Istanbul - Excursion 4 days

Istanbul awaits you to discover its unique charm, where Europe and Asia intertwine in a fascinating story! Step into the world of sultans by visiting the imposing Çamlıca Mosque and the magnificent Topkapi Palace, true symbols of a glorious era.

Let yourself be enchanted by a cruise on the Bosphorus, admiring spectacular views of the palaces and fortresses that have written the history of this city. Explore the Princes' Islands, an oasis of tranquility and elegance, where the Ottoman nobility once found refuge. Istanbul invites you to live an unforgettable experience, full of history, culture, and picturesque landscapes!

TOUR DETAILS

Departure:

Bus 1:

• Iasi – Palace of Culture – 13:00

• Vaslui – OMV Vaslui – 14:00

• Barlad – Eon Parking – 15:00

• Focsani – Focsani Mall (KFC) – 17:30

• Buzau – McDonald's – 18:45

Bus 2:

• Galati – 15:00 McDonald's

• Braila – 15:30 Zoo stop

• Constanta – 20:00 Train Station

• Brasov – 16:00 Bartolomeu Bus Station Parking

• Ploiesti – 19:30 Lukoil km 6, DN 1 opposite Leroy Merlin

• Bucharest – 21:00 near Filaret Bus Station

Price Includes:

• Round-trip transport by bus

• 3 nights accommodation

• Breakfast

• Group escort

• Authorized local guide

• Visiting the tourist attractions indicated in the program

• Checked baggage up to 15 kg (55 × 40 × 23 cm)

• Hand luggage up to 8 kg

Price does not include:

Entrance fees to museums and tourist attractions

• Bosphorus cruise – 20.0 €

• Çamlıca Mosque + Taksim Square + Fener and Balat (walking tour) – 45.0 €

• Topkapi Palace + Harem* – 65.0 €

• Marmara Sea cruise to Princes' Islands (Büyükada) – 55.0 €

• Turkish Night – 40.0 €

• Dolmabahçe Palace – 55.0 €

• Bosphorus by Night – 60.0 €

• Basilica Cistern – 30.0 €

• Istanbul Aquarium – 55.0 €

• Headset rental – 5.0 € for 3 days

Additional Services:

• Extra seat on transport - 75€

• For seniors > 66 years, health insurance is paid additionally

What to bring?

• Money for additional expenses (food, drinks, optional excursions, souvenirs, gifts, personal expenses, etc.)

• Comfortable shoes

PROGRAM:

Saturday

• Departure from Iasi

Sunday

Arrival in Istanbul and start of the excursion program:

• 🍬 Ali Baba Sweet Shop – Paradise of Turkish delights!
  Over 000 varieties of traditional desserts await you to discover them! Savor the refinement of fine halva, the unmistakable sweetness of the famous Turkish delight, the velvety pishmaniye, aromatic honey, and creamy tahini. Each treat is an incursion into Turkey's culinary traditions, an explosion of oriental flavors perfect for your indulgence or to take home a sweet souvenir!
• 👜 Leather and Fur Shop – Elegance and refinement at its best!
  If you appreciate luxury and quality, this place is the perfect destination! Explore an exclusive collection of jackets, bags, and accessories, crafted with mastery by skilled artisans. Each piece combines tradition with modern design, offering you an unmistakable style. Discover the beauty of details and enjoy the authenticity of premium materials!
• 🕌 Süleymaniye Mosque – Symbol of Ottoman grandeur
  Built on one of Istanbul's highest hills, Süleymaniye Mosque impresses with its grand architecture and spectacular panorama of the city. Constructed in the 16th century by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, this masterpiece is a tribute to Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Its peaceful atmosphere, imposing interiors, and enchanting gardens make this mosque not only a place of worship but also a refuge of peace and history in the bustling heart of Istanbul.
• 🏨 Hotel Check-in – Relaxation after a day full of discoveries!
  According to local regulations, the bus will stop approximately 300-600 meters from the hotel. Together with the group escort, you will collect your luggage and head to the reception for check-in formalities. Once in your rooms, you can enjoy a moment of rest before new adventures in the heart of Istanbul!
• 🌍 Discover Asian Istanbul and historic neighborhoods!
  We visit the imposing Çamlıca Mosque, the largest in Turkey, a symbol of spirituality and grand architecture. We return to the heart of the city, exploring Taksim Square, vibrant and full of life. We end with a walk through Fener and Balat, charming neighborhoods with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and a unique charm. An unforgettable experience!

