Discover Istanbul

Arrive in the transcontinental city of Istanbul, an enthralling cultural powerhouse packed with history, architecture and incredible cuisine. You’ll get to know its twists, turns and architectural triumphs over the following few days, so tonight you can settle into your hotel and, if you have time after your flight, enjoy some solo exploration. Want more time in Istanbul? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Say merhaba to your tour leader and fellow travellers this morning, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. Then we join our tour leader on an exploration of the Old City, a great introduction to the rich history of Istanbul. Our tour takes us to some of the great city landmarks, starting at Topkapı Palace. It was the administrative palace of the Ottoman empire between the 15th and 19th century, where sultans and their court lived and governed in an opulent setting. We also visit the Basilica Cistern, a vast subterranean chamber built in the sixth century with 336 marble columns, atmospheric lighting, and the legendary Medusa heads. Continue to the neighbouring Hagia Sophia, admiring its immense dome, serenity and fine Byzantine mosaics, before visiting the nearby Blue Mosque (or Sultan Ahmet Mosque). Finally, we stroll around the Ancient Hippodrome, the setting of chariot races and centre of Byzantine civil life. After a busy day, enjoy a Turkish feast for dinner, a great chance to get to know each other a little better in a relaxed setting.

Today is dedicated to the Ottoman empire. Our tour starts at the Suleymaniye Mosque, which was built between 1550 and 1557 by Mimar Sinan, known as the greatest Ottoman architect of the classical period. It’s a masterpiece with four minarets rising from each corner of the courtyard; inside, the mihrab (a praying niche showing the direction to Mecca) and mimber (pulpit) are made of finely carved white marble, and there are fine stained-glass windows. Continue to the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world – a labyrinth of streets and passages with more than 4,000 shops. We then hop on a boat to cruise down the Bosphorus, the strait that separates Europe and Asia. On either side of the water stands two medieval Ottoman castles, while the shores offer a delightful mixture of past and present, grand splendour and simple beauty.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Istanbul today. After breakfast, we take the tram to the 19th-century Dolmabahce Palace. Its scenic spot on the waterfront is matched by the impressive architecture, which blends baroque, neoclassical and rococo styles. After, take the funicular to the Taksim district, where we sample street food and stroll along Istiklal Street to admire its historic passages. Then, leave the bustling pedestrian street to explore the shops and restaurants of the Pera and Cihangir neighbourhoods. Along the way, we see churches on Pera Street and the Galata Tower (entrance not included). Our travels take us across Galata Bridge, which spans the Golden Horn in the heart of Istanbul. We then visit the Misir Carsısı (Spice Market) next to Yeni Mosque in Eminonu, an evocative marketplace of vivid spices whose scent fills the air.

You’ve witnessed the grand landmarks of the Ottoman empire, explored the largest covered market in the world, and experienced the best of Istanbul; but now it’s time for the adventure to end and begin your return journey home. Alternatively, if you’d like to extend your adventure, speak to your sales representative to discuss our large range of extension options, which could include joining our Walking in Cappadocia adventure.