Upon arrival, TCI representative will be waiting for you who will then drive you directly to your hotel. Welcome to Istanbul where east meets west and a city whose architecture and culture is as diverse as its history.
Later in the evening, we will pick you up from your hotel to see the city, sit back and relax on a cruise as you enjoy a traditional dinner and unlimited local drinks and discover Istanbul by night on this romantic evening cruise. Sip on your welcome drink as the sun sets on this most magical of cities and watch the famous monuments glide by. Then sit down to a wonderful dinner consisting of an incredible variety of buffet dishes, including mouth-watering Turkish specialties and a choice selection of foods. We’ll cruise by Dolmabahce and Ciragan Palaces, the Golden Horn, the Rumeli Fortress and the Hotel Kempinski on the European Shore and on the Anatolian side the unforgettable spectacle of the floodlit and also beneath the impressive Bosphorous suspension bridge, illuminated by a lighting system of changing colors and patterns. After an unforgettable evening, return to the hotel with magical memories that will last a lifetime.

Today post breakfast, we will pick you up from your hotel and take you to discover Istanbul, its sights and sounds. Begin by being driven to the nucleus of the Old City: Sultanahmet Square. You are then taken to explore the thrilling Hippodrome, which used to host chariot races in the days of the Byzantine Empire. Then head over to the sprawling and awe-inspiring construction of the Blue Mosque, one of the most impressive sights in the city. After the Blue Mosque, head over to another colossal god-fearing construction: the Hagia Sophia, one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture. Continuing to the Topkapi Palace, one of the single most popular attractions in the whole of Istanbul. It stands on Seraglio Point, also known as Sultanahmet. Visit the tombs of these very sultans in one of the most beautiful examples of 16th century Ottoman architecture. Round the day off with a visit to one of the largest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar and its more than 4,000 shops; a true Istanbul experience. We will then drive you back to your hotel.
Late in the evening, we will pick you back from your hotel for a short to an exclusive night-club where you will sample the delights of Turkish cuisine. A four course dinner including drink will be served while a spectacular Oriental Show is performed by belly dancers and folk groups from various regions of Turkey. We will then drive you back to your hotel.

Today, after breakfast, we will see some special places in and around Istanbul. Visit the impressive Bosphorus Bridge, built back in 1973 and more than 1000 meters long, which at the time of construction was the fourth longest suspension bridge in the world. It is a very picturesque setting where you will enjoy breath-taking views. Continue then to Camlica Hill, the highest peak in Istanbul, just a short drive from the Bosphorus. From this beautiful 268 metre hill you can contemplate the splendid panorama of the Bosphorus Strait and of the classical Istanbul buildings. You will have the opportunity to stop and take pictures of the postcard setting during the drive over the suspension bridge. Explore the exclusive Dolmabahce Palace, the final stop on your tour. Imagine a palace with 285 rooms, six traditional Turkish baths and 68 toilets. The regal ceiling made from 14 tons of gold will leave you agog! Learn about the history of the Dolmabahçe Palace, an architectural jewel that was built by the Ottoman Sultan Abdulmecid between the years 1843-1856. The Bohemian crystal chandeliers are something you can’t miss, as well as the breath-taking crystal staircase and the largest handmade Hereke rug in the Great Ceremonial Hall. You will be able to ask your guide questions about the history of the palace. We will then drive you back to your hotel in Istanbul.

Today, we will be back again to pick you up for a splendid day out. Turkish Baths as they are named, are for many aspects of health, not just for external cleanliness. Before Turkey was established as a separate country, the Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans and nomadic people of the region had their own variations of bathing rituals. These traditions combined, created a different variation of these ancient bathing habits, The Turkish Bath where the bather enters the dry heat of a sweating area and the skin is then washed with soap and warm water and the muscles massaged. You will be taken to one of the best hammams to experience this way of life and enjoy this tradition so well established in Turkey. The rest of the evening will be yours at leisure in Istanbul.

Post a wonderful breakfast, time permitting the first half of the day will be yours at leisure. TCI’s European experts will provide you with multiple choices to help plan efficiently. Later, as we know that all great journeys have to come to an end so we will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the airport.