Arrival in Istanbul

Bosphorus Strait - Embark on a Bosphorus Cruise to experience the vibrant diversity of Istanbul all at once. Witness mosques, mansions, bridges, seagulls, and more. Remember to bring some simit; the seagulls will eagerly circle around you for a taste.

Old Town

Blue Mosque - Officially known as the Sultanahmet Mosque, this magnificent mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Ahmed I. It draws numerous tourists annually and stands as a symbol of Istanbul, making it a must-visit location.

Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most remarkable historical structures. Originally constructed as a basilica by Byzantine Emperor Justinianus between 532-537, it was converted into a mosque by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1453 after the Ottomans captured Constantinople. In 1935, it became a museum, and recently, it was reverted to a mosque. Hagia Sophia, a domed basilica, merges the basilica and central plans architecturally and is a pivotal point in architectural history due to its dome transition and support system. Standing for 15 centuries, it is a masterpiece of art history and architecture, symbolizing Byzantine architecture with its grand dome.

Basilica Cistern - The Basilica Cistern, located southwest of Hagia Sophia, is one of Istanbul’s magnificent historical sites. Built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I (527-565), it is known as Yerebatan Palace due to the numerous marble columns rising from the water. It is also called Basilica Cistern because of the basilica that once stood at its location.

Kapali Carsi - The Grand Bazaar is an expansive historical covered market with approximately 4000 shops and over 60 streets. This makes shopping both easy and enjoyable. A wide array of traditional items offers perfect gift options for you and your loved ones.

Topkapi Palace & Istanbul Archaeological Museum

Topkapi Palace - Construction of Topkapi Palace began in 1460 and was completed in 1478. It was expanded with additional structures until the 19th century. Topkapi Palace is one of the city’s iconic landmarks. It served as the administrative, educational, and artistic center of the empire for nearly four centuries, from Fatih Sultan Mehmet to the 31st Sultan, Sultan Abdülmecid. It was also the residence of the Sultans. Converted into a museum on April 3, 1924, after the Republic of Turkey was founded, Topkapi Palace holds the distinction of being the Republic’s first museum.

Chora Museum - The original Chora Church was rebuilt by Justinianus (527-565) on this site. During the Komnenoi era, it served as the court chapel for significant religious ceremonies due to its proximity to the Palace of Blachernae. Chora Church (Chora Kirke) was destroyed during the Latin invasion (1204-1261) and restored during Andronikos II’s reign (1282-1328) by the palace’s Treasury Minister, Theodore Metochites (1313). It was expanded northward, with an exonarthex added to the west and a chapel (Parecclesion) to the south, adorned with mosaics and frescoes. After Istanbul’s conquest in 1453, it continued as a church until it was converted into a mosque in 1511 by Vizier Hadim Ali Pasha. It became a museum in 1945, and during restoration from 1948-1959 by the Byzantine Institute of America, the mosaics and frescoes were uncovered and brought to light.

Istanbul Archaeological Museum - The main building’s construction began under Hamdi Bey in 1881, with its official opening on June 13, 1891. Designed by architect Alexander Vallaury (who also designed the Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul), the building’s facade was inspired by the Alexander Sarcophagus and Sarcophagus of the Mourning Women, both housed within the Museum. The Ottoman Turkish inscription on the entrance gates’ pediments reads “Asar-ı Atika Müzesi” (Museum of Antiquities), with the tughra belonging to Sultan Abdulhamid II. The building is widely regarded as a prime example of neoclassical architecture in Istanbul. On its 100th anniversary in 1991, the museum was awarded the European Council Museum Award, particularly for the renovations to the main building’s lower floor halls and the new displays in the other buildings.

• Entrance fees included for all attractions
• Air-conditioned vehicles for comfort
• Meals provided: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Complimentary bottled water throughout the tour
• Exclusive private transportation
• Coffee and/or tea available

A visit to Turkey is incomplete without dedicating a few days to explore the captivating city of Istanbul. This city uniquely spans both Europe and Asia, divided by the Bosphorus Strait. With an abundance of attractions and activities, relying solely on an internet search for trip planning is not advisable. Our expert guides ensure that every moment of Istanbul’s rich history and culture is experienced to the fullest.

This comprehensive private guided tour covers these incredible sites: a Bosphorus Cruise, the ancient city walls of Constantinople, the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Chora Church, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, and Istiklal Caddesi. Additionally, consider an optional visit to a Turkish Hamam or a Whirling Dervish show.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.