DURING WEEK 1 ACTIVITIES
Monday, July 28th: Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall Tour with Dinner (Optional Sightseeing Tour)
It is said that the Istanbul Aquarium is one of the best Aquariums and Themeparks in Europe, in fact, it is the biggest Thematic Aquarium in the world. The Aquarium is home to approximately 1,500 species and 15,000 land and sea creatures, it also covers a 6,000 square meters area and has a special-themed 1,2 km long travel route originating in the Black Sea towards the Pacific. The Aquarium is located inside Aqua Florya Shopping Mall where there are numerous of the world’s finest trademarks, in addition, it has a beautiful view directly to the sea.
Tuesday, July 29th: Koç Museum and Pierre Loti Tour with Dinner (Optional Sightseeing Tour)
The Rahmi M. Koç Museum is the first major museum in Türkiye dedicated to the history of Transport, Industry, and Communications. The museum contains thousands of items from gramophone needles to full-size ships and aircraft. Pierre Loti is one of the most captivating attractions in Istanbul with amazing scenery of the Golden Horn and the historical places. Pierre Loti came to Istanbul in 1876 and defended the Turks against Europe in the Balkan Wars, WW1, and the Invasion of Anatolia. A coffeehouse was named “Pierre Loti Coffeehouse”, today, the hill where the coffeehouse sits is also known as Pierre Loti Hill.
Wednesday, July 30th: VIALAND Themepark Tour with Dinner (Optional Sightseeing Tour)
VIALAND, also known as Isfanbul Tema Park, is Türkiye’s first mega theme park with exciting rides and shopping outlets with an area of 600 thousand square meters. It houses “Nefeskesen”, the world’s 4th biggest roller-coaster in the world. It also features already popular and new entertainment rides such as “Bumblebee”, “Savana”, “360 Plus”, and “Drop Tower” which offers an adrenaline-filled descent from 50 meters. In addition to many other rides that promise excitement and adrenaline at extreme levels such as “King Kong Ride” and “Vikings Water Coaster”.
Thursday, July 31st: Çamlıca Mosque and Tower Tour with Dinner (Optional Sightseeing Tour)
The Çamlıca Mosque is the largest mosque in Türkiye and can hold up to 63,000 people. The mosque stands on Çamlıca Hill in the Üsküdar district of Istanbul and is visible from much of the city center. It also includes the “Museum of Islamic Civilizations” in addition to an art gallery, library, and conference hall. The Çamlıca Tower is a telecommunications tower with observation decks and restaurants. The total height of the tower is 369 meters (1,211 feet), making it the tallest structure in Istanbul.
Friday, August 01st: Dolmabahçe Palace and Ortaköy Tour with Dinner (Optional Sightseeing Tour)
Dolmabahçe Palace which was ordered by the Ottoman Empire’s 31st Sultan, Abdülmacid the First, served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. In addition, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, used the palace as a presidential residence and enacted some of his most important works here. Ortkaöy is a charming neighborhood by the Bosphorus, it is on the European shore of the Bosphorus and was originally a small fishing village. You can also treat yourself with the tasty Kumpir (baked potato with toppings) and waffles.
DURING WEEKEND ACTIVITIES
Saturday, August 02nd: Historical Peninsula Tour with Lunch (This Full-day Sightseeing Tour is Included in Program Fees)
Topkapı Palace, also known as the Seraglio, served as the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans until the construction of Dolmabahçe Palace. The museum collection includes Ottoman clothing, weapons, armor, miniatures, … etc. Sultanahmet is the historic center of Istanbul and a present-day UNESCO Heritage Site. This neighborhood is home to some of the most stunning landmarks such as Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque. Hagia Sofia which was built as a Christian church in the 6th century CE (532-537) under the direction of the Byzantine emperor Justinian the First, in subsequent centuries became a mosque, museum, and a mosque again. The building reflects the religious changes that have played out in the region over the centuries.
Sunday, August 03rd: Bosphorus Boat Tour with Lunch (This Full-day Sightseeing Tour is Included in Program Fees)
The Bosphorus Boat Tour is one of the most popular and unique forms of entertainment on your Istanbul visit. It is also one of the best ways to discover and enjoy the most beautiful sights and sounds of the city over the sea. A full-day spent between continents as we cruise close to the Black Sea and swim in the crystal blue waters, music, dancing, and partying, in addition to a BBQ lunch will be accompanied throughout the tour.
DURING WEEK 2 ACTIVITIES
Monday, August 04th: Taksim, Istiklal Street, and Galata Tower Tour with Dinner (Optional Sightseeing Tour)
Taksim Square, located in Beyoğlu in the European part of Istanbul, and considered the heart of modern Istanbul, with the central station of the Istanbul Metro network. The square is also the location of the Republic Monument, which commemorates the 5th anniversary of the foundation of the Republic of Türkiye in 1923. Istiklal Street, also known as Istiklal Caddesi, is a vibrant 1.5 km long pedestrian street that is lined with stores, restaurants, cafes, and often street performances. The Galata Tower is an old Genoese tower that was built as a watchtower at the highest point of Galata with a 360-degree view of Istanbul visible from its observation deck.
Tuesday, August 05th: Mall of Istanbul Shopping and Fun Park Tour with Dinner (Optional Sightseeing Tour)
Wednesday, August 06th: Traditional Clothes Wearing Day (Free Day)
Traditional Clothes Wearing Day is a celebration of cultural diversity and heritage. On this day, students wear their traditional clothing, showing the rich variety and beauty of their cultural attire. In addition, there will be a photo session all over the campus with all students. It is not obligatory to participate, however, as an international program, it would be a great opportunity to show and teach other fellow students about your history and culture.
Thursday, August 07th: Spice Bazaar and Galata Bridge Tour with Dinner (Optional Sightseeing Tour)
The Spice Bazaar, also called the Egyptian Bazaar, is an old market in Istanbul’s Eminönü district and one of the largest bazaars in Istanbul. It’s famous for its amazing smells and tastes. After exploring the Spice Bazaar, taking a short walk across the Galata Bridge is a must. This bridge goes over the Golden Horn, linking the historic Eminönü area to the lively Karaköy neighborhood. As you walk on the bridge, you will see many fishermen as well as seafood restaurants where you can enjoy tasty Turkish seafood dishes.
Friday, August 08th: Night Boat Tour and Gala Dinner on The Golden Horn (Optional Sightseeing Tour)
A Bosphorus night boat tour on the Golden Horn offers a magical experience of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks illuminated against the night sky. You’ll sail past the Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge, all beautifully lit. The tour includes views of the historic neighborhoods along the Golden Horn, with colorful houses and historic churches adding to the charm. Many tours feature live music, traditional Turkish performances, and a dinner option with local cuisine. The serene ambiance, combined with the stunning night views, makes for an unforgettable evening on the water.