Start your day with a pickup from your European-side Istanbul hotel, and travel to the port where your ferry awaits. Cruise south across the Sea of Marmara to Yalova, and then continue your journey by air-conditioned minivan. After just over two hours of traveling, arrive into Bursa, the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire.
Get to know Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, on a day trip from Istanbul! With a private guide at your side, travel by minivan and ferry to the city and then visit some of its landmark monuments. Gaze in awe at the colorful grandeur of the Green Mosque, and then learn of the city as an Ottoman-era silk powerhouse on a trip to Bursa Silk Market and the Koza Han building. After lunch, ride to the top of Mt Olympus (Snow Hill) by cable car and some impressive city views.
Ottoman Empire was one of the largest empires in the history. Bursa was its first capital. The city that is settled on the northwestern slopes of Mount Uludag is known as "Yesil Bursa" (meaning "Green Bursa") from its beautiful parks and gardens located throughout the city. This fourth largest city of Turkey is also known for its peaches, chestnuts, and silk industry.
Departure by ferry-boat via Yalova, enjoying the lovely countryside view. Drive to Bursa, former Ottoman Capital and lunch of famous "Kebap of Alexander The Great". Climb to Uludag, the legendary Mount Olympos, by Teleferik (Cable Car), visit to Ulucami (Grand Mosque), the Green Mosque and the Green Mausoleum, the old Silk Market in the Covered Bazaar. Late evening return to Istanbul and transfer to hotels.
The city is frequently cited as "Green Bursa" in a reference to the beautiful parks and gardens located across its urban tissue, as well as to the vast forests in rich variety that extend in its surrounding region. The city is synonymous with the mountain Uludağ which towers behind the city core and which is also a famous ski resort. The mausoleums of early Ottoman sultans are located in Bursa and the numerous edifices built throughout the Ottoman period constitute the city's main landmarks. The surrounding fertile plain, its thermal baths, several interesting museums, notably a rich museum of archaeology, and a rather orderly urban growth are further principal elements that complete Bursa's overall picture.
In depth exploration of Turkey from BCE to now. I now have a greater appreciation of its position within history and its influence globally. Would certainly recommend G Adventures as an introduction to this fascinating country
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Istanbul, Selçuk, Ayvalık, Canak
Istanbul, Selçuk, Ayvalık, Canakkale, Ankara, Goreme, Konya, Antalya, Pamukkale
Explore Büyükada, the largest of Turkey’s Princes’ Islands, on this full-day trip from Istanbul! Cruise across the Sea of Marmara, watching the sights of Istanbul slip from view, and then explore the pedestrianized island in the best possible way – by horse-drawn carriage! Hear the history of this laid-back island from your expert local guide and then spend time at leisure, perhaps relaxing on its beaches, before returning to Istanbul.
PHAETON RIDE, SPLENDID HOTEL, WOODEN HOUSES Büyükada, literally “Big Island” in Turkish, is the original Princes' Island, and the largest and most populated of the Princes’ Islands. Büyükada was used as an exile destination and as a monastery region during the Byzantine Christian period. During the Byzantium history the island was also used as a prison for those who were opposing the Emperor. It was Büyükada where the Byzantine empresses Irene and Zoe and Anna Dalassena were sent on....
Take the ferry to one of the Princes' Islands, Buyukada (Big Island) which is a quiet sea front town and summer holiday escape from the city. Leaving the Golden Horn by ferry, you will round Sarayburnu (Seraglio Point), the headland on which the domes and minarets of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque can be seen. We will pass four islands with their charming old Ottoman houses and finally reach Buyukada, the largest of the islands. Upon arrival to the island, you will see the lavish Ottoman mansions and other beautiful Victorian summer villas around the island .
We will take a tour of the island by Phaeton (horse and cart) and will pass elegant old wooden mansions and beautiful natural scenery. you can enjoy a delicious lunch in a cozy sea-side fish restaurant and relax looking back at the domes and minarets among skyscrapers of modern Istanbul's skyline. This a perfect day for relaxing and enjoying one of Istanbul's residents' favorite summer retreats. Return by ferry and drop off to hotel or port.
We will start the day with Spice Bazaar our guide explain the miracle of the herbs and we can taste delicious Turkish delights here. We depart from Spice Bazaar to have a sightseeing tour of the Golden Horn.
Then we will join the cruise on Bosphorus by public boat in 90 Minutes. From the awe-inspiring Dolmabahce Palace to the ancient Walls of Constantine and onto the Topkapi Palace, experience the best views the city has to offer while enjoying a wonderfull cruise along the Bosphorus. A journey along the Bosphorus with Cruise will give you a unique insight into the great city’s history.
We look forward to giving you a great experience.
CruiseSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This tour is a must in Istanbul. You will begin the day with Roman Hippodrome, where the chariot races were organised by the Romans and Byzantines. Blue Mosque-the only mosque with six minarets and its surroundings will be our next place to visit. Next, you will see the German Fountain - a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm 2. And listen the stories of his liaison with the orient. Hagia Sophia - The Church of Divine Wisdom is the highlight of this day. Following the visits your guide will take you the Grand Bazaar for demonstration of Turkish Handicrafts.
