Tour Description
Istanbul – Imperial Gardens & Urban Elegance
May 3 – 7, 2026
(Istanbul)
Step into the heart of Türkiye’s imperial capital and explore the hidden natural and cultural treasures of Istanbul.
Discover the historical and botanical richness of the Süleymaniye Mosque, Istanbul University Botanical Garden, and private estates in Bebek and Emirgan
Stroll through the Grand Bazaar and the Old City
Experience a Bosphorus cruise and visit the Princes’ Islands
Enjoy optional workshops such as Ebru marbling and Turkish cooking classes
About the Leaders
Gursan Ergil
Gursan Ergil spent six years living in the United States and studying landscape design, history, and preservation at Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum, where he later lectured on Islamic Gardens for two years. After moving United Kingdom from US, he continued studying at Cambridge Universtiy’s advanced garden history program. We celebrate two decades of collaboration with Unison Travel & Events through an inspiring tour titled “Gardens of Humanity.”
Itinerary
Day 1
May, 3
Istanbul Arrival, Welcome Dinner - Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2
May, 4
Süleymaniye & Botanical Exploration Morning visit to the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque (by vehicle). Lunch nearby, possibly featuring traditional kuru fasulye. If open, visit the historic Istanbul University Botanical Garden. Explore the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market with free time for shopping. Return to the hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 3
May, 5
Bosphorus Cruise & Private Gardens Start the day with a Bosphorus cruise. Then visit a selection of formal and private gardens, including locations in Bebek and Emirgan. Optional stop at Sabancı Museum garden. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 4
May, 6
Princes’ Islands Day Trip Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands for a day of nature, history, and calm. Explore gardens and enjoy local gastronomy. Return to the mainland in the evening. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 5
May, 7
Day 6
May, 8
Gursan Ergil
Price Details
Popular
Price Includes:
Accommodation
– 5 nights in a centrally located hotel in Istanbul
Meals
– Daily breakfast at the hotel
– Welcome dinner on Day 1
– Special dinner on Day 5 (farewell)
Transportation
– All scheduled transportation within Istanbul as per itinerary (private vehicle, ferry, etc.)
– Bosphorus cruise
– Round-trip ferry to Princes’ Islands
Entrance Fees & Guided Tours
– Entry to Süleymaniye Mosque and Grand Bazaar
– Guided visit to selected botanical and private gardens
– Guided Princes’ Islands excursion
– All applicable museum and site entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
Professional Guidance
– Local expert guide throughout the program
– Cultural insights and botanical expertise during site visits
All taxes and service charges
Price does not Include:
International airfare to/from Istanbul
Airport transfers (unless otherwise arranged)
Visa fees, if applicable
Travel insurance
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional tours and workshops (e.g., Turkish cooking class, Ebru marbling, guided Old City tour)
Personal expenses such as laundry, minibar, room service, and souvenirs
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
Gallery
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