Day 1 : ARRIVE ISTANBUL (l, d)
Arrive at Istanbul Ataturk Airport.
Meet
AVOTUR’s local guide or representative and transfer to the city center.
Start with a visit of the
Eyup Al Ansari Mosque.
Eyup Sultan is situated outside the Walls of Constantinople, near the Golden Horn. Built in 1458, it was the first mosque constructed by the Ottoman Turks following the conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The Mosque and Mausoleum of Eyüp Sultan, located outside the corner where the land walls meet the walls along the Golden Horn, is considered a sacred site for Moslems. Eyüp-el-Ensari was a standard-bearer of Mohammed and he died-here during an Arabic siege of the city in the 7th century. His grave was discovered at the conquest and later the mausoleum and the first mosque in Istanbul were built on this site. The original mosque was destroyed in an earthquake and the present one was constructed in its place in 1800. On Fridays, holy days for Islam, throngs of the faithful visit the mausoleum. The old trees, flocks of pigeons, the praying believers and the visiting crowds create a mystical and colorful atmosphere around the mosque and the mausoleum.
Use the short ride of the cable car up the Eyup Hill.
Visit the famous
Pierre Loti Café named after the well-known poet and author who was enraptured by Istanbul. Enjoy the panoramic view of the Golden Horn and the outlying historical city. 1 glass of tea is served.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Transfer to the centrally located hotel in Laleli area and check-in.
Dinner at the hotel.