along the strait that separates Europe and Asia. Enjoy magnificent sights of palaces, mansions, and mosques lining the water’s edge, along with breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline.
- Pierre Loti Hill: Visit the famous Pierre Loti Hill, known for its panoramic views over Istanbul. Soak in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the scenic beauty of the Golden Horn.
- Cable Car Descent: Experience a unique descent from Pierre Loti Hill via a cable car ride, offering a bird’s-eye view of the Golden Horn and a new perspective on Istanbul's landscapes.
- Eyüp Sultan Mosque: Continue to the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a revered site in Istanbul. Discover its spiritual and historical significance as you explore the mosque and its surroundings, providing a peaceful retreat within the vibrant city.
- Shopping Opportunity: Conclude the tour with a chance to shop for local souvenirs and treasures, bringing a piece of Istanbul’s vibrant culture home with you.
- End of Tour (5:00 - 5:30 PM): After a memorable afternoon, you will be transferred back to your hotel between 5:00 and 5:30 PM, marking the end of your Bosphorus Cruise Tour.
- Overnight Stay: Enjoy another night in Istanbul, ready for more adventures ahead.
Day 4: Leisure Day and Departure from Istanbul
- Enjoy Your Free Day: Spend your final day in Istanbul at your leisure. Whether you decide to explore the city’s hidden gems, indulge in some last-minute shopping, or simply relax at your hotel, this day is yours to enjoy.
- Smooth Departure: As your departure time approaches, our team will pick you up from your hotel and ensure a smooth and hassle-free transfer to the airport.
- Cherished Memories: Leave with cherished memories of your incredible Istanbul adventure, knowing you’ve experienced the very best this captivating city has to offer.
- Safe Travels: Have a safe journey home, carrying with you the unforgettable experiences from your time in Turkey.
Essential Travel Tips: Information for Your Trip
- Topkapı Palace Closure: Please note that Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays. If your visit coincides with a Tuesday, alternative arrangements will be made.
- Grand Bazaar Closure: The Grand Covered Bazaar is closed on Sundays and will be substituted with visits to other authentic shops.
- Harem Section: The Harem section of Topkapi Palace is not included in the program. You may explore it during your free time if you wish.
- Avoiding Queues: To save time and avoid long queues, your guide will assist you in bypassing ticket lines at major attractions.
- Convenient Ticket Purchase: You can purchase entrance tickets for Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia directly from us for added convenience.
What's Included
- Private Transportation: Enjoy airport transfers with smooth transportation from the airport to your hotel and back.
- Accommodation: Spend 3 nights in Istanbul with breakfast included, providing a comfortable stay.
- Full Day Istanbul City Tour: This tour includes transportation, professional guidance, and a delicious lunch, allowing you to explore the city's highlights.
- Half Day Bosphorus Cruise Tour: Features transportation, professional guidance, and a unique cable car ride offering breathtaking views.
What's Not Included
- International Flights: The package does not cover international flights to and from Turkey. You are responsible for booking these flights.
- Personal Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
- Visa for Turkey: You must arrange for a valid visa to enter Turkey. Please check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country for requirements.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, extra meals, and optional activities are not included.
- Museum Entrance Fees: Tickets for Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia are not included but can be purchased from us, allowing you to skip long lines with your guide.
Meeting Location
- Comprehensive Airport Transfers: Our tour package includes pick-up and drop-off services from both Istanbul International Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
- Seamless Transition: Regardless of which airport you arrive at, our team will ensure a smooth transition to your hotel, setting the stage for your unforgettable Istanbul adventure.