Tour-5 8-Day Istanbul and Bodrum: Culture and Coastal Leisure

Not Rated
Duration

8 Days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

99 people

Languages

Ümit

This 8-day journey combines the cultural depth of Istanbul with the relaxed atmosphere of the Bodrum Peninsula, offering a balanced itinerary designed for travelers who wish to explore history and architecture without rushing, followed by time to unwind on the Aegean coast.

The tour begins in Istanbul, where the legacies of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires are explored through carefully curated tours of the historic peninsula, cosmopolitan districts, and neighborhoods that reflect the city’s layered urban life. Guided visits focus on context and interpretation, providing a meaningful understanding of Istanbul beyond surface-level sightseeing.

Midway through the journey, the pace slows with a flight to Bodrum, ancient Halicarnassus, where cultural heritage blends seamlessly with coastal leisure. With two full days at leisure, travelers are free to relax by the sea, explore Bodrum town at their own pace, or enjoy optional experiences, making this tour ideal for those seeking a refined cultural introduction paired with a restful seaside finale.

Highlights

  • Discover the Historic Areas of Istanbul (UNESCO World Heritage Site) with expert local guidance
  • Visit iconic landmarks including Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and the Blue Mosque
  • Explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, historic centers of trade and daily life
  • Admire the architectural mastery of Süleymaniye Mosque, designed by Mimar Sinan
  • Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, sailing between Europe and Asia
  • Experience Istanbul’s diverse neighborhoods, from Galata to İstiklal Street
  • Fly seamlessly from Istanbul to the Aegean coast
  • Discover Bodrum Castle, home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, one of the world’s leading museums in its field
  • Learn about ancient Halicarnassus, birthplace of Herodotus and home to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (site visit)
  • Enjoy relaxed days in Bodrum, with time for beaches, coastal walks, and marina life
  • Savor Aegean cuisine and fresh seafood, with restaurant recommendations favored by locals

Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul

Arrival in Istanbul and meet & greet at the airport. Transfer to your hotel in the city center. The remainder of the day is free to rest after your international flight or take a short walk in the surrounding neighborhood.  Optional in the afternoon or evening: a traditional Turkish hamam experience, offering an introduction to Ottoman bathing culture and wellness traditions. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 2 – Istanbul Tour 1: Imperial Capitals & the Historic Peninsula (UNESCO)

Today explores the historic core of Istanbul, shaped by the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires over more than fifteen centuries. Begin at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once the ceremonial center of the Byzantine capital. Continue to the Blue Mosque, admired for its classical Ottoman design, followed by Hagia Sophia, one of the most influential monuments in world history, renowned for its monumental dome and layered religious past. In the afternoon, visit Topkapı Palace, the former residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans. The Harem Section offers insight into palace life and court traditions. Conclude the day at the Basilica Cistern, a masterpiece of Byzantine engineering.  Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 3 – Istanbul Tour 2: Cosmopolitan Districts, Trade & the Bosphorus

Begin in Beyoğlu, walking along İstiklal Street, reflecting Istanbul’s 19th-century cosmopolitan life. Visit Galata Tower for panoramic views over the Golden Horn, Old City, and Bosphorus Later, explore the Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar), followed by Rüstem Pasha Mosque, celebrated for its exceptional İznik tilework The day concludes with a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, sailing between Europe and Asia past palaces and waterfront mansions. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 4 – Istanbul Tour 3: Golden Horn, Living Neighborhoods & Local Life

Visit the Chora Church (Kariye), one of the finest examples of late Byzantine art, renowned for its mosaics and frescoes.  Continue through the historic neighborhoods of Fener and Balat, where churches, synagogues, mosques, and traditional houses reflect centuries of layered urban life.  Cross to the Asian side by ferry and explore Kadıköy, one of Istanbul’s most vibrant local districts, known for its markets, cafés, and everyday city life. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 5 – Leisure Day & Afternoon Flight to Bodrum

The morning is free at leisure in Istanbul, allowing time for independent exploration, shopping, or relaxation. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Bodrum. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel on the Bodrum Peninsula. Overnight in Bodrum.

