Discover Istanbul's Heritage: Old City Exploration and Bosphorus Sunset Cruise
Discover Istanbul's Heritage: Old City Exploration and Bosphorus Sunset Cruise
Dive into the heart of Istanbul with a captivating full-day tour that takes you through its historic wonders. Wander around the evocative Hippodrome Square, marvel at the stunning Blue Mosque, and explore the art and architecture of Hagia Sophia. Immerse yourself in the opulent history of Topkapi Palace before getting lost in the colorful chaos of the Grand Bazaar. The adventure doesn't stop on land; embark on a luxurious sunset yacht cruise along the Bosphorus. Glide by the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, under the Bosphorus Bridges, and past the charming seaside villas, culminating in a breathtaking close encounter with the Maiden's Tower.
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Embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul, exploring the city's mesmerizing historic treasures during a full day tour. Begin your adventure in the echoes of Hippodrome Square, where the sounds of ancient charioteers still resonate. Be enchanted by the stunning blue tiles adorning the Blue Mosque, a marvel of historical architecture. Wander through Hagia Sophia, awed by its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics and towering minarets. Step into the world of the Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace, tracing the paths of the empire's most influential figures. Dive into the colorful chaos of the Grand Bazaar, a treasure trove of handicrafts, carpets, and memorable souvenirs.
The journey continues as you glide along the Bosphorus, marveling at the opulent Dolmabahce Palace and the majestic Bosphorus Bridges. Admire the exquisite seaside villas lining the shores, a testament to Istanbul's timeless allure. As the journey rounds the spectacular tip of the old city, the Maiden's Tower emerges, standing guard over the waters' edge. The experience reaches its zenith with a sunset cruise aboard a luxury yacht, offering a grand finale to a day filled with stunning sights and unforgettable moments.
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Itinerary
Explore Istanbul: A Day of Historical Wonders and Bosphorus Beauty
Embark on a memorable full-day tour soaking in the essence of Istanbul, a city where the past and the present merge seamlessly. Begin your journey with the echoes of ancient times at Hippodrome Square, then marvel at the intricate tiles of the Blue Mosque. Be awestruck by the Hagia Sophia’s Byzantine mosaics, and roam the halls of power at Topkapi Palace. Dive into the bustling life of the Grand Bazaar, a kaleidoscope of handicrafts, carpets, and unforgettable souvenirs.
Transition from land to sea with a cruise down the Bosphorus, gliding past Dolmabahce Palace, towering bridges, and elegant seaside villas. Witness the harmony of history and nature circling the old city, coming face-to-face with the enigmatic Maiden's Tower. Conclude your day with the elegance of a sunset cruise aboard a luxury yacht, a fitting finale to your Istanbul adventure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Begin your immersive experience with a convenient pick-up. Journey through time at Topkapi Palace, an emblem of the Ottoman era, exploring its sacred Islamic relics, opulent kitchens, and formidable weapons. Stand in awe of the Blue Mosque, an architectural marvel with its unique six minarets. Traverse the historical layers of the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has stood as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Catch glimpses of Dolmabahce and other regal structures from the comfort of a yacht. Lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar’s lively alleys, a treasure trove of shopping delights. Encounter the majestic views of Beylerbeyi Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Maiden's Tower, Bosphorus Bridge, and Camlica Mosque as you sail through the Bosphorus, ending your day with a soothing drop-off.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Professional guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Guaranteed to skip the long lines
- Transportation by public transport
- Lunch in a terrace restaurant with a great view of the city
- Light snacks, cookies, delicious Turkish baklava, fresh seasonal fruits platter, tea and coffee
- 2.5-Hour Bosphorus cruise on a 25 meters luxury yacht
Exclusions
- Drinks during lunch
- Visit to the Harem in Topkapi Palace is not included (own expense)
- Gratuities
- Entrance tickets to Topkapi Palace & Hagia Sophia
Important Notes
Experience Istanbul's timeless sights on a full-day tour of the city's stunning historic places. Listen for the ancient echoes of pounding hooves and charioteers at Hippodrome Square and spot the distinctive tiles of the Blue Mosque. See the Byzantine mosaics and minarets of Hagia Sophia, then follow in the footsteps of powerful sultans, courtiers, and generals at Topkapi Palace. Continue your tour in the vibrant Grand Bazaar, browsing bright displays of handicrafts, carpets and souvenirs. Sail down the Bosphorus passing Dolmabahce Palace, impressive Bosphorus Bridges, and beautifully designed seaside villas along both sides of the Bosphorus, before rounding the spectacular tip of the old city and ultimately cruising only a few feet away from the magnificent Maiden's Tower. Put a classy end to the day with a sunset cruise on a luxury yacht.
Important Tour Notes:
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not stroller accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- No public transportation nearby
- Infant seats unavailable
- Pick up from your hotel and transfer to the starting point.