Istanbul: Old City and Bosphorus Bus Tour With Lunch

Exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Istanbul has never been easier. The "Istanbul: Old City and Bosphorus Bus Tour With Lunch" offers an immersive 12-hour adventure, taking travelers to iconic landmarks and picturesque neighborhoods. From the grandeur of the Suleymaniye Mosque to the captivating Bosphorus cruise, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But what truly sets it apart is the opportunity to savor a delightful lunch, providing a unique perspective on the city’s culinary delights.

Key Points

• A 12-hour immersive tour exploring Istanbul’s top landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Spice Bazaar, with a Bosphorus boat cruise.
• Guided walking tours of the historic neighborhoods of Balat and Fener, showcasing the city’s vibrant colors and cultural heritage.
• Lunch at a local restaurant with panoramic city views, providing an opportunity to savor traditional Turkish cuisine.
• Comprehensive sightseeing experience featuring visits to Suleymaniye Mosque, Sveti Stefan Church, and St. Georges Cathedral.
• A serene two-hour Bosphorus cruise highlighting the contrast between historic landmarks and the modern skyline along the shores.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Istanbul: Old City And Bosphorus Bus Tour with Lunch offers an immersive 12-hour experience for visitors to explore the iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods of Istanbul.

An immersive 12-hour tour to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods.

Priced at $97.70 per person, the tour includes complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, roundtrip transportation, a live guide, and a Bosphorus boat cruise.

Highlights include guided tours of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Spice Bazaar, as well as walking tours of Balat and Fener.

Travelers can also enjoy a panoramic lunch at a local restaurant.

The tour is available in English, with Russian and Spanish guides on Fridays.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Highlights

This tour features a comprehensive itinerary, giving visitors the opportunity to explore some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods. The day begins with guided tours of the Suleymaniye Mosque, Sveti Stefan Church, and St. Georges Cathedral, followed by walks through the historic districts of Balat and Fener. After a delightful lunch with panoramic city views, the tour continues to the renowned Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square, and Sultan Ahmed Mosque, culminating in a relaxing Bosphorus boat cruise.

| Site | Duration |

| — | — |

| Suleymaniye Mosque | 1 hour |

| Sveti Stefan Church | 30 minutes |

| St. Georges Cathedral | 30 minutes |

| Balat & Fener | 30 minutes each |

Key Sites Explored

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through Istanbul’s historic and culturally significant sites during this comprehensive tour.

They’ll explore the majestic Suleymaniye Mosque, a 16th-century architectural marvel, and the Sveti Stefan Church, an Orthodox Christian landmark.

The tour then ventures to the charming neighborhoods of Balat and Fener, known for their vibrant colors and rich cultural heritage.

At Sultanahmet Square, guests marvel at the iconic Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, and the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia.

The tour culminates with a scenic boat cruise along the Bosphorus, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.

Dining Experience

During the tour, guests enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, allowing them to savor the flavors of Turkish cuisine while taking in panoramic city views.

The lunch is included as part of the tour package, providing a welcome respite and an opportunity to refuel midway through the day’s activities.

The restaurant serves a selection of traditional Turkish dishes, giving participants a chance to enjoy the local culinary culture.

With attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere, the lunch break is a highlight of the comprehensive sightseeing experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Bosphorus Cruise

Following the Bosporus Strait tour, passengers embark on a serene two-hour cruise that showcases the captivating contrast between the city’s historic landmarks and modern skyline.

The cruise offers a unique perspective, allowing visitors to witness:

The cruise offers a unique perspective, allowing visitors to witness the grand palaces, iconic bridge, and charming neighborhoods along the Bosphorus Strait.

• The grand Ottoman palaces and imperial residences that line the shores

• Opulent mansions and villas of the city’s elite

• The iconic Bosphorus Bridge, connecting Europe and Asia

• Charming neighborhoods and lively waterfront districts

This tranquil journey provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city, immersing guests in the natural beauty and rich history of Istanbul.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive set of features to ensure a memorable experience for guests.

Pickup and drop-off at the hotel, roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned bus, and a live guide are all included. Admission to Hagia Sophia and a scenic Bosphorus boat cruise are also part of the package.

Lunch at a local restaurant with panoramic city views is provided. However, additional food, drinks, and tips for the guide and driver are excluded.

Important Information

Although the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, the company provides special guides in Russian and Spanish every Friday for guests who require those language services.

Key things to know:

• The itinerary is subject to change, so be flexible.

• Customer reviews rate the experience 5/5, based on one review.

• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment through the "Reserve now & pay later" option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many People Are Typically on This Tour?

The tour typically accommodates small groups, with a maximum size not specified. The exact number of participants may vary depending on demand and bookings on a given day.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

While participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, the tour includes a provided lunch. Bringing outside food and drinks is generally discouraged, as the tour price covers the cost of the group meal.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

There’s no mention of a private tour option in the provided details. The tour is offered as a group experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a live guide included in the package deal.

Can I Leave the Tour Early if I Need To?

Yes, participants can leave the tour early if needed. The tour operator allows for early departure, though refunds may not be provided for unused portions of the tour. This flexibility allows travelers to accommodate unexpected schedule changes.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Walking Portions?

No special equipment is required for the walking portions of the tour. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to fully experience the neighborhoods and landmarks on foot. The tour operator will provide any necessary equipment or materials.

The Sum Up

The "Istanbul: Old City and Bosphorus Bus Tour With Lunch" offers an immersive cultural experience, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and scenic Bosphorus waterway. This comprehensive tour allows visitors to explore Istanbul’s rich history and contemporary charm, providing a well-rounded introduction to the captivating metropolis. With a delightful lunch and Bosphorus cruise, this tour delivers an engaging and memorable exploration of one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.

You can check availability for your dates here: