Deal negotiated for you
- 4-day / 3-night group tour
- Breakfast included
- Flights departing from the city of your choice
- Group transfer airport/hotel
- The air-conditioned grand touring coach circuit
- Professional English speaking guide during the tours
- Visits and admission fees for sites and museums according to the programme
Your stay starts here
Weekend in Istanbul 4*
Immerse yourself in the heart of a vibrant city during a 4-day stay in Istanbul, where imperial history and modernity meet at every corner. You can choose to stay in the Old Town, close to iconic monuments, or in the lively Taksim District, which is bustling day and night.
Explore the bohemian neighbourhoods, the Golden Horn and the famous Pierre Loti viewpoint with an expert guide. Marvel at the Blue Mosque, sumptuous Ottoman palaces, and Byzantine churches steeped in history. Take a stroll through the vibrant bazaars, which are filled with the enticing aromas of spices and oriental sweets.
Finish off your experience with an unforgettable cruise on the Bosphorus, which lies between two continents and offers two distinct atmospheres.
Your detailed itinerary
Day 1 - Thursday, arrival day
Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you will receive a warm welcome followed by a transfer to the hotel. Settle in comfortably and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this ancient city.
Dinner is not included. Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 2 - Friday The Golden Horn and trendy neighbourhoods
After breakfast, the guide will meet you at the reception for a day full of discoveries.
Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight in Istanbul.
In the morning, enjoy an unmissable experience: a cruise on the Bosphorus. Embark on a fascinating journey along this mythical passage between two continents.
Marvel at the imperial palaces that float on the water, the magnificent Ottoman yalis and the ancient fortresses that line this legendary strait.
Your exploration continues in Istanbul's most authentic and colourful districts:
Visit the Eyüp Mosque, a sacred pilgrimage site.
Ascend Pierre Loti Hill: enjoy an exceptional panorama and a tea break in the favourite setting of the famous writer.
Discover the astonishing Bulgarian Church made of iron, which is unique in the world.
Stroll through the bohemian district of Balat: pastel houses, vibrant alleys, arty cafes, and a vintage atmosphere.
Visit the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople and the Church of St George, a major spiritual centre of the Orthodox world.
Return to the hotel for the evening.
Day 3 - Saturday: The Relics of the Ottomans and Byzantines
After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide in the lobby and begin a day dedicated to exploring Istanbul's historical treasures. Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight in Istanbul.
Follow in the footsteps of the Byzantines, from the famous Million Stone — the starting point of the imperial roads — to the imposing Hagia Sophia. Pass by the iconic remains of ancient Constantinople along the way, including the palace of Ibrahim Pasha, the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the Hippodrome — the heart of Roman-era festivals and chariot races. You will also discover the impressive Cisterna and the charming Church of Sergius and Bacchus, nicknamed the Little Hagia Sophia.
Next, admire the exterior of the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a true masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and once considered the largest church in the world. Next, visit the famous Blue Mosque, which is recognisable by its six minarets and exquisite Iznik tiles.
Your exploration continues with an exterior view of Topkapı Palace, the city's first Ottoman palace. This vast complex of kiosks, gardens and pavilions overlooks the Golden Horn.
The day concludes with a pleasant stroll through the Arasta Bazaar, a traditional market brimming with spices, pottery, carpets and local crafts. Visits to leather shops and sweet shops, including those selling the famous lokum, complete this cultural experience.
Return transfer to the hotel in the late afternoon.
Day 4 - Sunday Return
Breakfast, check-out, then transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.
End of your stay in Istanbul, rich in history, mystery, and emotions.
Your accommodation
During your stay, you will be accommodated in 4-star hotels (local standards) as listed or similar:
Istanbul: YIGITALP or ARTS HOTEL TAKSIM
Your accommodation
During your stay, you will enjoy the bed and breakfast package:
- 3 breakfasts
Useful information
Upon your arrival at Istanbul Airport, after collecting your luggage, an assistant will be waiting for you at one of the designated gates (no. 8 or no. 15). Two days before your departure, you will receive confirmation of the exact gate where you will be met.
Note: The itinerary of this programme may be subject to change due to technical requirements or reasons related to weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances affecting the organisation of the trip.
Maximum group size: 42 people