Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul & Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Dinner Included
Arrival & Transfer: Welcome to Turkey! Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, meet your representative and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Free time to relax before the evening program.
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: In the evening, transfer to the Bosphorus for an unforgettable dinner cruise. Sail between Europe and Asia while enjoying spectacular views of Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Maiden's Tower, Rumeli Fortress, Bosphorus Bridge and Beylerbeyi Palace. Traditional Turkish entertainment and folklore performances accompany your dinner. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2 – Istanbul Old City Tour Breakfast & Lunch Included
Historic Peninsula: After breakfast, depart for a full-day guided city tour of Istanbul's historic peninsula. Visit the magnificent Topkapı Palace, the residence of Ottoman Sultans for nearly four centuries and one of Turkey's most important cultural landmarks. Continue to the iconic Blue Mosque, famous for its elegant architecture and beautiful Íznik tiles. Walk through the historic Hippodrome Square, once the social and sporting center of Constantinople.
Hagia Sophia & Grand Bazaar: Optional Entrance to Hagia Sophia: €30 per person. Hagia Sophia, one of the most important monuments in world history. Your guide will provide detailed information about its fascinating Byzantine and Ottoman heritage from the exterior. After lunch, visit the famous Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, featuring more than 4,000 shops selling carpets, jewelry, ceramics, spices and souvenirs. Return to the hotel.
Day 3 – Bosphorus, Dolmabahçe Palace & Two Continents Tour Breakfast & Lunch Included
Dolmabahçe & Bosphorus Cruise: After breakfast, visit the colorful Spice Bazaar before continuing to the magnificent Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the most luxurious palaces in Europe. After lunch, embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise offering spectacular views of waterfront mansions, palaces and historic fortresses.
Asian Side & Panoramic Views: Cross to the Asian side and visit Çamlıca Hill, the highest point in Istanbul, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the city. Continue with a panoramic drive along the Golden Horn and the historic city walls before returning to the hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 4 – Flight to Van & Leisure Time Breakfast Included
Flight to Van: After breakfast, transfer to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Van.
Leisure Time & Lake Van: Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Discover the atmosphere of Eastern Anatolia and enjoy views of the magnificent Lake Van. Overnight in Van.
Day 5 – Van City & Akdamar Island Tour Breakfast & Lunch Included
Akdamar Island & Holy Cross Church: After breakfast, depart for a full-day exploration of Van. Drive along the shores of Lake Van before boarding a boat to Akdamar Island, home to the famous Holy Cross Church (Akdamar Church), one of the finest examples of Armenian medieval architecture.
Van Castle & Urartian Heritage: After lunch, continue to Van Castle, dramatically overlooking the lake and surrounding plains. Explore the ancient fortress built by the Urartian Kingdom and enjoy spectacular panoramic views. Return to the hotel. Overnight in Van.
Day 6 – Muradiye Waterfall & Hosap Castle Tour Breakfast & Lunch Included
Muradiye Waterfall: After breakfast, depart for the beautiful Muradiye Waterfall, one of the region's most impressive natural attractions.
Hoşap Castle: After lunch, continue to the magnificent Hoşap Castle, one of Eastern Turkey's most impressive medieval fortresses. Built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the valley, the castle offers remarkable views and fascinating insight into the region's history. Return to Van. Overnight in Van.
Day 7 – Departure Breakfast Included
Checkout & Transfer: After breakfast, check-out from the hotel and transfer to Van Airport according to your departure flight schedule. Optional activities may be arranged depending on departure flight timing and availability.
Conclusion: End of Grandoria Services.