| An
extended tour of the city that gives you a chance to explore
Istanbul in a more relaxed fashion. |
| day
1 - Introduction --- Arrival
and welcome get together for a brief introduction followed
by a short walk in the old town. |
| day
2 - Byzantine Istanbul --- We
will start the day with Hagia Sophia, the masterpiece of Byzantine
architecture. We will continue on to the ancient Hippodrome,
and the Underground Cistern that was a major water supply
for the capital city. Also included on tour is the city walls
and church of St. Savior in Chora, a spectacular construction
of the late Byzantine era. Orientation and free time in the
Grand Bazaar. |
| day
3 - Ottoman Istanbul --- Topkapi
was the administrative palace for the Ottoman dynasty for
over 400 years. The tour includes the recently renovated treasury,
and the Harem, private apartments of the royal family. The
Blue Mosque is known for its outstanding 17. century tiles.
In the afternoon we will visit the Mosque of Suleiman, the
Magnificient. We will walk the narrow streets of old Istanbul
to the Spice Market. |
| day
4 - the alternative --- Today
we discover Istanbul beyond the boundries of the old city,
walking the colorful and busy streets in Pera district. We
will then visit the Dolmabahce Palace, built on the Bosphorus
for the royal family in the mid 19. century. |
| day
5 - Bosphorus Cruise --- We
will start from the Golden Horn and disembark at a village
north of Istanbul to see the local fish market. As we drive
back to town we will visit Sadberk Museum of cultural heritage,
and the lively Ortakoy district on the Bosphorus. Late afternoon
will be free of group activity. |
| day
6 - Goldern Horn --- Today
we will take the back streets at Fener district where the
office of Greek Orthodox Patriarch still stands. We will continue
on to Eyup, and Pierre Loti quarter, named after the French
painter. In the afternoon we take a public ferry to Kadikoy
(ancient Chalcedon) or Uskudar in Asian Istanbul. |
| day
7 --- Tour
is over after breakfast. |
Use
of vehicle may not be necessary on certain days, or part
of the day
The sequence of visits may change due to museum hours and
days |
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