Istanbul is a major city in Turkey that straddles Europe and Asia across the
Bosphorus Strait. Its Old City reflects cultural influences of the many empires that
once ruled here. In the Sultanahmet district, the open-air, Roman-era
Hippodrome was for centuries the site of chariot races, and Egyptian obelisks also
remain.
Nairobi-Istanbul
3 Hours Before Flight Time
1.New Year Fireworks
The main New Years Eve Party in Istanbul sees crowds gather in public places
around the city, most notably in the city's iconic Taksim Square and along Istiklal
Street, where there is a lively atmosphere throughout the evening, leading up to
the fireworks at midnight which you will see being launched from various points
across the city.
2.New Years Eve Cruises
There are many companies offering this service, so plenty of choice – we
especially like the look of the New Years Eve Bosphorous Dinner Cruise, with
dining, drinks and entertainment on offer as well as the fireworks views – get
more details and tickets here.
3.New Years Eve Lottery
If you are in Istanbul on new years eve then you might like to try and get yourself
hold of a ticket for the country's national lottery – the 31st December sees the
biggest jackpot of the year on offer, with tens of millions of Turkish Lira up for
grabs!
4. Boat trips
The view from the Bosphorus in Istanbul is stunning, and it's one of the best
places to spend New Year's Eve. Going slowly over the Bosphorus on a boat is one
of the most relaxing things you can do. When you're on a boat trip, you'll feel the
freshness of air with every breath you take. You can also order delicious meals
while on the boat.
Gallipoli Battlefield One of the most emotionally touching places in Turkey, today
we visit the WW1 Battlefields of Gallipoli including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair
Memorials, ANZAC Cove, The Nek, Johnston’s Jolly, original trenches and tunnels.
We visit Troy, home of the famed Trojan Horse. 1 hour Admission Ticket Included
Pergamon Theatre We tour the magnificent acropolis of Pergamum. Its
impressive temples and Library made Pergamum a renowned cultural and
political centre in its time.
Stop Ancient City of Ephesus Absorb yourself in history with a guided tour of
Ephesus and a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis. Feel the mystical
atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre before continuing to the former Greek
village of Sirince, famous for its fruit wines. Carpet weaving has long traditions in
Turkey and at the carpet village we learn how the carpets are made by hand and
what determines their value.
Enjoy a display of locally handcrafted leather goods before heading to the
magnificent white calcium terraces, known as Travertines, in Pamukkale where
there is also tour the ancient city of Hierapolis. Take a dip, amongst ancient
columns, in the hot springs that were used in Roman times for their therapeutic
powers.
Head back to Istanbul. Transfer to the airport for flight and be back in Istanbul,
where you will be met and transferred to your hotel in time for a bit of last
minute shopping or exploring.
