Breakfast at the hotel and departure for the Asian side of Istanbul. We begin in Kadıköy, known in classical antiquity and during the Roman and Byzantine periods as Chalcedon (Greek: Χαλκηδών), where the Council of Chalcedon, the fourth ecumenical council of the Christian Church, was held. Today it is a lively district, full of markets where you can find fresh fruit, seafood, and trendy cafes, while also seeing several historical sites and buildings.

As you pass the coast of Üsküdar, you'll see the Maiden's Tower, one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. Located on a small island, it's believed the tower served as a station for visiting ships around 400 BC.

Next up is Kuzguncuk, another ancient settlement dating back to the Byzantine era of Justinian II. The area is also known as the first Jewish settlement on the Asian side of Istanbul. Today, the district is famous for its quiet streets lined with colorful houses and for its rich religious tapestry, where you can find a mosque, a church, and a synagogue located close together.

Meal Included: Breakfast

There's no better way to experience Istanbul's more relaxed side for a day than with a visit to the Princes' Islands. Enjoy the cool breeze and enchanting views on the way to Büyükada, the largest island in the chain. Famous for their mild climates, lush vegetation, and ornate Ottoman houses, all the islands are protected from traffic. We'll use horse-drawn carriages, called Hybrid Motor Phaetons, to explore the island and its beautiful landscape of elegant mansions draped in purple bougainvillea, reminiscent of a more tranquil and sophisticated era. We'll enjoy lunch at one of the many excellent fresh fish restaurants lining the waterfront, gazing at Istanbul's Asian coast—so close, yet it feels worlds away.

Meal Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. We begin with a visit to İstiklal Avenue, a pedestrian thoroughfare. İstiklal Avenue, also known as Independence Avenue (Turkish: İstiklâl Caddesi), is one of Istanbul's most famous avenues. Located in the historic Beyoğlu district, this pedestrian street is home to boutiques, music shops, bookstores, art galleries, cinemas, theaters, libraries, cafes, pubs, nightclubs with live music, historic pastry shops, chocolate shops, and restaurants. Our next stop is the famous Galata Tower. The tower is located in the Galata district, across the Golden Horn from the former Constantinople. This site was once the city of Galata, a colony belonging to the Republic of Genoa between the 13th and 15th centuries. Today it enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of Istanbul, very close to the Bosphorus where it meets the Golden Horn. Next, we visit Karaköy. It's one of the oldest commercial centers, famous for its banks and office buildings. This is the modern name for the old Galata district. It has been renowned as a port and trading center throughout history. Today, it's one of Istanbul's main attractions with its colorful streets, cafes, pubs, and historic buildings. We'll have the opportunity to see the historic Bank Street (formerly known as Voivoda Street), mosques, churches, the docks, and Galataport, a striking modern structure. Transfer to the hotel.

Meal Included: Breakfast

Breakfast and free time. Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Meal Included: Breakfast