Day Trips from Istanbul to Europe - page 16

Discover the highlights of Bursa and Uludag on a full-day tour from Istanbul. Visit landmarks in Bursa such as the Great Mosque (Ulu Camii) and Green Mosque (Yesil Camii), and other sites in the former capital of the Ottoman Empire. Travel by cable car up Uludag mountain for great views and a barbecue lunch, then take an ATV ride or choose another activity (optional at own expense).

Traverse the peaceful and picturesque Gallipoli Peninsula, a historic landscape that was a significant battleground back in World War I. A long drive to the wonderful town of Eceabat where you energize by feasting on a delicious meal at a local restaurant. After a satisfying lunch, you will begin the tour around the peninsula, accompanied by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who will captivate you with his stories and commentary on the various sites you will visit. Since the Gallipoli Peninsula was a battleground during the war, a lot of soldiers, a good number of them Australian and Kiwi, perished there, so there is a poignant atmosphere that pervades all throughout the landscape. You can even pay your tributes to the fallen soldiers by the memorial sites found in Brighton Beach, ANZAC Cove, the Nek Ridge, and Chunuk Bair. You will even visit the famous Johnston's Jolly, a battlesite with trenches where many Turkish and Allied soldiers took cover.

Visit the legendary city of Troy on this day-trip from Istanbul. Feast on Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant when you arrive in Eceabat. After lunch, wander around the ancient ruins of Troy, including the Odeon stage, the Bouleuterion and a replica of the Trojan horse. Witness ongoing excavations and learn more about Greek mythology. You will even go on a ferry ride on the Dardanelles between Europe and Asia.

Tour starts at the old Hippodrome of Constantinople which was the sports and social center of the old city. Discover major works of art including the Obelisk from Egypt, the Serpentine Column from Delphi, and the fountain of Willhelm II, constructed by the Germans. Continue to the Blue Mosque, whose six minarets are a key fixture of Istanbul’s skyline. Next, head for the Topkapi Palace, which was home to the Ottoman emperors between the 15th and 19th centuries. Marvel at the jewel-stuffed treasury and priceless displays of Oriental porcelain. Move on to the Hagia Sophia Mosque. Behold the dome and stunning Byzantine mosaics of this architectural gem as your guide recounts its turbulent history. Then visit the Grand Bazaar with over 3,000 shops selling everything from carpets to jewelry to ceramics and leather goods. Stroll around the Spice Bazaar with its incredible smell from almost every spice imaginable, as well as dried fruits and nuts, sweets and the ubiquitous Turkish Delight.

Cross the Sea of Marmara by ferry from Istanbul to explore the city of Bursa on this full-day tour. Take a cable car to the top of Mount Uludag and learn about the history of the Olympic games and the city. Visit the Green Mosque and mausoleum, stroll through the silk market, shop for gifts at the bazaar and enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch before heading back to Istanbul.

Escape bustling Istanbul for a day with a small-group cruise trip to the Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara. Board a ferry and admire landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque from the water as you cruise toward these nine, traffic-free islets. Dock at Buyukada and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour, restaurant lunch, and free time before your return ferry. Includes pickup and drop-off from selected hotels, boat trip, and lunch.

Experience Uludağ in the most exclusive way — privately, comfortably, and stress-free. Your personal driver picks you up right from your hotel door in Istanbul, and you enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Bursa before heading straight up to the mountain. No crowds, no waiting, no rushed schedules. Your ski equipment and ski clothing are fully included, so you can simply arrive and start enjoying the snow. This tour is designed entirely around you — freedom, comfort, and a luxury winter escape with a personal touch.