EDN'26: Istanbul Guide

*To book for the extra nights in the conference hotel, please send your inquiry to tberk@themarmarahotels.com mentioning the discount code 'EDN2026'EDN MEETING 2026 ISTANBUL EVENT PROGRAMThursday October 1Hamam - Turkish Bath (side event*)Friday October 212:00-14:00 Registration14:00-16:15 Opening Ceremony  Opening Ritual and Welcome from Turkey Doula Initiative and EDN Core organisers16:15-16.45 Coffee break Hotel check in, if needed16:45-18:00 PresentationBetween Two Continents: A Theatrical Portrait of Turkey19:00 ‘Meyhane’ Dinner (side event*)Saturday October 36:30-9:30 Breakfast9:30-11.20 WorkshopWorking with Birth Reflex11:20-11:50 Coffee Break 11:50-12:20 EDN Survey Team Presentation12:20-13:40    Country Sharing Session No.113:40-15:00 Lunch15:00-16:00 Country Sharing Session No.216:00-16:30 Group photo16:30-17:00 Coffee Break 17:00-18:30 Panel DiscussionPolitical Side of Birth 18:30-21:30 Free Time21:30 Jazz Night  (side event*)Sunday October 46:30-9:30 Breakfast + check out9:30-11:30 EDN Members Meeting EDN representatives, friends and volunteers9:30-11:30 Sharing Circle Food for Thoughts - for the other participants11:30-12:00 Coffee Break12:00-13:00 Discussion Session Popular Beliefs and Practices in Turkey Related to Birth13:00- 14:30 Closing Ceremony End of the Conference18:00 Bosphorus Dinner Cruise (side event*)*Side events are not included in the paid conference fee.The Complete Package (single or twin room) includes accommodation with breakfast (Friday & Saturday), Saturday lunch, coffee breaks with snacks, and program attendance.The Program-Only Package includes Saturday lunch, coffee breaks with snacks, and program attendance.

Istanbul is one of the largest metropolises in the world, home to more than 20 million people. It is busy, crowded, and often chaotic — and that chaos is part of what makes it so unique. The city stretches across two continents, Europe and Asia, connected by three bridges and linked by constant ferry traffic across the Bosphorus. For centuries, Istanbul served as the capital of great empires, and you can still feel that deep history in its streets. Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, old markets, and modern neighborhoods all exist side by side. Life here moves fast: traffic, street vendors, seagulls, cats, simit & tea,  commuters, tourists — everyone sharing the same restless energy. Istanbul is not always easy or quiet. But it is alive, layered, and full of character. And that contrast — between past and present, calm waters and crowded streets — is what makes the city unforgettable. You can find some tips in this page for you to easily navigate the city while enjoying its historical views and unique Turkish cultural touches throughout your journey ❤️