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Gone To Istanbul | Between Two Continents

Neighbourhoods, Stories & Local Life

Starts
Turkey
Ends
Turkey
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4 Nights, 5 Days Adventure £1150  £850 if you book before 1st February 2026


Wander between Europe and Asia, step inside centuries-old mosques and hidden cisterns, share long meals and quiet conversations in lived-in neighbourhoods, and watch the city soften at sunset from the Bosphorus. Experience Istanbul alongside women from around the world, with a local expert, unhurried pacing, and every detail carefully curated. Small group, big experience. A rich, layered journey through culture, creativity, and everyday life between two continents.



Trip Highlights

One Trip, Two Continents

Cross from Europe to Asia by ferry and experience both sides of Istanbul culturally, geographically, and in everyday life. A truly unique experience!

Iconic Istanbul, Local Lens

Step inside Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern with a professional local Turkish woman who shows you her city - not crowds or rushed commentary. 

Bosphorus at Sunset

Cruise the Bosphorus in the early evening as the city changes light, with Europe on one side and Asia on the other.

Craft & Creativity

Paint your own traditional Iznik tile in a private workshop overlooking the Golden Horn - a hands-on creative experience and a beautiful piece to take home.


Neighbourhood Life

Explore markets, backstreets, and everyday neighbourhoods on both sides of the city, including time in the Grand Bazaar - the oldest covered market in the world.



Travel Made Easy

Small group of international women, licensed local guide, GGI host, thoughtful pacing, and all key experiences arranged so you can just turn up and have an amazing time.

Safety, kindness, care, ease

Whether this is your first group trip or fifth, we are here to answer all your questions before the trip and look after you during the trip! You can send us a WhatsApp anytime and book a call to talk through the trip before you commit!

✽  The Trip Key Details

Travel with us!




When

 Arrive by Thursday 4 – Monday 8 June 2026 (4 nights, 5 days). Arrive anytime on Thursday. Check-in from 2pm.


Who

Small group of international women. Licensed Turkish guide and GGI host. Women all ages, nationalities.


Where

Istanbul, in Beyoğlu / Taksim. 4★ hotel with breakfast & private in-room hammam-style bathrooms.



Price

Early Bird Price:£850 (€970 / $1,140 USD approx) Deposit £200, with the remainder payable in instalments. Enquire about solo room options.


Included

4★ boutique hotel (shared room, 2 beds. Upgrades poss.). Breakfasts, guide, all listed activities & entrance fees, Iznik  workshop, sunset boat.


Community

Full support at all stages of this trip. Meet and connect with other travellers and guide before the trip in our group chat and pre trip call.



✽  What to expect day to day

Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Istanbul

Arrival Day

  • Arrival into Istanbul

  • Relax in your private in-room hammam

  • Welcome dinner

Arrive into Istanbul and make your way to our boutique hotel in Beyoğlu (we will show you how to get there easily). Check in at 2pm. Unwind after travel in your private in-room hammam, a warm, calming space to relax and reset.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a relaxed welcome dinner - a chance to meet your fellow travellers and orientation session.

Day 2 

Istanbul Foundations

Historic Sites & Shopping

  • Blue Mosque & Sultanahmet Square

  • Basilica Cistern

  • Grand Bazaar & rooftop 

We begin with a guided walking exploration of Istanbul’s historic heart with our local guide Selin.

Visit the atmospheric Basilica Cistern before moving into the Grand Bazaar, where there’s time to wander, browse, and take in the energy of one of the world’s oldest markets. We’ll pause on a nearby rooftop terrace to rest and take in sweeping city views.

The afternoon is free to continue exploring, shop, or return to the hotel to relax.

Optional group dinner or casual meet-up in the evening.


Day 3 
Between 2 Continents

Icons, Everyday Life & the Bosphorus

  • Hagia Sophia
  • Ferry to the Asian side
  • Sunset Bosphorus cruise

This morning we visit Hagia Sophia, exploring its layered history before wandering nearby streets and quieter corners to take in the atmosphere.

In the early afternoon, we cross from Europe to Asia by public ferry. On the Asian side, there’s time to explore local streets, markets, cafés, or simply sit by the water.

In the evening, we come together for a sunset Bosphorus cruise, watching Europe and Asia glow as the light fades. Optional group dinner or casual meet-up in the evening.

Day 4
Stories & Craft

Markets, Neighbourhoods & Creativity

  • Spice Bazaar
  • Rüstem Pasha Mosque
  • Iznik tile painting workshop

This morning we explore the Spice Bazaar, followed by a visit to Rüstem Pasha Mosque, known for its exquisite Iznik tilework. There may be time for a gentle walk through nearby neighbourhood streets, seeing everyday life beyond the main sights.

In the afternoon, we take part in a private Iznik tile painting workshop overlooking the Golden Horn. Guided by local artisans, you’ll learn traditional techniques and paint your own ceramic tile to take home .

Late afternoon is free to rest or explore at your own pace. We will meet together in the evening for dinner.



Day 5 

Soft Goodbye

Departure Day

  • Breakfast
  • Check-out and departures
  • Optional final experiences

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before check-out. For those departing later, this morning offers a chance to do anything you didn’t get to earlier.

