Alexander+Roberts
OFFER ID 1443209
Turkey Through the Ages
Let our expert native-born guide show you the myriad wonders of this exotic land... Extensive sightseeing, one-of-kind cultural experiences and carefully selected restaurants will immerse you in the rich history, captivating spirit and rare beauty of Turkey and its people.
10 nights from $9,599 per person
Exclusive Amenity: Receive $200 Per Couple or $100 Per Person on any Pre or Post Stay Extension to an Alexander+Roberts Small Group Journey, Small Ship Journey, or Private Journey
Valid on new bookings deposited now – December 31, 2025, for travel anytime.
Other restrictions may apply. Contact your travel advisor about this Signature Exclusive Amenity.
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Alexander+Roberts
Turkey Through the Ages
Day 1: Welcome to Istanbul
Upon arrival, you'll be warmly greeted and chauffeured to our charming and luxurious hotel, The Four Seasons Sultanahmet. The balance of this day is yours to relax and enjoy as you wish.
Day 2: Exploring a Fascinating City
Heralded throughout the ages as Byzantium, Constantinople and now Istanbul, this bustling city on the Bosphorus straddles the European and Asian Continents and presents an intoxicating blend of cultures and traditions. Setting out after breakfast with your expert native Trip Leader, today's sightseeing begins at the Hippodrome, a handsome public square that stands on the site of the ancient Byzantine stadium. Nearby at the 17th Century Blue Mosque #WHS#, you'll marvel at its lavish interior decorated with more than 20,000 blue Iznik tiles. Next up is St. Sophia #WHS#, the Church of Divine Wisdom that was dedicated in 537 by Emperor Justinian, now once again a mosque. Take a break from sightseeing at Giritli. Set in a restored residence in the heart of the Old City, this inviting restaurant is known for its blend of Turkish cuisine and the chef's favorite dishes from her home island of Crete. After lunch, you'll descend into one of the city's subterranean cisterns. The one you'll visit, the Basilica Cistern, is the largest - famed for its 336 marble columns! Our day ends with a private cruise along the Bosphorus. With Europe on one shore and Asia on the other, the scenery is captivating - punctuated by the towering minarets of the city, charming century-old wooden homes built at water's edge, erstwhile summer palaces, and the impressive sight of Rumeli Hisari, the 15th-century fortress of the great Sultan, Mehmet the Conqueror. This evening, we'll dine at Ali Ocakbasi Oligark with its creative cuisine and a spectacular view overlooking the Bosphorus. Meals B+L+D
Day 3: Topkapi Palace + Grand Bazaar + Egyptian Market
After breakfast, another enriching day begins with a privately guided tour of the Topkapi Palace #WHS# - fabled residence of sultans, courtiers, concubines and eunuchs for more than 400 years since its founding in the 15th century. In addition to its pavilions, kitchens, barracks, audience chambers and sleeping quarters, you'll see the Harem that was the exclusive domain of the Sultan and his family. In the Treasury, you'll discover a glittering collection including crown jewels, gem-studded daggers and even a hair of The Prophet. Then in the heart of the bustling Old City, you'll explore the labyrinthine passageways of the one-and-only Grand Bazaar, where colorful shops and vendor stalls overflow with a bewildering variety of items including jewelry, spices, leather goods, textiles, carpets and ceramics. Then continue to the Egyptian Market. Dating to the 1600's, this was once the last stop for merchants and laden camels traveling the fabled Silk Road from China, India and ancient Persia. Originally built with money from taxes that were levied on goods coming from Egypt, this landmark building is still a busy commercial center overflowing with fragrant spices, tantalizing displays of Turkish Delight and myriad other delicacies from farm-fresh cheeses and Turkish Coffee to dried fruits and caviar. Explore its bustling corridors and experience its timeless rhythms as you mingle with other visitors as well as the many city residents who still come here to do their shopping. With our in-the-know resident guide, you'll also engage with friendly vendors, pausing to sample some of their tempting treats. Meals B
Day 4: Cappadocia’s ‘Fairy Chimneys’ + The Whirling Dervishes
We'll be chauffeured to the airport this morning for our included flight into central Turkey. On arrival in Kayseri, we head to the Goreme Open-Air Museum #WHS#. Here in a picturesque valley, you'll discover a complex of painted cave churches that were carved and decorated by monks nearly 1,000 years ago. Walking along a well-maintained path, you'll visit a number of these ancient churches as your expert guide offers illuminating insight into their ancient history. The Cappadocia region is also famed for its remarkable scenery of unusual rock formations and tuff cones - fondly referred to locally as "Fairy Chimneys" for their whimsical silhouettes; exploring the Pasabag and Devrent Valleys with your engaging guide offers a chance to experience some of these dramatic landscapes. You'll also meet skilled carpet weavers and pottery artisans in the village of Avanos.This evening will begin with the 700-year-old music and dance ceremony of the Mevlevis, followers of the Sufi poet Rumi, who demonstrate through spinning how one can approach the union of all mankind to the love of God. We'll follow this experience with dinner in the home of a Cappadocian family before our first of two nights at the Argos, an enchanting boutique hotel in the hilltop village of Uchisar. Meals B+L+D
