A private tour of the fabulous Topkapi Palace and its infamous Harem quarters.
The afternoon is a segregated visit to a traditional Hammam for an authentic Turkish bath experience.
OTTOMAN CULTURE AND TRADITIONAL HAMMAM
ISTANBUL
TURKEY
INTRODUCTION
This fascinating city straddles the Bosphorus strait, lying in both Europe and Asia. We will touch the European continent whilst exploring the myriad of market stalls in the famous Grand Bazaar, a veritable Aladdin’s cave of shopping.
Once known as Constantinople, the city has been a major cultural, political, and commercial center for thousands of years. From ancient mosques to the Sultan’s personal hareem, the underground temples to the fabulous food – Istanbul is hectic, fun and steeped in an array of different cultures.
WHY WE LOVE IT
Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city with a unique blend of Eastern and Western culture. The history is so long and renowned that every few paces, another ancient monument appears on the busy streets.
The life and energy of the Bazaar, imbues the whole city with a trading, bustling feel, while the still calm of the ancient stone mosques allow a moment of tranquility and reflection. Istanbul is a perfect storm of history, culture and beauty!
ACCOMMODATION
The Mandarin Oriental hotel occupies a former 19th-century palace, seamlessly blending traditional Ottoman architecture with modern design and amenities. The luxurious rooms are decorated in a contemporary style with a nod to Ottoman influences and stunning views of the river, city, and the hotel’s beautiful gardens.
EXPERIENCES
MONUMENTS OF BYZANTINE TOUR
We visit some of the most important architecture in Asia with a tour of the Hagia Sophia and the Fener Orthodox Patriarchate. We then go underground to see the surreal subterranean Basilica Cistern of Constantinople.
BAZAAR, MOSQUES AND RIVER CRUISE
A full day visiting select craftsmen and artisans at the Grand Bazaar before we head to Rustem Pasha Mosque. We finish the day on the water, cruising along the bustling river of the Bosphorus.