Optional activities may include a full traditional Turkish hammam experience, last-minute shopping, a relaxed coffee by the water, or a short neighbourhood wander close to the hotel.

Departures from Istanbul.


✽  Have a question before booking? 

Ask Us Anything


Thank you!

Our team will message you back as soon as possible. See you in the world somewhere soon!


Together We Go Far!

If you have ever packed a bag and headed out into the world to see what happens next, (Girl) Gone International travel is for you. If you’re craving ease, safety and real connection… if you want to share new experiences with new friends in a new place, this trip was made for you.

Your Options

Solo room upgrade available for £180 if two people request it - book a twin and contact us to request.

Girl Gone International Jordan Trip 2026

4 nights, 5 days 

£850 / total per person

This is the early booking price. The price will revert to the usual price of £1150 on February 1st.

You may be able to upgrade to a larger shared twin room with balcony, larger private Hamman and a quieter position for £80.

Book Now by Paying a £200 refundable deposit
  •  4 nights in a carefully selected 4★ boutique hotel in central Beyoğlu / Taksim
  •   Twin-share accommodation with private in-room hammam-style bathroom in every room. Separate beds.
  •  Daily breakfasts at the hotel
  •  Licensed professional Turkish guide throughout guided days
  •  Girl Gone International host support throughout the trip
  •  All guided activities and entrance fees listed in the itinerary
  • Guided visits to Istanbul’s historic sites (as outlined in the programme)
  •  Europe–Asia ferry crossing (public ferry, local experience)
  •  Sunset Bosphorus cruise
  •  Private Iznik tile painting workshop overlooking the Golden Horn
  •  Your finished 20×20cm ceramic tile, safely packaged to take home
  •  Pre-trip support, planning, and private group chat connection
  •  Optional pre-trip call to meet fellow travellers

Voices from the Trip

What past travellers said! Read more about what travellers said about one of our trips in December 2025 here


Rating

“Seeing things I’d dreamed of for years and sharing those moments with other women made the experience unforgettable. Every day felt special, surprising, and a little bit magical.”

Viktoria
GI Traveller 2025

Rating

“I loved not having to plan or think ahead — I just showed up each day and everything unfolded perfectly. It made the whole experience more fun, relaxed, and genuinely exciting.”


Danny 
GI Traveller 2025

Rating

“I felt genuinely safe and looked after the entire time, in a way I didn’t even realise I needed. Being surrounded by women who cared about each other made all the difference.”

Julie
GI Traveller 2025



 What's included

Prices are in UK POUNDS STERLING. Instalment payment plans are available - just talk to us. We’re here to make this trip accessible to you.

The trip is £850 (€970 / $1,140 approx)

✽  Full Experience £850

  • 4 Star or higher Accommodation
    included 

    4 nights in a carefully selected 4★ boutique hotel in central Beyoğlu / Taksim. Twin-share rooms throughout, thoughtfully matched so you don’t just share a room - you may leave with a new friend.

    Every room includes a private in-room hammam-style bathroom with heated marble - a Turkish bath–inspired wet room to unwind at your own pace. Comfortable, well-located, walkable, and chosen for quality, safety, and atmosphere.

  • Meals  
    included 

    Daily hotel breakfasts.

    A relaxed welcome dinner or drinks on arrival - the perfect way to meet your fellow travellers and ease into the experience together.

    On other days and evenings, meals are flexible. We’ll recommend great local places and eat together where it makes sense, or you’re free to explore independently.

  • Guided Culture & Experiences
    included  

    Licensed professional local Turkish guide throughout guided days.
    Guided exploration of Istanbul’s historic heart, including key sites and surrounding neighbourhoods, with context and storytelling.

    Europe–Asia public ferry crossing, experiencing Istanbul the way locals do.

    Sunset Bosphorus cruise, seeing the city from the water as Europe and Asia glow in evening light.

  • Signature Creative Experience
    included  

    Private Iznik tile painting workshop overlooking the Golden Horn.
    Learn about the history and symbolism of Iznik tiles, practice traditional techniques, and paint your own 20×20cm ceramic tile using classical Ottoman motifs.

    Your finished tile is safely packaged for you to take home.

  • Support & Community
    included  

    Girl Gone International host support throughout the trip.
    Pre-trip support, planning, and guidance.

    Private group chat before the trip to meet fellow travellers and connect in advance.

    Optional pre-trip call for questions and introductions.

✽  Optional Extras

  • Traditional Turkish Hammam Experience
    Approx £100 


    A full public hammam ritual including steam, scrub, and foam massage at a carefully selected, women-friendly hammam. Completely optional. Details will be provided closer to the time. You are also free to book your own experience.

  • Room Upgrade£80 


    Deluxe rooms are slightly larger and include a balcony, a larger hammam-style bathroom, and are generally quieter. Request at the time of booking and we will confirm availability.

  • Solo Room
    £180 total 


    Solo Superior room supplement is £180 for the full trip. Request at the time of booking and we will confirm availability.


✽  Excluded

  • Flights to/from Istanbul.

