Istanbul Stopover

6
nights and
7
days
From

 

Per person sharing

The Istanbul Stopover tour provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant culture. Start by delving into iconic bazaars like the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar, where you can get lost in the maze of stalls offering everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and ceramics.
Exploring the majestic mosques, such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, showcases the city's architectural splendor and historical significance. Don't miss out on the Topkapi Palace, a former residence of Ottoman sultans, where you can marvel at its opulent chambers and exquisite collections. 
A Bosphorus cruise is a must-do, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline and a glimpse into the city's unique position straddling Europe and Asia. 
In between these major sights, take time to wander through neighborhoods like Sultanahmet and Beyoglu, soaking in the atmosphere, trying delicious Turkish cuisine at local eateries, and perhaps catching a traditional Turkish dance or music performance. 
With its blend of cultures and history, Istanbul truly stands as a bridge between worlds, offering an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

At a glance

Day 1 Welcome to Istanbul
Day 2 Morning Istanbul tour    
Day 3 1/2 day Bosphorus cruise
Day 4 Istanbul: a free day in the city
Day 5 Full day tour to Bursa with Lunch  
Day 6 Full day Princess Island tour with Lunch   
Day 7 Transfer to Istanbul Airport. End of services   

Highlights

> Daily departures
> Visit the Topkapi Palace, built on a hill and overlooking the Golden Horn
> Get insider perspective on tour of the Suleymaniye Mosque dominating the city's skyline
> Leisurely morning cruise on the Bosphorus
> Visit the Green city of Bursa and see its architectural wonders 
> Escape the bustle of Istanbul and visit Princess Island 
> Private return transfers between Ataturk Airport and hotel 

Quick Contact

Itinerary

Day 7

Istanbul - End of Tour (B)

  • After breakfast check-out from the hotel for transfer to Istanbul Airport.
  • Services end at Istanbul Airport.
     
  • Thank you for choosing Azure Travel for your Turkey experience. We value your patronage & look forward to serving you again in the near future.

Inclusions

  • Meet and assist on arrival and departure by our local representative 
  • Accommodation in selected hotels in double/twin sharing
  • Meals: as mentioned 
  • Local English Speaking Guide during tours
  • Entrance fees
  • Return transfers in Istanbul 

Exclusions

  • International/Domestic flights – Departure & Fuel taxes (Contact us for best airfares)
  • Personal expenses, meals and drinks unless otherwise specified
  • Travel insurance
  • Turkey visa fee
  • Tips
  • Services not stated in the itinerary

Validity

  • Rate valid for travel between 01 MAY to 31 OCT 24

    Contact us for rates for any other travel date required 

Country information

Best time to go
The best times to visit Turkey’s archaeological sites and cities are in spring (Apr-May) and autumn (Sep-Oct) as the temperature is warm, but not too hot.
High summer (Jun-Aug) can be hot: best time for beach holidays. Winters can be cold and many hotels though city breaks are still an option. Turkey does offer ski options during the winter months

Turkey food & drink
Turkish food is varied and delicious. It’s often meze style – lots of small dishes to sample, including aubergine dips, calamari, borek (stuffed pastries), mashed broad beans and stuffed vine leaves – plenty of options for vegetarians, too. Local food involves a lot of meat, often in kebab form – the smell of charcoal-grilled beef, lamb and chicken permeates Turkey.
A Turkish menu includes wonderful breads, super-sweet baklava (pistachio and syrup pastry) and salty white cheeses. Despite being a Muslim country, alcohol is easy to find in Turkey, especially in the touristy coastal regions. Efes is the Turkish beer of choice. Raki, grape spirit, is potent.
Turkish coffee is pitch black, very strong and often sweet. Tea is widely drunk and served black

Culture and Language
Turkish is the official language, however, English, French and German are widely spoken in all major cities and tourist areas. Shaking hands is the common form of greetings. Hospitability is a top priority. Pointing fingers at a person a considered rude. Declining an offer is done by putting your hand over your heart. Observe dress code when visiting Islamic sites

Getting around
Train travel is a very popular mode of transport between the major cities. It may be slow but can sometimes offer you some inspiring scenic moments. Coach travel is the most used way of getting around Turkey. Bus routes are relatively cheap and are most comfortable. Just about any city is connected by coach. On certain upmarket coaches, extra legroom and Wi-Fi is offered. If your journey is more than 5 hrs, a 30-minute stop is made about every three hours. Taking a taxi is by far the most convenient way of travel in major cities, but not always the quickest way. Taxis can easily be hailed on the street. Important: only take the official bright yellow taxis. If they do not have a meter, then it is a no go

Tipping
The basic rule is: tip 5-10% in restaurants, cafes and bars. Hotel staff does however expect a tip between 5 and 20 Turkish Lira. Do not tip taxi drivers but round up the fare. Tour Guides do not depend on tips, however, if a tour has really gone beyond what your expected, a tip of between 20 and 30 Tl will be greatly appreciated

Architectural Masterpieces

Witness the classic sites of heritage and history that abound in Istanbul on a 5-day tour. Visit architectural masterpieces, marvel at awe-inspiring, Byzantine-era tile-works, and see the imperial treasures of Ottoman sultans. 

Meander through the regal rooms of the Topkapi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries. See the imperial treasury and its collection of Chinese porcelain, costumes, and weaponry.

Marvel at the courtyard with its four minarets at the Suleymaniye Mosque.