Istanbul City Break

Istanbul City Break

Istanbul City BreakTurkey
Fully GuidedFully Guided
44 Nights
Nights
-
B&B
Transport: Flights & TransfersFlights & Transfers

    Your Escorted Istanbul City Break Holiday

    Join us on an unforgettable 4-night city break holiday as we immerse ourselves in the history and culture of Istanbul. Because the city bridges the continents of Asia and Europe, Istanbul has been hugely influential throughout the centuries as a key stronghold for the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Empires may have come and gone but what’s been left behind is a richly diverse culture that’s evident in the city’s everyday life. On this holiday to Istanbul, we’ll explore the city’s Asian and European sides on two half day guided tours with an expert, local guide. We’ll also enjoy plenty of free time to discover the city’s array of important historical sites, wander its colourful markets or just relax with a steaming cup of Turkish coffee while taking in the atmosphere of this impressive city.

    Please Note:

    • For departures from Dublin & Edinburgh, outbound and inbound flights are direct with Turkish Airlines.

    • For departures from London Heathrow, outbound and inbound flights are direct with British Airways or Turkish Airlines.

    • 2025 itinerary varies.

     

     

     

    Tour Map

    Trip Itinerary

    Activity Level 2

    Activity Level: Leisurely

    What does this level mean?

    Day

    Travel to Istanbul Türkiye (Turkey)

    1

    Arrive in Istanbul

    Time: MorningMorning

    On arrival in Istanbul Türkiye (Turkey), we meet our local representative and transfer to our hotel in the modern side of Istanbul city, in Taksim.

    Experience Istanbul on a Guided City Tour

    2

    Discover Istanbul City - Half Day

    Time: MorningMorning

    2024

    Lets discover more of this vibrant and bustling city!

    After breakfast we set out on a morning city tour of Istanbul, which will include visits to the Blue Mosque and the historical St. Sophia Mosque , the Egyptian Obelisks, the Roman Hippodrome.

    We finish our tour at a Turkish art centre, where traditional arts are taught and exhibited, followed by a refreshing cup of tea or coffee at a local café (included).

    This lively city is a perfect combination of modern and ancient, displaying a range of architecture from majestic skyscrapers to historic mosques, temples and churches. The afternoon will be at leisure, to relax and get to know our surroundings or uncover more of Istanbul's fascinating treasures. Our expert guide will be happy to suggest places of interest.

    Please note: St Sophia is no longer be a museum. It has now been converted to a Mosque. During times of prayer it may not be possible to visit the inside, should you wish to visit the inside in your free time.

    *In order to preserve the beauty and integrity of the iconic Blue Mosque, restoration work is ongoing at this site. Some phases of the restoration involve scaffolding; thus a clear view of the entire Mosque may not be possible. 

    2025 Itinerary varies:

    Uncover more of this vibrant and dynamic city with an exciting day of exploration!

    After breakfast, immerse yourself in the colourful and photogenic Fener/Balat neighbourhood. This charming area is ideal for budding photographers, with its vibrant streets, antique shops, colourful staircases, and old wooden houses—perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy moments. Your visit will also include a stop at a unique church, adding a touch of history to your journey.

    Next, dive into the rich history of Istanbul’s old city. Visit iconic landmarks like the stunning Blue Mosque, the Egyptian Obelisks, and the Roman Hippodrome, and enjoy a walk by the majestic Hagia Sophia (viewed from the outside).

    During our excursion today we will stop and savour a cup of Turkish coffee or tea in Balat/Fener or in Sultanahamet.

    Istanbul is a captivating blend of ancient and modern, with its skyline showcasing everything from towering skyscrapers to historic mosques, temples, and churches. Spend your afternoon at leisure, exploring more of the city or simply relaxing. Our expert guide will be happy to offer recommendations for places to visit or hidden gems to uncover.

    Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended. We will be walking cobbled streets, or we could be descending or ascending some steps, and some elevated areas on our half day tours.

    Experience More - Optional Excursion

    Experience the more of Istanbul with a visit to the remarkable Basilica Cistern, available as part of an optional excursion in Sultanahmet. This ancient underground marvel, known as the Yerebatan Sarayi (Sunken Palace), was commissioned by Emperor Justinian in 532 and stands as one of the largest and best-preserved Byzantine cisterns in the world. Visitors are captivated by its grand architecture and the tranquil beauty of this hidden reservoir. Don’t miss the chance to encounter the iconic Medusa head columns, adding a mystical touch to the atmosphere. The Basilica Cistern has also starred in films such as James Bond: From Russia With Love and Dan Brown's Inferno, making it a must-see for history buffs and movie lovers alike.

    End your afternoon with a visit to the iconic Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Explore the vibrant maze of shops offering a dazzling array of treasures, including exquisite jewellery, aromatic spices, fashionable clothing, traditional Turkish lanterns, handmade bags, and much more. Whether you're hunting for unique souvenirs or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, the Grand Bazaar is a shopping experience like no other immersing you in the heart of Istanbul's rich culture and history.

    Minimum numbers apply for this optional excursion. Bookable locally

    Istanbul - Asian Side Guided Excursion

    3

    Explore the Asian Side of Istanbul

    Time: MorningMorning

    Lets see more of Istanbul!

    After breakfast, we leave the European side of Istanbul and set off on a half day guided city tour of the Asian side. We enjoy a guided excursion to Camlica Hill, with panoramic views over Istanbul and a visit to the opulent summer residence of the Ottoman Sultan, Beylebeyi Palace one of the many highlights Istanbul has to offer. Step back in time and discover the wealth and lavishness of a summer home to the Sultans (entrance is included).

     

    Uncover More of Istanbul at Leisure

    Time: AfternoonAfternoon

    The afternoon will be at leisure. Our  guide will be happy to tell us of further places of interest, experience a cruise down the Bosphorus, or the savour the enticing smells of the Spice market. Istanbul is a big city and there is lots to see and always something new to discover, no matter how many times you visit, you will never see all that this city has to offer.

    See More of Istanbul at Leisure - Optional Excursion

    4

    Explore Istanbul at Leisure

    Time: Full DayFull Day

    Today is free to explore at our own pace. Perhaps take in some of the sites like the Underground Cistern, a fascinating network of water channels and ornamental pillars, dating back to Roman times. Shop till you drop in one of the many trendy shops or in one of the ancient Bazaars; uncover more of Istanbul’s history with a visit to the iconic Galata Tower for that Instagram shot; or savour the moment sitting in a café with some wonderful Turkish delights while sipping a hot strong Turkish coffee or tea (Turkiye has the highest per capita consumption of tea in the world)!

    Optional Guided Excursion - Golden Horn, Spice Market & Cruise on the Bosphorus

    Enjoy the opportunity on an optional excursion, take in a panoramic tour of the old city walls on the way to the Golden Horn, a natural second harbour and inlet that separates the European shore into two. Also included is a visit to the Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar) where we can enjoy the aromas of various spices and teas. After this, enjoy a cruise down the Bosphorus by boat or ferry, cruising between the two continents of Asia and Europe, passing some beautiful landmarks along the way! Please note there are mobile steps to board and disembark the boat or ferry, hence this excursion may not be suitable for customers with restricted mobility. 

    Minimum numbers are required for this tour to operate

    Return Home from Istanbul

    5

    Depart Istanbul Turkey

    Time: Full DayFull Day

    Today we say goodbye to Turkey after exploring this fascinating and captivating ancient city with new friends and memorable moments.

    We transfer by coach to Istanbul Airport for the flight home, with guide assistance.

    * We aim to operate your tour itinerary according to the format shown. Occasionally, local conditions and unexpected events may result in adjustments to the planned schedule. We kindly ask for your understanding and flexibility in the event of any changes.

    Customer Reviews

    Know before you go

    What if there is an emergency?

    We have local representatives in all of our destinations who are available 24/7 as well as an emergency contact number for our offices in Ireland should you ever need it.

    Do I need a Visa?

    Please visit our visa page for information on requirements for each country's entry requirements

    Will I be met at the airport?

    You will be met on arrival at your destination airport and transferred to your accommodation. You will be accompanied on all included excursions by your Travel Department guide. Your expert local guide is also available to give you tips and advice on any aspect of your holiday.

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