INTERNATIONAL ISTANBUL

Touch down at Istanbul Airport (IST) and make your way to the hotel. You’ll be greeted by our Local Insider, who will accompany the group throughout the trip. Meet your fellow travellers over a welcome drink in the evening, followed by a traditional Turkish dinner in the heart of the city.

Dive deep into the cultural hotspots of Istanbul today. First up, the Blue Mosque, one of the most important places of worship in the world. The 400-year-old building is named after the intricate blue iznik tiles that decorate the interior. Also stroll through Sultanahmet Square, the site of an ancient stadium that once held 100,000 spectators, and visit Hagia Sophia, one of the largest churches in the world. Next, Topkapi Palace, home to 25 Ottoman sultans across 500 years. Finish the day shopping at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest markets in the world.

Start today at the fragrant 17th-century Spice Market, where stalls are piled high with aromatic saffron, paprika and more. Next, cruise along the Bosporus on a ferry, passing Dolmabahçe Palace and the Rumeli Fortress. Stop at the arty neighbourhood Kuzguncuk on the Asian side to sample Turkish delicacies including borek (pastry stuffed with mince or cheese). Continue to Kadikoy, home to a fish market, plus shops selling antiques and second-hand books. Rest your feet at a baklava shop and sample their sweets, washed down with a traditional Turkish coffee. Return to the European side on the ferry.

Explore the city on your own today. Alternatively, join an optional tour exploring Istiklal and Balat. You'll stop at the largest Greek Orthodox church in Istanbul and one of the first theatres in the Ottoman empire, as well as visit the lesser-known Unesco-listed neighbourhoods of Balat and Fener which showcase the rich multicultural history of Istanbul. Top it off with a ride on The Tunnel, one of the oldest subterranean railways in the world. After lunch, discover the Dolmabahçe Palace and the bohemian village of Ortaköy, dotted with cafes and open-air souvenir shops.

Tuck into one final breakfast at the hotel before saying farewell to your fellow travellers. Check out and make your way to Istanbul Airport (IST). Alternatively, continue your journey around Turkey – there’s so much more to see.