Christoni Travel invites you on a special four-day trip to Istanbul, a city rich in history, culture, and unique sights. From the Pera pedestrian street and the Ecumenical Patriarchate to the Hagia Sophia, the Bosphorus, Prinkipo (Büyükada), and the Grand Bazaar, we explore the city's key landmarks and discover its unique atmosphere.
Day 1: Larissa – Istanbul – Pera Pedestrian Street
Early morning departure from Larissa, heading for Istanbul. After an initial stop before Kavala, we continue to the Kipi border crossing, where we will undergo the necessary checks and have some free time at the duty-free shops.
We continue our journey through Eastern Thrace, making another stop near Raidestos (modern-day Tekirdağ) before arriving in Istanbul.
Late afternoon arrival, hotel check-in, and free time.
For our first evening, we suggest a stroll through Taksim Square and along the famous Grand Avenue of Pera—Istiklal—one of the city's most renowned pedestrian shopping streets. Along the route, we will encounter historic buildings and significant landmarks reflecting the Greek heritage, such as the Sismanoglio Megaro, the Flower Passage (Çiçek Pasajı), the Church of the Holy Trinity, the Church of Panagia of Pera, the Zographeion Lyceum, and the Zappeion.
The iconic red tram of Istiklal Street adds a distinctive touch to our walk.
Day 2: Ecumenical Patriarchate – Blachernae – Optional Bosphorus Cruise – Prinkipos (Büyükada)
After breakfast, our tour begins with a visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Phanar and the Patriarchal Church of St. George.
En route, we will see the Great School of the Nation and then visit the Church of Panagia of Blachernae—one of Constantinople’s most important churches—where, according to tradition, the Akathist Hymn was chanted for the first time in 626 AD.
Next, there is an opportunity for an optional Bosphorus cruise, starting from the Golden Horn and passing between the European and Asian sides of Constantinople. During the journey, we will have the chance to admire the city's old waterfront villages and modern districts. Next is an optional visit to Prinkipo (Büyükada), one of the Princes' Islands, where the pace of life is more relaxed and cars are prohibited. The 19th-century wooden houses, distinctive architecture, and views of Istanbul create a unique setting.
A highlight is the Church and Monastery of St. George Koudounas, situated atop the island's highest hill.
Return to the hotel, followed by free time for shopping, a stroll, or even a traditional hammam experience.
Those interested may also visit Galataport in the Karaköy district, home to shops, restaurants, cafés, and the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.
Day 3: Hagia Sophia – Byzantine Hippodrome – Basilica Cistern – Grand Bazaar
After breakfast, we depart for the historic heart of Istanbul.
Our first stop is Hagia Sophia, one of the city's most significant monuments and a unique masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
Next, we explore the area of the Byzantine Hippodrome, where—among other sights—we will see the famous Egyptian Obelisk (dating back approximately 3,500 years) and the Blue Mosque. Next, we visit the Basilica Cistern, the largest underground water reservoir built during the Byzantine era to supply Constantinople with water. This impressive site is now one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
We then head to the famous Covered Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)—with its thousands of shops—where we will have free time for shopping and, of course, the essential... haggling!
During your free time, you may also visit the Egyptian Bazaar, located a short distance from the Galata Bridge.
In the evening, there is an option to join an outing for entertainment.
Day 4: Zoodochos Pigi (Balıklı) – Return
The final day of the excursion.
After breakfast, we depart for the Holy Shrine of Zoodochos Pigi (Life-Giving Spring) in Balıklı—a site of great significance for the Orthodox tradition and the Greek community of Constantinople.
After our visit, we begin our return journey. We will make a stop in the area of Rhaedestus (Tekirdağ) and, after crossing the border, continue via the Egnatia Odos highway toward Larissa.
Participation fee
€215 per person
Hotel Lion 4★
The price includes:
Hotel accommodation.
Daily breakfast at the hotel. Modern bus for the scheduled tours.
Experienced tour escort from the agency throughout the trip.
Civil liability insurance.
The price does not include
Entrance fees to attractions.
Total taxes and municipal accommodation taxes: €10 per person.
Optional Bosphorus cruise: €20 per adult / €10 per child (up to 12 years old).
Optional cruise to the Princes' Islands.