WHY THIS EXCURSION IS INTERESTING FOR STUDENTS
Istanbul, the city between Europe and Asia, is a living textbook of architectural history that inspires with its diversity of architectural styles and cultural dynamism. This excursion offers a unique opportunity for students of interior design and architecture to expand their specialised knowledge.
A journey through time
In Istanbul, the excursion participants experience an architectural journey through time, from antiquity to the present day. Buildings such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Galata Tower illustrate the development of architectural styles and their cultural embedding. You have the opportunity to discover traces of the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire, complemented by modern and futuristic architectural projects such as the Zorlu Centre.
Diversity as inspiration
The special fusion of oriental and western influences makes Istanbul an inexhaustible source of inspiration. Colours, ornaments, lighting and room concepts offer new perspectives for your own designs.
Experience urbanism up close
Istanbul is a vibrant megacity that introduces participants to the challenges and opportunities of urban planning and urbanism. Topics such as sustainability, monument protection and the integration of modern buildings into historical contexts are the focus here.
Gain practical experience
During the excursion, they will have the opportunity to make sketches, create photo documentation and carry out material studies on site and to deepen their understanding of construction processes and technical details.

Drawing from Wolfram Richter

Developing intercultural competence
Istanbul as a cultural melting pot sharpens their sensitivity to cultural differences and their significance in architecture. Encounters with other building cultures and design approaches broaden their horizons and promote their ability to take cultural contexts into account in their own designs
From theory to practice
The excursion combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Buildings such as the Hagia Sophia illustrate complex structural concepts such as dome construction, while the Zorlu Centre symbolises the transition to modern architecture.
Networking
The workshop at Maramara University enables participants to make contacts with students and exchange professional information with them.
Personal and professional development
Dealing with new impressions and challenges promotes creativity, problem-solving skills and adaptability. At the same time, shared experiences strengthen team spirit and create unforgettable memories.
An unforgettable experience
The excursion to Istanbul is much more than just a study trip – it is an opportunity to experience architecture and design in a fascinating cultural context, make valuable contacts and gain inspiration for your future career.
CONTACT
Wolfram Richter | wolfram.richter[at]hs-coburg.de
Brigitta Sommer | brigitta.sommer[at]hs-coburg.de
Ayse Dora Erdilek
PROGRAMME – subject to change
THU 08.05.2025 – FR 16.05.2025:
Day 1: DO 08.05.2025 – Individual arrival and introduction
- Arrival in Istanbul and transfer to the hostel.
- Welcome event: introduction to the excursion programme, short lecture on the architectural history of Istanbul.
- Walk through Sultanahmet or Beyoglu: exploration of the neighbourhood around the hostel, first impressions of the city.
Day 2: FR 09.05.2025 – Historical architecture
- Hagia Sophia: Visit to the world-famous former church and mosque, discussion of Byzantine architecture and its transformation and sketching. (Optional / Day 8)
- Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Focus on Ottoman interior architecture and ornamentation. Entrance tickets and tour
- Topkapi Palace: Tour of the inner courtyards and private rooms, focussing on Ottoman spatial concept and functionality.
- Evening: Reflective discussion on historical contrasts.
Tag 3: SA 10.05.2025 – Modern architecture and urbanism
- Istanbul Modern: Visit to the Museum of Modern Art, the new building on the Bosphorus can also be viewed architecturally.
- Alternatively – Zorlu Centre: A modern shopping, cultural and living centre. Discussion about urban spaces and modern mix of uses.
- Galataport: Modern urban development project that reinterprets the harbour. Comparison with traditional neighbourhoods.
Tag 4: SO 11.05.2025 – Interior design and craftsmanship
- Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı): Exploration of traditional market structures, discussion of interior design and lighting.
- Alternatively – Handicraft workshops: Visit a traditional Turkish tile or carpet workshop to learn about craft techniques.
- Evening: Free time for independent exploration.
Tag 5: MO 12.05.2025 – Workshop + urban planning and cultural diversity
- Taksim Square and Istiklal Street: exploration of modern and historical urban spaces.
- Galata Tower: Ascent and overview of the city, with discussion on urban planning and spatial structures.
- Balat and Fener: Walk through these historic neighbourhoods, known for their cultural diversity and narrow streets.
Tag 6: DI – 13.05.2025 Workshop possibly Marmara University
- Sunken Palace – Yerebatan Sarnici
Tag 7: MI – 14.05.2025 Workshop possibly Marmara University
- 2021 Müze Gazhane – Gasworks Museum – Museum complex (library, theatre, social rooms)
Tag 8: DO 15.05.2025 – Workshop – Free time and reflection
- Free time: Students can explore individually or work on tasks.
- Reflection workshop: Students present their impressions and insights.
Tag 9: FR 16.05.2025 – Farewell – Return journey
Breakfast together and farewell meeting.
ALTERNATIVE PROGRAMM
- Büyük Ada Island – Old villas / Art Nouveau houses
- Modern Museum
- Art and Sculpture Museum
- Large flea market – Sundays

