Drive to the Old City where you’ll find the Hippodrome, a reminder of what was the center of Byzantium’s political scene. Take in the breathtaking views of the Blue Mosque with its unique exterior defined by its six minarets, domes and semi-domes. You’ll admire its interior, covered with beautifully hand painted blue tiles which give the mosque its most popular name. Enjoy a boat ride along the shoreline of the Bosphorus and take in the views of the Dolmabahce Palace, the Beylerbeyi Palace and the few remaining towers of the Anadolu Hisar, where you’ll see the city’s connection to the Black Sea.

Next visit one of the most colorful sites in Istanbul – the Grand Bazaar. You’ll have a chance to explore the exotic atmosphere of the covered part briefly. Then visit the open and modern section, where you’ll enjoy local snacks and a presentation of carpets, leather or jewelry, followed by time for shopping.