Essential Istanbul 5 Days

Arrival at Istanbul International Airport (IST). Welcome with a name sign and private transfer to your boutique hotel in the heart of Sultanahmet, a few steps from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Check-in and rest. In the afternoon, an orientation walk with your guide around Sultanahmet Square: first views of the Hippodrome, the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column. Your first Turkish tea on a panoramic terrace overlooking the Sea of Marmara.
Accommodation: boutique hotel in Sultanahmet.

A day devoted to the great monuments of the empire. We begin at Hagia Sophia, the jewel of Byzantine art, with its golden mosaics and 55-metre dome. We cross the square to the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), with its six minarets and 20,000 İznik tiles. We walk through the ancient Hippodrome, the centre of political and sporting life in Byzantium. Lunch at a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the domes. In the afternoon, we descend into the Basilica Cistern with its 336 columns and mysterious Medusa heads. Free time later in the afternoon to stroll or rest.
Meals included: breakfast and lunch.
Accommodation: boutique hotel in Sultanahmet.

In the morning, a visit to Topkapı Palace, home of the sultans for 400 years: the Harem, the imperial gardens, the Treasury and the sacred relics. We head to the Eminönü pier for a Bosphorus cruise with lunch on board, sailing past palaces, Ottoman yalı mansions, medieval fortresses and the two intercontinental bridges. We disembark and explore the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar), fragrant with saffron, flower teas, Turkish delight and nuts. Return to the hotel.
Meals included: breakfast and lunch.
Accommodation: boutique hotel in Sultanahmet.

A day to discover the most authentic and bohemian side of Istanbul. We start in Balat and Fener, historic Greek and Jewish neighbourhoods with colourful houses, Byzantine churches, the Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate and charming vintage cafés. Lunch in Karaköy, the fashionable food district by the Golden Horn. After lunch, we ride the historic Tünel funicular up to İstiklal Avenue, the great pedestrian boulevard with Art Nouveau architecture, covered arcades, bookshops and the iconic Galata Tower. We climb to its viewing gallery for a spectacular 360° panorama over Istanbul. Free afternoon to explore, shop for handicrafts or enjoy a traditional hammam.
Meals included: breakfast and lunch.
Accommodation: boutique hotel in Sultanahmet.

Last full Turkish breakfast at the hotel. Free time for some last-minute shopping at the Grand Bazaar, a final stroll around Sultanahmet or simply enjoying the hotel. Private transfer to Istanbul International Airport (IST) according to your flight time. Farewell, with the promise to come back.
Meals included: breakfast.
Note: if your flight leaves in the evening, your guide can arrange an extra visit to the Asian side of Istanbul (ask us).