The fascinating city of Istanbul sits on both continents where Western culture meets Eastern culture. Constantinople, as it was known, was the capital of the Christian Byzantine Empire for over a thousand years, then became the capital of the Moslem Ottoman Empire for five hundred years. Many historic edifices and treasures remain from both these important periods in the city's history. Istanbul is now a modern capital proud of its Islamic heritage and diverse population. This trip offers a superb opportunity to examine the historic conflict of the Christian and Moslem religions.

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque is the holiest site in Istanbul and one of the most sacred places in the Islamic world. The Türbe is a sacred burial site that draws masses of pilgrims. Your students can examine the architectural style and decoration of the Sultan Ahmet Mosque or Blue Mosque. At the museum of Turkish and Islamic Art students should compare and contrast the expression in art of different cultures and religions, as well as consider how Ataturk modernized the Turkish nation and the cultural and religious challenges it faces today.

Visit the St. Sophia Church masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and one of the most extraordinary buildings in the history of architecture. Understand its influence on religious buildings in the following centuries. Contrast the Byzantine mosaics with Islamic art. The church became a mosque in the fifteenth century. Students can consider why it is now a museum. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace; home of the Ottoman sultans for 400 years.  

STS will also organise a multi-centre tour of Turkey, which can include a visit to Ephesus, to explore the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.

Our best value sample itinerary from £725

8 Days to Turkey by Air

Day 1:
Travel to Istanbul by air. Meet your coach and guide. Time permitting, take a short orientation tour of the city. Overnight Istanbul.

Day 2:
Spend a full day in Istanbul. Visit the Topkapi Palace and museums. See the Blue Mosque, famous for its beautiful interior tiles, and the Hippodrome, where chariot races took place in Roman times, and the Basilica Cistern. Visit Hagia Sofia, the splendid former mosque. Do some shopping at the Grand Bazaar. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 3:
Transfer to Bursa, one-time capital of the Ottoman Empire. Visit the thermal baths, beautiful parks and gardens, and important Ottoman buildings. See the Green Mosque and Sultan Mehmet the First's Green Mausoleum. Overnight in Bursa.

Day 4:
Transfer to Pamukkale. The 'Cotton Castle' is famous for its thermal springs, baths, and calcified pools. Also visit the largest Necropolis in Turkey. Overnight in Pamukkale.

Day 5:
Transfer to Kusadasi. En route, visit Aphrodisias and Ephesus. Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient world. Overnight Kusadasi.

Day 6:
Full day to the cities of Priene, Miletus and Didim. Visit the Temple of Didyma, which was dedicated to Apollo. Return to Kusadasi for overnight accommodation.

Day 7:
Travel to Canakkale via Pergamum and Troy. Pergamum, founded by Alexander the Great, rivalled Athens and Alexandria as a cultural centre. Visit the Acropolis, the Altar of Zeus, Temple of Trojan, the Theatre, Temple of Athena and the remains of Asclepion. See a replica of the famous wooden horse. Overnight in Canakkale (location may vary depending on return flight time).

Day 8:
Morning transfer to Istanbul to connect with your return flight.