Gala Dinner & Mini Concert

Bosphorus Cruise by Ferry

Istanbul City Culture and Bosphorus Tour with Valide Sultan Ship

June 24, 2023, Saturday, 13..00-15.00

Departure from Üsküdar Ferry Pier: Location

Tour guide and refreshments are free of charge for ISPC2023 participants. 

HIGHLIGHTS OF ISTANBUL

$50 per person

Your guide will be at the hotel at 08:30 am. Together, you will head to Topkapi Palace first. The Topkapi Palace was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. It is a large palace complex located on the first hill of Constantinople. The palace was built in the 15th century and served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. Here, you will also visit the Harem Section which was the private residence of the Ottoman sultans and their families. It was a secluded area within the palace complex where the sultan’s wives, concubines, and children lived. Then you will head to Basilica Cistern. The Basilica Cistern is a large underground water storage tank located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 6th century during the Byzantine Empire, and was used to store water for the city of Constantinople. After a lunch break at a local restaurant, you will visit Hagia Sophia first. Hagia Sophia was originally built as a Byzantine cathedral in the 6th century, but was later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. In 1935, it was turned into a museum, but it is turned in to a mosque again recently. The Hagia Sophia is famous for its architecture, which combines elements of Byzantine and Islamic design. It is known for its large dome, which was the largest in the world for many centuries.

Then, you will proceed to Blue Mosque. The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a historic mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the early 17th century during the rule of the Ottoman Empire. Today, the Blue Mosque is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul, and is known for its architectural beauty and grandeur. from here, you will head to Hippodrome, which was a public space in ancient Constantinople. It was a large open area used for chariot racing and other public events. After visiting Hippodrome, you will continue to Grand Bazaar to see this different atmosphere. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with more than 60 streets and over 4,000 shops. The bazaar was built in the 15th century and has been an important center of trade and commerce in Istanbul for centuries. Then back to the hotel.

WANDERING IN THE GOLDEN CITY

(USKUDAR AND KUZGUNCUK)

$40 per person

Commence your journey at 10:00 AM as you embark on a fascinating walking tour through the picturesque alleyways of Uskudar and its renowned district, Kuzguncuk. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, you will initially delve into the rich history of Uskudar, once known as Chrysopolis, the Golden City. Discover its glorious past, spanning from the Greek and Roman eras to the Ottoman Empire, as you explore some of the most significant historical buildings and mosques in the area. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to indulge in the local delicacies, sampling the flavors of the everyday market. As you make your way towards Kuzguncuk, you will be enveloped in the serenity of the Bosphorus, taking in the stunning views along the way. Here, you will have the chance to wander through the charming streets lined with traditional Ottoman houses, gaining an insight into the unique culture and lifestyle that still persists today. Conclude your tour as you return to your hotel, having experienced the rich history and culture of Uskudar and Kuzguncuk.

Note: Dates and other details will be announced later.