Istanbul, Bursa & Çanakkale Tour (8 Nights / 9 Days)

After breakfast at the hotel, we meet in the lobby and begin our guided tour of Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula. In the Sultanahmet area, the heart of the city throughout history, we explore iconic landmarks on the first of Istanbul’s seven hills.

Our tour starts at the German Fountain, followed by a walk through Sultanahmet Square, known in Byzantine times as the Hippodrome and later as the Horse Square during the Ottoman era. We’ll see the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column from Delphi, and the Walled Obelisk.

Next, we visit the Blue Mosque, the only mosque in Istanbul with six minarets, famous for its exquisite blue Iznik tiles. Then, we continue to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, originally built in 537 AD and known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”

Our final stop will be the magnificent Topkapi Palace, which served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for over 450 years. After the tour, we return to the hotel.

Overnight stay: Istanbul

After breakfast at the hotel, we start our full-day cultural journey to discover some of the oldest and most spiritual parts of Istanbul.

We begin with a walking tour through the charming streets of Balat, famous for its historic Greek houses and colorful facades. Then, we head to Eyüp, one of the holiest districts in the city, where we visit the Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Tomb, an important pilgrimage site in Islamic history.

Next, we ride the cable car to the top of Pierre Loti Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the Golden Horn. Here, you can enjoy tea or coffee while taking in the panoramic scenery.

Following our visit to Pierre Loti, we head to the Fener Greek Patriarchate and Aya Yorgi Church, the spiritual center of Orthodox Christianity. We continue our walking tour through the historical Fener neighborhood, passing landmarks such as Kantemiroğlu Palace ruins, Sancaktar Hill, the iconic Fener Greek High School (Red School), and the Mevlevihane (Dervish Lodge).

Our final stop will be the Church of the Virgin Mary of the Mongols, the only church in Istanbul that has never been converted into a mosque. We then head to Balat’s old Jewish quarter, where we learn about the historic Ahrida, Yanbol, and Çana synagogues.

At the end of the tour, we return to the hotel.

Overnight stay: Istanbul

After breakfast at the hotel, we set out to explore the Asian side of Istanbul. We begin by crossing the Bosphorus Bridge and head to Çamlıca Hill, one of the highest points in the city, offering stunning panoramic views of Istanbul.

After enjoying some free time to take photos and relax, we continue to the Çamlıca Mosque, the largest mosque in modern Turkey, known for its elegant architecture and spiritual atmosphere.

Next, we descend to Üsküdar and offer free time for those who wish to visit the iconic Maiden’s Tower, located on a small islet just off the coast.

We then visit the tomb of Aziz Mahmud Hüdayi, a revered Sufi scholar and poet. After the visit, we return to our hotel. Guests who prefer may return on their own via ferry or other means.

Optional Activity: For guests interested, a 2-hour private Bosphorus cruise can be arranged in the morning. Details and pricing will be shared by your guide during the tour.

Overnight stay: Istanbul

After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our journey to Bursa, also known as Green Bursa. Crossing the Osmangazi Bridge, we arrive in the city and make a short stop at traditional Ottoman delight shops along the way.

Upon arrival, we visit the tombs of Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi, the founders of the Ottoman Empire. After a brief break, we enjoy lunch with a beautiful view over Bursa.

We then walk to the historic Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), one of the most important examples of early Ottoman architecture, and learn about its stunning calligraphy panels from our guide.

After the mosque visit, we give free time at the Covered Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) for shopping.

At the end of the day, we transfer to our hotel in Bursa.

Overnight stay: Bursa

After breakfast at the hotel, we drive to Cumalıkızık Village, a historical Ottoman village famous for its well-preserved architecture and traditional lifestyle. Here, you’ll explore cobblestone streets, centuries-old houses, and local markets while hearing its unique story from our guide.

Next, we head to Bursa Cable Car Station for a scenic ride up to Uludağ Mountain. Upon arrival at Sarı Alan Plateau, enjoy panoramic views and fresh mountain air.

After returning by cable car, we travel to Saitabant Waterfall, where we have lunch at a restaurant surrounded by nature.

In the afternoon, we continue to Yeşil Vadi Park, where optional ATV safari or Jeep tour adventures are available for thrill-seekers.

After some free time at the park, we return to Bursa city center and visit the beautiful Emir Sultan Mosque and Green Mosque (Yeşil Cami).

Overnight stay: Bursa

After breakfast, we depart from Bursa and head toward Çanakkale, stopping first at the historic Gallipoli Peninsula.

Here, we explore the WWI battlefields, where the Gallipoli Campaign took place. With the emotional narration of our guide, we visit significant landmarks such as:

• Anzac Cove

• Lone Pine Memorial

• Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial

• Arıburnu Cemeteries

• The Dardanelles

This visit offers a moving experience that honors the memories of the soldiers who fought here.

After the Gallipoli tour, we continue to our hotel in Çanakkale city center.

Overnight stay: Çanakkale

After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our return journey to Istanbul. Along the way, we drive through Tekirdağ and cross back into the European side of the country.

Upon arrival in Istanbul, we check in to our hotel and enjoy free time for rest or optional activities. Guests may choose to visit:

• Cagaloglu Hamam

• Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)

• Galataport for shopping or leisure

Overnight stay: Istanbul

After breakfast at the hotel, we complete our check-out procedures and gather at the lobby for the airport transfer. Our private vehicle takes us to Istanbul International Airport for your return flight to Europe.

After baggage drop-off, passport control, and boarding procedures, we bid farewell—bringing our unforgettable 9-day journey to a close.

We look forward to welcoming you again on another MONDES Travel experience!