CLASSIC ISTANBUL

Welcome to Turkey! Upon your arrival at Istanbul International Airport (IST), you’ll go through immigration and collect your luggage. Then, head to our meeting point located at Gate 9 in the arrivals area. A representative will be waiting to assist you with your transfer to the hotel. Once you arrive, check in at the hotel and enjoy some free time. We suggest taking the afternoon to explore the area around your hotel or savor a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant. Get ready for an exciting adventure in this vibrant city! Overnight accommodation.

Free Day to Explore Istanbul. Enjoy a day at your own pace in Istanbul. We recommend the optional excursion “Gems of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus with Lunch.” The tour will begin with a visit to the historic Jewish neighborhood of Balat and the Greek district of Fener, where you can admire views of the Golden Horn. Next, you’ll visit St. George’s Cathedral, the main seat of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, followed by the magnificent Suleymaniye Mosque, renowned for its stunning dome designed by Mimar Sinan. Afterward, explore the Spice Bazaar, a vibrant place filled with colors and aromas, perfect for purchasing teas, herbs, nuts, and spices. To cap off the day, enjoy a boat cruise on the Bosphorus, taking in views of Ottoman fortresses, palaces, and the bridges connecting Europe and Asia. After the excursion, you’ll return to the hotel for your overnight stay.

Note: The order of excursions may vary based on operational conditions, such as the number of participants, weather, traffic, or monument closures.

Today you have a free day, but you also have the option to join the excursion “Jewels of Constantinople,” which includes lunch at a traditional restaurant. Dive into the historic center of the city, where you’ll see the remnants of the various empires that shaped modern Istanbul. You’ll visit the Roman Hippodrome, the center of social life in Constantinople for centuries, and the Blue Mosque, famous for its over 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles from Iznik. Explore the Basilica Cistern, with its more than 300 marble columns rising above the water. Next, enjoy a visit to the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, before concluding your tour at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, where haggling is a cherished tradition. After the excursion, you’ll return to the hotel for your overnight stay.

At the scheduled time, transfer to Istanbul International Airport (IST) for your departure flight. (Flight not included.)