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Istanbul Uncovered
6 Days
Go beyond the usual landmarks with this immersive 6-day Istanbul experience. Explore the historic neighborhoods of Fener & Balat, cross to the Asian side to discover Kuzguncuk, Üsküdar and Kadıköy, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Galata and Pera.
Tour Highlights
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Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia
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Topkapi Palace & Harem
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Bosphorus Cruise
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Fener & Balat Districts
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Galata & Pera Neighborhoods
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Asian Side: Kuzguncuk, Üsküdar & Kadıköy
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Grand Bazaar & Spice Market
Prices starting from
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765 Euro per person based on 3* hotel
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865 Euro per person based on 4* hotel
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1010 Euro per person based on 5* hotel
Prices include
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Return airport pickup and transfers upon arrival and departure
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5 night accommodation with breakfast
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4 full day small group tours including guidance, admission fees and lunches excluding beverages.
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All applicable taxes
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To enhance the local experience, tours are designed as walking tours with public transportation.
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Galata Tower will be seen from outside.
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Arrival in Istanbul.
Arrival in Istanbul. Airport pickup and transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Old City Highlights
We will start the tour with The Blue Mosque which is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. It is renowned for its stunning architecture that blends both Ottoman and Byzantine elements. The mosque is called the “Blue Mosque” because of its interior, which is adorned with over 20,000 handmade ceramic blue tiles. Then we will continue to The Hippodrome of Constantinople which was the social and sporting center of ancient Constantinople. It was primarily used for chariot races, political gatherings, and public events. Later we will visit St. Sophia, known as Hagia Sophia that is one of Istanbul’s most remarkable and historically significant buildings. Originally constructed as a cathedral by Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD, it served as the world’s largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years and is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Istanbul’s most visited landmarks. Then we will continue to The Basilica Cistern which is an ancient underground water reservoir, known for its impressive size and captivating architecture. The dim lighting, the sound of dripping water, and the reflection of columns on the water create an almost ethereal, haunting atmosphere, making it a popular site for tourists and photographers. It has also appeared in popular culture, including movies like “From Russia with Love” from the James Bond series. After lunch break, our last stop of the tour will be The Grand Bazaar that is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Established in 1461, the bazaar has grown over centuries into a labyrinthine network of shops and alleyways, making it a major center for trade and commerce. It contains over 4,000 shops and 61 streets, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors daily.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Topkapi Palace & Bosphorus
Today we will start the tour with Topkapi Palace which is one of Istanbul’s most historically significant sites, serving as the primary residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Our visit also includes Harem section, one of the most famous parts of Topkapi Palace that was the private living quarters of the sultan and his family. Other important sections are The Imperial Treasury that holds a rich collection of treasures,
The Chamber of the Sacred Relics houses a collection of religious artifacts, Gardens and Terraces offering breathtaking views of Istanbul’s waterways. The museum complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and stands as a testament to the grandeur and legacy of the Ottoman Empire. After lunch break, we will take a boat ride through the Bosphorus that is a popular and scenic way to experience the beauty and history of the city from the water. The Bosphorus Strait is a narrow waterway that separates the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. Cruising along the Bosphorus provides breathtaking views of Istanbul’s iconic skyline, historic landmarks, and luxurious waterfront homes. After our cruise, we will continue our visit with Rustem Pasha Mosque which is a hidden gem in Istanbul, renowned for its exquisite Iznik tilework and intricate architecture. The mosque was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, who is regarded as one of the greatest architects in history. Our last stop of the tour will be The Spice Market, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and historical markets. It served as a major center for the trade of spices and other goods coming from the East. The market is renowned for its wide variety of spices, herbs and natural remedies.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Golden Horn: Fener, Balat & Galata
The Golden Horn is a natural harbor and one of the most significant and iconic waterways in Istanbul. We will visit Fener & Balat Districts. These historic neighborhoods are famous for their colorful houses, old churches, and synagogues. They offer a glimpse into the city’s multicultural past. Fener was historically the heart of Istanbul’s Greek Orthodox population. The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople is headquartered in Fener. The area has a nostalgic, almost timeless feel, with old homes, shops, and cafes that have preserved their historical charm. Balat is known for its Jewish heritage, with many synagogues, as well as its role as a hub for Orthodox Christian and Ottoman communities. Balat is also home to some of Istanbul’s best flea markets. After lunch break we cross to the other side of the Golden Horn over The Galata Bridge. The bridge has been a key crossing point in Istanbul for centuries and is often filled with fishermen. We will continue our visits with the neighborhoods of Galata and Pera. Galata is one of Istanbul’s most iconic and dynamic neighborhoods, known for its historical significance and vibrant atmosphere. The Galata Tower is the most prominent landmark in the neighborhood. Galata was once a Genovese colony and later became part of the Ottoman Empire. The area was home to a large population of non-Muslim communities, including Greeks, Jews, and Armenians, and served as a commercial and cultural hub. Then we explore Pera neighborhood. The Istiklal Avenue, just a short walk away, is a bustling pedestrian street full of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. Walking along this famous pedestrian street is a great way to experience the essence of Pera’s cosmopolitan vibe. It became known as the cultural heart of Istanbul. The streets of Pera are full of charming details like ancient stone paths, art deco buildings, and hidden courtyards.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Asian Side Discovery
Our tour will start with Kuzguncuk. Kuzguncuk is a charming, picturesque neighborhood located on the Asian side of Istanbul, along the shores of the Bosphorus. Known for its village-like atmosphere, historic houses, and multicultural heritage, Kuzguncuk is a peaceful and lesser-known gem in Istanbul that offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past while embracing its modern-day vibrancy. Later we continue to Uskudar. Üsküdar is a historic district located on the Asian side of Istanbul, offering a more traditional and tranquil atmosphere compared to the bustling European side of the city. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times, and today, Üsküdar blends its Ottoman heritage with modern life, making it a vibrant yet peaceful part of Istanbul. The Maiden’s Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul, located on a small islet just off the coast of Üsküdar. Mihrimah Sultan Mosque built in the 16th century by the famous architect Mimar Sinan is one of the district’s most beautiful examples of Ottoman architecture. Our final stop will be Kadikoy. Kadikoy is a vibrant and lively district on the Asian side of Istanbul, known for its eclectic atmosphere, rich history, and bustling urban life. The Kadıköy Market is a must-visit for food lovers. It’s a lively place to sample fresh produce, Turkish cheeses, olives, spices, and traditional street foods. Moda is a charming neighborhood in Kadıköy known for its tree-lined streets, quaint cafes, and relaxed atmosphere. Bahariye Street is pedestrian-friendly street is Kadıköy’s main shopping area, filled with boutiques, cafes, and local shops. Kadıköy offers a diverse experience, from traditional markets and historic sites to a modern, youthful atmosphere full of street art, cafes, and cultural venues.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Asian Side Discovery
Transfer to the airport. Departure and End of our services
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