Istanbul Tales: Sultans, Executioners, and Seagulls

What to Expect

The City through the Eyes of a Local
I will teach you to distinguish between a strait and a bay, tell you about the bridges spanning the Golden Horn, and lead you to the port through the winding streets of the Egyptian Bazaar. At Pierre Loti Hill, you will see the legendary executioner's graves - the only ones preserved in Istanbul, and learn who carried out this dark work, why executions were ordered in the Ottoman Empire, and what these executioners were like. I will also reveal the legend of the old man who appeared in a dream to the teacher of the future conqueror of Constantinople and predicted the victory of the Ottomans over the defiant city.

Breathtaking Landscapes
We will visit a cafe on a rooftop with a magnificent panoramic view of the city. We will talk about life in modern Turkey over a cup of local tea and descend from the hill on a funicular. Afterwards, we will board a boat, during the trip on which you can capture vivid shots against the backdrop of seagulls swirling in a frenzy. Upon arrival in the Asian part of Istanbul, I will leave you in the charming district of Uskudar, where you can relax enjoying the view of the sea and the Maiden's Tower.

• If the weather does not allow sitting in open spaces, I will offer an alternative option near the waterfront or take you to Mario's restaurant (featured on 'Heads and Tails' for fish shawarma preparation)
• Sometimes the funicular may not be operating, however, this cannot be known in advance

Additional Expenses

• Each person must have a transportation card loaded with at least 20 liras per person (including the guide). If time permits, we can dine at a restaurant where the average bill per person (soup+main course+dessert) is 40 liras.
• Optionally, a photo session with seagulls is available (there are carpets, cushions, and accessories on the tower). Cost - 100 liras per person.