Partner Programs

Join us for an enriching day exploring the historic and vibrant neighborhoods of Pera and Balat on Wednesday, May 7th. 

We’ll begin our journey at 9:00 AM from the Polat Renaissance Hotel, with an English-speaking professional guide, who will lead you through some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. The tour includes visits to significant religious and cultural sites, such as the Aya Triada Orthodox Church, St. Antony of Padua Church, and the Bulgarian Iron Church of Sveti Stephan. You’ll stroll along the lively Istiklal Street, discover the treasures of the Pera Museum, and experience the world’s second oldest underground, “TUNEL,” before walking through the Galata Tower area. Lunch will be at the renowned Pandelli Restaurant, with a selection of exclusive daily cuisine. The day concludes with visits to the famous Spice Market, the beautifully tiled Rustem Pasha Mosque, and the Fener Patriarchate, also known as the Church of St. George, along with a leisurely walk through the atmospheric streets of Fener and Balat.

Euro 100 – Costs include transportation, English speaking guidance and entrance fees. Lunch and personal expenses are not included; a la carte service will be available, with costs upon consumption.

Join us for an immersive tour through the Old Town’s historic districts of Suleymaniye, Vefa, and Cibali on Thursday, May 8th.

At 9:00 AM, we will begin the day with a visit to the Kariye Mosque (Chora Museum), famous for its stunning 14th-century mosaics and frescoes. Recently converted back into a mosque, it remains a must-see for art and history lovers. After a break at the charming Pembe Köşk Cafe, located across from Chora, we will continue to the Vefa neighborhood. Here, you can enjoy a stroll through the back streets and taste the traditional thick beverage, boza, at the historic Vefa Bozacisi. Next, we’ll visit the grand Suleymaniye Mosque and its surrounding compound, a masterpiece of 16th-century architecture by the renowned Sinan the Great. The tour will then take you to the bustling Kadinlar Pazari (women’s Market), where you’ll have the chance to enjoy lunch at Mato Et, known for its southeastern meat specialties and Turkish sweets. Our journey continues with a visit to the beautifully restored Cinili Hamam, a 16th-century Turkish bath, where you’ll explore the Hamam Museum showcasing traditional Turkish artifacts. The day will conclude at Molla Zeyrek Mosque, originally constructed in the 12th century as the Pantocrator Church, a significant Byzantine monument. At 18:00, we’ll return to the hotel.

Euro 120 – Costs include transportation, English speaking guidance and entrance fees. Lunch and personal expenses are not included; a la carte service will be available, with costs upon consumption.