ITINERARY

• The Bosphorus is a narrow strait located in Istanbul, Turkey, that connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. It separates the European side of Istanbul from its Asian side and is an important waterway for international maritime trade. The Bosphorus is approximately 31 kilometers (19 miles) long and varies in width from about 700 meters (2,300 feet) to 3,700 meters (12,100 feet). The Bosphorus has significant historical and cultural importance, as it has been a strategic location for many civilizations throughout history. It has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, including the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. The strait is dotted with numerous landmarks, such as the iconic Maiden's Tower (Kız Kulesi) and the Dolmabahçe Palace.
• Dolmabahçe Palace is a magnificent palace located on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey, along the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. It served as the main administrative center and residence for the Ottoman sultans during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The palace is known for its grandeur, opulent architecture, and an extensive collection of art and artifacts. Construction of Dolmabahçe Palace began in 1843 and took 13 years to complete. It was commissioned by Sultan Abdulmecid I, who wanted a more modern and European-style palace to replace the older Topkapi Palace. The palace was designed by Armenian architects Garabet Balyan and his son Nigoğayos Balyan, incorporating elements of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical architectural styles.
• Ortaköy Square, adjacent to the mosque, is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. It is a vibrant hub filled with cafes, restaurants, and small shops selling various handicrafts, jewelry, and artwork. The square offers a picturesque view of the Bosphorus Bridge (officially known as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge), which connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. In addition to its lively atmosphere, Ortaköy is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The neighborhood is home to numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues, making it a popular destination for those seeking entertainment and socializing.
• The Ortaköy Mosque was originally built in the 18th century and underwent several renovations and expansions over the years. The current structure, completed in 1856, was designed by the renowned Ottoman architect Garabet Balyan in a combination of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Ottoman architectural styles. The mosque's distinctive features include its slender minarets and a central dome that dominates its exterior. The interior is adorned with intricate decorations, colorful tiles, and beautiful stained glass windows.
• The Bosphorus Bridge has become an important symbol of Istanbul and a significant transportation route. It not only facilitates the movement of vehicles but also offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait and the cityscape. The bridge has undergone maintenance and renovation works over the years to ensure its safety and structural integrity. It has become an iconic symbol of Istanbul's skyline and is often featured in photographs, postcards, and movies set in the city.
• The Rumeli Fortress is a massive structure with three main towers and several smaller towers connected by thick walls. It covers a significant area and offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the surrounding landscape. Inside the fortress, you can explore the towers, walls, and open courtyards, which were once used for military purposes. Today, the Rumeli Fortress is a popular tourist attraction and also hosts cultural events and concerts during the summer months. Visitors can walk along its walls, enjoy the views, and learn about its historical significance. It is a fascinating historical site that offers insights into the military architecture and strategies of the Ottoman Empire.
• The FSM Bridge is approximately 1,510 meters long, with a width of 39 meters. It has two main towers and a total of eight lanes for traffic, four in each direction. The bridge also includes pedestrian walkways on both sides. Similar to the first Bosphorus Bridge, the FSM Bridge offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the European and Asian continents. It has become an iconic symbol of Istanbul's skyline and a significant part of the city's transportation infrastructure. The bridge has undergone maintenance and renovation works over the years to ensure its safety and functionality. It remains an important landmark and a vital transportation artery, facilitating the movement of vehicles and people between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
• Kanlıca is particularly renowned for its yogurt, known as "Kanlıca Yoğurdu" in Turkish. This yogurt is famous for its creamy texture and tangy taste, and it has become a popular culinary delight in Istanbul. Many visitors come to Kanlıca specifically to taste the delicious Kanlıca yogurt, often served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or honey. In addition to the yogurt, Kanlıca has a charming local market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade goods. The market offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere, showcasing the neighborhood's cultural and culinary offerings. Kanlıca also provides a pleasant environment for leisurely walks along the waterfront, with several tea gardens and cafes offering an opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenic views. The neighborhood's peaceful ambiance and proximity to the Bosphorus make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
• The construction of Küçüksu Palace began in 1856 and was completed in 1857 during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I. The palace was primarily used as a hunting lodge and a place for relaxation and entertainment for the Ottoman sultans and their guests. The architectural style of Küçüksu Palace is a blend of Ottoman and European influences, primarily featuring a mixture of Baroque and Rococo elements. The palace consists of two main floors and a basement. The facade is adorned with intricate ornamentation, colorful tiles, and decorative carvings.
• Anadolu Hisarı features a rectangular-shaped fortification with towers at each corner. The fortress walls are made of stone and are reinforced with sturdy battlements. Inside the fortress, there are several small buildings, including a mosque and a cistern. Today, Anadolu Hisarı stands as a well-preserved historical site and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the fortress, walk along its walls, and enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the surrounding area. It offers a glimpse into the architectural and military history of the Ottoman Empire and provides a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to appreciate.
