Istanbul, Turkey

The JW Marriott is just steps away from its Bohemian surroundings including boutiques, cafés, cocktail bars, and artisanal markets and is one of the area's finest 5-Star hotels. The hotel offers a variety of delicious dining options, all in venues with beautiful views of the city and be sure to check out Istanbul's hotel wine cellar located right at the hotel! Prior to adventuring out and exploring downtown, stop by the 24-hour fitness center filled with brand new state of the art equipment as well as a a sauna and steam room or book a spa treatment at the Spa at JW which is an oasis of calm, inspired by luxury, comfort, and relaxation.
 
A cultural feast for the senses, Istanbul, Turkey is a destination that delights travel enthusiasts. Europe and Asia meet in this rich historical city perched at the edges of the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Experiences in this beautiful city include modern and ancient architecture, monuments and landmarks, and cultural sites unlike anywhere else on earth. Below you can find more details about some of the top attractions!
 
Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most well-known monument, Hagia Sophia has a long history as a religious landmark. Meaning “Holy Wisdom,” it was originally constructed as a Christian church in the 6th century. It’s also been used as a mosque, and now, a museum. The building’s iconic dome is seen from all over the city and is best enjoyed as you take in the Istanbul skyline from a rooftop at sunset. The Hagia Sophia shouldn’t be missed and is one of the most incredible places to visit in Istanbul.

The Dolmabahce Palace is located waterside on the edge of the famous Bosphorus Strait and is a stately structure built in the 1800s by the Empire’s Sultan. This lavish palace is full of art, carvings, and historical artifacts like tea-ware and Bohemian crystal and is the largest palace in Turkey. Stroll the well-preserved palace interior as you take in the regal marble stone and the impressive collection of oil paintings, while on the outside, you’ll have the chance to view the Imperial Gate, beautiful gardens, Swan and Harem fountains, and the famous Clock Tower that stretches over 100 feet tall.

Be sure to check out one of the world’s most notable markets, the Grand Bazaar. Explore maze-like lanes lined with colorful vendors selling local art, textiles, and goods. The buzzing atmosphere combined with the sights, sounds, and smells of the market is a once-in-a-lifetime experience with offerings of over 4,000 vendors, you’ll find incredible Turkish souvenirs like spices, jewelry, antiques, ceramics, lamps, towels, and rugs.

The Blue Mosque, (also known as the Sultanahmet Mosque) is a top place to visit in Istanbul. This landmark historical building was constructed in the 1600s and combines both Islamic and Byzantine architectural elements. In addition, savor 360-degree views of Istanbul from atop the Galata Tower, a stone tower built in Medieval times. On a clear day, you may even see as far as the Princes’ Islands. Stretching almost 200 feet tall, you’re guaranteed a spectacular city vista from this iconic landmark.
 
Head out of downtown and adventure to Old Town to explore numerous landmarks and significant historical sites located in the oldest part of the city. Mosques, baths, Ottoman palaces, and Byzantine churches are just some of the fantastic a few attractions of interest you come across when visiting this culturally rife section of the city. Stroll along the ancient Walls of Constantinople that date back to Roman times. Pass the Ottoman Mihrimah mosque and the Church of St. Saviour. The Galata Bridge is a popular spot for photographs, especially at sunset. Located in the old town portion of Istanbul, the Topkapi Palace is a major historical landmark that houses an important cultural museum, a must to stop and learn the history of 30 sultans ruling over the span of several centuries. 

Things to Know:

  • The JW Marriott is located about 45 minutes from the Istanbul Airport (IST).
  • A passport is required for visitors entering Turkey. Each passport MUST be valid for 6 months after your departure date from Istanbul. A visa is also required to enter Turkey. U.S. passport holders are exempt from visas as tourists visiting for up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.  We are able to assist in providing any documentation required for the visa, such as proof of stay, etc. Please note that you are responsible to understand the travel requirements to travel to and from your home country. *This is NOT the responsibility of Executive Group Travel.*
  • The lira is the national currency of Turkey. We highly recommend contacting your bank prior to the trip to inform them that you will be visiting Turkey to avoid any issues with your credit or debit card.
  • Turkish is the official language of Turkey and English is widely spoken in Istanbul; visitors are often surprised by the relatively high level of English spoken by most Turks. An attempt to use Turkish is very much appreciated and considered good manners, though.
  • Weather: For May the average temp is 71° Fahrenheit, we recommend bringing a light jacket for evening events/exploring Istanbul at night
  • The resort fee includes Wi-Fi, access to the fitness center, local and toll-free calls, and in-room coffee and tea.
  • Breakfast is included for the duration of your stay.
  • A credit card will be placed on file with the hotel at the time of check in. A hold for incidentals will be placed on the card, so we highly recommend using a credit card over a debit card. The hold will be released upon checkout.