Day 5: Above and Below Cappadocia
Arise early this morning for our hot air balloon adventure over the remarkable rock formations and remote valleys of Cappadocia. Floating silently above these amazing landscapes is singular experience you will long remember. Back on the ground, we'll return to the Argos for breakfast before a visit for morning tea with a local family whose cave home is in one of the ‘Fairy Chimneys.' Then, we'll spend time in the tranquil village of Ayvali and explore the amazing scenery of the Rose and Pigeon Valleys. Of course, no visit to the region would be complete without descending into the tunnels, passages and rooms that comprise Kaymakli Underground City #WHS#. As we explore living quarters, community kitchens, storage areas and even subterranean stables that descend far below ground, we'll learn about the early Christians who built this city to protect themselves from Roman soldiers and the later Ottoman conquest. This evening, you'll dine at Elai. Set in a historic building partially carved into the sandstone, this inviting and stylish restaurant is known for its distinctive fusion of Turkish, Mediterranean and European cuisines. Meals B+L+D
Day 6: Izmir
After breakfast, we'll return to Kayseri for our included flight to Izmir on Turkey's Aegean coast. On arrival, you'll be met and chauffeured to the 5-star Marriot Izmir. The balance of this day is at leisure to relax, enjoy and explore as you wish. Meals B
Day 7: Excursion to Ephesus
Following breakfast, we'll visit one of the most renowned cities of the ancient world - revered in antiquity for its Temple of Artemis, one of Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. With jour expert Trip Leader, our exploration of Ephesus #WHS# begins as we enter through the grand Magnesia Gate and walk along an ancient marble-paved roadway that still shows evidence of ancient chariot wheels. Among the excavated ruins that will astound you are the expansive Forum, the steam-heated Baths of Scholastica, and the magnificent façade of the Library of Celsus. The highlight of our visit may well be the great amphitheater where Paul preached to the Ephesians. From Ephesus, we'll travel into the forested hills to visit the house where some believe the Virgin Mary had spent the last years of her life. After lunch, your afternoon continues at Urla Vineyards where we'll enjoy a tour of the vineyard and a tasting of their fine wines. This evening, we've made arrangements for us to dine at Adabeyi. Set in a waterfront building designed by Alexander Gustave Eiffel, architect of his Paris tower, this inviting restaurant is famed for its traditional meze small-plates and fresh seafood. Meals B+L+D
Day 8: Onward to Bodrum
After breakfast, enjoy the coastal scenery as we travel south to Bodrum. On arrival in this inviting coastal town, set on a peninsula that extends into the Aegean, our guided sightseeing will include the ancient amphitheater, originally built in the 4th century BCE during the reign of King Mausolus of Halicarnassus and later expanded during the Roman era nearly 600 years later! We'll also visit the evocative windmills of Bodrum, built in the 1700's of stone and wooden planks. They were used for centuries to grind flour but now stand as scenic reminders of the region's rich heritage. Enjoy two nights here in Bodrum at the luxury Kempinski Barbaros Bay. Meals B
Day 9: A Day on the Aegean
We've privately chartered a gulet today for a relaxing exploration of Turkey's spectacular Turquoise Coast. With a full crew and a delightful lunch served onboard this traditional Turkish wooden sailing yacht, we'll visit remote bays and quiet coves where you can go for a swim, if you like. It's the best way to experience the magnificent beauty of Turkey's Aegean shores. Meals B+L
Day 10: Back to Istanbul
After breakfast, we'll fly back to Istanbul and will return to our luxury hotel on the shores of the Golden Horn. The balance of this day is yours to do as you wish - a bit of independent sightseeing or some shopping might be a great way to spend your final day in the city. Our Farewell Dinner this evening is at one of our favorite restaurants in town. Set on a hill overlooking the Golden Horn, Firuze Meyhane is a stylish restaurant loved by locals for its distinctive blend of modern Mediterranean style and traditional Ottoman cuisine. Meals B+D
Day 11: Depart Istanbul
We'll be chauffeured to the airport today for onward flights. Meals B
This centuries old capital guards the slender waterway between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, and is the doorway between the East and West. Visitors can explore remnants of Byzantine Constantinople in the Sultanahmet district, where you will have the chance to see ancient splendors, such as the Haghia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. At night the city boast a lively nightclub scene and excellent Turkish dining options that may include cultural entertainment and dancing. Istanbul also features splendid shopping malls, boutiques, and hand crafted items can be found all over the city.
Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
TREASURES OF ISTANBUL
Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your full- day of private sightseeing.
Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. You will take a short walk to the Blue Mosque, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
Hagia Sophia Mosque is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.
** St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.
Lunch recommended in an old Ottoman House. You can taste delicious Turkish cuisine in a lovely garden setting.
Next, you will visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire. .
Last, you will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc
At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Air- conditioned luxury vehicle with professional driver
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- Welcome package
- VAT tax
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Recommended lunch
Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
BYZANTINE HIGHLIGHTS
Half-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your half day Byzantine Highlights tour.
First, your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire.
Hagia Sophia Mosque is mostly known as one of the most valuable and fascinating structures in the world of art and architecture. It deserves to enter to the collection of the rare works by challenging to the time. The walls of this beautiful piece of architecture are decorated with gorgeous mosaics. UNESCO accepts Hagia Sophia as The World Heritage because of architectural beauty.
** St. Sophia is a mosque and you need to remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders, knees. It is advised to dress respectfully during visiting.
Then, you will visit the Underground Cistern, a fiant reservoir built by Justinian in the 6th century to bring water to the city to be used in the palaces. It is 70 meters wide and 140 meters long, with a capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water. It has 336 beautiful columns that support the cistern, two of which are carved with the head of Medusa on the plinth.
Last, you continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other.
At the end your morning experience at 1:00pm, you will return to the port and embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- Welcome Package
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
CULTURAL ISTANBUL
Private Full-Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for your private full- day sightseeing.
First, you will visit the Suleymaniye Mosque. Built by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan on the order of Sultan Suleiman I (Suleiman the Magnificent), the Suleymaniye Mosque dominates the third hill of old Istanbul, and is strikingly graceful and less ornate than many other imperial mosques, thus lending itself to meditation and quiet reflection.
Next, you will visit the Church of St. Saviour in Chora. After St. Sophia, St.Saviour Chora is the most important Byzantine Church in the city. It was built in the 11th century AD. The walls are decorated with breathtaking 14th century AD frescoes and mosaics. The mosaics relate to the life story of Virgin Mary and the life of Christ.
Lunch recommended at Hamdi Restaurant serving traditional Turkish Kebaps.
Then, you will discover the Egyptian Bazaar; the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices and herbs.
You will continue to explore ninety-two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc.
Visit the 16th Century palace of the Sultan’s Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasa, which today houses the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum. The museum contains what many consider to be the finest collection of Islamic artifacts in the world. The museum is well laid out and contains more rare examples of ceramics, Koran cases, calligraphy, textiles, metalwork and illuminated manuscripts. Its antique carpet exhibit is renowned; the carpets, kilims and prayer rugs form one of the richest and oldest collections in the world.
At the end of your day, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 full- day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Air- conditioned luxury VIP vehicle with a professional driver
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Bottled water provided on the vehicles.
- Welcome package
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
- Recommended lunch
Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)
PORT: ISTANBUL
OTTOMAN COLLECTION
Half - Day Tour
Arrive in Istanbul, you will meet your professional guide, holding a name sign outside of the terminal building at the port for a half - day Ottoman Collection tour.
Your private tour of Istanbul begins with a visit to the Blue Mosque, completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including, tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
Next, you will visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, his court and harem, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire.
