Seeing the beauty on the Bosphorus with new eyes

04 November - 08 November 2026

Greek city foundation, administrative seat under Emperor Constantine, power center of the Ottoman Empire, cultural and economic heart of Turkey: Istanbul proudly looks back on its unique history and its transformation into the modern megacity of today. Situated between continents, eras, and languages, the city has always fascinated and challenged writers – a place of change and intense encounters.

You will immerse yourself in Ottoman, Byzantine, and modern times, smell spices in the Egyptian Bazaar, cruise through the Bosphorus on Istanbul’s iconic ferries, and be enchanted by the cosmopolitan life on the Asian side of the city. Your local tour guide expertly explains history and modern life, knows the best restaurants as well as fascinating stories about Istanbul’s inhabitants, and shares insights into urban development and sustainable concepts in this metropolis of millions. Framed by small readings from works by Turkish and international authors, which highlight Istanbul’s different facets in literary form, you will experience the fascinating Bosphorus metropolis in all its dimensions.

From your stylish hotel The Marmara Pera**** in the most atmospheric district of Istanbul, the European-influenced Beyoğlu, you will start (by private coach) your daily excursions. In the surrounding area you will find cafés, restaurants, as well as the popular shopping and promenade street Istiklal, lined with beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, galleries, and shops.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul

• Flight Luxembourg–Istanbul (Turkish Airlines, 10:50 a.m. Arrival 4:05 p.m., approx. 3¼ hours flight time)
• Transfer to hotel
• Walk along Istiklal Street
• Dinner with local specialties
• Overnight at The Marmara Pera**** in Beyoğlu/Istanbul

Day 2: Splendor and Glory: Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Süleymaniye

• Topkapi Palace including Treasury and Harem
• Hagia Sophia
• Grand Bazaar
• Süleymaniye Mosque
• Overnight at The Marmara Pera****

Day 3: Egyptian Bazaar & Bosphorus Cruise

• Egyptian Bazaar including spice presentation
• Bosphorus ferry cruise, stop in a fishing village
• Overnight at The Marmara Pera****

Day 4: Sultanahmet & Asian Side Excursion

• Blue Mosque
• Hippodrome, Obelisk and Serpent Column
• Underground Cistern
• Boutique for Turkish handicrafts
• Trip to the Asian side of Istanbul
• Farewell dinner in a local restaurant
• Overnight at The Marmara Pera****

Day 5: Return to Luxembourg

• Free time
• Transfer to airport
• Flight Istanbul–Luxembourg (Turkish Airlines, 15:40–17:05)