Istanbul - Where Europe and Asia Meet

5 days from £740 per person

Vaulted church interior with religious icons and visitors

Picturesquely situated on the banks of the Bosphorus, with a stunning skyline of domes and minarets, Istanbul is one of the great cities of the world. For over 1,500 years the city has been the capital of some of the world's greatest empires and, straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, never fails to capture the imagination. This short city break in northern Turkey focuses on the area of Sultanahmet, old Istanbul, an eclectic mix of historic mosques, covered souks and striking Roman archeological remains. Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures and the natural stepping stone between East and West.

Route: Istanbul

Itinerary Highlights

Istanbul straddles the continents of Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. In the Old City there are cultural influences from the many empires that have ruled here.

Amble along the cities labyrinth of cobbled streets that wind their way past quaint wooden houses, the striking Blue Mosque and into the ancient Grand Bazaar.

Marvel at the towering minarets peppered across the city, visit the Basilica Cistern and great Topkapi Palace or go for a relaxing and steamy Turkish bath.

Itinerary: Istanbul - Where Europe and Asia Meet

Day 1 London to Istanbul

Today fly from London to Istanbul with British Airways and on your arrival you will be met and transferred by car to your hotel. (N)

Accommodation in Istanbul: Ottoman Imperial Hotel

Alternative option: Pera Palace Hotel

Upgrade option: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Alternative upgrade option: Ciragan Palace Kempinski

Days 2 - 4 Istanbul

Over the next three days you are at leisure to relax and explore this remarkable city. During your stay you will receive a one day private tour of the old city in the company of an English speaking local guide. Places of interest include Topkapi Palace where for 400 years the Ottomans Empire was ruled, the vast underground basilica water cistern with its 336 columns and masterful Byzantine engineering and the Hagia Sophia – the ‘Church of the Holy Wisdom’. Once Christendom’s greatest church, the Hagia Sofia is over 1,400 years old and today is considered one of the world’s finest architectural and religious monuments. Also visit the Blue Mosque, so called for its sparkling Iznik blue tiles which adorn the interior walls as well as the labyrinthine medieval Grand Bazaar where your senses will be assailed by over 4,000 shops. (B)

Accommodation in Istanbul: Ottoman Imperial Hotel

Alternative option: Pera Palace Hotel

Upgrade option: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Alternative upgrade option: Ciragan Palace Kempinski

Day 5 Istanbul to London

Today you will be met and transferred by car back to Istanbul Airport for your return flight to London Heathrow. (B)

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

International flights from the UK
Private car and driver
Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
Hotel accommodation and taxes

What's not included

Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.