Bosphorus Cruise, Dolmabahce, Istiklal Street, Galata Tour

Istanbul’s rich cultural tapestry comes alive on this comprehensive tour. Visitors can enjoy the opulent grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, stroll along the bustling Istiklal Street, and ascend the iconic Galata Tower for breathtaking Bosphorus views. Throughout the day, a knowledgeable guide provides insights, while a scenic cruise offers a unique perspective on the city’s landmarks. This dynamic itinerary promises to unveil Istanbul’s captivating essence, leaving one eager to further explore its mesmerizing depths.

Key Points

• The tour includes a guided visit to Dolmabahce Palace, a 2-hour walking tour of Istiklal Street, and exploration of Galata Tower.
• A relaxing Bosphorus cruise provides insights into the region’s history and culture, with stunning views of iconic landmarks.
• The tour features a sampling of local cuisine, including Beyoğlu Chocolate and street food.
• The walking tour follows a relaxed pace, allowing exploration of side streets and historical passages in the Pera district.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended for the extensive walking required during the full-day tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbul Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Priced at Kč 2,749 per person, the tour lasts a full day and includes a guided visit to Dolmabahce Palace, a stroll along Istiklal Street, and an ascent of Galata Tower.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book now and pay later to secure their spot. The tour’s highlights include discovering Beyoğlu’s backstreets, sampling local cuisine, and enjoying a relaxing Bosphorus cruise.

Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the extensive walking involved.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at Dolmabahçe Sarayı (Dolmabahce Palace), the tour provides a guided visit of the palace lasting either 75 minutes or an optional 2 hours.

Afterward, guests embark on a 2-hour guided tour of Istiklal Street. Following a 30-minute break, they explore Galata Tower for 1.5 hours.

Guests embark on a 2-hour guided tour of Istiklal Street, then explore Galata Tower for 1.5 hours after a 30-minute break.

The highlight is a Bosphorus cruise, where travelers discover hidden backstreets and passages in the Beyoğlu district with a local guide.

Along the way, they sample Beyoğlu Chocolate and outstanding street food while learning about the cosmopolitan history of the Pera district.

Walking Tour Details

A relaxed pace walking tour allows guests to veer away from Istiklal Avenue and visit beautiful side streets and historical passages often missed by travelers.

The local guide points out the best eateries, cafés, and bars along the route, offering the opportunity to sample Beyoğlu Chocolate and discover outstanding street food.

This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of the cosmopolitan history of the Pera district.

The tour proceeds even in light rain, so participants are advised to bring an umbrella or raincoat and wear comfortable shoes due to the extensive walking.

Dolmabahce Palace Guided Tour

Visitors begin their tour of the Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning 19th-century Ottoman mansion situated along the Bosphorus Strait.

The guided tour lasts 75 minutes or can be extended to 2 hours for a more in-depth exploration. Guests marvel at the palace’s extravagant interiors, adorned with Baccarat crystal chandeliers, exotic marble, and rich fabrics.

They learn about the palace’s history as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The guide shares fascinating details about the lavish lifestyles of the sultans who resided here.

Visitors depart with a deeper appreciation for the opulence and grandeur of the Dolmabahce Palace.

More Great Tours Nearby

Istiklal Street Guided Tour

After visiting the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, the tour guides guests on a captivating exploration of Istiklal Street.

This lively pedestrian avenue is the heart of Istanbul’s vibrant Beyoğlu district. Guests will discover the street’s historical significance, from its start as a fashionable European quarter to its current status as a hub of art, culture, and entertainment.

The local guide shares insights into the diverse architecture, from Neoclassical buildings to the iconic Galata-Pera Tunnel. Guests can sample Turkish delicacies and browse the charming shops that line the bustling street, seeing the cosmopolitan spirit of Istiklal.

Galata Tower Guided Tour

From Istiklal Street, the tour group makes its way to the iconic Galata Tower.

Towering over the historic Pera district, this medieval landmark offers panoramic views of the city. Guests ascend to the observation deck, taking in the beauty of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus Strait.

Towering over historic Pera, this medieval landmark offers panoramic views of the city’s Golden Horn and Bosphorus Strait.

The guide provides historical context, sharing tales of the tower’s past as a fire lookout and defense post.

After exploring the tower’s interior, the group sets off to discover the hidden backstreets and passages of Beyoğlu, uncovering the area’s cosmopolitan heritage.

This segment of the tour showcases Istanbul’s architectural gems and vibrant culture.

Bosphorus Cruise Exploration

What better way to conclude the guided tour than by exploring the Bosphorus Strait on a relaxing cruise? Guests will hop aboard a comfortable vessel and sail along the famous waterway that divides Europe and Asia. As they cruise, they’ll take in stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks, from the domes and minarets of historic mosques to the elegant villas lining the shoreline. Along the way, the guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and culture of this unique region.

| Feature | Included |

| — | — |

| Commentary | ✓ |

| Refreshments | ✓ |

| Photo Opportunities | ✓ |

| Hop-on, Hop-off | ✘ |

Beyoğlu Neighborhood Discovery

As the guided tour moves on from the iconic landmarks, the local guide leads the group into the vibrant Beyoğlu neighborhood.

Venturing down the hidden backstreets and historical passages, the group discovers:

• Charming side streets lined with colorful buildings and lively cafes

• Bustling markets selling traditional delicacies and handcrafted goods

• Stunning architectural details and remnants of the neighborhood’s cosmopolitan past

• The rich cultural diversity that has shaped the character of Beyoğlu over the centuries

The guide provides insights into the area’s fascinating history and points out the best spots for sampling the local cuisine and experiencing the neighborhood’s unique atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Is the Tour Transportation Arranged to Each Site?

The tour includes transportation between sites. Guests are picked up from Dolmabahce Palace and then transferred to Istiklal Street, allowing them to explore the attractions without the need for additional transportation arrangements.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Customers can opt for a guided tour of Dolmabahce Palace, adjust the duration, and choose optional activities like sampling local cuisine. The tour provider offers flexibility to meet the customer’s needs.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs During the Tour?

The tour includes all entrance fees and transportation, with no hidden costs. Participants only need to cover their own food and drinks during the tour. The company offers a transparent pricing structure with no additional fees.

What Are the Health and Safety Measures Implemented During the Tour?

The tour follows health and safety guidelines, including wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and regular sanitization of high-touch surfaces. Participants are encouraged to bring their own masks and follow local regulations during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add More Activities?

Yes, there are options to extend the tour duration or add more activities. Travelers can upgrade to a longer guided tour of Dolmabahce Palace or request additional stops along the Beyoğlu route based on their interests and schedule.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour offers a delightful blend of Istanbul’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. From the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace to the lively Istiklal Street and the iconic Galata Tower, visitors will be treated to a captivating exploration of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The Bosphorus cruise provides a serene respite, allowing travelers to savor local delicacies while taking in the breathtaking sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: