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.

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. After enjoying the scenic cruise, the boat will make its way to a charming fisherman village along the Bosphorus. In the fisherman village, you can wander through narrow streets lined with colorful houses, visit local shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs, and interact with friendly villagers.

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.

The Mall of Istanbul is one of the biggest shopping centers in Türkiye and it houses over 350 stores, offering a wide variety of products from both Turkish and international brands. It also features a gourmet center and MOiPark, the first specially designed indoor theme park.

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.

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.

The tour typically starts from the Golden Horn, a historic and natural harbor that divides the European side of Istanbul into two parts. Leaving the Golden Horn behind, the yacht will navigate the famous Bosphorus Strait. This waterway is the natural boundary that separates Europe and Asia, and it’s one of the most picturesque and historically significant stretches of water in the world. As the sun sets and the Bosphorus comes alive with lights, we will transform into a floating restaurant for a memorable farewell dinner as music and dances will accompany us throughout the night.