Private Tour: Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbuls Egyptian Bazaar

Exploring the vibrant culture of Istanbul is an experience like no other. On this private tour, visitors will embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise and discover the historic Egyptian Bazaar. Cruising for 1.5 hours on a private motor yacht, they’ll delight in stunning views of iconic mosques and bridges. Then, they’ll dive into the colorful shops of the 17th-century Spice Bazaar, renowned for its exotic spices and local delights. With a knowledgeable guide and convenient hotel pickup, this tour promises an immersive journey through Istanbul’s rich history and culture. What awaits beyond the iconic sights is a captivating insight into the city’s dynamic spirit.

Key Points

• This private guided tour in Istanbul features a visit to the 17th-century Spice Bazaar and a 1.5-hour Bosphorus Strait cruise.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, private transportation, a private motor yacht for the cruise, and an experienced local guide.
• Highlights include exploring the Rumeli Hisari Fortress and the Egyptian Bazaar, offering an immersive experience of Istanbul’s rich history and culture.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.0 from 23 reviews, with positive feedback on the guide’s knowledge and the scenic Bosphorus views.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and children under 4 are not recommended, but it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

This private guided tour in Istanbul allows visitors to experience the vibrant Spice Bazaar and the scenic Bosphorus cruise.

With a 4.0 overall rating from 23 reviews, the tour offers hotel pickup on the European side or a meeting point at the Ottoman Hotel Imperial in Sultanahmet.

The tour includes a local guide, private transportation, and a private motor yacht for the Bosphorus cruise.

Gratuities are covered, while food and drinks aren’t included.

Confirmation is provided at booking unless within 2 days of travel, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights include a visit to the Spice Bazaar, a 17th-century marketplace known for its colorful shops.

Guests will also:

1. Cruise the Bosphorus Strait for 1.5 hours, taking in views of mosques, bridges, and historic sites along the waterway.
2. Explore Rumeli Hisari Fortress, an imposing structure built by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452.
3. Discover the Egyptian Bazaar, constructed in 1660 using taxes from the spice trade with Egypt, and browse its vibrant stalls.

The combination of bazaars, fortress, and scenic cruise offer an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

Included Services

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a local guide and private vehicle transport.

Guests will also enjoy a private motor yacht for the Bosphorus cruise. Gratuities are included, though food and drinks not specified in the itinerary are not.

In case of any museum closures, an alternative activity will be provided. However, the tour isn’t recommended for children under 4, who must sit on laps, and it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Travelers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Important Information

Confirmation is received at booking unless the experience is within 2 days of travel. In case of museum closures, an alternative will be provided.

The tour isn’t recommended for children aged 4 and under; infants must sit on laps. Additionally:

1. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
2. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
3. Gratuities are included, but food and drinks aren’t specified as part of the tour.

Customer Feedback

While the reviews for the Bosphorus Cruise and Egyptian Bazaar Tour were mixed, some customers praised the knowledge of the guides and the overall experience, while others felt misled about the inclusions.

Common themes in the reviews include the beauty of the Bosphorus, the shopping experience at the Spice Bazaar, and the informative nature of the guides.

Notable comments mention the cruise’s scenic views.

However, a few customers were dissatisfied with the tour, citing issues with the quality of the guide or feeling that the inclusions didn’t match the marketing.

Exploring the Spice Bazaar

What makes the Spice Bazaar such an alluring destination for visitors to Istanbul? This 17th-century marketplace dazzles the senses with vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and bustling energy.

Visitors can explore:

1. Diverse Spices and Herbs: The bazaar’s stalls overflow with an array of fragrant spices, from warm cinnamon to pungent cumin, offering a feast for the olfactory senses.

2. Captivating Textiles and Crafts: Beyond the spices, the bazaar features a tapestry of traditional Turkish textiles, carpets, and handcrafted souvenirs that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage.

3. Lively Atmosphere: The Spice Bazaar is a hub of activity, with merchants haggling, shoppers bargaining, and the aroma of freshly ground spices permeating the air, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Cruising the Bosphorus Strait

After exploring the vibrant Spice Bazaar, visitors can embark on a captivating Bosphorus cruise to witness the stunning natural beauty and historic landmarks of Istanbul.

The 1.5-hour cruise offers panoramic views of the city’s iconic mosques, bridges, and ancient fortresses. Sailing along the strait that divides Europe and Asia, travelers can admire the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace and the Rumeli Fortress, built in 1452 by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror.

This leisurely cruise provides a unique perspective on Istanbul’s rich heritage and the natural wonder of the Bosphorus waterway.

Visiting the Egyptian Bazaar

The Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Bazaar, is a 17th-century marketplace that captivates visitors with its vibrant atmosphere and colorful shops.

Constructed using taxes from the spice trade with Egypt, the bazaar offers a unique shopping experience.

Visitors can explore:

1. The wide variety of spices, teas, and dried fruits that fill the air with tantalizing aromas.

2. Traditional handicrafts, including intricate ceramics, rugs, and textiles, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Turkey.

3. A chance to take in the bustling energy and haggle with friendly merchants, embracing the local way of life.

Things To Know

Is Photography Allowed During the Bosphorus Cruise?

Photography is generally allowed during the Bosphorus cruise. Guests can capture the scenic views and historic landmarks along the waterway. However, it’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific restrictions or guidelines.

Can I Purchase Tickets for This Tour on the Same Day?

Yes, you can typically purchase tickets for this tour on the same day, as it doesn’t require advance booking. However, availability may be limited, so it’s best to book the tour in advance if possible to ensure your preferred date and time.

What Snacks or Refreshments Are Available on the Cruise?

The tour information does not specify the availability of snacks or refreshments during the Bosphorus cruise. It states that food and drinks are not included in the tour, suggesting participants should plan accordingly for any desired refreshments.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Bosphorus Cruise?

There’s no option to extend the Bosphorus cruise duration beyond the 1.5 hours included in the tour. The tour’s itinerary and services are set, though customers can opt to explore the area further on their own after the cruise.

Can I Request a Specific Pick-Up Time From My Hotel?

Yes, you can request a specific pick-up time from your hotel. The tour provider offers hotel pickup on the European side, so you can coordinate a convenient time with them when booking the tour.

Sum Up

This private tour offers an immersive experience showcasing Istanbul’s vibrant culture. The scenic Bosphorus cruise provides stunning views of iconic landmarks, while the historic Egyptian Bazaar allows visitors to explore its colorful shops and sample local delights. With a knowledgeable guide and convenient hotel pickup, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Istanbul’s rich history and traditions.