More of Istanbul

Pick up from your hotel and drive to the Old City to visit the Archaeological Museum. After visiting the Highlights of the Museum, drive to Chora Church. The 11th century church of St. Saviour in Chora is, after Haghia Sophia, the most important Byzantine monument in Istanbul. The walls are decorated with superb 14th century frescoes and mosaics on a gold background. These influenced the European Renaissance. The church is a remarkable museum of Byzantine art. After lunch, drive to Dolmabahce Palace to visit the palace and the Harem section. Dolmabahce Palace is the winter residence of 19th century Ottoman Sultans. This ornate palace reflects a synthesis of late Baroque and Rococo styles with 228 rooms and 22 reception rooms. The next stop on the tour will stop at the picturesque fishermen’s village of Ortakoy, where you can enjoy a coffee and panoramic view of the passing boats on today’s tour route from the beautiful cobbled square overlooking the Bosphorus. Finally, take a boat from Ortakoy for a 1-hour Bosphorus Cruise amongst the two continents.