Board a boat for a cruise along the Bosphorus, the 20 mile waterway that links the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and the Mediterranean. Disembark on the Asian side at Anadolu Kavagi and hike to the ruins of a medieval castle first built by the Byzantines, perched high above the village. From here continue to Polonezkoy, a quaint Polish village founded in the 19 th century, for a simple farm lunch and a long walk through the village. Optional horseback riding is available. Evening at leisure to explore Istanbul on your own.
Today is a walking tour of Istanbul.
Marvel at the treasury with its jeweled thrones and other incredible riches, the legendary Harem Quarters and the kitchens where one of the greatest Chinese porcelain collections in existence is on display. After lunch at local restaurant, continue walking and cross the Golden Horn on the Galata Bridge. Take the Tunel to Beyoglu and walk around the old section to the Greek Church, Galatasaray and the American, British and Russian consulates to the Flower Passage. Continue walking on Istiklal, a no traffic street lined with small boutiques and stores to Taksim Square. From here your bus will be waiting to drive you back to the hotel.