Istanbul City Tour 2

Day 1: Arrival and Evening MeetingFlight from Germany to Istanbul. Transfer to hotel upon arrival and dinner together.

Day 2: Golden Horn and Historical Districts TourIn the morning, we take a ferry across the Golden Horn to the old districts of Fener and Balat. In this area, many churches and synagogues still in use bear traces of Greek and Jewish communities, such as the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate Church. In the afternoon, we visit the Chora Monastery, notable for its unique mosaic and fresco decorations.

Day 3: Topkapi Palace and Prince IslandsThe entire morning is dedicated to exploring the Topkapi Palace, residence of the Sultans. We examine in detail the rich collection of imperial treasures, precious Islamic holy relics, and the world's second-largest collection of Chinese porcelain. The labyrinthine rooms of the harem at the heart of the palace offer an atmosphere straight out of the Arabian Nights. In the afternoon, we take a ferry to the Prince Islands in the Sea of Marmara. On this island, where private vehicles are not allowed, away from the big city rush, we visit an old Greek monastery church, one of the highest points at sea level, with a short carriage tour and walk. From this point, there's also the possibility to observe dolphins in the sea.

Day 4: Istanbul's Historical PeninsulaToday, we walk through the Church of Sergius and Bacchus and the Cankurtaran district to the Hippodrome. Then, we visit the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque) and Hagia Sophia, one of the city's most known and impressive structures. Hagia Sophia appears like a fortress from the outside and serves as a museum today. Afterwards, we pass through Gülhane Park on our way to a tea garden on Serail hill by the water. From here, we enjoy the magnificent view of Istanbul.

Day 5: Süleymaniye and Traditional ArtsIn the morning, we take a pleasant walk to the Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the masterpieces of Ottoman art. In the surroundings, you can see old Istanbul wooden houses, partly restored, partly worn. Today, you'll also have the opportunity to shop and visit the Özipek family's carpet school. Here, you'll closely observe the transformation process of a valuable Turkish carpet from raw material to final product. Then, we move to the Egyptian Bazaar, the city's old spice and food market. Afterwards, we enjoy a shopping tour among countless vendors in the Grand Bazaar.

Day 6: From Pera to TaksimWe begin exploring Pera, formerly the European quarter. From Galata Tower, we walk along Istiklal Street, reflecting classical style, to Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul. Here, you can enjoy elegant and luxury shopping opportunities. If you wish, you can also experience a traditional Turkish bath. At noon, we take another pleasant shopping break in the Grand Bazaar.

Day 7: Bosphorus Tour and Rumeli Fortress VisitIn the morning, we take a pleasant journey up the Bosphorus on a steam boat. Nearby, we take a lunch break at a restaurant serving fresh Black Sea fish. On the way back, we visit the remains of Rumeli Fortress, built by Mehmet the Conqueror during the siege of Istanbul.

Day 8: FarewellAfter breakfast, transfer to the airport for return flight preparations.