DAY 1Arrive Istanbul, Turkey Welcome to Turkey. You are met on arrival in mystical Istanbul by your private lecturer‐ guide who accompanies you throughout your stay.
Istanbul, romantically known as Constantinople, is a vast, historic city where the Europe and Asia continents meet. Your guide takes you directly to your luxury hotel where the rest of your day is at leisure. Your guide can assist you in choosing a restaurant or perhaps some nearby sites to explore on your own.
Ritz Carlton Hotel, Istanbul
DAY 2Istanbul Sightseeing Spend today exploring the most important landmarks of the city, starting with a visit to one of the most famed masterpieces of Ottoman religious architecture, the Blue Mosque. Named for its impressive Turquoise colored tiles, this Muslim complex is unique, being one of only two mosques in the world with six minarets. Continue your morning sightseeing exploring the fabulous Topkapi Palace, made the center of the Ottoman Empire in 1453, when the Ottoman Turks conquered it. Your comprehensive tour of the palace includes the Harem with its walls of beautiful Iznik Tiles, and the Treasury filled with exquisite jewelry and gifts made to the Sultans.
Next stop, the Basilica of Saint Sophia, built by Justinian the Great during 6th century. Now a museum displaying Byzantine art and architecture, your guide gives you a personal tour through this massive structure with a gigantic 93‐foot diameter dome.
Spend this afternoon in the Nuru Osmaniye District, where the Genoese and Venetian merchants stored their inventory of brass, copper, rugs and tiles before they were loaded on the ships to sail to Italy. Today the Nuru Osmaniye District is home to the famous Grand Bazaar. Wander through and explore the incredible collections of jewelry, antiques and Oriental rug shops in this massive marketplace.
This evening is at your leisure. (B)
Ritz Carlton Hotel, Istanbul
DAY 3Istanbul Sightseeing This morning, you are driven across the Bosphorus Bridge to explore the Asian side of the city. Visit the Beylerbeyi Palace, built in the 19th century as a summer residence for the royal family of the Ottoman Empire.
Next, it is a short drive to Uskudar, one of the oldest settlements of Istanbul and now a busy neighborhood on the shoreline of the Bosphorus. See the landmark Historical Peninsula and the famous Maiden Tower. You stop and have time to investigate the Uskudar Antiques Bazaar, with its dozens of antique stores with a wide collection from old keys to marble fountain heads.
In the afternoon, visit a local water marbling (Ebru) workshop where traditional Turkish arts are practiced and kept alive for future generations. Learn the various technique used, and the history of this fascinating craft.
Later this afternoon, travel back to the European side of the city, and your hotel. The evening is at your leisure to dine and perhaps sample some Turkish entertainment. (B)
Ritz Carlton Hotel, Istanbul
DAY 4Istanbul Sightseeing & Depart This morning, your guide gives you a more in‐depth look into this rich city. You start with a drive along the ancient Roman Walls into the Old City, to reach the Church of St. Saviour. Built in the 4th century, it is famous for its gold gilded mosaics dating back to early Renaissance period.
Next, visit the 16th century Rustem Pasha Mosque; though small in size, it represents the best example of Ottoman artisans’ mural ceramicware. Then, your guide walks you through the neighboring old alleyways, leading you to the Spice Market. Awaken your senses as you explore the enchanting profusions of aromatic spices imported from around the globe.
This afternoon your touring continues as you head to the Galata District, a community begun in the 18th century by European immigrants who traded with the Ottomans. Take the elevator up to visit the Galata Tower, built by Genoese merchants during 13th century. From the top, enjoy a stunning panoramic view of picturesque Old Istanbul.
Your afternoon city sightseeing concludes with a special visit to the Military Museum of Istanbul, with its vast collection of weaponry. After your tour of the museum, witness an exhilarating performance of Mehter, Ottoman Military Band, all dressed with their traditional armory and uniforms.
Late afternoon bid farewell to Istanbul as you are escorted to the pier for embarkation to your cruise ship. (B)
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Experience Istanbul, Turkey - the intersection point of Europe and Asia - on this 4-day unforgettable journey. Visit the Grand Bazaar, watch the Ottoman Militaty Band perform, and tour historic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
- Join us on this unforgettable Independent Journey!