Highlights of Istanbul

In our carefully selected hotel, substantial breakfasts are served so you can refuel for the journey ahead. Breakfast is a big deal in Turkey. A traditional breakfast includes cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, crispy bread, honey, jam, etc. And a cup of black tea or coffee is the ideal ending. Later, the guide will accompany you to visit the old city area of Istanbul, which has been included into the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. We’ll first visit the Hagia Sophia, a shining pearl in the world’s architectural history and cultural heritage. It was built in the height of the Byzantine era in 532 - 537 and thus gives you some insight into the style of Byzantine architecture. And it was turned into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire following the fall of Byzantine. Please wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Women are also required to wear a headscarf. Headscarves and shawls are also sold at the entrance.

★ Our Guest Privilege: Skip-the-Line Access to Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is frequently visited by tourists. But we’ll help you book ahead of time, and our professional guide will lead you to avoid the crowds and enjoy its glorious history without a long wait.

Then we’ll go to the Blue Mosque opposite the Hagia Sophia. Six minarets demonstrate its illustrious standing. Its name comes from the 21,043 Iznik tiles that adorn the interior walls with white background and blue patterns. We’ll also visit the Hippodrome of Constantinople (Sultanahmet Square), one of the most important squares in the city. You’ll definitely see the Obelisk of Theodosius at a glance because its pink exterior is so eye-catching! Our next stop is the Topkapi Palace, the former residence and workplace of 25 Ottoman Sultans. Especially, you can overlook Bosphorus Strait in the final one of its four courtyards. We’ll visit the nearby Basilica Cistern instead when the Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday.

★ VIP Ticket with Access to the Harem of Topkapi Palace
Discover the hidden secrets of the Topkapi Palace with our all-included tickets. Learn about the fascinating lives of the Sultans’ wives and concubines.

Finally, the guide will lead you to the Grand Bazaar, which has over 4,000 stores spread across 61 indoor streets. These stores offer ceramics, gold jewelry, handmade tapestries, carpets, glass lamps and other unique handicrafts. Additionally, you can also sample local snacks here. Lokum, baklava, and coffee will transport your palate to a Turkish adventure. 
► Tip: We’ll visit the Beyazıt Square instead when the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday.

► Fraud Prevention Guide: 
Follow our experienced tour guide, you can easily keep away from many traps. Be wary of strangers who approach you under the guise of chat, as they may sweet-talk you to hidden shops with sales traps. Meanwhile, to avoid getting entangled by overly enthusiastic sellers, keep smiling and leave decisively for items you don’t intend to buy. And start your bid from 70% off or less if you come across items that arouse your interest.

Our guide will then escort you back to your hotel. Otherwise, if you’d like to explore the Grand Bazaar further, you can bid farewell to the guide and get back on your own. A 15-minute walk northeast or a 5-minute ride on Tram Line T1 (3 stops from Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı to Gülhane) will take you back to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan Hotel, Istanbul (4 stars) or similar

Today’s first stop will be the Egyptian Bazaar, which was once the center of spice trade pioneered by the Egyptians through maritime transport, so it is also known as Spice Market. With multiple spices and everyday essentials, it’s an excellent place to get a glimpse of local life. As soon as you enter the market, the aromatic scents of cinnamon, cumin and saffron will fill your nose. Meanwhile, pistachios, dried fruits and lokums are offered here, neatly arranged for your visual enjoyment. Then you’ll be guided to visit the Dolmabahçe Palace. Following the Topkapi Palace, it’s the Sultans’ new residence. While the extensive collections in the Topkapi Palace narrate the magnificent history of the Ottoman Empire, the decorations here make you witness the opulent lifestyle of the Sultans. The palace is equipped with many modern facilities, such as living rooms, bathrooms and bedrooms, especially the huge crystal chandelier, which has 750 bulbs and weighs 4.5 tons.

★ Special Arrangement: Bosphorus Strait Cruise
In the afternoon, you will embark on an amazing two-hour Bosphorus Strait Cruise. The Bosphorus Bridge, the Dolmabahce Palace, and numerous mosques can all be seen along the route. The best viewing position is the left seats of the cruise, so please give preference to them after boarding as the seats are not fixed. And you can learn more about Istanbul’s past while taking in the stunning surroundings by thorough explanations from our knowledgeable guide. If you visit Istanbul in March-May or Sep-Nov, you may even spot dolphins migrating with the fish tide in Sarayburnu and Kadıköy, which are the northern and southern estuaries of the strait. Your trip to Istanbul will definitely be more exciting after this encounter. At the end of the day, you'll be sent back to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan Hotel, Istanbul (4 stars) or similar

Your Turkey tour comes to an end today. Hope you remain unforgettable memory with AgateTravel! According to your flight time, our guide and driver will escort you in a private car to the airport.

► For Your Information: If your flight time allows, seize the time to explore more about this city by yourself. Consider to visit several attractions within walking distance from your hotel. If you are interested in culture and history, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is an ideal option. Founded in 1891, it is the first museum of the Ottoman Empire, and houses nearly 1 million cultural relics. The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is also a good choice. You can appreciate the world’s richest collection of Islamic art, as well as rare 13th-century Seljuk carpets that cannot be found elsewhere. If you just want to relax, head to Cagaloglu Hamam for a bubble bath and massage in the ancient bath.

If you would like to extend your trip to other destinations in Turkey such as Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia, or continue exploring other countries in Asia and Europe, please contact us for a customized itinerary.

Meals: Breakfast