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Explore Istanbul

Not Rated

Duration

5 days

Cancellation

No Cancellation

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

Overview

Turkey is a popular tourist destination known for its Mediterranean coastline, impressive mosques, and stunning natural scenery.

But there’s also a lot that travelers probably don’t know, just some of the most interesting, and surprising facts about Turkey are given below. There are also a few fun facts to keep the little ones entertained.

Despite being the largest city in the country, and the most visited, Istanbul is not the Turkish capital. In fact, many people are surprised to learn that Ankara, and not Istanbul, is the capital of Turkey.

Although not the capital, Istanbul is a fascinating city featuring impressive mosques and medieval architecture.

One thing that makes Istanbul unique is that it is the only city in the world to span Asia and Europe geographically. Istanbul is divided by the Bosphorus River: the west bank lies in Europe and the east back in Asia.

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HIGHLIGHTS

  • NOTE:
  • No rooms blocked in advance, availability and rates are subject to change.
  • Package rates are not valid during festive periods.

What you will do

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Day 1: Arrival

Arrive IST/SAW airport & transfer to Hotel. You are booked in a 4* hotel on Half Board basis.

Day 2: Istanbul Full Day Old City Tour
Day 2: Istanbul Full Day Old City Tour
After your breakfast meet with your English speaking professional guide at the hotel lobby for your Istanbul Old City tour.

First you will visit the magnificent TOPKAPI PALACE, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. The construction of the Topkapı Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. In the Treasury section, you will see breathtaking displays, including the 7th largest diamond in the world, the “Spoonmaker’s Diamond”. At the chamber of Holy Mantle you can see the sacred leavings from Prophet Mohammad (PBU).

Next you will visit the HIPPODROME, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. Here you can see the Egyptian Obelisk brought from Egypt by Emperor Theodosius; the Serpentine Column (Tripod of Plataea) from Temple of Apollo at Delphi and the Tiled (Walled) Column erected by Constantine Porphyrogenitus at 10th century AD.

Then you will visit the serene BLUE MOSQUE one of Istanbul’s most valuable monuments. It was built in 7 years (1606-1609 AD) with the order of Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I. From the courtyard you will enjoy the striking view of the cascading domes and semi-domes. Once inside you will see how the mosque got its name, viewing the colorful blue Iznik tiles that adorn the interior. These tiles were made at the peak of Iznik tile production in the early 17th Century.

Lunch will be served at a Local Restaurant.

After lunch you will visit the ST. SOPHIA, the church of the Divine Wisdom. The architectural marvel of all time. It was built during Emperor Justinian reign (AD537) and it remained the greatest church in Christendom until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by Sultan Mehmet II who ordered to convert Hagia Sophia into a Mosque. In 1934, proclaimed as a museum.

After St. Sophia, you will visit the GRAND BAZAAR, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of handicrafts, carpets, rare jewels and souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The merchants are selling everything from antiques, home wares, books, copper ware, ceramics, gold and souvenirs. Venture into the hidden courtyards or hans, lookout for marble fountains and ornate kiosks. Streets are named according to the trades and the most oriental atmosphere in Istanbul is found in the bazaar.

At the end of your tour, back to your hotel. You are booked in a 4* hotel on Half Board basis.
Day 3: Princess Islands Tour (Day At Rest)
Day 3: Princess Islands Tour (Day At Rest)
Today will be spent on Istanbul’s Princess Islands, favorite by locals to escape Istanbul's stressful city life and feel a different atmosphere. Upon arrival to the island, you will see lavish Ottoman mansions and other beautiful Victorian summer villas. A Horse-drawn carriage is the only transport as the motor vehicles are strictly prohibited. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch in a cosy seaside fish restaurant. Return by ferry and drop off to your hotel.

You are booked in a 4* hotel on Half Board basis.
Day 4: Full day at Leisure

Breakfast at the hotel. Free day for explore Istanbul by self or choose to remain at the hotel for s]elf meditation/rest. You are booked in a 4* hotel on Half Board basis.

Day 5: Departure

After your breakfast & check-out (12:00pm) free time until your departure. Then proceed to Istanbul NEW Airport for your international departure flight.

Included/Excluded

  • Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa (If required)
  • 1 Arrival private transfer from Istanbul NEW Airport to hotel on Day 1.
  • 4 Nights accommodation at hotel in Istanbul on BB basis.
  • Daily buffet breakfast at selected hotel. (Not included on arrival day)
  • 1 Full-day regular (SIC) old city tour in Istanbul on Day 2 with lunch.
  • 1 Full-day regular (SIC) princess island tour in Istanbul on Day 3 with lunch.
  • 1 Departure private transfer from hotel to Istanbul NEW Airport on Day 5.
  • All meals as stated above.
  • Licensed professional local guides in English language.
  • Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
  • Gratuities to the Restaurants, Guide & Driver & Restaurants
  • At the discretion of the guests.
  • Personal expenses of the guests
  • Drinks during meal

Languages

English

Activity's Location

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leryhago

Member Since 2022

Information Contact

Email

travel@leryhago.com

Website

www.leryhago.com

Phone

+2348092870980

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