Experience Istanbul

See the Beauty on the Bosporus with New Eyes

30 September - 04 October 2026

Greek city foundation, seat of government under Emperor Constantine, power center of the Ottoman Empire, cultural and economic heart of Turkey: Istanbul proudly reflects on its unique history and its development into a modern megacity. Experience the Bosphorus metropolis in all its facets.

Immerse yourself in Ottoman and Byzantine times, smell the spices at the Egyptian Bazaar, cruise the Bosphorus on Istanbul’s characteristic ferries, and be enchanted by the cosmopolitan life on the Asian side of the city. Your knowledgeable tour guide expertly explains history and modernity, knows the best restaurants and fascinating stories about Istanbulites, and provides insights into modern urban planning and sustainable concepts in this metropolis of millions.

From your hotel, Aloft Karaköy, located in the European-influenced district of Beyoğlu, you start your daily sightseeing tours in comfort. You move through old and new history using modern transport (tram, metro) and Bosphorus ferries, gaining a completely different perspective of this fascinating city.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

• Transfer to the hotel
• Walk along Istiklal Street
• Dinner with local specialties

Day 2: Splendor and Grandeur – Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Süleyman Mosque

• Topkapi Palace including Treasury and Harem
• Hagia Sophia
• Grand Bazaar
• Süleyman Mosque

Day 3: Egyptian Bazaar & Bosphorus Cruise

• Egyptian Bazaar including spice presentation
• Bosphorus cruise with a stop at a fishing village

Day 4: Sultanahmet & Excursion to the Asian Side

• Blue Mosque
• Hippodrome, Obelisk, and Serpent Column
• Underground Cistern
• Boutique for Turkish handicrafts
• Excursion to Istanbul’s Asian side
• Farewell dinner at a local restaurant

Day 5: Departure to Luxembourg

• Free time
• Transfer to the airport