Program:

CITY WALLS The first breach of the walls was by the Fourth Crusade in 1204, the second by the cannons and troops of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror in 1453.

DRIVE BY BUS TO GOLDEN HORN As natural and extremely secure harbor, the Golden Horn has played an important role in the development of Istanbul. The inlet separates the European shore into two. It is approximately 8 km long, and the widest part is the entrance from the Bosphorus. Two streams drain into this inlet at its far end.

SPICE BAZAAR(Egyptian Bazaar): The air here is filled with the enticing aromas of cinnamon, caraway, saffron, mint, thyme and every other concievable herb and spice.

BOAT TRIP ON THE BOSPHORUS  A traditional excursion by boat along the waterway seperating Europe and Asia. The shore is lined with old wooden villas, palaces of marble, fortresses, and small fishing villages. During the excursion you will pass the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace, and further along, the parks and imperial pavillions of Yildiz Palace. On the coastal edge of this park, is Ciragan Palace, 300 meters of is marble facade faces the shore. At Ortakoy a great variety of artists gather every Sunday to display their work along the street. Ortakoy is a symbol of tolerance with a church, a mosque and a synagogue existing side by side for centuries.

RUMELI FORTRESS (FROM THE SEA, NO INTERIOR VISIT) Built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452 prior to the conquest of Istanbul, was completed in only four months to control and protect Bosphorus. It is one of the most beautiful works of military architecture anywhere in the world.

LUNCH

BEYLERBEYI PALACE The summer residence of Ottoman Sultans with its original furniture and magnificent gardens with the HAREM on the ASIAN.

BOSPHORUS BRIDGE Unique chance to step from one continent (ASIA) to another (EUROPE)

CAMLICA HILL The highest point in Istanbul. At the top of it you can rest and admire the magnificent panorama of Istanbul and the Bosphorus from the beautiful gardens, landscaped in traditional style.

SHOPPING POSSIBILITY AT BEDESTEN exhibits the traditional silk weaving girls at the carpet weaving courses authorised by the Ministry of National Education Possibility to see jewellery, handicrafts center and leatherware show. Free time provided for shopping.