Inside Istanbul Extension

(3-night Pre-trip Itinerary) You will be met upon arrival at Istanbul airport and transferred to your hotel. Overnight at Hotel Levni...Meals on your own

Meet with your guide again for a scenic ferry ride to the Prince's Islands, an archipelago in the Sea of Marmara just off the Asian coast of Istanbul. In the 19th century, grand Ottoman mansions were built on the islands and much of the beauty and romance of that time still survives today. Explore Prinkipo (Buyukada), the largest of the islands, by circling its coastline by electric carriage (no gasoline powered vehicles are allowed), heading to the less populated part of the island through forests of age-old pine trees and alongside seaside cliffs. After lunch at one of the famous fish restaurants along Prinkipo's seaside, walk up to the monastery of St. George on Yucetepe Hill, perhaps lingering to taste some of the wine produced here. Return to Istanbul on an early afternoon ferry. Later we can arrange an optional visit to the Turkish Hamam Bath for a unique bathing experience. These historic baths are near your hotel, so if you don't wish to attend you can return to the hotel. (The cost of the bath is not included—approximately $30 per person.) Dinner is on your own, with an overnight at Hotel Levni...BL

Ride the streetcar with your private guide to reach the Galata Bridge, then take the “Tunel,” Istanbul's underground metro, to the Pera District for a walk to the Galata Tower, a 14th century Genoese monument with breathtaking views of all of Istanbul, and visit the Calligraphy Museum that doubles as the local Convent of Whirling Dervishes. The Pera District is the new and fashionable part of “old Stamboul,” where the embassies are located and where we see the “Stamboullou” locals promenade as we walk along Istiklal Avenue, a pedestrian street lined with embassies, churches, cafes, patisseries, great restaurants, and interesting shops in interior passageways. Stroll through the Flower Passage and Fish Market, then after lunch at a restaurant, visit the sumptuous Dolmabahce Palace on the Bosphorus, the final residence of the Sultans. You could also visit the Maritime Museum, one of Istanbul's most interesting little museums, where among other things are palatial Ottoman caiques (private boats once used by the sultans). Bid farewell to your guide and enjoy dinner on your own. Overnight at Hotel Levni...BL

Day 1 Prince's Islands

A visa is required for U.S. citizens visiting Turkey. You can obtain your visa on arrival ($20).