Last, you will continue to explore ninety- two streets of the famous Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish Handicrafts, Oriental carpets, rare jewels and inexpensive souvenirs all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc
At the end of your morning visits approximately at 1:00pm, you will return to the port to embark your ship.
Includes:
- 1 half-day of private sightseeing in Istanbul
- Licensed professional guide in English language
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the above itinerary
- Private Air-conditioned VIP vehicle with professional driver
- Welcome Package
- Bottled water provided throughout the tours
- VAT taxes
Not included:
- Gratuities to guide and driver
- Personal expenses of the guests
- Meals that are not indicated on the itinerary
Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)
Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit
You will enjoy the workshop for your cooking experience. You will cook some traditional Turkish food with a professional chef. You will have lunch with the food you prepared and have a chance to taste what you have cooked with local wine. Put your chef hats on and get cooking! Learn authentic recipes from local experts & chefs on a one of a kind private cooking class in Istanbul.
Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)
Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours
An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
First visit of the day is to the Galata Tower which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. While sipping your Turkish coffee there, you will be amazed at the spectacular view of the Golden Horn and the old buildings located on its shores depicting how Istanbul looked hundreds years ago.
The private tour will continue with a visit to the Neve Shalom and the oldest Synagogue in Istanbul- the Ahrida Synagogue, built around 1470 by Jewish immigrants from Macedonia.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sites.
The guests will be then taken to the Jewish Museum of Turkey. There is evidence that this building as a former synagogue existed in 1671. However the actual building was re-erected over its original foundations presumably in the early 19th Century. Zulfaris Synagogue has opened its doors as the Jewish museum in 2001. Continue to visit the Balat section, where the Star of David appears.
At the end of the day,a private lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the cruise pier.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Synagogues are closed on Saturdays and Sunday
* Neve Shalon Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
• Zulfaris Synagogue (Jewish Museum) is closed on Saturdays.
* Please forward us a copy of your guests’ passport page with the photo, as required by the Chief Rabbi of Istanbul, to obtain His official approval for the synagogue visits in Turkey.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Istanbul's Jewish history and culture *The tour covers the main highlights of the Jewish Heritage in Istanbul Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, a licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours
An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at Istanbul cruise pier at 8 am and you will be driven to Edirne (approx. 3 hours), known formerly as Adrianople and was the second capital of the Ottoman Empire. Edirne is situated in Thrace, in westernmost Turkey on the border of Greece and is known for the Selimiye Mosque, built in the 16th century by the famous architect Sinan. The mosque's main structure comprises 18 small domes dominated by a huge central dome on 8 columns with 3 balconied minarets on 4 sides.
The tour will include visits to Selimiye & Complex (Vakiflar), Turkish - Islamic Works Museum The works are exhibited in the room numbered 14 in Dar - ül Tedris Madrasa in the courtyard of Selimiye Mosque with the Archaeological and Ethnographical Museums, In the hand works part, there is a village kitchen, Carpet, Kilim and Rush Mat weaving looms are located and other incredible mosques such as the Yildirim Mosque, Uc Serefeli Mosque and the Beyazit II Mosque.
Lunch will be served at local restaurant close to the sights, at your own cost.
There are also impressive caravanserais such as the Rustem Pasha and the lively restored Arasta and Bedesten bazaars. You may also see some beautiful Ottoman bridges in Edirne and around the area, such as Uzunkopru, which was also built by the architect Sinan. In the evening You will be transferred back to your cruise ship around 7 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to the former Ottoman capital city of Edirne *The tour covers the main highlights of the city Tour Duration : 10-11 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours
The private tour program will start with the Roman Hippodrome that was a colossal stadium housing horse races around which the socio-political life of the Roman capital was centered. In its great days, it was 1575 feet long, 384 feet wide and held 100,000 spectators. It was the site of chariot racing, gladiator fights, circuses, inaugurations and triumphal parades.
The tour will continue with a visit to the Blue Mosque- the masterpiece of 17th century Ottoman Architecture, famous for its unique hand made original Iznik Tiles impressing the guests with their rich dominant blue colors and oriental patterns. They have become collectors’ items today, auctioned at celebrated houses like the Sotheby’s.
