Ancient Türkiye – A Journey Through Civilisations

Arrive at Istanbul IST Airport and proceed to Gate 14, Meeting Point M55, where your driver will be waiting. Your private transfer will take you to your centrally located hotel, offering a comfortable and seamless start to your journey through Türkiye. After check in, the rest of the day is free for you to relax or enjoy your first impressions of this captivating city. You may wish to take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding streets, enjoy a cup of Turkish tea, or simply unwind after your flight. Those who prefer to explore can wander through nearby neighbourhoods, soak in the atmosphere of ancient lanes and lively squares, or enjoy the Bosphorus breeze from a waterside promenade. Istanbul immediately invites curiosity with its layered history, vibrant rhythm and timeless beauty. Whether you choose to rest or venture out gently on your own, this first evening sets the tone for the days ahead as you begin an unforgettable journey through the ancient wonders of Türkiye.

Begin your discovery of Istanbul with a guided small group walking tour through the historic heart of the city. After breakfast, meet your professional guide and set out to explore the UNESCO listed Old City, where empires rose and fell and where some of the world’s greatest monuments still stand in remarkable preservation. Your first stop is the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most recognisable landmarks, admired for its elegant minarets and interior lined with thousands of Iznik tiles. From here, walk to the ancient Hippodrome, once the social and sporting centre of Byzantine Constantinople. As you stand before the Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius, your guide will bring centuries of imperial history to life. Continue to the Grand Bazaar, a bustling labyrinth of shops and artisan stalls offering jewellery, leatherwork, colourful ceramics and traditional handicrafts. After time to browse, enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant before entering the magnificent Hagia Sophia. With nearly 1,500 years of history, this former basilica and mosque is a masterpiece of world architecture. Your final visit is Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for four centuries. Walk through its courtyards, treasury rooms and pavilions overlooking the Bosphorus before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.