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For centuries described as the heady meeting between East and West, Istanbul has served as the capital of three of the greatest empires in Western history. These days, the city is on the thrilling edge of age-old tradition and modernity. On this incredible journey, travelers can experience this duality in equal measure through VIP historical and design tours with acclaimed art historians and collectors, as well as private receptions in the former palaces-turned-homes of the aristocrats who live along the legendary Bosphorus River.

What to Expect

  • Join private receptions and art collection viewings with Istanbul’s elite in stunning mansions along the Bosphorus river.
  • Meet with expert guides for historical and art- and architecture-focused touring with behind-the-scenes-access at top sites and monuments like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace.
  • Join guides and designers for shopping in the bazaars and be invited for private visits to Istanbul’s cutting-edge ateliers and boutiques.
  • Enjoy immersive cultural activities like sailing along the Bosphorus in private yachts, watching live music and traditional dance performances, trying a hammam treatment and taking a Turkish cooking class with a celebrity chef.
  • Experience a challenging destination at a moment of political change with Istanbul insiders across various disciplines—from history, journalism and art to fashion, business and philanthropy —as well as Architectural Digest contributing editor Gay Gassmann and the founder and CEO of Indagare, Melissa Biggs Bradley.
  • Find a home away from home at the St. Regis, one of Istanbul’s most stylish hotels.
Book Now
  • When
    October 19 – 24, 2019
  • Length
    6 days / 5 nights
  • Type of Traveler
    Art Lovers , Intellectuals , Style Mavens

This Journey's Host

On this journey, you will be joined by Gay Gassmann, AD’s Contributing Editor based in Europe. A trained art historian and writer, Gassmann has spent the majority of her life abroad creating a vast network across the worlds of fashion, art and publishing. She has collaborated with The J. Paul Getty Museum, Peter Marino Architect and The New York Times Style Magazine. In addition to being a decorative arts historian, Gassmann works closely with contemporary artists on site-specific projects and contributes art-driven features to Architectural Digest, online and in print. (Photo by Julio Piatti.)

Architectural Digest is a vibrant celebration of international design talents, innovative homes and products, inspiring decorating ideas, culture, and travel. Launched in 1920 as a California trade quarterly, the magazine evolved over the years, increasing in frequency and broadening in scope until it became the byword for living well. Today AD publishes nine international editions, as well as a website, and its brand has immeasurable influence in the world of interior design and style.

Curious to receive the full itinerary and join the trip? Contact us and find out more.

Trip Details

In preparation for the journey, members will also receive a comprehensive departure package that includes an itinerary, packing list, accommodations overview and other important information.

  • When
    October 19 – 24, 2019
  • Length
    6 days / 5 nights
  • Group Size
    Up to 24 travelers
  • Host
    Gay Gassmann

Includes

  • 5 nights’ stay at the St. Regis Istanbul in a double or single room
  • All meals and beverages, as indicated in the itinerary, excluding alcohol
  • All guided touring, admissions and activities, as indicated in the itinerary
  • Touring with expert guides, as indicated in the itinerary, as well as your Architectural Digest and Indagare hosts
  • Group airport arrival and departure transfers, as well as group transfers throughout Istanbul, as indicated in the itinerary
  • The services of our Istanbul partners and emergency contacts

Excludes

  • International air transportation to and from Istanbul and airport transfers outside of group arrivals and departures
  • Meals not specified and alcoholic beverages other than those included in meals
  • Personal items and expenses, including additional activities
  • All gratuities
  • Trip insurance (highly recommended—please let us know if you would like to see quotes)
  • Liability for change in itinerary due to reasons beyond our control (change in flights, cancellations, political disturbances, natural phenomena)
Curious to receive the full itinerary and join the trip? Contact us and find out more.

What To Read

Indagare has selected the articles from our website and magazine to prepare you for your journey. Peruse inspiring slideshows, insider tips, reading lists and more.

Recommended For You

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