Dolmabahce Palace: Constructed between 1843 and 1856 by Karabet Balyan, the court architect of Sultan Abdulmecid, the Dolmabahçe Palace represents a harmonious fusion of diverse European architectural styles. This three-story palace, designed symmetrically, boasts an impressive 285 rooms and 43 grand halls. Remarkably, the palace has been preserved with its original adornments, furnishings, luxurious silk carpets, and curtains. Renowned for its opulence and grandeur, it surpasses all other palaces worldwide in terms of wealth and magnificence. (Please note that the Harem is excluded from the tour.)
Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan Mosque: Initially supported by Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan, the construction of this mosque continued under the patronage of Sultan Abdülmecid after her passing. Completed in 1855, the mosque was subsequently opened for prayer services.
Shopping: As Turkey ranks among the world's top producers of high-quality leather goods, we offer an optional visit to an outlet center renowned for its diverse range of excellent leatherware. Here, you can witness a captivating fashion show and explore reasonably priced, top-notch leather accessories. (Please note that this option may be subject to change based on traffic conditions and potential queues at the Palace.)
Lunch (Drinks not included)
Exploration of Constantinople City Walls: The Constantinople City Walls are a series of stone fortifications that have encircled and protected Istanbul (formerly Constantinople) since its establishment as the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire under Constantine the Great. The walls faced their first breach during the Fourth Crusade in 1204 and were later breached again by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror's troops and cannons in 1453.
Bus Drive to the Golden Horn: The Golden Horn, a naturally secure harbor, has played a pivotal role in Istanbul's development. This inlet effectively divides the European shore into two sections, spanning approximately 8 kilometers in length. The widest part of the Golden Horn is its entrance from the Bosphorus, and it is fed by two streams at its far end.
Bosphorus Boat Trip: Embark on an extraordinary cruise along the Bosphorus, a strait connecting the continents of Europe and Asia. Marvel at the exquisite sights of the Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi Palaces, elegant wooden villas, and stately mansions that line the shores, culminating with a visit to the imposing Rumeli Fortress.
Bosphorus Bridge Viewing (from the sea): Witness the magnificent Bosphorus Bridge, one of the two bridges spanning the Bosphorus Strait, which unites the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Rumeli Fortress Viewing (from the sea): Admire the striking Rumeli Fortress located on the European shore of the Bosphorus. This monumental fortress played a crucial role in defending Istanbul during its numerous sieges before being conquered by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1453, thanks in part to the protection offered by the Roman city walls.
Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar): Immerse yourself in the captivating ambiance of the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. Here, the air is infused with alluring aromas of cinnamon, caraway, saffron, mint, thyme, and an array of other herbs and spices, creating a sensory delight for visitors.
