Clarion Hotel Istanbul Mahmutbey or similar
Day-1: Exotic Istanbul
Hoşgeldiniz! (Welcome to Istanbul)! As you know, old is gold, Istanbul’s ancient city is waiting for you. You’ll be transported to your 5-star hotel. A tour voucher, an Istanbul map, and other touristic information will be given. A friendly welcome meeting with your guide and fellow travellers at 7 p.m.
Hold your horses! I know you’re hungry. Have your dinner at an Indian restaurant and digest it by walking on Taksim square and Istiklal street. You’ll find cute cafes, antique shops, and vintage trams – a busy but beautiful nightlife!
Day-2: Istanbul’s old city – Old is always gold!
Full-day guided tour of Hagia Sophia Mosque – a unique illustration of the interaction between Europe and Asia. It is the best example of Byzantine architecture. It is also known as the Church of the holy wisdom or the Divine wisdom.
Byzantine Hippodrome, where you can feel ancient times’ whinnying horse and chariot races as it was used for chariot racing. Even public events also took place there.
Lost in the unique interior decorations of the Blue Mosque held on the European side, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. It was built by Sultan Ahmed to acknowledge Ottoman power. Its dominant blue colour in the interior makes it known as the Blue Mosque.
I don’t think you are the boring one who hates Bazaars. One of the oldest and largest Grand Bazaar is here with 61 covered streets and 4000 shops. Shop the best Turkish handicrafts, the most elegant traditional silky shawl, antiques, and leathers.
Recall the history and culture of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace Museum (Seraglio). It is also known for its architecture and collection.
Again, have your dinner at an Indian restaurant and spend some hours in Taksim square.
Day-3: Istanbul Bosphorus and Asia side
Want to add some spice to your journey? I’m talking about the actual Spice market that gives you countless spices, herbs, Turkish delights, dried nuts, etc.
The wait is over here. Sail on a cruise along the Bosphorus – a narrow natural strait and the continental boundary between Europe and Asia. It connects the Mediterranean and Aegean seas to the Black Sea.
You’ll have the most beautiful panoramic view of the southern part of the Bosphorus from Camlica Hill, located in Uskudar on the Asian side. Visit the Beylerbeyi Palace, which means ‘Lord of Lords.’ It was the summer residence of the Ottoman Sultan.
Stop dreaming of the next heavenly beautiful days cause you need rest.