Next visit will be to the Topkapi Palace and its Imperial Treasury Section that was the center of Ottoman Empire’s Government Seat ruling most of the Middle East and the Eastern Europe from this palace for 500 years.
Lunch will be served at a recommended local/select restaurants close to the sites.
In the afternoon, visit the World famous Hagia Sophia (The Church of Divine Wisdom), one of the extraordinary masterpieces in the history of World architecture. When a previous church on this site was burned during the Nikka Revolt in 532, Justinian ordered his architect, Isidorus, to build a structure worthy of his empire. Hagia Sophia was completed in only five years and was dedicated on Christmas Day of 537. The building inspired countless generations by its innovations in weight support and construction techniques and what a dome it was: the popular belief was that ‘the dome was suspended from Heaven by an invisible golden chain’. In reality it was work of men, but a worldly simulator of the Heavens
Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar, more dazzling than any other oriental bazaar, built in 1461 and in service ever since. It contains 3,500 shops employing more than 20,000 people all under one roof. Everything imaginable in the world is for sale here, glittering gold and silver jewelry, antique tiles, leather, and souvenirs. Just seeing and experiencing this fascinating bazaar is a memorable experience.
At the end of today’s private tour, the guests will be transferred back to the cruise pier.
Highlights:
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours
An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for departure by chauffeur driven a/c deluxe minivan, to start your private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Today’s private tour will start with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Museum of Art, situated at the shores of the Bosphorus. Istanbul Modern Museum of Art exhibits Turkey’s art heritage, and creates a platform for Turkish peoples’ creativity, dynamism, cultural identity and universal values.
A drive along the scenic Bosphorus Avenue will take you to the Family Villa of the Sabanci’s, the Internationally successful Turkish industrialist, now housing Mr. Sabanci’s lifetime collection of rare art pieces and celebrated paintings by Int’l and local masters, displayed in his former Family Home, recently donated to his Foundation as a Private Museum.
Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurant by the shores of the Bosphorus (at your own discretion and cost).
After lunch, you will visit Private Museum of Lady Sadberk, donated to the nation by art-loving wife of Vehbi Koc, another leading industrialist. The beautiful, late-Ottoman wooden mansion contains a fabulous collection of Turkish arts and crafts, including jewelry, silverware, and Iznik ceramics of the classic period.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise pier by 4 pm.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Istanbul Modern Museum is closed on Mondays.
• Sabanci: Museum is closed on Mondays.
• Lady Sadberk Han Museum is closed on Wednesdays.
Added Value:
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours
An English speaking officially licensed lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
Today’s tour will start with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace- the largest and the finest example of Ottoman Baroque Architecture, a monument to the Ottomans’ westernization process in the 19th century. The Ottoman response to the overwhelming changes in the post-renaissance world was rapid westernization, initiated in the imperial lifestyle at first that gave way to the creation of a series of baroque-style European-fashion palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus.
You will then board a private boat for a cruise on the Bosphorus against the majestic skyline of Istanbul. Your private boat will cruise along the romantic Bosphorus visiting both the Europe Side and the Asia Side of Istanbul by the shores of local fishing villages, en route when it is possible to take memorable photos of the fascinating environments including the 15th century Rumelihisar? Fortress, the Summer Palaces of Lady Ottoman Sultans, and the historical Wooden Houses (Yalis) of famous Turkish families. The cruise ends on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurants in Kanlica Village by the Bosphorus.
After lunch, you will proceed to the top of the Grand Camlica Hill, where you will enjoy the panoramic view of the European side of Istanbul.
Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Beylerbeyi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman Sultans in late 19th and early 20th century.
After this visit, a scenic drive on the Asian shores of the Bosphorus will take you to the Kanlica Village where you will have a taste of the famous “local yogurt” and “apple tea” in a local café by the Bosphorus.
At the end of the day, the lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.
Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.
• Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.
Added Value:
Tour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours
Your English speaking private guide will meet you at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for a private full day sightseeing tour of Sinan the architect’s Istanbul buildings.
The private tour will start with a visit to Rustem Pasha Mosque. It was designed by famous “Sinan the Architect” for Grand Vizier Rustem Pasha. Rustem Pasha Mosque is famous for its exquisite Iznik tiles, set in beautiful floral and geometric designs, which cover not only the facade of the porch but also the walls and columns.
