This comprehensive six-day journey offers an immersive look at Istanbul, blending iconic historical landmarks with the city's vibrant artisan traditions. You will explore the architectural grandeur of the 6th-century Hagia Sophia, the opulent chambers of Topkapi Palace, and the intricate blue Iznik tiles of the 17th-century Blue Mosque. Each day is curated to provide a deep connection to the city's Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, ensuring a balanced pace that covers both world-famous monuments and the hidden charms of the Bosphorus.
Beyond the sightseeing, this tour invites you to participate directly in Turkey's rich craft culture. You will engage in hands-on workshops, including a traditional carpet weaving course and a creative mosaic lamp-making session, where you can learn techniques passed down through generations. These interactive experiences provide a unique perspective on local craftsmanship, allowing you to create your own authentic souvenir while learning about the history of tesserae art and silk weaving from skilled local instructors.
The itinerary also embraces the natural beauty surrounding the city. You will enjoy a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, passing historic wooden villas and fortresses, and take a relaxing excursion to the Prince's Islands, touring Buyukada by horse-drawn carriage after passing Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace and Ortakoy along the Bosphorus shore. With visits to the Grand Spice Bazaar, the panoramic heights of Camlica Hill, the 1452 Rumeli Fortress, the ancient Hippodrome with its obelisk, and the summer residence of Beylerbeyi Palace, this tour provides a complete overview of Istanbulβs diverse character, from its bustling markets and imperial palaces to its serene island retreats and artistic soul.
| Tour type | Shared small group Β· multi-day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 6 Days 5 Nights |
| Price | From β¬1,108 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | English-speaking licensed guide |
| Stops | 12 |
| 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 the Istanbul airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, the remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin your initial exploration of the city. Dinner is included this evening, allowing you to settle in comfortably before the full schedule of sightseeing begins the following morning.
Today is dedicated to the historic heart of Istanbul. You will visit the 6th-century Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel reconstructed by Justinian, followed by the Topkapi Palace, home to the Ottoman sultans and the Imperial Treasury. We continue to the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles, and the ancient Hippodrome. The afternoon concludes at the Grand Spice Bazaar, a vibrant labyrinth of thousands of shops offering everything from hand-painted ceramics to traditional copperware.
Depart for a scenic boat cruise along the Bosphorus, the waterway dividing Europe and Asia. You will view historical landmarks such as the Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, and the 1452 Rumeli Fortress. The tour includes a visit to the summer residence of Beylerbeyi Palace and a stop at Camlica Hill for panoramic city views. Afterward, we explore traditional Turkish silk weaving and leather craftsmanship, providing insight into the skills of local artisans.
Sail across the Marmara Sea to the Prince's Islands, a historic retreat once favored by Byzantine Princes. During the journey, you will catch glimpses of Leanderβs Tower and Uskudar. We will dock at Buyukada, the largest island, known for its pine forests and sandy beaches. You will have the opportunity to tour the island via horse-drawn carriage and enjoy a fresh fish lunch at a local seaside restaurant before returning to the city.
Today is focused on the creative arts. You will participate in a specialized mosaic lamp workshop, where you will learn the history of Turkish mosaic art and create your own piece using colorful glass and ceramic tesserae under the guidance of professional instructors. You will also attend a carpet weaving course to witness the intricate process of creating traditional Turkish rugs. These sessions offer a deep dive into the artistic heritage that defines Turkish culture.
Enjoy a final open buffet breakfast before checking out of the hotel, which marks the end of the tour. We hope your time in Istanbul has been filled with memorable discoveries and look forward to welcoming you back to Turkey in the future.
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 Prince's Islands β Istanbul
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles β the same fleet we use on your tour.
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π₯ 37 Seats (2+1 VIP)
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Extra day tours you can add along your route β Istanbul, Prince's Islands.
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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!