About this experience
I invite you to stroll through Istanbul relaxed and with pleasure, without haste or rush. We will visit contrasting corners of the city: explore Uskudar with its ancient mosques, drop by the youthful Karakoy, walk through the lavish halls of the Beylerbey Palace, and wander the streets of the Kuzguncuk neighborhood. I will help you discover the vibrant details of Istanbul in one day and piece them together into a colorful mosaic.
What to Expect
Conservative Uskudar
From the Eminonu pier, amidst the sound of waves and seagulls, we will cross continents to the Asian side of Istanbul. I will guide you through the historical conservative district of Uskudar: hear the legend of the Maiden's Tower rising in the middle of the Sea of Marmara. At the pier, you will see the embracing Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, created by the architect Sinan for Suleiman the Magnificent's daughter.
Beylerbey Palace: Sultan's Residence
To delve deeper into the Ottoman era, we will visit the former summer residence of the sultans - the Beylerbey Palace. You will admire the interiors in Moorish style, learn about the connection between the palace and the artist Aivazovsky, see the luxurious Blue and Pearl Halls, magnificent chandeliers, and Japanese vases. Afterwards, we will relax in the palace garden with a cup of Turkish coffee, enjoying the view of the Bosphorus and the Ortakoy Mosque.
Distinctive Kuzguncuk and Hip Karakoy
We then head to the friendly and uniquely Turkish neighborhood of Kuzguncuk, where people of different faiths reside. We will find photogenic streets and observe local life. Lastly, we will visit the hipster neighborhood of Karakoy, attracting Turkish youth with trendy cafes and bars.
Organizational Details
- Additional expenses: museum ticket - 150 lira, transportation - 7.70 lira (per person for one trip), expenses for coffee and food
- The museum in the palace is closed on Mondays: if desired, we can replace it with a visit to the Chamlidja Mosque (scarf required for entry)
