Uncover the layered history of Istanbul, a city where continents collide and empires leave their mark. This four-day journey is meticulously designed to showcase the essential Byzantine and Ottoman heritage that defines the cultural heart of Turkey. From the towering domes of ancient cathedrals to the bustling corridors of historic marketplaces, every moment is curated to provide a deep immersion into the city's unique spirit.
Your exploration begins with the architectural marvels of the Sultanahmet district, including the legendary Hagia Sophia and the intricate tilework of the Blue Mosque. You will walk the same paths as emperors at the Topkapi Palace and experience the vibrant energy of the Grand Bazaar. Beyond the city walls, you will escape to the serene Princes' Islands, where the pace of life slows down amidst Victorian-era mansions and tranquil seaside vistas, offering a refreshing contrast to the urban bustle.
The journey concludes with an enchanting evening on the Bosphorus. As you cruise between the shores of Europe and Asia, you will enjoy a traditional gala dinner complemented by live Turkish entertainment. Three nights of hotel accommodation, breakfasts, two lunches, a welcome dinner and the gala cruise, airport transfers from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen, a professional English-speaking guide, entrance fees and daily bottled water are included, making this an easy and complete short break in one of the world's most captivating destinations.
| Tour type | Shared small group Β· multi-day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 Days 3 Nights |
| Price | From β¬792 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | English-speaking licensed guide |
| Stops | 10 |
| Entrance fees | Included |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours Β· TΓRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Your full program, day by day β click a day to see every stop.
Upon your arrival at either Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gâkçen Airport (SAW), our team will greet you at the international terminal exit with a personalized sign. A private transfer takes you to your hotel, and depending on your arrival time the afternoon is free; early arrivals can add a tour on request. Dinner is included this evening. Overnight in Istanbul.
Today, we head to the Sea of Marmara for a full-day excursion to BΓΌyΓΌkada, the biggest island of the archipelago and a long-time summer escape for Istanbul residents, known for its grand Ottoman mansions and Victorian-style summer villas. After a scenic boat journey, you will have ample time to wander the island, admire the historic Ottoman mansions, and relax by the sea. Lunch is included on the island, where fish restaurants line the waterfront, before the boat brings you back and you are transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
Your guide meets you in the hotel lobby at 08:30. The first visit is Hagia Sophia, built by Emperor Justinian between 532 and 537 and for a thousand years the largest cathedral in the world. We continue to the Topkapi Palace, the former administrative seat of the Ottoman Empire, and visit the Hagia Irene Church within its grounds. After lunch, we explore the Hippodrome, with the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column brought from Delphi, the German Fountain of Wilhelm II and nearby Ottoman tombs, followed by the Blue Mosque, built between 1609 and 1617 and renowned for its six minarets and Iznik tiles. The day concludes at the Grand Bazaar. From 20:00 to 23:30 you join the Bosphorus gala dinner cruise, with hotel transfers, a choice of grilled fish, meatballs or chicken with cold and hot starters, unlimited soft drinks, and a show of music, folk dances, whirling dervishes, a traditional wedding scene and belly dancing.
After a final open buffet breakfast you check out of the hotel and are transferred to Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport for your flight home.
Handpicked 3-, 4- and 5-star hotels along your route. Choose your category β the price adapts.
Exact hotels are confirmed on booking based on availability and your chosen category; equivalent alternatives may be offered.
Istanbul β Buyukada, Princes' Islands β Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus β Istanbul
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles β the same fleet we use on your tour.
π₯ 54 Seats
π₯ 37 Seats (2+1 VIP)
π₯ 55 Seats
π₯ 54 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 46 Seats
π₯ 37+2 Seats
π₯ 37 Seats
π₯ 35 Seats
π₯ 16+1 Seats
π₯ 16+1 Seats
π₯ 12+1 Seats
π₯ 6+1 Seats
Extra day tours you can add along your route β Istanbul, Buyukada, Princes' Islands, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus.
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Other private and group tours that visit the same destination.
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Real, verified reviews from travellers who explored Turkey with us.
My husband and I chose Inca Tour for our honeymoon and we are so glad we did. The boutique hotel selection was beautiful and the Bosphorus dinner cruise was so romantic. Thank you for making our trip special!
It was important for us to have a guide who spoke Russian, and Ender was wonderful. He explained every detail at Dolmabahce Palace. The Princes Islands day trip was a beautiful break from the busy city.
Our guide Ender was incredibly knowledgeable about Turkish history. The hot-air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia was the highlight of our trip. Everything was perfectly organized β from airport pick-up to the last d...
Ender was our Italian-speaking guide and we felt like family. He took us to local spots tourists never see. The hotel choice in Sultanahmet was perfect for walking everywhere.
10+ years later we still talk about our Cappadocia balloon ride and the Bosphorus sunset cruise. Some memories are timeless. Thank you Inca Tour!