About this experience
Visiting numerous mosques and palaces won't truly reveal Istanbul to you. A grand trip around the 'New Rome' will open up the city to you through the lens of culture, traditions, and customs. I will show you the ancient castle with a lighthouse, Belgrade Forest, the best views of the city, and share amazing stories from past centuries.
What to Expect
New Center
Your journey will start with getting acquainted with modern Istanbul. We will head to the famous elite district of Etiler - the new part of the city. Here you will have breakfast at a cafe with national cuisine, enjoying the sea views from the terrace and the elegant suspension bridge of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. After the meal, we will take a stroll along the long promenade and talk about the Bosphorus: how it was formed, what its name means in Greek, and how the locals relate to it.
Lighthouse and Castle
Next, you will see the famous castle with a lighthouse 'Rumeli Fener'. I will tell you the history of its emergence and explain how this place is connected to the legend of the Argonauts. I will also show you the old houses in the fishing harbor village and reveal the peculiarities of Turkish life. Before moving on, we will have delicious Turkish tea or coffee in a modest but cozy restaurant with another great view of the strait.
Belgrade Forest
Our next stop is the Belgrade Forest. You will hear about the construction and significance of the Valens Aqueduct, learn how the Istanbul forest is connected to the Serbs, and who needed to set it on fire in the 19th century. After a walk among reservoirs and springs, a dinner awaits you at a wonderful fish restaurant, where you can also taste local wines.
Breathtaking Panorama
The last point will be the cherry on top: we will ascend to the observation deck of the 'Sapphire' shopping center, from where Istanbul will unfold before you like in the palm of your hand. You will explore the main attractions and take vivid photos, and finally, taste the famous Turkish ice cream. After charging with new emotions, we will head back.
Organizational Details
Please note: in case of lockdown (due to the situation with COVID in Turkey), we will not be able to have breakfast with a view of the Bosphorus.
How the Tour Goes
- I will conduct the tour for you or another guide from our team
- We have no time restrictions, we will move at a leisurely pace
- Food at cafes and the visit to the observation deck are paid separately
- If desired, during the tour, I can take photos of you on a camera (at no additional cost). I will send the pictures within 1-2 days.
