ITINERARY

• The walls of Istanbul, often referred to as the Theodosian Walls, are a series of historic fortifications that once protected the ancient city of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). These walls are among the most remarkable examples of medieval defensive architecture and played a crucial role in the city's history.
• The Castle of Seven Towers, also known as the Yedikule Fortress (Turkish: Yedikule Hisarı), is a historic fortress located in the Fatih district of Istanbul. It is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, steeped in history and architectural grandeur.
• The Golden Gate of Istanbul, once a grand ceremonial entrance in the Theodosian Walls, is one of the most iconic and historically significant gates of ancient Constantinople. Though much of its grandeur has faded, it remains a symbol of the city's imperial past and its pivotal role in Byzantine and Ottoman history.
• The Chora Museum (Kariye Museum, or Kariye Camii) is a stunning example of Byzantine art and architecture located in the Fatih district of Istanbul. Originally a church, it is renowned for its exquisite mosaics and frescoes, which depict biblical stories with breathtaking detail and artistry.
• The Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, also known as the Iron Church (Demir Kilise in Turkish), is a unique and historically significant church located on the banks of the Golden Horn in Istanbul. Renowned for its striking iron construction, it is a rare example of prefabricated cast-iron ecclesiastical architecture.
• The Church of Aya Yorgi in Balat, Istanbul, is a historic Greek Orthodox church dedicated to Saint George. It is one of the many culturally significant sites in the Balat neighborhood, an area known for its rich religious and architectural diversity.
• The Church of St. Mary of Blachernae (Panagia Blacherniotissa) is one of the most significant religious and historical landmarks of Byzantine Constantinople (modern Istanbul). Located near the Golden Horn in the Ayvansaray neighborhood, this church was a revered site dedicated to the Virgin Mary, playing a central role in Byzantine religious and political life.
• The Golden Horn (Haliç in Turkish) is a historically and geographically significant waterway in Istanbul. Shaped like a natural horn, this estuary separates the European side of the city into its historic and modern districts, connecting the Bosphorus Strait to the Sea of Marmara.
• The Bosphorus (Boğaziçi in Turkish) is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, a natural strait that connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and separates the European and Asian sides of the city. Known for its stunning views, rich history, and strategic significance, the Bosphorus is both a geographic marvel and a cultural treasure.
• The Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü in Turkish) is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, spanning the Golden Horn and connecting the historic old city (Sultanahmet) with the vibrant districts of Karaköy and Beyoğlu. It is both a functional bridge and a cultural symbol of Istanbul, bustling with activity day and night.
• The Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi in Turkish) is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Located in the Beyoğlu district, near the historic Galata Bridge, this medieval stone tower has become a symbol of Istanbul’s rich history and cultural diversity.
• The Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi in Turkish) is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Located in the Beyoğlu district, near the historic Galata Bridge, this medieval stone tower has become a symbol of Istanbul’s rich history and cultural diversity.
• The Dolmabahçe Mosque (Dolmabahçe Camii), located near the Dolmabahçe Palace on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, is a striking example of 19th-century Ottoman architecture. Its waterfront location and elegant design make it one of the most picturesque mosques in the city.
• The Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı) is one of Istanbul's most opulent landmarks, reflecting the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire's final years. Located on the European shore of the Bosphorus, it served as the administrative center of the empire in the 19th century and is a masterpiece of Ottoman-European fusion architecture.
• The Çırağan Palace (Çırağan Sarayı), located on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, is a symbol of Ottoman luxury and grandeur. Once a royal residence, it has been transformed into a prestigious five-star hotel, the Çırağan Palace Kempinski, hosting high-profile events and guests from around the world.
• The Ortaköy Mosque, officially known as the Büyük Mecidiye Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Camii), is one of Istanbul's most picturesque and iconic landmarks. Nestled along the Bosphorus in the lively Ortaköy neighborhood, the mosque is celebrated for its stunning architecture and waterfront location, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Bridge.
• The Bosphorus Bridge, officially known as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge (15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü), is one of Istanbul's most iconic structures, spanning the Bosphorus Strait and connecting the European and Asian sides of the city. This engineering marvel symbolizes Istanbul's unique status as a bridge between continents.
• The Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisarı), also known as Rumeli Castle, is a historic fortification located on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Built by Sultan Mehmed II in 1452, it played a critical role in the conquest of Constantinople, marking a turning point in world history.
• The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (FSM), commonly known as the Second Bosphorus Bridge, is a pivotal structure in Istanbul, connecting the European and Asian continents over the Bosphorus Strait. Named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, who captured Constantinople in 1453, the bridge is a testament to modern engineering and plays a crucial role in the city's transportation network.
• Kanlıca is a picturesque neighborhood located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul's Beykoz district. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, historic charm, and the famed Kanlıca yogurt, this area offers a serene escape from the city's bustling pace. Historical Significance: Kanlıca has been a notable settlement since the Ottoman era, renowned for its clean air and lush surroundings. The origin of its name is subject to various theories, with one suggesting it derives from "Kağnılıca," referencing the ox carts (kağnı) used by local villagers. Culinary Delight – Kanlıca Yogurt: A visit to Kanlıca is incomplete without tasting its famous yogurt, traditionally served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This delicacy has been a hallmark of the neighborhood, attracting both locals and tourists to its charming cafes
• The Anadolu Fortress (Anadolu Hisarı), located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, is a historic fortification that played a pivotal role in the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Situated in the Anadolu Hisarı neighborhood of Beykoz, this fortress offers visitors a glimpse into the strategic military history of the Ottoman Empire.
• The Küçüksu Pavilion, also known as Küçüksu Kasrı, is a historic Ottoman imperial pavilion located in the Beykoz district on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. This elegant structure exemplifies 19th-century Ottoman architecture and offers insight into the leisure pursuits of the Ottoman elite.
• The Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayı) is a stunning Ottoman-era palace located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite architecture and serene gardens, it served as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans and a guesthouse for visiting dignitaries.
• The Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), also known as Leander’s Tower, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, located on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus. Steeped in history and surrounded by myths, this tower offers stunning views and a glimpse into Istanbul's rich past.