Istanbul Combo: Classic City Tour and Bosphorus Cruise

Explore the captivating heritage of Istanbul on this comprehensive tour. Enjoy the city’s iconic landmarks, from the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the serene Blue Mosque. Venture through the vibrant Grand Bazaar, haggling for unique treasures. Then, embark on a tranquil Bosphorus cruise, where panoramic views of the city’s skyline and waterfront await. This all-inclusive experience promises an unforgettable journey through Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture. What secrets might this tour unveil?

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day private tour of Istanbul’s iconic historical sites, including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
• Optional Bosphorus sightseeing cruise for additional city and waterway exploration.
• Personalized experience with a knowledgeable local guide, including customized itinerary based on guest interests.
• Convenient transportation options and family-friendly guides for a seamless and informative tour.
• Highly-rated tour with a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Istanbul Combo: City Tour and Bosphorus Cruise offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s Old City, featuring key historical and cultural sites.

The full-day private tour showcases highlights like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome Square, Grand Bazaar, and Spice Market. Guests can also enjoy an optional Bosphorus sightseeing cruise.

With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides a personalized and informative experience led by a professional local guide.

The itinerary can be customized based on guests’ interests, ensuring a tailored and engaging tour of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

Tour Features and Inclusions

This private tour with a professional local guide includes admission fees and ferry tickets for the key sites.

Guests can choose from various transportation options, including pickup from hotels or Galata Port.

The itinerary is customizable based on interests, ensuring a personalized experience.

The knowledgeable and kid-friendly guide provides informative commentary throughout the tour.

Whether you’re interested in the historic Hagia Sophia or the vibrant Spice Market, this tour has got you covered.

With a 100% recommendation rate, this Istanbul combo tour is an excellent way to discover the city’s highlights.

Key Sites and Duration

The tour begins with a 10-minute visit to the Sultanahmet District, which is free to explore.

Next, guests spend 15 minutes at the historic Hippodrome.

Then, they’ll visit the iconic Blue Mosque for 30 minutes.

After that, the group heads to Sultanahmet Square for 15 minutes.

The highlight is an hour-long tour of the Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural marvel.

The tour continues with a 30-minute stroll through the vibrant Grand Bazaar, which is closed on Sundays.

Lastly, guests spend 30 minutes exploring the aromatic Spice Market.

An optional 2-hour Bosphorus cruise can be added for additional sightseeing.

Important Information

Visitors should note that the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are closed to the public until 2 PM on Fridays. The tour guide will meet guests at central hotels or a designated meeting point. There’s a surcharge for hotels outside the city center or on the Asian side. The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly. Infants must sit on laps, but infant seats are available.

Feature	Details
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible
Pickup Location	Central hotels or designated meeting point
Closure Times	Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia closed until 2 PM on Fridays
Surcharge	For hotels outside city center or on Asian Side
Infants	Must sit on laps, infant seats available

Guest Experiences and Feedback

Guests consistently rate this Istanbul tour with a 4.9-star average based on 25 reviews.

Reviewers praise the tour guide’s professionalism and flexibility, allowing for a personalized experience. Guests appreciate setting their own pace and focusing on areas of interest.

Many recommend this private tour over group tours, citing the guide’s attentive approach. The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time also earns high marks.

Exploring the Sultanahmet District

Exploring the Sultanahmet District, guests dive into the heart of historic Istanbul.

They’ll visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural marvel that seamlessly blends Byzantine and Ottoman influences.

Next, they’ll admire the magnificent Blue Mosque, known for its six slender minarets and stunning interior.

Just steps away, the Hippodrome Square offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s past as the center of Byzantine social life.

Guests can wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar, haggling for unique souvenirs, or enjoy the vibrant spices and aromas of the Spice Market.

This district showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Discovering the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque

One enters the Hippodrome, a testament to Istanbul’s storied past as the center of Byzantine social life. This vast public square, once bustling with chariot races and imperial ceremonies, now stands as a serene oasis amidst the city’s vibrant energy.

Just steps away, the commanding Blue Mosque rises, its enchanting domes and minarets a harmonious blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.

Stepping inside, visitors are awed by the mosque’s vast interior, adorned with intricate tiles and calligraphic designs that evoke a sense of spiritual tranquility.

Exploring these iconic sites offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich historical tapestry.

Cruising the Bosphorus Strait

After exploring the historic sites of Istanbul’s Old City, guests can opt to embark on a sightseeing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.

This 2-hour journey provides captivating views of the city’s skyline, notable landmarks, and the meeting point of Europe and Asia. Guests will witness the grand Dolmabahçe Palace, the 15th-century Rumeli Fortress, and the Maiden’s Tower, an iconic structure perched on a small island in the strait.

The relaxing cruise offers a unique perspective of Istanbul’s architecture, natural beauty, and the bustling maritime activity on the waters of the Bosphorus.

Ask Away

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour is a private tour, so the minimum group size is 1 person. The tour includes a professional local guide and the ability to customize the itinerary based on the guest’s interests.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Further?

Yes, the tour offers a customizable itinerary based on guests’ interests. The private guide can tailor the day’s activities to match the travelers’ preferences for a personalized experience.

Can the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian/Halal Dietary Requirements?

Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian and halal dietary requirements. The guide can work with guests to modify the itinerary and select restaurants that cater to their dietary needs, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.

How Much Luggage Can We Bring on the Tour?

There are no specific restrictions on the amount of luggage participants can bring on the tour. However, it’s recommended to travel light as you’ll be walking and exploring the city sites throughout the day.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator offers discounts for students and seniors, though the exact discount amount isn’t specified. Guests should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour to take advantage of potential savings.

Final Words

The "Istanbul Combo: Classic City Tour and Bosphorus Cruise" offers an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and providing stunning Bosphorus views. Travelers can explore the Sultanahmet district, discover the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque, and enjoy a scenic cruise, all with the convenience of a customizable itinerary and knowledgeable local guidance. This tour promises an unforgettable journey through Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture.