WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Istanbul, a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with contemporary living, invites exploration at every turn. Its iconic skyline, marked by minarets and domes, tells the story of its diverse past, while the hustle and bustle of modern life adds to its allure.
The Hagia Sophia, originally a cathedral and later a mosque, is a breathtaking testament to the city’s architectural prowess. Visitors are often awestruck by the cavernous interior and golden mosaics, which reflect both Christian and Islamic art. The Blue Mosque stands out with its stunning blue tiles and six minarets, offering a serene space for contemplation amid the city’s vibrant energy. And Topkapi Palace is an opulent residence of Ottoman sultans with breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
The city’s cultural heart beats in its markets. The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, is a treasure trove of textiles, jewelry, and ceramics. While the Spice Market entices with aromatic herbs, colorful spices, and traditional sweets, providing a sensory experience that encapsulates Istanbul’s culinary heritage.
Culinary exploration is essential to the Istanbul experience. Traditional mezes, grilled fish, and the beloved kebabs can be savored at waterfront restaurants or in tucked-away local eateries. The coffee culture thrives in historic cafes, where time seems to stand still, and conversations linger over rich brews and delectable pastries like baklava. Istanbul’s diverse neighborhoods, from the bohemian streets of Kadiköy on the Asian side to the bustling Beyoğlu district, showcase modern life intertwined with history. This dynamic city, with its historical significance and cultural richness, provides a captivating experience for every visitor. Its bridges, both literal and metaphorical, continue to connect continents and communities, making Istanbul a true crossroads of the world.
Day One
OVERNIGHT: ISTANBUL
Welcome meeting at hotel lobby. Then we will start our tour with an orientation walk of the Karaköy Area to get to know where we are and how to use the public transportation with the public transportation cards you receive. Our walk will include Istiklal Street, the most popular pedestrian street in the country. Later we will be having our first group meal at a nearby restaurant.
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Day Two
OVERNIGHT: ISTANBUL
Today we will cover the majestic structures of historical Istanbul. Places to visit will be Hagia Sophia, a Christian Cathedral erected in 6th Cent BC and was the most important and grandiose of the all buildings in the city. Ottoman Sultanate Mosque which is commonly known as the Blue Mosque because of its interior decorations, is another must see place to visit today. In between these two monuments there will be enough time for us to explore the Roman Basilica Cistern that remains underground and what is left for us to explore the Roman Hippodrome where the chariot races were taking place about 2000 years ago.
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Day Three
OVERNIGHT: ISTANBUL
This is the “Markets Day”. We will be exploring the routes of the Silk Road and its most popular centre on the Western frontier, the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul. After an orientation walk, free time for shopping or discovering the market. In the afternoon we will be going to the Spice Market. The mandarin walk down towards the market is full of interesting shops that sell wholesale textile products. Maybe a quick visit to a Sultanate mosque such as Suleymaniye Mosque on the way. We will get an introduction to spices and products such as Turkish delight at one of the vendors. The remainder of the day is on your own before heading back to the hotel.
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Day Four
OVERNIGHT: ISTANBUL
Today, we embark on an extraordinary journey to explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, a true jewel of Ottoman grandeur. As we wander through its opulent halls, we’ll step into the hidden world of the Harem, evoking the spirit of an orientalist painter capturing the intricate beauty of the space. Our visit to the palace will consume much of the morning, with time to admire its rich history and stunning architecture. In the afternoon, we will take a leisurely stroll to the renowned Istanbul Archaeology Museum, where millennia of fascinating history are waiting to unfold before our eyes. From ancient civilizations to the treasures of bygone empires, this museum is a testament to the enduring legacy of human culture. Afterward, the rest of the day will be yours to explore at your own pace, as you now feel at home and comfortable, like a local, in this vibrant city.
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Day Five
OVERNIGHT: ISTANBUL
This morning we will be having a late start since it is our food walking day. We will be taking a ferry ride across the Bosphorous to the Asian coast of Istanbul. Visiting less popular areas in the city where locals find it much more interesting to shop and to eat will be our focus of the day. We will explore the areas between Uskudar and Kadıkoy. In the afternoon, we will be tasting all the different types of food we can to get the idea behind the true modern Turkish cuisine. You may wish to stay longer on your own for a pleasant evening in the area.
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Day Six
OVERNIGHT: ISTANBUL
We have to work out all the food we had previously, so this morning is a walking tour mostly down the hill from Chora Church down to the Golden Horn. We will be exploring the walls of Constantinopolis. Afternoon will be on our private tour boat that will take us on a lovely trip up North on the Bosphorus. We will enjoy elegant architecture along the way. Tonight we will enjoy a wonderful dinner together as a group.
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Day Seven
TOUR ENDS
Your Guide will be at the hotel until noon to give you assistance for the end of the tour. The tour is officially over, but now you are locals of the city. Goodbye.
MEET YOUR GUIDE: Taylan Tasbasi
Taylan is a history enthusiast with a particular passion for the Middle East and Mediterranean region. He holds a bachelor’s degree in History of Art and Archaeology, which has only fueled his interest in the rich and diverse histories of these regions. He spends leisure time in outdoor activities such as sailing the Aegean, motorcycle riding, and hiking the ancient routes that allows him to not only engage with nature, but also learn about different cultures and histories through firsthand experiences.
Taylan is always eager to learn more about the region around him and excited to continue exploring and discovering new things and carefully adding them to his list of tailored and improvised services.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Price: $2950 (Air not included) per person for a double occupancy room. Single Supplement is $500. We welcome singles and if you do not have a travel partner, please sign up for a single spot. In the event that a roommate is found, your booking can be changed to a double before final payment is due.
What’s included: 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, and 6 nights lodging in a clean, comfortable, and centrally located hotel. All admissions and fees for group activities. Transport within the tour and private guides, tips included.
Deposit Policy: A non-refundable deposit of $600 per person is due upon booking.
Tour begins and ends in Istanbul (IST).
If you have additional questions please email us at info@adventureswithsarah.net
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