Monday

Breakfast at the hotel

• 🚶‍♂️ Walking tour through the heart of historic Istanbul
  We explore the beauty and history of the city starting with the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces, famous for its grand domes. We then discover the Obelisk of Theodosius, an ancient monument brought from Egypt, symbolizing imperial grandeur. We stop at the German Fountain, an elegant gift from Emperor Wilhelm II, a place full of stories, before continuing our adventure through Istanbul!
• 🏛️Basilica Cistern (“The Sunken Palace”) – The largest and most impressive ancient cistern in Istanbul, built in the 6th century. Descend beneath the city's streets and step into a mysterious place where illuminated columns and water reflections create a fascinating atmosphere, straight out of legend.
  (Excursion costs include: local guide and group escort).
• 👑 Topkapı Palace – The former residence of Ottoman sultans, this grand palace from the 15th century is now a museum housing priceless treasures, including the sword of Stephen the Great. A captivating incursion into the court life of the Ottoman Empire, where gardens, ornate halls, and historical relics will take you back in time.
  (Excursion costs include: bus transport, local guide, and group escort).
• 🚢 Bosphorus Cruise – Enjoy a magical ride on the strait that separates Europe from Asia! You will admire spectacular palaces, imposing fortresses, and the Golden Horn, while being carried away by the charm of Istanbul seen from the water.
  (Excursion costs include: bus transport, local guide, and group escort).
• 🎶 Turkish Night at Gar Restaurant – End the day in an authentic way, savoring a traditional dinner accompanied by music and oriental dance performances. The vibrant atmosphere, delicious dishes, and Turkish hospitality will transform this evening into a memorable experience!
  (Cost includes: dinner and entertainment concert).

Tuesday

Breakfast at the hotel

• 🏰 Dolmabahçe Palace – The imperial grandeur of Istanbul
  Discover Dolmabahçe Palace, a masterpiece of European and Ottoman architecture, located on the shores of the Bosphorus. Built in the 19th century, this lavish palace was the residence of the last Ottoman sultans and symbolizes the opulence and refinement of the era. Admire its impressive interiors, with crystal chandeliers, luxurious tapestries, and elegant furniture, and explore the beautiful gardens offering spectacular views of the Bosphorus Strait. A visit that will transport you to a world of imperial splendor!
• 🚢 Marmara Sea cruise to Princes' Islands (Büyükada)
  We embark on an unforgettable excursion to Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, traveling by ferry for about an hour and a half, during which you will enjoy dreamlike landscapes. Once on the island, we will take minibuses up a hill where a spectacular panorama of Istanbul opens up – perfect for unforgettable photos! We will visit St. George's Monastery, a place full of history and spirituality, and indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch at a local café.
• 🌙 Bosphorus by Night – Istanbul under the moonlight
  Dream with your eyes open on a Bosphorus by Night cruise, a magical journey on the strait that connects two continents. As darkness falls, Istanbul comes to life with bright lights reflecting in the calm waters of the Bosphorus. You will admire imposing palaces, historic fortifications, and famous bridges, all in a romantic and captivating atmosphere. An unforgettable experience, perfect for being enchanted by the nocturnal beauty of the city.
  (Excursion cost includes: transport, ferry tickets, island tour, lunch, and a soft drink).

Wednesday

Breakfast at the hotel and check-out

• 🐟 Istanbul Aquarium – An unforgettable underwater world
  Discover Istanbul Aquarium, an impressive 1.2 km thematic complex that will take you on a fascinating journey from tropical forests to the depths of the sea. Here you will encounter over 1,500 species and 17,000 creatures, including sharks, penguins, and capybaras – a true adventure for nature lovers and a perfect place for the whole family.
• 🛍️ Grand Bazaar Kapalı Çarşı – The magic of traditional shopping
  For those who prefer to get lost in the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar is the ideal place. One of the largest covered markets in the world, this historic place is perfect for finding authentic souvenirs, jewelry, spices, and much more, offering you a truly special shopping experience!

Departure from Istanbul to Iasi – The group's departure meeting is scheduled for noon.

ATTENTION!!!
The tour program may be modified without prior notice, depending on weather conditions, arrival time in Istanbul, unforeseen traffic jams in the city itself, etc.