> DAY 1: Istanbul
Welcome to Turkey. After clearing customs and immigration, your representative will meet you at the airport and assist you to your private transfer. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure in Istanbul.
> DAY 2: Istanbul – Byzantine and Ottoman Relics Tour
After breakfast meet your private guide for your full day tour of Classical Istanbul. Your tour will begin at the magnificent Hagia Sophia. This marvelous Byzantine basilica was built in the sixth century and today is sometimes called the Eighth Wonder of the World. Continue to the Blue Mosque, one of the best examples of classical Turkish architecture. This 17th-century Ottoman mosque is famed for being the only in the world with six minarets. You will visit the Hippodrome, the former centre of sporting and political activities in Constantinople. During the visit you will be able to see the Obelisk from Egypt, the Serpentine Column from Delphi and the fountain of Willhelm II. End your morning at the Grand Bazaar, which in addition to its historical importance, is a bazaar that will tempt you with its rich collection of precious handmade carpets, jewelry, leather and souvenirs.
Following lunch you will proceed to the spectacular Topkapi Palace. The Palace was the imperial residence of the Ottoman Sultans from the 15th to the 19th century. It holds a breathtaking position above the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. Your tour will include an insight into the spectacular architecture, an unparalleled collection of Chinese porcelain, Imperial costumes, holy relics, and the Imperial Treasury. Your tour will end with a visit to the Suleymaniye Mosque. This 16th century mosque is an example of one of the most magnificent of the imperial mosques in the city. (B, L)
> Day 3: Istanbul – Bosphorous Cruise
After breakfast enjoy a day on the Bosphorous with your private guide. Your tour starts with a visit to the 17th century Egyptian Spice Bazaar which is full of the mystical aromas of various spices and colorful shops selling fruit, vegetables, flowers, and fish etc.
Next you will board your Bosphorus Cruise boat. The Bosphorus is the waterway separating the two continents of Europe and Asia. As you travel, you will enjoy extravagant baroque palaces of the Ottoman sultans: Dolmabahce and Beylerbeyi, the Besiktas commercial district, Rumeli Fortress, the Ortakoy area known for handicrafts and night life, and the famous Kizkulesi light house. (B)
> Day 4: Istanbul, Bodrum
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bodrum. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. (B)
> Day 5: Bodrum
After breakfast enjoy a private half-day St. Peter’s Castle and Bodrum City. Your tour begins with a drive through the main street of Bodrum where you will stop at a central point and walk to the Castle that overlooks the city.
The Castle houses a remarkable museum with exhibits on underwater archaeology. The walls of the Castle are studded with some 249 coats of arms. A lot of the stones used in the construction came from the tomb of King Mausolus. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, its massive construction survived for centuries until an earthquake brought it down in medieval times.
After visiting to the Castle you return to the central point and drive through the main harbor street of Bodrum towards the windmills that stand between Bodrum and Gumbet on the hillside. There will be a stop to take photos of the panoramic view before returning to your hotel. (B)
> Day 6 – 8: Bodrum
Explore the Bodrum region at your leisure. Ask your Leisure Travel Consultant for their personal tips of favorite activities, beaches and excursions while in Bodrum. (B)
> Day 9: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Bodrum Airport for your flight to Istanbul where will connect to your international flight. (B)
