ITINERARY

Depart the U.S. for Istanbul on individual flights.

​​

Day 1: Arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST) in the early morning and transfer to the Sultanahmet district, the historic heart of the city. Upon checking in at your 4-star hotel, take a moment to enjoy the panoramic views of this illustrious metropolis from its terrace. Later, join an optional guided visit to the nearby Little Hagia Sophia, a hidden gem of early Byzantine architecture. Later in the afternoon, gather for a warm welcome session followed by your first sumptuous dinner together.

​​

Day 2: Begin your morning at the magnificent Hagia Sophia, where soaring domes, shimmering mosaics, and centuries of layered history set the tone for an unforgettable day. Then descend into the mystical Basilica Cistern, its forest of marble columns and reflections creating one of Istanbul’s most atmospheric spaces. Enjoy lunch together before continuing to the historic Hippodrome, once the ceremonial and social heart of Constantinople. From there, step into the new Hippodrome Museum, ingeniously housed within a restored Byzantine cistern, where engaging displays bring to life the pageantry, politics, and rivalries that once animated this ancient arena. After a well-deserved break in the late afternoon, gather with your fellow travelers for a celebratory dinner, savoring the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine.

​

Day 3: Begin the day with a visit to the newly restored Kariye Camii (Chora Church), one of Istanbul’s greatest treasures. Its luminous Byzantine mosaics and frescoes—celebrated for their emotional depth and exquisite detail—offer a moving glimpse into the final flowering of medieval Byzantine art. From there, transfer to the pier and embark on a private Bosphorus cruise, gliding between Europe and Asia as palaces, fortresses, and graceful wooden yalıs line the shimmering strait. Enjoy a relaxing lunch on board while taking in Istanbul’s most iconic waterfront views. After disembarking near the Spice Bazaar, explore its vibrant maze of stalls filled with fragrant spices, teas, sweets, and hand-crafted delights. Then walk to the nearby Rüstem Paşa Mosque, a jewel-box masterpiece adorned with some of the finest İznik tiles ever produced. Return to the hotel for a restorative break before gathering in the evening for dinner at Buhara, where traditional Turkish flavors provide a warm and memorable finale to the day.
​

Day 4: Begin your morning with a guided tour of the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans. Wander through opulent courtyards, exquisite tile-clad rooms, and galleries filled with dazzling treasures that illuminate the grandeur and complexity of Ottoman court life. After a delightful lunch, the pace slows as you unwind at the Hürrem Sultan Hamam, Istanbul’s most luxurious 16th-century bathhouse. Here, amid warm marble, fragrant steam, and elegant Ottoman architecture, experience the timeless ritual of the Turkish hammam—a soothing immersion in centuries-old traditions of cleansing and relaxation. Emerging refreshed, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. In the evening, feel free to explore Istanbul’s many dining options on your own, discovering a restaurant that suits your appetite and mood.

​

​Day 5: This morning begins with a visit to the acclaimed Istanbul Archaeological Museums, home to one of the world’s most important collections from the ancient Near East, Greece, Rome, and the Ottoman world. As you explore masterpieces such as the Alexander Sarcophagus, the Siloam Inscription, and artifacts from Troy, you’ll uncover layers of history that shaped the civilizations surrounding the Bosphorus. Enjoy lunch nearby—at Matbah, known for its refined interpretations of Ottoman palace cuisine—before continuing to the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets on earth. Stroll through its maze of vaulted lanes, discovering jewelry, carpets, ceramics, leatherwork, and countless treasures that reflect Istanbul’s vibrant commercial heritage. Return to the hotel for a short break in the afternoon, then reconvene for an unforgettable cultural experience at Hodjapasha. Spend time in its atmospheric historic setting before attending the Whirling Dervish ceremony, a moving ritual of music, prayer, and spiritual devotion that offers a profound glimpse into the Sufi tradition. Afterward, head to a stylish rooftop restaurant for a dinner with sweeping views of Istanbul—an ideal way to savor the evening before returning to the hotel.

​

Day 6: Today is especially meaningful, as we journey to the idyllic island of Büyükada, where your guide Sevan spent his childhood. We begin with a private minibus ride across one of the bridges linking Europe and Asia, followed by a ferry ride toward the gentle shores of the Princes’ Islands. Awaiting us is one of Sevan’s childhood friends, who will welcome you and accompany us on a stroll through the island’s lively local market. As we wander through the stalls, we’ll select a variety of snacks, fruits, and drinks—essentials for our time later aboard the gulet. Then we make our way to Konak Restaurant, a place woven deeply into Sevan’s personal history. He and his father dined here countless times, and sharing this beloved spot with you brings a special sense of homecoming. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in this nostalgic setting, savoring dishes that reflect both family tradition and island flavors. After lunch, we board a traditional wooden gulet for a relaxing cruise around the island. From the deck, take in shimmering views of pine-covered hillsides and serene coves. Weather permitting, you may swim in the clear Marmara waters or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life at sea. As the day comes to a close, we return by ferry and travel back to the hotel by private transfer. The evening is yours to explore, unwind, and choose a dining option that matches your mood.

​

Day 7: Begin the day with a visit to the majestic Süleymaniye Mosque, the crowning architectural achievement of Mimar Sinan and one of Istanbul’s most serene and harmonious sacred spaces. Explore its graceful courtyards and peaceful interior before visiting the nearby mausoleums of Suleiman the Magnificent and Roxelana (Hürrem Sultan)—resting places of two of the most powerful figures of the Ottoman Empire. Continue to the Blue Mosque, where soaring domes, cascading semi-domes, and exquisite İznik tiles create one of Istanbul’s most iconic and atmospheric interiors. Afterward, enjoy a classic Turkish lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a beloved institution known for its perfectly seasoned meatballs and simple, time-honored menu. Following lunch, visit Nakkaş, one of Istanbul’s most reputable rug ateliers. Here you’ll learn about the artistry, symbolism, and craftsmanship behind Turkish carpets while browsing an exceptional collection. The late afternoon is free for personal exploration, rest, or last-minute shopping. In the evening, gather once again for dinner, sharing stories and impressions as the day draws to a warm and convivial close.

​

Day 8: On our final full day together, we begin with a visit to Istanbul Modern, the city’s premier contemporary art museum. Overlooking the Bosphorus, this beautifully designed space showcases the evolution of Turkish modern and contemporary art, offering fresh perspectives on creativity in today’s Istanbul. We also enjoy lunch at the museum’s restaurant, with sweeping views that make the experience all the more memorable. Afterward, we head to the historic quarter of Karaköy to visit the Armenian Church of Üç Horan, a place of quiet beauty and deep cultural resonance. From here, a gentle walk leads us into the heart of Beyoğlu, where we explore its lively streets and architectural charm. Our next stop is the legendary Pera Palace, a hotel steeped in history and famous for hosting writers, diplomats, and travelers since the days of the Orient Express. Enjoy a brief guided tour of its small museum, followed by a coffee break in its elegant lounge. We then continue on foot to the iconic Galata Tower, whose panoramic views offer a breathtaking perspective on Istanbul’s tapestry of neighborhoods, waterways, and skylines. Return to the hotel to rest and prepare for the evening. Tonight, we gather one last time for a festive farewell dinner, celebrating the friendships, discoveries, and unforgettable moments shared throughout our journey.

​

Day 9: Transfer to the airport to catch your connecting flight to the U.S.​

​

Itinerary subject to change.