    Airport transfers.

    Lunches and dinners unless specified.

    Drinks, snacks, shopping, tips, and personal expenses.

    Optional hammam experience.

    Travel insurance (required).


✽  Notes

  • Balance due closer to the trip. Terms and conditions apply. Terms & Conditions

    A refundable deposit of £200 paid via Stripe secures your spot and supports the event portion of the trip. Full payment is due via at least 30 days before departure via Trust My Travel which protects your money and trip. Deposits are refundable only within 72 hours of paying the deposit unless the trip is canceled due to low numbers. Travel insurance is required.



Our Team

Guide

Selin
Selin was born and raised in Cappadocia and has spent her adult life exploring Türkiye from the inside out. A licensed professional guide with degrees in International Relations and Gastronomy, she blends history, daily life, and food culture with warmth and curiosity. Selin has travelled extensively across five continents, often by motorcycle. Her guiding style is thoughtful, grounded, and deeply human, focused on real connection, not just sightseeing.

Host

GGI Tour Guide 
TBC











Frequently asked questions

Here are some common questions about our Girl Gone International trip to Istanbul!

For more FAQs about travelling with us you can go to our FAQ page. ​

A trip is confirmed when we receive enough bookings (help spread the word about this trip!). As soon as we receive enough bookings we will send an email to tell you the trip is 100% confirmed and then you can book your flights! 

Yes. Istanbul is a large, lively, well-travelled city and women travel here solo every day. We stay in a central neighbourhood, move thoughtfully, and are accompanied by a licensed local guide and GGI host during guided activities.

That’s very common, and completely okay. This trip is designed to feel supportive and grounding, not overwhelming. You’re never rushed, never pressured, and always free to opt out, rest, or do your own thing.

Turkey is culturally diverse, especially in cities like Istanbul. While public attitudes vary, LGBTQI+ travellers regularly visit Istanbul without issue. This is a women-only, respectful group experience, and we focus on safe, welcoming spaces.

Visa requirements depend on your passport. Many nationalities can enter Turkey visa-free or with an e-visa. We recommend checking official government guidance for your nationality.

Fly into Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Both airports work. We’ll provide hotel directions once the trip is confirmed.

You can arrive anytime on Thursday 4 June. Hotel check-in is from 14:00.

Depart anytime on Monday 8 June. Check-out is by 12:00.

You’ll make your own way to the hotel. Before the trip, we’ll share clear instructions for taxis, airport transfers, or public transport so you can choose what suits you best.

Istanbul has taxis, private transfers, metro and airport buses. We’ll send step-by-step guidance in advance so this feels easy and stress-free.

Daily breakfast is included, plus a welcome dinner. Other meals are flexible - we’ll recommend great local places and eat together where it makes sense, or you’re free to explore independently.

Yes - most women join our trips solo. Rooms are twin-share and thoughtfully matched, and there’s plenty of support before and during the trip.

Single rooms may be available on request, subject to availability and an additional cost. Just ask.

This trip is open to all women and non-binary people. You do not need to be part of a GGI local group. Many participants join solo, and everyone is welcomed with warmth and inclusion.

Most travellers are between 30 and 55, but we welcome adults of all ages. If you are older or younger at heart and open to connection, you’ll fit right in. We really don't care about age - being an international woman has nothing to do with age and everything to do about moving around the world in a meaningful way!

If you have been an active Girl Gone International volunteer for over 6 months hosting and upholding your promise to the community to host free events / create conversation in the community then you are entitled to a thank you trip gift! Just ask Anne!

Yes. Payment plans are available. Just contact us after booking to arrange a schedule that works for you.

Yes. Travel insurance is required. You’ll be asked to confirm your coverage before the trip and sign a waiver upon arrival.

That’s absolutely okay. This trip is gently paced with rest built in. Please let us know anything we should be aware of so we can support you properly.

Many women in our community are neurodivergent. The trip is structured but flexible, with downtime, clear expectations, and the option to step back whenever needed.

Yes. Please let us know your needs in advance and we’ll do our best to accommodate them.

Yes. GGI is an international community and many of us speak English as a second or third language. You will be understood and supported.

There is walking most days, but at a relaxed pace with breaks. Comfortable shoes are recommended. You can always opt out and rest.

None. This is a city-based trip with walking, ferries, and short transfers.

Very little. This is a city-based trip with walking, ferries, and short transfers.

Comfortable, "modest" clothing works well. Light layers, good walking shoes, and something to cover shoulders when visiting mosques are recommended.

The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Cards and Apple Pay are widely accepted. Cash is useful for small purchases.

Early June is warm and pleasant. Expect daytime temperatures around 22–28°C, with cooler evenings.

Istanbul is busy and diverse. You may notice attention in tourist areas, but serious harassment is uncommon. We stay in central neighbourhoods, move as a group when it matters, and you’re never pressured to do anything you’re uncomfortable with.

Yes. Many women choose to explore solo during free time. We’ll share guidance on areas, timings, and transport so you can make informed choices.

That’s respected. You’re always free to step back, skip activities, or spend time alone. This is a supportive group, not a forced social experience.