Byzantium. Constantinople. Istanbul. Three names, one city, 2,700 years of history. More than 200 years ago, Alexander von Humboldt described her as “one of the most beautiful cities in the world”. For over 1,600 years, empires were ruled. Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans – three peoples chose this place, which is located on two continents, as their capital city. Let yourself be enchanted by the interface between the Orient and the Occident and the rich cultural and religious heritage of Christian and Muslim history. Istanbul’s cityscape is characterised by modern women in chic outfits, oriental bazaars, glittering skyscrapers and historic palaces. On each of the seven City hills there is a mosque, which you can admire especially while walking over the Bosphorus bridges and during your boat trip. Listen to the reputation of the Muezzins, which echoes the rooftops of the city, and discover unique buildings such as the famous Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Stroll through the colourful bazaars and immerse yourself in the everyday life of the city, which strikes a bridge between continents and times. Experience the unique Istanbul, where tradition meets openness and history on modern urban culture!
Highlights:
Highlights on the Bosphorus: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace
The Old Town of Istanbul (Unesco World Heritage Site)
The special thing about EWT-holiday:
Istanbul’s Istanbul: On foot, by bus, train & by boat
Enchanting boat trip on the Bosphorus
Lunch break in the Caferaga-Medrese
Your comfort hotel in the middle of the old Town
History:
Day 1: Merhaba-Hello in Istanbul!
Your guide will be waiting for you at the airport and will accompany you to the hotel. With a refreshing welcome drink you will be attuned to the course of the next days. Are you still in the mood for a first little discovery tour? Then stroll together through the alleys of the old town and let the impressions of the Bosporusmetropole look upon you. Your tour guide will recommend the local cuisine at a joint restaurant visit (optional).
Day 2: Discover Istanbul on foot
Together with your knowledgeable tour guide you will experience the cultural treasures of Istanbul: The Hippodrome, the ancient racecourse, was the former Entertainment centre of the city, and monuments from all over the world adorn the complex. The indescribable Sultan Ahmed Mosque (“Blue Mosque”) with its six minarets is a unique building of Ottoman architecture. Experience the large, bright prayer room and its devout atmosphere. The Hagia Sophia, once the largest church of Christianity, then mosque and today Museum welcomes you with finest mosaic art. In the afternoon you will experience the fairytale world of the Orient: you visit the legendary Topkapi Palace with its treasury (optional visit of the harem). From here, the Ottomans ruled their mighty empire. Listen to the stories of your tour guide, e.g. about Mozart’s kidnapping from the Seraglio. ( B)
Day 3: Between the continents
With its exceptional location between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is the only metropolis in the world that spans two continents. Take the Marmaray tunnel under the Bosphorus to the Asian side to Üsküdar. Stroll through the enchanting market and get a glimpse into the everyday life of Istanbul. Return to Europe by boat and then visit the beautiful Pera district. Here you can stroll past numerous art galleries and boutiques. Through the alleys of the Old Town, your guide leads you to the lively Grand Bazaar, a treasure trove for all kinds of beautiful and useful things. The colours and fragrances of the Spice Bazaar are also impressive. Let yourself be seduced into oriental worlds. In the evening you have the opportunity to experience the range of Turkish cuisine (B)
Day 4: Boat trip on the Bosphorus
The day begins with a ride along the old city wall from the 5th century, which the Byzantine Emperor Theodosius II had built to protect Constantinople. In the Chora church you can see beautiful mosaics of late Byzantine church art: calligraphy, masterfully decorated tiles and valuable rugs. Learn more about the sophistication of Turkish handicrafts in the carpet gallery of a Knüpferfamilie in the old town. With the conquest by the Ottomans, Christian Constantinople ended and Islam came into being. In the Eyüp Mosque or Laleli mosque you will get an insight into the religious world of today’s Istanbul. . In the afternoon, another highlight awaits you: a cruise on the Bosphorus. Admire the magnificent views of the city skyline. You pass by palaces from the 19th century, mighty fortresses and charming gardens. Before the eventful day comes to an end, exchange your trip with the Turkish farewell dinner (incl.). ( B/D )
Day 5: Güle Güle-Goodbye
After breakfast it is said goodbye to take Istanbul. Transfer to the airport
Notes
B = breakfast, D = dinner
Services:
Guaranteed execution from 4 guests
Transfer from the airport to the hotel and back
4 nights as described in double room with shower/WC in the hotel meals according to programme
Program as described incl. entrances and transfers
Permanent, local, travel guide