8-Day Istanbul & Maldives: Culture, History & Island Escape

As you arrive at Istanbul International Airport, your English-speaking representative and driver will warmly welcome you. Relax in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle as you are transferred to your hotel. Istanbul, where East meets West, is a captivating blend of empires, religions, cultures, and gastronomy. As the historical capital of various civilizations, including Byzantine, Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Turkish, Istanbul stands as a testament to the interconnected tapestry of time. Roaming its streets is akin to traversing a time tunnel, seamlessly merging history and tradition. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

 Accommodation: Levni Hotel (Standard room)

Embark on a captivating journey through Sultanahmet, guided by your expert. Begin your day with a visit to the extraordinary Topkapi Palace, the former residence of 25 Ottoman Sultans (closed on Tuesdays). Explore its opulent library, which houses royal jewelry and gem collections and is set amidst tranquil gardens. Immerse yourself in 500 years of Ottoman history, appreciating the multi-ethnic influences that shaped the palace complex. Continue to the ancient Byzantine stadium, the Hippodrome, and admire its artifacts, including the Egyptian obelisk and a bronze sculpture of three entwined serpents from Delphi. Enjoy a delightful lunch showcasing the best of Ottoman cuisine. Marvel at the iconic Blue Mosque and the remarkable Church of St. Sophia/Aya Sofya Mosque, built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th Century. Explore the unique atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar (closed on Sundays), housing around 4,000 shops offering Turkish carpets, gold, jewelry, and artworks. Return to your hotel for a leisurely evening.

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

 Accommodation: Levni Hotel (Standard room)

Commence your day's exploration with your guide and driver from the hotel lobby. The first visit is to the Dolmabahce Palace, an exemplary showcase of Ottoman Baroque Architecture, reflecting the Ottoman westernization in the 19th Century. Continue to the Suleymaniye Mosque, an iconic creation by the renowned Ottoman architect Sinan, forming part of a vast 1550s complex for the sultan it is named after. The mosque's lofty structure emphasizing space and geometry is a classic representation of the Ottoman era. Explore the Old Spice Market, which offers diverse spices, henna, oils, herbs, and the world's best Turkish delight. After lunch, embark on a 2-hour private boat cruise along the Bosphorus. Marvel at panoramic views of the city and its surroundings as the strait, connecting the Sea of Marmara with the Black Sea, unfolds over its 16-mile stretch. For centuries, the Bosphorus shores have been favored dwelling places for Istanbul's affluent community. At the tour's end, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

 Accommodation: Levni Hotel (Standard room)

Meet with our English-speaking representative and driver at the hotel for your transfer to Istanbul Airport, where you'll catch your flight to Maldives. Upon arrival in the Maldives, a 15-minute shared speedboat transfer awaits to whisk you away to our resort on a private island in the Laccadive Sea.

 Meals: Breakfast

 Accommodation: SAii Lagoon Maldives (Sky room)

Indulge in a day of leisure at the stunning SAii Lagoon Hotel Maldives. Revel in the resort's abundant amenities, from the pristine white sandy beaches to the crystalline waters. Engage in water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking, immersing yourself in the beauty of the surroundings.

 Meals: Breakfast.

 Accommodation: SAii Lagoon Maldives (Sky room)

Enjoy a day at your leisure in the Maldives, where you can engage in activities that contribute to preserving the unique marine ecosystem. Participate in the free coral propagation program, attend the dolphin class, experience sustainable fishing practices, and embark on the Emma the Turtle Discovery at the Marine Discovery Center.

 Meals: Breakfast

 Accommodation: SAii Lagoon Maldives (Sky room)

Spend a leisurely day unwinding in the Maldives. Enhance your understanding of the ocean and Maldivian culture with a complimentary guided tour of the Maldives Cultural Center, led by local staff at the Maldives Discovery Center.

 Meals: Breakfast.

 Accommodation: SAii Lagoon Maldives (Sky room)

Bid farewell to the SAii Lagoon Hotel Maldives as we check out and proceed to the airport for our journey homeward.

 Meals: Breakfast