Embark on a culturally rich 4-day journey through Istanbul, the city where East meets West. This expertly guided itinerary is designed for cruise guests seeking a seamless, immersive experience before their voyage. The program includes private airport and cruise terminal transfers, daily breakfast, and guided visits to both the European and Asian sides of the city. Guests will explore imperial palaces, Byzantine marvels, vibrant markets, and enjoy a private Bosphorus yacht cruise with champagne. The tour concludes with a flexible transfer to either cruise port terminal or preference location in Istanbul, ensuring a smooth transition to your next destination.
Itinerary Overview:
Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul
Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you will be greeted by our team holding a personalized sign with your name and our company logo for easy recognition. You will be transferred to your hotel, Vogue Hotel Supreme Istanbul (or similar accommodation). Please share your arrival date and time with us in advance to ensure a smooth pick-up schedule. The rest of the day is yours to relax and acclimate. You may choose to stroll through nearby neighborhoods or enjoy a Turkish tea at a rooftop café overlooking the city.
Day 2 – Ottoman & Byzantine Heritage Tour
After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel lobby holding a personalized sign with your name and our company logo for easy recognition. You will begin your journey through Istanbul’s historic peninsula. You will visit Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years, housing sacred relics and imperial treasures. You will continue to Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. You will explore the Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel built in the 6th century. You will admire the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and stunning Iznik tiles. You will walk through the Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine public life, and end your day at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets with over 4,000 shops. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel for relaxing time.
Day 3 – Bosphorus Cruise & Colorful Neighborhoods
After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel lobby. You will start the day with a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace, a 19th-century European-style residence of Ottoman royalty. You will then enjoy a private yacht cruise on the Bosphorus, sipping champagne as you glide between Europe and Asia with views of palaces, mansions, and minarets. You will visit the Spice Bazaar, a sensory explosion of aromas and colors. You will continue to Balat, a historic Jewish and Greek neighborhood known for its pastel-colored houses, art galleries, and film sets. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel for relaxing time.
Day 4 – Asian Istanbul & Modern Icons
After breakfast and hotel check-out, your guide will meet you at the hotel lobby. You will drive across to the Asian side of Istanbul and ascend Çamlıca Hill for panoramic views of the Bosphorus and city skyline. You will visit Üsküdar Pier and photograph the romantic Maiden’s Tower, a legendary structure on a tiny islet. You will stroll through Kuzguncuk, a charming district with tree-lined streets, artisan cafés, and synagogues. You will return to the European side for a walking tour of Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul. You will continue to Galata Tower for an outside visit and photo stop. Optional shopping time is available. After the tour, you will be transferred to the cruise port terminal.
Important Notes:
• Secure Your Spot – Limited Availability: This exclusive journey requires advance booking to secure accommodations, yacht cruise, tour guides, transfers and necessary permits. We recommend booking as early as possible to guarantee availability. Pricing listed is subject to change due to unexpected cost increases related to transportation, land arrangements, or currency fluctuations. Cancellations received 7 days or less prior to the scheduled tour date will incur a 100% cancellation fee, and no refund will be issued.
• Flights Not Included: Guests must book and pay for their own international flights directly. Please share your confirmed flight details with us in advance.
•Visa Reminder: Guests from the US, UK, Australia, and most European countries must check Turkiye’s visa rules before travel. Many nationalities qualify for visa-free entry or can apply for an e-Visa at evisa. Visa arrangements are the guest’s responsibility. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Türkiye.
• Physical Activity & Accessibility: Participants should be prepared to walk 3–5 km per day and navigate various surfaces including cobblestones, inclines, sand, gravel, and natural paths. Occasional stair climbing may be required.
• Mosque Dress Code: When visiting mosques such as the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia, guests must dress modestly: shoulders and knees must be covered, with long pants or skirts required. Women must wear a headscarf. Shoes must be removed before entry.
• Itinerary Changes: The tour itinerary may be adjusted due to operational reasons. Your guide will keep you informed and updated throughout the journey.
• Local Cuisine & Allergies: Breakfast is included at your hotel before each tour. During the day, your guide can recommend restaurants based on your preferences or dietary needs. Please discuss any allergies or restrictions directly with your guide.
• Tipping Guidelines: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Suggested range: €5–€10 per guest per day for guides, and €2–€5 for drivers.
• Official Currency: The official currency in Türkiye is the Turkish Lira (TRY). US Dollars (USD), Euros (EUR), and British Pounds (GBP) are widely accepted. Small change may be given in Turkish Lira. ATMs support major international cards and offer competitive exchange rates.