Istanbul, a captivating city that seamlessly blends its ancient history with modern charm, offers an unforgettable journey through its Old City and Bosphorus Strait. This guided tour takes travelers on an immersive exploration of iconic landmarks, from the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque to the grandeur of Topkapi Palace. As the day winds down, a luxurious sunset cruise along the Bosphorus promises to elevate the experience, showcasing the city’s breathtaking skyline and captivating scenery. With a wealth of cultural insights and stunning vistas, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this captivating adventure.

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Key Points

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s historic Old City, including visits to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
The tour also includes a luxury 2.5-hour Bosphorus cruise at sunset, providing captivating views of the city’s landmarks and scenic coastline.
Priced at Kč 3,749 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, air-conditioned transportation, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, a traditional Turkish commerce hub, as part of the itinerary.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5, with praise for knowledgeable guides and enjoyable small group dynamics, though potential for long queues at Hagia Sophia is noted.

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Tour Overview and Pricing

The activity offered is an Istanbul Old City Tour and Luxury Sunset Bosphorus Cruise, priced from Kč 3,749 per person.

The tour lasts 10 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

Tour lasts 10 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Reserve your spot now and pay later.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, the Bosphorus cruise, air-conditioned transportation, and more.

Comfortable shoes are recommended due to extensive walking, and ladies should bring scarves for mosque visits.

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Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour’s Highlights of the Itinerary encompass a range of historical sights within Istanbul’s Old City.

Visitors will explore Sultanahmet Square, home to the magnificent Blue Mosque and the iconic Hagia Sophia.

They’ll then venture to the Topkapi Palace, the grand imperial residence of Ottoman sultans.

A visit to the Grand Bazaar follows, where guests can enjoy the bustling atmosphere and browse the vibrant stalls.

As the day draws to a close, the tour culminates in a luxurious 2.5-hour Bosphorus cruise, offering scenic views of Dolmabahce Palace, the Bosphorus Bridge, and the Maiden’s Tower at sunset.

Historical Sights in the Old City

Visitors to Istanbul’s Old City find themselves immersed in a rich tapestry of historical landmarks, each offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past.

The iconic Blue Mosque, with its stunning six minarets and intricate interior, stands as a testament to Ottoman architectural prowess.

The iconic Blue Mosque, with its stunning six minarets and intricate interior, stands as a testament to Ottoman architectural prowess.

Nearby, the Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church-turned-mosque, impresses with its grand domed structure and ornate mosaics.

The Topkapi Palace, once the seat of the Ottoman sultans, houses an impressive collection of treasures and provides insight into the lavish lives of the empire’s rulers.

Wandering through the Grand Bazaar, one is transported to the vibrant heart of traditional Turkish commerce.

The Luxury Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the luxury sunset Bosphorus cruise offers a truly captivating experience.

Aboard a state-of-the-art glass-encased yacht, guests are treated to panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Gliding along the glistening waters, the cruise showcases Dolmabahce Palace, the Bosphorus Bridge, and the Maiden’s Tower, all bathed in the warm glow of sunset.

With a complimentary spread of drinks and light bites, this 2.5-hour journey provides a serene and picturesque end to the day’s exploration of Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

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Transportation and Pickup/Drop-off Details

Two-way hotel transfers are provided from the Fatih and Beyoglu areas, but pickup is not available from the Asian side or outside these districts. Drop-off locations include Beyoğlu, Eminönü, Karaköy, and Fatih. For a more personalized experience, the tour is limited to a small group of 10 participants.

| Pickup | Drop-off |

| — | — |

| Fatih | Beyoğlu |

| Beyoglu | Eminönü |

| | Karaköy |

| | Fatih |

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Inclusions and What to Bring

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lunch at a rooftop terrace restaurant, and a 2.5-hour luxury cruise along the Bosphorus.

Enjoy a tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a rooftop lunch, and a luxurious 2.5-hour Bosphorus cruise.

Also included are:

Air-conditioned vehicle transportation
Alcoholic beverages
Museum entrance tickets
Complimentary bottled water

Given the extensive walking, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes.

Ladies should bring scarves for mosque visits.

With over 19 glowing reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable small group experience, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s historical highlights and scenic Bosphorus views.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this Istanbul Old City Tour and Bosphorus Cruise, with an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 19 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable small group dynamics. The sunset cruise is consistently praised as a highlight, offering scenic views of landmarks like Dolmabahce Palace and Maiden’s Tower.

However, travelers note the potential for long queues at Hagia Sophia. Tour logistics, like hotel pickups and drop-offs, also receive positive feedback.

Important Notes and Considerations

While the tour generally runs smoothly, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

First, the Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, so the Dolmabahce Palace will be visited instead.

The Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, so the Dolmabahce Palace will be visited instead.

Second, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, and may be replaced with a visit to the Spice Bazaar or Arasta Bazaar.

Third, the Hagia Sophia can have long queues, but no admission fee is required.

Lastly, ladies should bring scarves for the mosque visits, and comfortable shoes are recommended due to the extensive walking involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience of others. Some areas, like religious sites, may have restrictions on photography that should be followed.

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Children are welcome to participate in the tour. No special age restrictions apply. Parents should ensure their children can handle the extensive walking and comply with rules like wearing scarves in mosques.

What Is the Dress Code for the Bosphorus Cruise?

The dress code for the Bosphorus cruise is smart casual. While formal wear isn’t required, guests should avoid wearing overly casual attire like shorts or flip-flops. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that allows for easy movement is recommended.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?

The tour guide is fluent in English, providing a seamless and informative experience for participants. Guests can expect clear communication and knowledgeable commentary throughout the tour and cruise.

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

Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The tour includes alcoholic beverages, so guests don’t need to bring their own. The cruise serves refreshments and provides a luxurious experience on the Bosphorus.

The Sum Up

This immersive Istanbul tour offers an unparalleled experience of the city’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, indulge in the vibrant Grand Bazaar, and witness breathtaking views of the Bosphorus during a luxury sunset cruise. With comprehensive inclusions and convenient transportation, this tour provides an exceptional way to discover the enchanting city of Istanbul.