Istanbul City Break

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.

Balat / Fener Walking Tour

Join us for a half-day guided tour as we uncover some of Istanbul’s ancient wonders!

Dive deeper into this lively and dynamic city with an unforgettable day of exploration!

After breakfast, we transfer by coach to the picturesque Fener-Balat neighbourhood. This charming area is ideal for budding photographers, with its colourful streets, antique shops, lively staircases, and historic wooden houses—ideal for capturing those perfect Instagram moments. Your visit will also feature a stop at a unique church, adding a touch of history to your journey on your walking tour.

Sultanahmet

Next, we transfer by coach into the heart of Istanbul’s old city. Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque, the ancient Egyptian Obelisks, and the Roman Hippodrome, and enjoy a stroll past the magnificent Hagia Sophia (viewed from the outside).

During today’s excursion, we’ll pause to savour a cup of Turkish coffee or tea in Balat/Fener or Sultanahmet.

Istanbul is a captivating blend of the ancient and the modern, with a skyline that showcases everything from towering skyscrapers to historic mosques, temples, and churches. Spend your afternoon at your leisure, whether you choose to explore more of this fascinating city or simply relax. Our expert guide will be delighted to offer recommendations for must-visit spots or hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

Please note: 

• Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended. We will be walking on some cobbled streets, and some elevated areas on our half day tours.
• *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.
• 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.

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. 

Let’s see more of Istanbul!

After breakfast, we depart from the European side of Istanbul and embark on a half-day guided tour of the city's Asian side. Our adventure begins with a visit to the scenic Çamlıca Hill, where we’ll take in breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul. We then head to one of the city's standout attractions—the magnificent Beylerbeyi Palace, the lavish summer residence of the Ottoman Sultans. Step back in time and experience the grandeur and opulence that once surrounded these royal retreats (entrance included).

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

Today is yours to experience Istanbul at your own pace. Istanbul is a city of endless diversity, offering countless opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and more. Discover ancient marvels such as the iconic Hagia Sofia, the Ottoman jewel of Istanbul, Topkapi Palace. Savour the moment; indulge in a slice of San Sebastian cheesecake while taking in the majestic beauty of the ancient Galata Tower and Instagram hotspot. Treat yourself to afternoon tea at the historic Pera Palace, where Agatha Christie used to stay. No matter how many times you visit, Istanbul’s rich tapestry of attractions; Istanbul ensures there’s always something new to uncover, drawing you back time and time again.

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.