Day 1-3: Istanbul
Day 1:
- Morning: Begin your journey with the architectural wonders of Sultanahmet. Visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a former Greek Orthodox cathedral turned mosque and now a museum.
- Afternoon: Explore the iconic Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture.
- Evening: Discover the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir showcasing Byzantine engineering. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Sultanahmet.
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture designed by the famous architect Sinan.
- Afternoon: Explore the Chora Church, known for its beautiful mosaics and frescoes depicting Byzantine art.
- Evening: End the day with a visit to the Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city. Dine in a nearby café or restaurant.
Day 3:
- Morning: Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands and explore the car-free environment.
- Afternoon: Wander through the streets lined with splendid examples of Victorian-era architecture.
- Evening: Enjoy a relaxing meal on the islands before returning to Istanbul.
Day 4-5: Bursa and İznik
Day 4:
- Morning: Travel to Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire.
- Afternoon: Explore the Green Mosque and the Green Tomb, known for their stunning green-blue tiles. Visit the bustling Silk Bazaar for a taste of local commerce and culture.
- Evening: Savor a traditional Iskender kebab for dinner.
Day 5:
- Morning: Head to İznik, known for its beautiful tiles and historical significance.
- Afternoon: Visit the Hagia Sophia of İznik, a former church and mosque that played a significant role in both the Roman and Ottoman periods. Explore the ancient city walls that once protected this important city.
- Evening: Return to Bursa or continue exploring İznik before an overnight stay.
Day 6-7: Safranbolu and Amasya
Day 6:
- Morning: Travel to Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Ottoman houses and architecture.
- Afternoon: Explore the old caravanserais, and historic inns that once accommodated travelers and merchants.
- Evening: Stroll through the cobbled streets, experiencing the ambiance of Ottoman urban culture. Dine at a local restaurant.
Day 7:
- Morning: Journey to Amasya, a city famous for its Ottoman-era houses and unique rock tombs.
- Afternoon: Visit the Pontic rock tombs carved into the mountainside, offering a glimpse into ancient burial practices.
- Evening: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Yesilirmak River, taking in the picturesque views of the city. Dine by the riverside.
Day 8: Return to Istanbul
- Morning: Travel back to Istanbul.
- Afternoon: Spend leisure time for last-minute shopping or visiting any missed sights in Istanbul.
- Evening: Reflect on your journey with a farewell dinner at a renowned Istanbul restaurant.
Tour Highlights:
- Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Suleymaniye Mosque, Chora Church, Galata Tower, and Princes’ Islands.
- Bursa and İznik: Green Mosque, Silk Bazaar, Hagia Sophia of İznik, and ancient city walls.
- Safranbolu and Amasya: Well-preserved Ottoman houses, caravanserais, Pontic rock tombs, and the Yesilirmak River.
Join us on this Cultural and Historical Tour of Turkey to explore the architectural marvels, rich history, and unique cultural heritage that define this fascinating country.
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