Ottoman Echoes: An Educational Journey from Istanbul to Bosnia

Arrival at Istanbul Airport. Transfer to hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a welcome session followed by a Bosphorus cruise to experience the city's stunning skyline from the water. Introductory talk: "Istanbul – The Heart of the Ottoman Empire." Overnight in Istanbul.

Visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Learn about the Islamic and Byzantine layers of the city and the development of Ottoman governance and culture.  Overnight in Istanbul.

Full-day excursion to Bursa, the first Ottoman capital. Visit the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe), and the historic Silk Market. Educational session: "Bursa’s Role in the Rise of the Ottoman State." Return to Istanbul for overnight.

Visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, Spice Bazaar, and the Islamic Art Museum. Afternoon free for exploration or optional visit to Eyüp Sultan Mosque. Overnight in Istanbul.

Flight to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Tour of Baščaršija (Old Town), Gazi Husrev-bey’s Mosque, Sebilj Fountain, and the Latin Bridge. Introduction to the Ottoman legacy in Sarajevo and the multicultural fabric of the city. Overnight in Sarajevo.

Excursion to Lukomir, the highest village in Bosnia. Learn about traditional Muslim highland life, see medieval tombstones (stećci), and enjoy local hospitality and cuisine. Return to Sarajevo for overnight.

Full-day educational visit to the Srebrenica-Potočari Memorial and Cemetery. Guided tour of the memorial center, survivor testimonies, and discussion on the Srebrenica genocide, remembrance, and peacebuilding. Return to Sarajevo for overnight.

Travel to Mostar to explore the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge, Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, and Old Town. Continue to Blagaj’s Dervish Monastery and the scenic Ottoman village of Počitelj. Educational session on post-war reconstruction and the role of Islam in preserving identity. Return to Sarajevo for overnight.

Group debrief and feedback session, transfer.