Your private guide takes you from the hotel to Sultanahmet area, first we will start to visit the amazing “Topkapi Palace”, which from 15th to the 19th Century was the principle residence of the Turkish Ottoman Empire. Our guide gives a tour at the gardens, halls where we view staggering collection of imperial and religious treasury, golden thrones and emerald crowns.
“Hippodrome” is next to here where we see an Egyptian Obelisk and Serpent Column at this ancient Roman Empire’s horse chariots races arena.
Then we enjoy a short walk across to “Blue Mosque”. Built in 17th century, it owes its fame to the exquisite Iznik Tiles.
We then go to visit “Hagia Sophia”. Built in 537 AD as world’s first large dome building, it was the religious focal point of the Orthodox Church before its conversion in a Muslim Mosque. We have a look at its unique decoration from Byzantine and Turkish periods.
Following our morning visits, we will have an authentic lunch at Deraliye ottoman restaurant located in the heart of historical peninsula with a menu that is representative of the best local igredients and dishes.
Then where we embark from Karakoy pier on a private motoryacht for a 1, 5 hours bosphorus tour long breathtaking cruise along the Bosphorus Strait which runs right through Istanbul city and also between Asia and Europe continents. Our expert local guide explains us about several Ottoman palaces, ancient fortresses, suspension continental bridges and wealthy shore villages with typical Ottoman architecture that we view along the shore.
Upon our drop of to the Karakoy pier we will visit the colorful Spice Market from the 17th century where we can smell and taste various kinds of herbs and Turkish delights.
After the tour transfer back to the hotel.