ISTANBUL: Arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Istanbul spans the continents of Europe and Asia. It is a bustling and cosmopolitan city, formerly known as Constantinople; it has had an eventful past as a former capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires which has left a rich legacy. Numerous mosques, churches, museums and magnificent palaces, the colorful waterside life and exciting Covered Bazaar all combine to create a compelling atmosphere.

CITY BREAK ISTANBUL (4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS)

DAY 1 ISTANBUL
Arrival in Istanbul, the city that brings two continents ‘Europe and Asia’. Transfer to your hotel. Brief orientation followed by a free day to enjoy at your own leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

DAY 2 ISTANBUL
After breakfast at the hotel proceed for a full day tour which takes you through splendid attraction of Istanbul. Visit St. Sophia, the magnificent Byzantine church of all times, mosque during Ottomans and museum today. Byzantine Hippodrome, the former center for sportive and political activities of Constantinople. Obelisk of Theodosius from Egypt, the Serpentine Column and the German Fountain. The Blue Mosque, a magnificent 17th century mosque famous with its six minarets and 25.000 pieces of Blue Iznik tiles decorating the interior. Following a lunch break in the old town, you will visit Topkapi Palace, the former Imperial residence from where the Great Ottoman Empire was once ruled. Today the 15th century Palace displaying the imperial treasury, 3rd richest Chinese and Japanese porcelain collection of the world and other collections scattered in 3 courtyards and vast gardens overlooking the Golden Horn and Bosphorus. Suleymaniye Mosque, the mosque of Sultan Suleiman the ‘Magnificent’, built in the 16th century by Sinan, the famous architect of all times. Overnight at the hotel. (B, L)

* St. Sophia is closed on Monday, replaced with St. Chora Church. * Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday, replaced with Dolmabahçe Palace.

DAY 3 ISTANBUL
Day at leisure. Optional sightseeing is available. Overnight at the hotel. (B)

DAY 4 ISTANBUL
Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your onward flight. (B)