Drwaing from Wolfram Richter
COST ESTIMATE
Other
other means of transport
- Istanbulkart: 3,50€ Rechargeable Blog realtor global for students and teachers cheaper – means of transport in Istanbul (no day tickets, per journey) This is already available at the airport.
- Train: Coburg – Nürnberg – Coburg ca. 50 € Frühbucher
- The best way from Istanbul airport to the city centre planeclaim – metro approx. 4€ or bus approx. 6€ – cheaper romeo2rio
- Shuttle airport – hotel – airport – Welcome Pickups – Get Your Guide pre-booking – approx. 30€
- Museum complex – Müze Gazane – n.n.
- Boat trips (Bosphorus) n.n.
Map -Metro https://www.metro.istanbul/en

Map – Bus

Entrance fees
- Alternative – Classic Combi Pass – 107€ – https://megapass.com/tours-tickets/megapass-istanbul-classic-i2710?discountCode=ma-places
- Hagia Sophia 25€
- Blue Mosque – 15€
- Topkapi Palace ab 28€ – MI-MO 09:00-18:00 Uhr
- Topkapi Palace Harem – mit Führung ab ca. 60€ – 16:45 Uhr
- Sunken Palace – 09:00-22:00 Uhr (bis 11:00 Uhr beste Zeit) ca. 23€
- Museum of Modern Art
- Arts and Craft workshop ???
- Instanbul workshops from approx. 30€-50€
- Get your guide from approx. 20€
- Mosaic lamp workshop from approx. 30€
- Tile workshop from approx. 35€
- A special kind of cookery course from???
- Türkisch coffee on sand workshop – fortune-telling– from approx. 30€
- Ceremony of the whirling dervishes from approx. 44€
- Galata Tower 30€
Accommodation approx. 30-70€ per person / per night
- https://www.momondo.de/hotels/istanbul
- Cheers Midtown Hostel – Hostel
- The Relax Ely House – Apartments
Food and drink
- according to individual needs
Health insurance
- International health insurance
- Precautions regarding food intolerances
- Provision for medical needs
IMPORTANT
AT SKIZE
- Each student is responsible for equipping themselves with drawing materials and pencils. (e.g. watercolour, watercolour pencils, watercolour crayons, marker pens, pigment liners, pencils, chalk, charcoal, copic pencils)
- Simple folding drawing stool recommended
- Sketchbook, at least DINA4
FOR PROTECTION
- Clothing suitable for the weather
- Rain protection
- Sun protection
- Water bottle
FOR SAFETY
SPRACHSCHATZ
Grundwortschatz Türkisch
| Deutsch | Türkisch |
|---|---|
| Ja | Evet |
| Nein | Hayır |
| Vielen Dank | Teşekkür ederim |
| Bitte sehr | Bir şey değil |
| Entschuldigung | Affedersiniz |
| Ich heiße… | Benim adım… |
| Wie geht es Ihnen? | Nasılsınız? |
| Wie viel Uhr ist es? | Saat kaç? |
| Wann? | Ne zaman? |
| heute | Bugün |
| morgen | Yarın |
| Guten Morgen | Günaydın |
| Guten Abend | İyi akşamlar |
| Gute Nacht | İyi geceler |
| Auf Wiedersehen | Hoşça kalın |
| Hilfe! | Yardım edin! |
| Ich verstehe nicht | Anlamıyorum |
| Sprechen Sie Englisch? | İngilizce biliyor musunuz? |