• Çengelköy is a historic neighborhood located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey, along the Bosphorus Strait. It is known for its charming atmosphere, historic houses, and waterfront views. One of the notable features of Çengelköy is its traditional Ottoman-style wooden houses, which add to the neighborhood's nostalgic and picturesque appeal. These well-preserved historic houses showcase the architectural heritage of Istanbul, with their intricate designs and ornate details.
• Kız Kulesi, also known as the Maiden's Tower or Leander's Tower, is an iconic tower located on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times and has become a symbol of the city. The exact origins of Kız Kulesi are unclear, but it is believed to have been built as a defensive tower during the Byzantine period, possibly around the 5th century. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone numerous reconstructions and renovations. The tower has a unique architectural design, with a cylindrical shape and a conical roof. It stands at approximately 23 meters (75 feet) tall and offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the surrounding area.
• Topkapi Palace, or Topkapı Sarayı in Turkish, is a grand palace complex located in Istanbul, Turkey. It served as the primary residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries. Today, it is a major historical and cultural attraction, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle and rich history of the Ottoman Empire. Construction of Topkapi Palace began in 1459 under the orders of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, shortly after the conquest of Constantinople. Over the centuries, the palace complex underwent expansions and additions, resulting in a sprawling complex of courtyards, buildings, and gardens.
• The Blue Mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of the Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I. It was designed by the architect Sedefkar Mehmed Ağa and is renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate tilework. The mosque gets its popular name, the Blue Mosque, from the blue tiles that adorn its interior walls. The mosque features a central dome, surrounded by smaller domes and semi-domes. It has six minarets, which is a unique architectural feature at the time of its construction. The interior of the Blue Mosque is grand and beautifully decorated. The high ceilings are embellished with intricate patterns and calligraphy. The blue İznik tiles that cover the lower walls and the grand chandeliers add to the mosque's visual splendor.
• Hagia Sophia, also known as Ayasofya in Turkish, is an architectural marvel and historical landmark located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is considered one of the most significant and impressive monuments in the world, renowned for its Byzantine architecture and cultural importance. The original Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral for nearly a thousand years. With its massive dome and intricate mosaics, it was an architectural marvel of its time. In 1453, when the Ottomans conquered Constantinople (present-day Istanbul), Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. Minarets were added to the exterior, and some modifications were made to adapt it for Islamic worship. The building continued to serve as a mosque for more than four centuries.
• The Galata Bridge is a famous bridge that spans the Golden Horn, an inlet of the Bosphorus Strait, in Istanbul, Turkey. It connects the neighborhoods of Eminönü on the historic peninsula to Karaköy on the northern side of the Golden Horn. The original Galata Bridge was constructed in the 19th century and was made of wood. However, it has been rebuilt multiple times due to various factors such as fire and damage from ships colliding with it. The current bridge, completed in 1994, is a modern structure made of steel and concrete.
• The Süleymaniye Mosque, also known as the Süleymaniye Camii in Turkish, is a magnificent mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the largest and most significant mosques in the city and stands as an iconic symbol of Ottoman architecture and Islamic culture. The Süleymaniye Mosque was commissioned by the Ottoman Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent and designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan. Construction of the mosque began in 1550 and was completed in 1557. It was built to commemorate Sultan Süleyman's reign and to serve as a grand mosque complex.
• The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar or Mısır Çarşısı in Turkish, is a famous and bustling marketplace located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the oldest and most colorful bazaars in the city, renowned for its aromatic spices, herbs, and a wide variety of other goods. The Spice Bazaar was constructed in the 17th century and has been a hub of commerce and trade ever since. It was originally built to serve as a marketplace for the sale of spices brought from Egypt, which is why it is sometimes referred to as the Egyptian Bazaar. The bazaar is located in the Eminönü district, near the waterfront of the Golden Horn. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to explore and shop for a wide range of products.
• The Galata Tower, or Galata Kulesi in Turkish, is an iconic landmark located in the Galata neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. Standing tall at 67 meters (219 feet), the tower offers panoramic views of the city and has a rich history dating back centuries. The construction of the Galata Tower can be traced back to the Byzantine era, although the exact date is uncertain. It is believed to have been built in the 14th century as part of the defense walls of the Genoese colony of Galata, which was situated on the northern side of the Golden Horn. Over the centuries, the Galata Tower has served various purposes, including as a watchtower, a fire observation point, and even a prison. Today, it stands as a popular tourist attraction and observation deck, allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline.
• Galataport is a major waterfront development project located in Istanbul, Turkey. It aims to transform the Karaköy district, which is on the European side of Istanbul, into a vibrant cultural, entertainment, and tourism destination. Galataport is a joint venture between the Istanbul Port Authority and a private consortium led by the Global Liman İşletmeleri (Global Ports Holding). The project involves the redevelopment and revitalization of the Karaköy port area, which has historically been an important maritime hub in Istanbul. The Galataport project aims to create a modern, mixed-use complex that combines commercial, cultural, and recreational elements. The development will include luxury hotels, restaurants, cafes, retail outlets, art galleries, performance venues, and public spaces.