Day 1
Old Istanbul

This in-depth guided exploration of Istanbul visits intriguing sites not seen on our one-day Istanbul visit included in the regular trip. We visit Yedikule, a quaint district where a section of the old city walls of Theodosius have been converted to an outdoor museum. Nearby is the historic Balikli Church, an Orthodox Christian house of worship famous for its sacred spring with live fish. In the afternoon, we walk the narrow streets of the Golden Horn and explore a colorful street market lined with workshops of silversmiths and box-makers. Later, we visit the Rustem Pasa Mosque, known for the spectacular Iznik tiles that decorate its interior, and the Sokollu Mehmet Pasa Mosque, considered by many the most beautiful in all Istanbul.

Day 2
Prince's Islands

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride to the Prince’s Islands, an archipelago in the Sea of Marmara just off the Asian coast of Istanbul that’s known for its unspoiled natural beauty. On Prinkipo (Buyukada), the largest of the islands, we circle its coastline by horse-drawn carriage through forests of age-old pine trees and alongside seaside cliffs. After lunch, walk up to the monastery of St. George, perhaps lingering to taste some of the local wine produced here. Return to Istanbul on an early afternoon ferry, with time for an optional visit to the Turkish Hamam Bath for a traditional bathing experience.

Day 3
Pera District

In the fashionable Pera District, we explore the Galata Tower, a 14th century Genoese monument that offers breathtaking views of all Istanbul, and visit the Calligraphy Museum that doubles as the local Convent of Whirling Dervishes. Walk along Istiklal Avenue, a pedestrian street lined not only with embassies and churches but also with smart cafes, patisseries, great restaurants, and interesting shops, and stroll through the Flower Passage and Fish Market. After lunch, visit the sumptuous Dolmabahce Palace on the Bosphorus, the final residence of the Sultans, or the Maritime Museum, one of Istanbul's most interesting little museums.

Extension Costs

Prices are for 2012
$1250 (5-7 members)
$1390 (3-4 members)
$1590 (2 members)
Single supplement: $250
Solo Traveler: $2195 (includes single supplement)