ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Day 1: Welcome to Istanbul! As we wait for everyone to arrive today, spend the day relaxing from your travels— or start exploring! Our tour officially kicks off with our first group dinner.

Day 2: Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Located on the historic Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, these are the two most iconic landmarks of the city. The Hagia Sophia originally built in 537 AD served as the largest Christian church of its time. After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. In 1935 it became a museum and recently in 2020, was converted back into a mosque. It is an impressive blend of religions, cultures, and empires.

The Blue Mosque was constructed between 1609 and 1616 by a Sultan to rival the Hagia Sophia. The stunning interior is lined with over 20,000 blue Inzik tiles. It remains one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture.

The surrounding neighborhood is rich in history. Here you’ll find cobblestone streets, gardens, fountains, and delicious food! We will also visit the Basilica Cistern and Hippodrome of Constantinople.

Day 3: Topkapi Palace and Grand Bazaar. The Topkapi Palace was once the grand residence of Ottoman sultans. It is a sprawling complex with lush courtyards, intricately designed chambers, and treasures from centuries past. Just a short distance away, the Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Explore the maze of over 4,000 shops! Find everything from ceramics, spices, jewelry, to handmade goods.

Day 4: Cruise in the Bosphorus Strait and visit Dolmabahçe Palace. Journey through Istanbul’s breathtaking beauty on the Bosphorus Strait, the waterway that divides the two continents of Europe and Asia. Observe historic fortresses, palaces, and waterfront mansions with an impressive view of Istanbul’s skyline. After our cruise, we will visit Dolmabahçe Palace, the last known residence of Ottoman sultans (built in the 19th century).

Day 5: Princes’ Island, Büyükada. The largest of the islands, offers a tranquil escape from the city’s bustling energy. This charming island is car-free where horse-drawn carriages and bicycles replace motor vehicles. Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by pine forests and stunning sea views. Our day on the island will be a free day where the group can split up and explore as they choose. Meals on this day (aside from breakfast at the hotel) are not included.

Day 6: Süleymaniye Mosque, Spice Bazaar, & sunset from tower on the Bosphorus shore. Perched on one of the city’s seven hills, you’ll find this impressive mosque. It is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, with soaring domes, elegant courtyards, and more. After our guided tour, we will take a short walk to the world-famous Spice bazaar where you will find spices, dried fruits, teas, and more! We end our last night in Istanbul by watching the sunset on the shore of the Bosphorus Strait before our final dinner together.

Day 7: Our journey comes to an end as we prepare to depart this magical city. After our last breakfast together and checking out, we transfer back to the airport.

$2950 USD per participant

Cost includes all hotels, meals, transportation, activities, and local guides.

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: international flights to and from Istanbul, alcoholic beverages, travel insurance, and extra spending money for snacks/meals not included (in this case, any meals prior to dinner on day one, lunch and dinner for our free day on the island, and any meals after breakfast on day seven).

Secure your space with a $500 deposit and you may request a payment plan for the remaining balance.

All balances must be paid in full 90 days BEFORE tour start date. Credit cards are accepted for an additional 5% processing fee.

All payments made are non-refundable. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect you in the event of any emergency that leads to a cancellation. Please see the “Travel Insurance” tab on our main menu.