ISTANBUL - CONSTANTINOPLE 5 DAYS

After the flight from Yerevan, we will arrive in the Istanbul airport, from where we will go to the hotel, check in, and then have lunch in one of the local restaurants with delicious food. Today we will explore the relatively new center of Istanbul and walk through the old and beautiful streets of the city. We will be in Taksim Square, next to which there was once an Armenian church and a cemetery, then we will walk along the Istiklal pedestrian avenue, rich in historical monuments, and next to it is the Armenian Apostolic Church of the Holy Trinity. Many have seen Istanbul through the eyes of Ara Güler, and we will also visit the famous photographer's cafe. Then we will walk to enjoy Galata Tower and Golden Horn Bay.

On the second day of our wonderful trip, we will visit the wonderful Hagia Sophia, considered the main symbol and business card of Istanbul, which is not only a masterpiece of world architecture, but also the dome of this cathedral was restored by the world-famous architect of Ani Trdat. After exploring the Hagia Sophia, we will visit another interesting structure built nearby, the Blue Mosque. After lunch, we will have a walk in the historical center of Istanbul, including Sultanahmet Square. Today we also have a visit to the Armenian St. Astvatsatsin Church next to the Armenian Patriarchate of Istanbul. The evening of this beautiful day is also at your disposal.

On the third day, we will see the Kedronakan College, one of the important Armenian educational centers in Istanbul, in the immediate vicinity of which is the Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator, which is an extremely impressive structure. Then, Dolmabahce Sultanate Palace, built by Armenian architects Palyans, awaits us. The Palyans are the authors not only of Dolmabahce, but also of a number of historical buildings in Istanbul, including mosques. We will spend the rest of the day sailing on the Bosphorus and going to Kinaliada Island, where we will also see the Armenian Church and enjoy our free time on the island's beaches.

Our first stop on this wonderful day is Topkapi Sultan Palace, where you will discover how the Sultans lived. This huge palace is not only interesting with stories and interesting structures, but also has a wonderful view of the Bosphorus and the city. After this we will visit the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir dating back to Roman times, which preserves a beautiful sculpture of the Gorgon Medusa's head. After this mysterious and impressive place we will visit the Indoor Market, one of the legendary places of Istanbul, where Armenian jewelers and craftsmen also present their works.

You can use the free day for museums, shopping, visiting interesting places or other activities according to your wish and preference. Our guide will provide you with detailed information on all these questions. It is also possible to organize additional tours at the request of the group. In the evening we will leave for the airport and return to Yerevan.