Continue to Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, which is the most important of all the imperial mosques in Istanbul. Suleyman the Magnificent and his wife are both buried here and the mosque is considered the most beautiful of the city’s Imperial mosques. It was built between 1550 and 1557 by Sinan, and is erected on the crest of a hill. The mosque is conspicuous by its great size, and has four minarets – one in each corner of the courtyard. The interior is also spectacular; the mihrab (prayer niche facing Mecca) and the mimber (pulpit) are finely carved in white marble, and there are magnificent stained glass windows.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sights (at your own discretion and cost).
In the afternoon, you will visit the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque located in the Edirnekapi neighborhood near the Byzantine city walls. Located on the peak of the Sixth Hill near the highest point of the city, the mosque is a prominent landmark in Istanbul. The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque was designed by "Sinan the Architect" for the favorite daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent, Princess Mihrimah.
Last visit of the day will be to the Sehzade Mosque which was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman in memory of his eldest son by Hürrem, Prince Mehmet, who died the age of 21. It was the first major commission by the Imperial Architect Sinan and was completed in 1548. It is considered by architectural historians as Sinan's first masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to Sinan the Architect's masterpieces *The tour covers the masterpieces of Sinan the Architect in Istanbul Tour Duration : 7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
Istanbul Half Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.
You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
Jewish Heritage Half Day Tour (Istanbul) - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
Old City of Istanbul Full Day Tour - 8 hours
Highlights/Description:
Old City of Istanbul Half Day Tour - 4 hours
Highlights/Description:
Istanbul - At Your Leisure Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Travelive)
At Your Leisure Option: Please see below for details on this option.
You decide where to go and what to see.
Included:
Excluded:
Highlights of Istanbul - 8 Hours
Highlights:
Izmir: The Greco-Roman City of Pergamum - 7 hours
At 8:30 am, an English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet and greet you outside the Bonded Area of the Izmir cruise pier. You will then be escorted to your chauffeur driven private deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, for a comfortable ride of about one and a half hours to start your full day PERGAMUM tour, with its Asclepion and Acropolis.
One of the biggest healing centers (medical center) of the ancient world (after Epidauros in Greece) was Asclepion. The oracles were using music and thermal spring water for treatment. One of the most celebrated citizens of Pergamum was physician GALEN. The author of several medical books, Galen (AD 129 – 200) practiced at Pergamum in the Asclepion and in Rome, where the Emperor Marcus Aurelious was among his patients.
Visit Pergamum (Capital city of the Hellenistic Kingdom) featuring visits to the majestic Acropol and Asclepion- the Sanctuary of Athena, the Library of Pergamum, that contained 200.000 volumes, given to Cleopatra by Mark Anthony, as a wedding present to be added to her collection in the Alexandria Library – continue to visit the Temple of Trojan (built by the worshipped Emperor Hadrian for Emperor Trojan before him), famous Theater (the steepest raked Hellenistic Theater in the World), the Zeus Altar, (known to be the finest altar ever built) and the Red Court.
A typical lunch can be enjoyed at your discretion and cost, at one of the local restaurants.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to Izmir port to board your cruise ship by 3-4 pm.
Added Value:
*Great introduction to the well known Greco-Roman city of Pergamum's history and culture *The tour covers the main highlights of the ancient city of Pergamum Tour Duration : 6,5-7 hoursTour can operate: Starting mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Bodrum Port - Private Culinary Experience (Full Day Tour)
Bodrum and Halicarnassus - 4 hours
An English speaking officially licensed lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the cruise pier at 09:00 am for a private sightseeing tour of Bodrum.
The private tour will start with a visit to the Bodrum Castle built as the Castle of St. Peter by the crusader Knights in 1402. Located between the two bays that surround the town, this outstanding structure was built to defend the region of Southeastern Aegean. The fortress has beautiful gardens, housing the world-renowned Underwater Sea Museum.
Continue to the 4th C. BC Tomb of King Mausoleum in nearby Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The tour may end in the town at the guests’ hotel by 1.30 pm, or may continue for lunch at one of the small local restaurants by the yacht marina of Bodrum and possible shopping at the town’s local marketplace.
Added Value:
Tour can operate: Mornings or afternoons
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: High
Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums
Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses
Private Excursion of Bodrum - 6 Hours
Highlights:
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.