With more than 15 million habitants and being the biggest metropole of its region for centuries, Istanbul has something to offer for everyone. The only city in the world that bridges Europe and Asia, you may explore some of Istanbul’s many treasures that bridge the past and present.
Start wih a tour in the historical area, and visit Istanbul’s most famous treasure-the Blue Mosque, named for the beautiful Iznik tiles which give the mosque its color. You’ll explore the treasures of the Topkapi Palace, home of the Ottoman sultans from 1465 to 1853. Overlooking the Bosphorus see St. Sophia, the first Christian cathedral built in 536 AD, then converted to a mosque in 1453. See where the ancient Hippodrome lies and stroll through the 6th Century Undergound Cistern where the water reflects the Corinthian columns that tower above. Wander through the labyrinth tunnels of the Grand Bazaar, built in 1461, it is one of the oldest and largest covered market places in the world. Barter for colorful kilims, leather goods and jewelry before visiting the Suleymaniye Mosque built at the peak of the Ottoman Empire and decorated with baroque paintings.
Spare a day for a captivating cruise along the Bosphorus gliding past opulent palaces, exquisite mosques, imposing fortresses and traditional, wooden Ottoman mansions. Tour around beautiful coastal villages on the Bosphorus like Bebek, the pearl of Istanbul, see mansions and the parks that are frequented by the locals. Enjoy fabulous dinners with traditional Turkish entertainment or typical fish restaurants or any cuisine of your choice. Leave an afternoon or two free to spend in Istanbul as you desire…
