About this experience
I will show you the colorful world of Istanbul without boring lectures listing dates and events. You will escape the metropolis and become true locals: visit mosques, stroll through bright streets with old houses and cheerful cats, explore markets, and take a boat trip. And I will help decipher what you see and understand Istanbul!
What to expect
Discovering Constantinople in Istanbul
Introduction to Istanbul will begin with its origins. You will hear the history of the first Greek cities and understand why one of them was decided to be built on the cape near the current Old City. Follow the historical path from the foundation of ancient Byzantium to the great capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires - Constantinople. And you will see iconic sights:
- Hagia Sophia (external viewing)
- The First Courtyard of Topkapi Palace
- Church of St. Irene (external viewing)
- Blue Mosque
- Hippodrome
- Hurrem Sultan Hamam
- Ibrahim Pasha Palace
- Obelisk of Theodosius
- Gulhane Park
Egyptian Bazaar
One of the largest covered markets in Istanbul, with about 100 shops. Here I will reveal the role of women in the Ottoman Empire and the arrangement of the harem. I will tell the history of Eastern markets and help you delve into the nuances of city building during the two empires. And also, I will suggest where to buy original Turkish coffee.
Journey on the Bosphorus
During a 25-minute boat trip on the Bosphorus, you will view Istanbul from the most impressive perspective. From the deck of a comfortable ship, you will discover iconic places and panoramas. You will see:
- Topkapi, Dolmabahce, and Ciragan Palaces
- Historic peninsula on 7 hills
- Two symbols of Istanbul - Maiden's and Galata Towers
Authentic Uskudar
Our next destination is one of the oldest districts of Istanbul in the Asian part, where conservative Turks adhering strictly to traditions live. Here you will meet a completely different Istanbul: quiet and sparsely populated, with winding green streets, colorful houses, and antique shops. You will observe the life of the locals, stroll along the gastronomic street, and examine the combination of modern and Ottoman architecture through unusual attractions:
- Uskudar Promenade
- Former marriage palace
- Museum of dolls of the Ottoman sultans dynasty
- Mihrimah Sultan Mosque
- Shemsi Pasha Mosque
Organizational details
- I will guide you on the tour, but sometimes my colleagues replace me
- Attention: we only observe the sights in the Old City from the outside
- After the tour, I will accompany you to the pier, from where you can return to the Old City, Taksim, Besiktas, Kabatas, and Galata districts
Additional Expenses
- You will need an Istanbul Card with a balance of 120 lira per person for transportation. One card is enough for everyone.
- Boat ticket - 25 lira per person via Istanbul Card
- There is a break for Turkish coffee, kunefe dessert, and Iskender kebab (paid separately)
