Istanbul is where Europe and Asia collide, and where the past and present meet. You'll catch an early-morning flight to Turkey's largest city and spend a day exploring its rich heritage. Among the sights you'll visit are the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Egyptian Bazaar and Galata Bridge.On arrival in Istanbul, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the old town before heading to the Blue Mosque – so called because of the blue tiles that adorn its vast prayer hall. Next up is the Hippodrome – the site of ancient chariot races – where you'll see the German Fountain, Serpent Column and more. You'll then have free time for lunch.The afternoon is spent exploring the Topkapi Palace. The ‘forbidden city' where the Ottoman sultans lived, it's packed with crown jewels and lavishly decorated rooms. After free time to rummage around the Egyptian Bazaar, there's the option of a cruise on the Bosporus and dinner by the Galata Bridge before heading back to the airport.
Istanbul guided tour. Visit the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Hippodrome. Free time in Egyptian Bazaar and optional cruise & dinner