Special Note: Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Blue Mosque is closed on Fridays until 2 pm; Caferaga Medrese and Blue Mosque will switch places on Fridays.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Tour of "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.
Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. (Entrance ticket is not included)
Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets,
built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world
with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir.
(Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
Lunch at a Turkish Restaurant.
Topkapı Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics
of Prophet Mohammed, kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy section etc. Live guide commentary is not allowed in special sections. (Harem is not included in the program)
Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine). It was also the second largest church in İstanbul after Hagia Sophia. It’s a typical Byzantine structure with its materials and architecture, was built on the site of an old temple in 330.
If you are looking for something that includes Cappadocia, Ephesus Ruins & House of Virgin Mary, Pamukkale Travertines and Istanbul all together, then this is the package for you. Book your package do not miss this unforgettable holiday chance which includes the most popular destinations of Turkey.
Don't waste a minute with planning as 6 nights accommodation, most meals, museum entry fees, transportation, and domestic flights are all included in the tour. Simply sit back and enjoy the exploring most famous destinations of Turkey.
The flights from/to Istanbul generally we use, listed below. However, this may vary due to the availability;
-From Istanbul - Departure around 18:30 - 21:00 and arrive to Cappadocia around 20:00 - 23:00.
-From Denizli- Departure around 18:30 - 19:50 and arrive to Istanbul around 19:50 - 23:00.
We do not operate big bus tours with 40 people in one bus. We operate Small-Group Tours up to 15 people.
Explore the best of Turkey and enjoy the Mediterranean on this private 8-day guided tour. See the best of Istanbul, the fairy chimneys at Cappadocia, the open-air museum at Göreme, and the incredible city of Antalya.
This incredible tour package takes you through Istanbul for a full two days, Cappadocia for two full days, Antalya for two full days, and Pamukkale for one full day! This is the perfect trip for those who want to explore Turkey at a leisurely pace, and it includes a full free day in Antalya for your explorations.
The package includes accommodation, flights, expert guides to each destination, meals, transport, and more. As this is a private tour, it is possible to customize it to your requirements.
First time in Turkey and this was an incredible way to view the city. The staff was kind, polite, and wanted to ensure every guest was happy. I HIGHLY recommend. Comfortable, drinks/meals provided, and easy to relax as a foreigner.
Tour of "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.
Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian.(entrance ticket is not included)
Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets,
built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the
old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are
the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world
with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir.
(Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
Dolmabahçe Palace, recent residence for Ottoman Sultans built by two Ottoman architects Karabet and Nikogos Balyan on a 110.000 m² area and served as the main administrative center
of the Ottoman Empire. Famous with great collection of European antiquity, furniture and
4.5 tons chandelier, the palace has 285 rooms and 46 halls.
Bosphorus Bridge, unique chance to step from one continent (Europe) to another (Asia) in 2 minutes.
Çamlıca Hill, famous for its widest bird’s eye panoramic view of İstanbul from Marmara Sea to the Black Sea, gives a chance to see the Bosphorus and Golden Horn from one of the best point of the highest and most appealing places of the city.
An enchanted evening cruise starts while you sip your welcome drink and enjoy the marvelous scenery as the sun sets on the Bosphorus. Chance to view and photograph the precious relics of three world dominating Empires: Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman.
The royal Dolmabahçe Palace, the late residence of the Ottoman Sultans; Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges connecting the two continents Asia and Europe; Rumeli Fortress, the historical armament built by the Conqueror Sultan, marble palaces, ancient wooden villas of Ottoman style besides modern residentials. These are all things you will see on this tour.
In short, explore Istanbul from the sea, on Bosphorus, a unique link between East and West, Past and Present. Do all this, while enjoying a welcome drink and perhaps a wonderful sunset, if the weather permits.
This tour is a must in Istanbul. You will begin the day with Roman Hippodrome, where the chariot races were organised by the Romans and Byzantines. Blue Mosque-the first mosque with six minarets and its surroundings will be our next place to visit. Next, you will see the German Fountain - a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm 2. And listen the stories of his liaison with the orient.
Hagia Sophia - The Church of Divine Wisdom is the highlight of this day. Following the visits your guide will take you the Grand Bazaar for demonstration of Turkish Handicrafts. After Grand Bazaar we will have lunch.
Following lunch the next stop is Topkapi Palace Museum. This is the big one...the most important museum of Turkey and the Balkan Peninsula. It is an incomparably rich treasure chest, brimming with things of historical importance. First, second, third and fourth courtyards; the Audience Hall, Divan-the High Court, Historical Kitchens, Royal Stables, the Treasury, gardens, kiosks…Probably the best commentary on Ottoman History, art and its culture is simply to come direct to the First Courtyard of this amazing Palace.
Next place to see is Hagia Irene Church (from outside). Our final place of interest are Caferaga Medrese and Sogukcesme Street.
All in all, to see these things with a great guide...well, you will never be quite the same again.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers