The Experience
Istanbul, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a fascinating city whose rich history and culture combine with modern day bustle to create a cosmopolitan metropolis that offers something for every interest. Day 1: Arrive Istanbul, Turkey
Arrive at Istanbul Ataturk Airport, where you are met by an representative. En route to your hotel, drive by the periphery of the world,™s most impressive city walls. Constructed between 413 and 447 by Theodosius II, they were the greatest fortifications built up to their time, stretching more than four miles from the Golden Horn in the north to the Sea of Marmara in the south. After a short rest at your hotel, embark on a private boat ride on the Bosphorus and admire the majestic skyline of Istanbul.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus or Park Hyatt Istanbul РMa̤ka Palas
Day 2: Istanbul
This morning, you are met by your guide for a full-day sightseeing tour of Istanbul. Formerly known as Constantinople, it was the center of the greatest political power of the ancient and medieval world. Visit the sixth-century Basilica Cistern, perhaps the most unusual structure in Istanbul and an engineering marvel that solved the city,™s water supply problems. Continue to Hagia Sophia, one of the extraordinary buildings in the history of architecture. Holy Roman Emperor Justinian ordered his architect to build a structure worthy of his empire, and Hagia Sophia was completed just five years later. Next, explore Topkapi Palace, the center of Ottoman government and the court. Explore the breathtaking grounds, domes, porticos, terraces and great halls of the palace, marvelling at its exhibits of costumes, china, jewels and manuscripts. In the afternoon, view Yildiz, an example of 19th-century Ottoman baroque architecture, with its massive renovated guesthouse. Later, set out to stroll the Pera district, the present-day heart of Istanbul. See beautiful neo-classical buildings and stop for a coffee at the fabled Pera Palace Hotel.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus or Park Hyatt Istanbul РMa̤ka Palas | Meals: B
Day 3: Istanbul
The master architect of the Ottoman Empire was Mimar Sinan (1491-1588), acclaimed by Frank Lloyd Wright as the master builder of all time., Visit Sinan,™s wonderful Rustem Pasa Mosque, known for its outstanding Iznik tiles. Stroll through the busy nearby market area into the Spice Bazaar, to browse a tremendous variety of goods in its 88 vaulted rooms. Continue to the dazzling Grand Covered Bazaar with 3,500 stalls, in service since 1461. You are certain to find some souvenirs among the gold and silver jewelry, rugs, carpets, antiques, tiles and goods.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus or Park Hyatt Istanbul РMa̤ka Palas | Meals: B
Day 4: Depart Istanbul
This morning you are privately transferred to the airport for your departure flight home.
Meals: B
