Istanbul
Credit: Explora _ 2005
ISTANBUL ITINERARY
Explore Istanbul’ s lively blend of ancient history, modern culture, and delicious food with a two- or three-day trip in this charming city. Located on the triangular peninsula between Asia and Europe, the city offers a special perspective by combining the histories of two continents into one culture. Turkish Airlines makes it easy to explore, with nonstop service from Washington Dulles International Airport( IAD) to Istanbul International Airport( IST) twice daily.
Passengers need a minimum layover of 20 hours, and travelers with a connection at Istanbul Airport can enjoy the Stopover Program on both outbound and return flights. Economy travelers will get two free nights, while business travelers receive three free nights at participating hotels.
MORNING: MOSQUES, PALACES, AND BAZAARS
Begin your exploration of Istanbul with its most iconic landmarks, where East meets West. Start at the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. This sixth-century architectural wonder is best experienced in the morning, before crowds gather within its mosaiccovered walls. Originally a Byzantine cathedral, Hagia Sophia transformed into a mosque during the Ottoman conquest of 1453, then became a museum in 1934, and finally reverted to a mosque in 2020. Its layered history embodies the cultural and religious evolution of Turkey.
From there, step into the luxurious past at Dolmabahçe Palace and Topkapi Palace. Both palaces showcase the grandeur of sultans who once ruled this cross-continental city. Wander through ornate courtyards, meticulously manicured gardens, and opulent pavilions, admiring collections of historical artifacts and treasures that date back to the third and fourth centuries.
Next, delve into the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Spanning 61 covered streets and featuring over 4,000 shops, it’ s a labyrinth of sensory delights. Browse Turkish rugs, glowing lanterns, handmade pottery, colorful spices, intricate jewelry, and peshtemals( traditional hammam towels). Visit early to beat the crowds, and don’ t hesitate to haggle. Traders often invite you for a cup of tea while you negotiate, adding a touch of hospitality to the shopping ritual. The Grand Bazaar is not just a marketplace; it’ s a living piece of Istanbul’ s cultural heritage.
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SUMMER 2025
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