Istanbul & Beyond:
Exclusive Access to Ottoman Grandeur, Investment Insights & Wine Country Retreat
June 7-14, 2025
Journey with us through the crossroads of civilization, where ancient wisdom meets modern opportunity. This meticulously crafted seven-day experience invites you to discover Turkey’s remarkable contrasts through a lens few visitors ever access.
Your journey begins in Istanbul with private after-hours museum visits that reveal the city’s treasures in perfect tranquility.
Cruise aboard a private yacht to the Princes’ Islands, where exclusive meetings with key figures in Turkey’s investment landscape blend seamlessly with cultural discovery.
Experience the grandeur of Ottoman palaces, and retreat to the serene luxury of Wineport Lodge, where locally produced wine tastings and natural beauty provide the perfect complement to your urban adventures.
Limited to an intimate group size, this journey represents the essence of Total Access experiences: exclusive entry, meaningful connections, and carefully curated moments that transform a destination into an unforgettable story.
We hope you will join us for this extraordinary Turkish journey, where ancient legacy meets modern opportunity, and every moment weaves together cultural richness, investment insight, and unforgettable experiences.
Itinerary
DAY 1 (Saturday, June 7, 2025)
Welcome to Instanbul
Your Turkish journey begins with a seamless private transfer from Istanbul Airport to the prestigious Swissotel The Bosphorus.
After settling into your elegant accommodations overlooking the scenic Bosphorus strait, you’ll be introduced to one of Turkey’s most cherished traditions – the hammam. At the hotel’s luxurious Pürovel Spa, experience this centuries-old ritual of purification and relaxation.
As evening approaches, join us at 16 ROOF for a welcome reception, where you’ll meet fellow travelers while savoring contemporary Turkish mezze and carefully selected local wines against the backdrop of Istanbul’s illuminated skyline.
ACCOMMODATION: Swissotel Bosphorus Hotel, Istanbul
DAY 2 (Sunday, June 8, 2025):
Historic Istanbul
Begin your day with a gourmet breakfast at Café Swiss before embarking on an immersive journey through Istanbul’s historic peninsula.
Our expert cultural guide will provide a skip-the-line and private tour of the magnificent Hagia Sophia, allowing you to experience this architectural marvel in tranquility. The morning continues at Topkapi Palace, including special access to the private Harem quarters, followed by the mystical Underground Basilica Cistern.
Lunch will be served at Seven Hills Restaurant, where you’ll sample authentic cuisine with a wonderful view of Istanbul. In the afternoon, a visit to the ancient Hippodrome awaits, with exclusive access to traditional craftsmen’s workshops.
Your day concludes with an elegant dinner at an Ottoman era style restaurant, where imperial Ottoman recipes are brought to life with modern sophistication.
ACCOMMODATION: Swissotel Bosphorus Hotel, Istanbul
DAY 3 (Monday, June 9, 2025):
Princes' Islands & Investment Insights
After breakfast, board your private yacht at the nearby marina for a day exploring the Princes’ Islands: a cluster of 9 islands southeast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara.
The morning combines pleasure with purpose as you tour select real estate opportunities while enjoying the beautiful island views. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at the renowned local seafood restaurant before attending a privately curated conference at the prestigious Istanbul Private Büyük Club.
Here, you’ll gain valuable insights into the Turkish Citizenship By Investment Program and connect with local entrepreneurs, banking executives, and government representatives.
The day will conclude with a scenic sunset cruise back to the mainland, followed by an evening dinner at another renowned restaurant close to your hotel.
ACCOMMODATION: Swissotel Bosphorus Hotel, Istanbul
DAY 4 (Tuesday, June 10, 2025):
Modern Istanbul
Experience contemporary Istanbul through a carefully curated lens, beginning with an exploration of premium real estate developments along the Bosphorus shoreline. Your morning includes an insider’s tour of the innovative Galataport district, including another insightful real estate development visit, showcasing Istanbul’s transformation into a global luxury destination.
Following lunch at one of Galataport’s premium waterfront venues, experience Dolmabahçe Palace through an expert historian’s lens, gaining privileged insights into the opulent world of Ottoman sultans.
As day turns to evening, enjoy private, after-hours access to Istanbul Modern Museum, reserved exclusively for our group. Step into the world of contemporary Turkish art with expert curatorial insights, followed by artfully crafted cocktails and mezes at the museum’s elegant waterfront restaurant, where panoramic Bosphorus views create a stunning backdrop.
The day culminates with dinner at one of Istanbul’s most acclaimed restaurants, featuring innovative Turkish cuisine alongside panoramic city views.
ACCOMMODATION: Swissotel Bosphorus Hotel, Istanbul
DAY 5 & 6 (Wednesday & Thursday, June 11-12, 2025):
Wineport Lodge Retreat
Escape to the serene atmosphere of Wineport Lodge, where sophistication meets natural beauty.
These two days offer an intimate wine country experience featuring private tasting with expert sommeliers, guided walks through picturesque vineyards, and opportunities to connect with nature through carefully planned activities.
Each evening brings a unique dining experience, from wine-paired tasting menus to intimate farm-to-table dinners under the stars.
