The Wonders of Istanbul - 3 days
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Day 1 : Ottomans and Byzantines
Private guided tour to the historical centre of Sultanahmet.
Dive straight in the history of this mythical city. Explore:
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Aghia Sophia,the Basilica of the Devine Wisdom from the 6th centuray with fabulous frescos and mosaics have survived for almost 1500 years thanks to the tolerance of the Ottomans.
The Topkapi Palace, dwelling of the Ottoman sultans. Strolling throught the various courtyards, enter the intimity of the sultans pavillions, kiosks, gardens and terraces and finally the harem. You'll see the enormous kitchen, the Royal hall, the hall of Islamic relics.
The Sultanahmet mosque, known as the Blue mosque as well as the obelisks of the Roman Hippodrome and the German Fountain.
Day 2 : Street food tour, the Bosphorus and Beyoglu
Private guided tour. Itinerary on foot, tram and ferry.
In Istanbul, one can eat anything at any time of the day or night. But as a tourist, it's not easy to know what and where to eat.
On this Street food tour, you’ll get the chance to taste some local specialites
Departure for the Egyptian Bazaar also known as the spice market. Soak up the smells and colors of this market which dates back to 1664.
Then board a traditional ferry for a Bosphorus cruise from which you’ll admire palaces and wooden mansions lining the shores.
Return to the pier to discover the Beyoglu district, the ancient Péra, called the "Paris of the 19th century”, this district is currently the center of the modern city.
Optional: On your way back, watch a ceremonial performance of whirling dervishes in a 15th century Ottoman hammam.
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Day 3 : Free Day
Visit the Grand Bazaar and its caravanserais, not just the commercial part but also its back alleys, workshops, and inner courtyards. A true city within a city, it has 4,000 shops and several thousand employees.
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Explore lively streets or quieter ones, venture randomly to discover unexplored neighborhoods, encounter scenes of life that add charm to this city, like artisans roaming the streets to sell their services or the diversity of neighborhood markets.
Take the time to sit in a "çay salonu" (tea salon), taste some Istanbul specialties in a "meyhane" (tavern), an excellent way to experience the "Turkish way." Stop by a pastry shop and taste delicious cakes and desserts. In many shops that offer them, don't hesitate to try "lokoums."
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These are just a few non-exhaustive examples to feel the pulse of this world city...