Day 6 – Leisure Day in Bodrum

A full day at leisure to enjoy Bodrum, whether relaxing by the sea, exploring the town independently, or joining optional activities such as a boat excursion or coastal walk.  Overnight in Bodrum.

Day 7 – Leisure Day in Bodrum

Another free day to enjoy Bodrum’s relaxed Aegean atmosphere, beaches, waterfront promenades, cafés, and historic harbor at your own pace.  Overnight in Bodrum.

Day 8 – Departure Day

Transfer to Bodrum Airport (BJV) for your flight to Istanbul, connecting with your international departure.

  • Professional Tour Guide in English
  • Admission Fees
  • A la Carte Lunches w/soft drinks
  • Transportation with Luxury, Air-Conditioned Minivans (In Istanbul, we use public transportation to avoid traffic)
  • Domestic Flights
  • All Taxes
  • Personal Expenses
  • Tips or Gratuities

Multi day

Ümit

Tour's Location

How to Tailor This Package for Your Needs:
  • Extend or Lessen Your Stay: You can choose to spend more time in certain areas that interest you most or shorten your stay in others to better fit your schedule.
  • Add or Remove Tours: Customize your itinerary by adding additional tours or removing any that don't align with your preferences.
  • Add Optional Activities and Experiences: Enhance your trip with a variety of optional activities such as a traditional Turkish Bath, a mesmerizing Whirling Dervish Performance, engaging Cooking Classes, Horse Riding adventures, and more.
  • Change Hotels or Room Types: Opt for different accommodations or upgrade your room types to match your comfort and luxury preferences.
  • Add a Private Motor Yacht Tour in Istanbul: Experience Istanbul from a new perspective with a private motor yacht tour, offering a unique and luxurious way to see the city's stunning sights.
Important Information for Payment Processing:
  • Notify Your Bank: Please ensure you have informed your bank that you will be traveling to Turkey and that you will be making a payment to a travel agency in Turkey. This helps avoid any potential payment blocks or declines.
  • Cardholder Name: Ensure that the name entered on the payment page matches the name on the credit card you are using for the transaction.
  • Email Consistency: The email address used during payment should be the same as the one registered with your bank, as this helps verify the transaction.
  • Accepted Payment Methods: Please note that our system does not accept American Express cards. We recommend using Visa or MasterCard for a smooth transaction.
Privacy Note

The data we collect is shared exclusively with our own vehicles (if assigned) or our trusted suppliers for airport transfers. We only share the necessary information such as your full name, arrival/departure flight codes, and accommodation details. Your details are shared in a step-by-step manner; not every supplier receives all pieces of your information, ensuring your privacy and security.

Additional Information
  1. Please note that all quoted prices above are in USD (United States Dollar).
  2. The final price may slightly change depending on domestic flight availability and fare fluctuations.
  3. The itinerary is equipped with high-quality accommodations, English-speaking guides, and personalized services to enhance the experience.
  4. If there are any specific preferences or additional requests, please let us know, and we will accommodate them as best as possible.
Cancelation Policy

At Argeus Travel, we strive to accommodate our guests in every possible way.

  1. Full Refund for Force Majeure Events: In the unlikely event of a Force Majeure (or Force Major, if you prefer) such as a natural disaster, civil strife, or similar unforeseen events, we offer a full refund.
  2. Sickness or Loss of Kin: We offer a full refund in case of cancellations due to sickness or the loss of a family member.
  3. No-Show Fees: While we do not charge no-show fees for our services, some hotels may have their own no-show policies. Any such charges will be reflected in your cancellation.
  4. Guided Tours: For multiple-day tours, if you need to cancel, we compensate our guides for at least one day to account for their scheduled time.
  5. Airline Penalties: Please note that airline penalties may apply depending on how far in advance the cancellation occurs.
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barisyenigun

Member Since 2025

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