You will also enjoy trekking through a beautiful 11-lake valley by foot and canyoning, as well as visiting the Black Sea coast by boat, where you will have the opportunity to swim in secluded bays, their crystal-clear waters providing a refreshing contrast to the day’s activities.
This two-day retreat offers not just a pause in your journey, but a deeper connection to one of Turkey’s most captivating regions.
ACCOMMODATIONS (2 nights): Wineport Lodge, Ağva
DAY 7 (Friday, June 13, 2025):
Final Day in Istanbul
Return to Istanbul for a finale that captures the essence of luxury and tradition.
Your morning begins with a private shopping experience at the Grand Bazaar, where an expert guide provides access to premium workshops and hidden gems not found on typical tours.
After lunch at one of Istanbul’s most sophisticated restaurants, indulge in a traditional hammam experience at one of the city’s most historic and renowned Ottoman-era bathhouses. and pay a visit to the nearby Blue Mosque.
Your journey concludes with a memorable farewell dinner at a premium venue offering stunning views and contemporary food and wine experience.
ACCOMMODATIONS: JW Marriott Bosphorus Hotel, Istanbul
Departures will be arranged on Saturday, June 14, with private transfers to Istanbul Airport scheduled according to your flight times.
Accomodations
The Swissotel Bosphorus Istanbul is located in the upscale Beşiktaş district, set within historic gardens that were formerly part of Dolmabahce Palace grounds.
The hotel offers excellent access to key business districts and high-end shopping areas. The location along the Bosphorus provides stunning waterfront views and easy access to waterways.
The rooms and suites at Swissotel Bosphorus combine contemporary design with comfortable amenities, featuring modern technology and workspaces. The hotel’s facilities include the Pürovel Spa & Sport complex, which houses a fully equipped fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and a traditional Turkish hammam.
The property features several dining venues, including restaurants and bars with Bosphorus views. The nearby area offers waterfront walking paths, and the hotel is well-positioned for accessing both European and Asian sides of Istanbul via nearby ferry terminals and bridges.
Located in the serene coastal town of Ağva, about a two-hour drive from Istanbul, Wineport Lodge offers a perfect retreat from the city’s energy.
The property is nestled among pine forests and vineyards, with the Black Sea coastline nearby, providing a complete change of scenery and pace from urban Istanbul.
Each room in this intimate lodge is designed to embrace the natural surroundings, featuring large windows and private balconies.
The property’s architectural design emphasizes its connection to nature, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A striking pool appears to merge with the forest canopy, while common areas provide comfortable spaces for relaxation and wine tasting.
The lodge’s focus on wine is evident in its carefully curated experiences, featuring local Turkish varieties and international selections. The restaurant serves seasonal cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, many from the lodge’s own organic garden, creating dishes that complement their wine selection.
Situated in the historic Karaköy district, the JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus occupies a thoughtfully restored historic building that was once home to the first luxury hotel of Karaköy in the 1800s.
The hotel overlooks the Bosphorus strait and the historic peninsula, placing guests in a vibrant neighborhood known for its restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques.
The rooms and suites blend contemporary luxury with historic architectural elements, offering views of either the Bosphorus strait or the dynamic Karaköy district.
The hotel’s facilities include a well-equipped fitness center and a spa offering traditional Turkish hammam experiences alongside modern treatments. The rooftop infinity pool provides a unique vantage point over the water and city skyline.
The property’s culinary offerings are highlighted by its rooftop restaurant and bar, which provides panoramic views of the Bosphorus, the historic peninsula, and the Golden Horn. The location in Karaköy offers easy access to both historic sites like the Galata Tower and modern attractions, with the Istanbul Modern museum and Galataport district within walking distance.
Includes
Exclusive Experiences & Private Access:
- Private after-hours, art historian-led tour and welcome cocktail of Istanbul Modern;
- Exclusive historian-lead tour of Dolmabahçe Palace;
- Skip-the-line entry and historian-led skip-the-line tour of Hagia Sophia;
- Skip-the-line entry and historian-led skip-the-line tour plus special access to Topkapi Palace Harem quarters;
- Traditional hammam experience in Historic Istanbul;
- Private yacht journey to the Princes’ Islands with food and drinks on board;
- Curated wine tasting at Wineport Lodge;
- Guided nature hike at Wineport Lodge and surroundings;
- Trip to the Black Sea from Wineport Lodge by Boat;
- Canyoning in the 11 lakes valley, waterfalls and Gürlek cave at Wineport Lodge;
- Expert-guided tour of the Grand Bazaar and hidden workshops;
- Access to high-end Büyük Private Club in Istanbul (Asian side of the city).
Transportation & Support:
- Luxury vehicle service with professional drivers throughout your stay
- Private airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Yacht transportation for the Princes’ Islands excursion
- All local transfers between venues and experiences.
Expert Guidance:
- Dedicated English-speaking cultural guides
- Local experts and curators for specialized tours
- Inclusive of all tips for guides and drivers.
Additional Inclusions:
- Daily breakfast at your hotels
- Welcome reception with drinks and mezze at Swissotel’s Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
- All lunches and dinners with drinks, as specified in the itinerary.
