Extension in Istanbul

After arrival, transfer to your hotel for a short rest, then begin touring the city. Stop at Galata, one of the oldest Armenian neighborhoods in the city, and visit the Saint Gregory the Illuminator Church of Galata, the oldest Armenian Apostolic church in Istanbul. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local Armenian restaurant and learn more about the rich cultural legacy of the Armenian people in Istanbul.

After breakfast, start the day with a visit to the Armenian Patriarchate of Istanbul, then pray at the Surp Asdvadzadzin Patriarchal Church right across the street. Stop at the historic neighborhood of Ortaköy, right on the European shore of the Bosporus, and enjoy some delicious seafood while learning about its rich, diverse history. Lastly, visit the Hrant Dink Foundation and learn more about the organization, its mission, and its history in relation to the late Turkish-Armenian journalist.

Spend the day sightseeing and exploring the most popular historic sites in Istanbul, from the Hagia Sophia to the Blue Mosque, as well as the Basilica Cistern and the Hippodrome of Constantinople (called Sultanahmet Square today). After a quick lunch break, take a trip to the Grand Bazaar, one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world, and learn about the history of Armenians in the area.

End the day with a special farewell dinner and Armenian music, before getting ready to depart.