Excludes
- International flights (to and from Istanbul)
- Personal expenses
- Any trip extensions before or after official trip dates
- Refreshments, bottled drinks and bar bills outside standard itinerary/scheduled meals
- Any activities not listed in the itinerary.
Useful Information
Traveling/Visa Exemption
Travel to Turkey is straightforward for citizens of the United States, Canada, and European Union countries. For tourist visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, no visa is required.
Travelers simply need a passport that is valid for at least 150 days beyond their intended departure date from Turkey. This visa exemption applies to tourist and business visits, making Turkey an easily accessible destination for international travelers. It’s recommended to check the official Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the most current entry requirements before your journey.
Weather and Clothing
June is one of the most pleasant months to visit Istanbul, with warm, sunny days and comfortable evenings. During mid-June, daytime temperatures typically range from 25-28°C (77-82°F), while mornings and evenings are mild, usually around 18-20°C (64-68°F).
The humidity is generally moderate, and rainfall is minimal during this time of year, making it ideal for both outdoor exploration and evening activities.
While the days are warm enough for comfortable sightseeing, we recommend bringing a light jacket or wrap for evenings, especially for rooftop dinners or Bosphorus cruises where the sea breeze can add a cool touch to the air.
For sun protection, we recommend bringing sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses as the midday Mediterranean sun can be quite strong.
For evenings in Istanbul, we recommend packing business casual attire. The city’s upscale restaurants, particularly those overlooking the Bosphorus, maintain an elegant atmosphere where smart dress is customary. For men, collared shirts and dress pants are appropriate, while women might opt for dresses, skirts, or elegant pants with blouses.
The Black Sea coast around Ağva experiences slightly different weather patterns from Istanbul, typically a few degrees cooler with higher humidity due to its coastal location and surrounding forests. In mid-June, daytime temperatures usually range from 22-25°C (72-77°F), while mornings and evenings are cooler at around 16-18°C (61-64°F). The region can experience occasional brief showers even in summer, adding to the lush greenery of the area.
For outdoor activities like hiking and canyoning, we recommend bringing appropriate gear: quick-drying clothes, a light waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes with good grip.
For sun protection, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential, as the sun’s rays can be intense even on cooler days.
For evening activities, a light sweater or jacket is recommended as temperatures can drop, especially after water activities or when the sea breeze picks up. It’s also advisable to pack an extra set of clothes and water shoes for canyoning adventures.
IMPORTANT: Clothing for visiting Mosques and other Holy Sites
When visiting Istanbul’s magnificent mosques and religious sites, appropriate dress is both a sign of respect and a requirement for entry. Women should cover their heads with a scarf and wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. While most major mosques provide head coverings at the entrance, many visitors prefer to carry their own light scarf for convenience.
Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves – short sleeves are acceptable, but sleeveless shirts are not appropriate.
All visitors to mosques will need to remove their shoes before entering, so wearing socks is recommended for comfort. Many mosques provide plastic bags to carry your shoes during your visit. The dress code is particularly strict at major religious sites like the Blue Mosque.
Electrical Outlets
Turkey uses European-style electrical outlets (Type C and Type F) with round two-pin sockets, operating on 220V/50Hz.
If you’re traveling from North America (which uses 110V), you’ll need both a plug adapter and a voltage converter for any devices that aren’t dual voltage. Most modern electronics like phones, laptops, and camera chargers are dual voltage (110-240V), requiring only a plug adapter.
We recommend bringing at least one adapter for your trip. For your convenience, our selected hotels provide several electrical outlets in each room, and many have USB ports for direct charging of mobile devices.
Currency
Istanbul, and Turkey in general, operates in a mix of modern and traditional payment systems.
While credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, having some Turkish Lira (TRY) in cash is recommended, particularly for places like the Grand Bazaar, local markets, and small shops.
Many vendors in traditional markets prefer cash, and it can also be useful for negotiating better prices.
Exchange ATMs are readily available throughout Istanbul, particularly in tourist areas, and most accept international cards. You’ll find them at the airport, near major hotels, and in shopping districts.
Major banks like İş Bankası, Garanti, and Yapı Kredi typically offer the best exchange rates for ATM withdrawals. While there are numerous currency exchange offices (döviz) in tourist areas, they often charge higher fees. We recommend using bank ATMs for the best rates.
Cancellation Policy
We are so excited to see the interest in this trip, and worked hard to negotiate the best price on all of these high-end experiences, exclusively for our members.
Please note that due to the nature of the trip and the size of the group, we can only allow cancellations if we can find a replacement for your spot.
Please remember to check your calendar first… Cancellations/refunds will only be issued if a replacement is found.
Price
The trip is scheduled for June 7-14, 2025 (8 days/7 nights).
The cost for individual attendees is $7,444 per person (two Single-Occupancy slots are available).
The cost for double occupancy slots is $12,250 for two people (seven Double-Occupancy slots are available).
Pricing is based on 17 attendees (Viktorija will be traveling with you).
Please also note that spots are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sign ups will open tomorrow, February 7th
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