Small-Group Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar

Exploring the vibrant culture of Istanbul is a must for any traveler. This small-group tour combines a scenic Bosphorus cruise with a visit to the renowned Egyptian Bazaar, providing an immersive experience. Guided by an expert, you will witness stunning landmarks, savor rich aromas, and uncover the historical significance of these iconic destinations. Whether seeking culture or simply wanting to indulge in the city’s captivating atmosphere, this tour offers a well-rounded adventure.

Key Points

• 3-hour small-group tour with a maximum of 15 travelers, priced at $70 per person and including guided commentary and admission tickets.
• 45-minute exploration of the vibrant 17th-century Spice Bazaar, known for its array of spices and historical significance.
• 1.5-hour Bosphorus Strait cruise offering panoramic views of landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Fortress.
• Pickup and drop-off service available from European-side hotels, with morning and afternoon departure options.
• Flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Tour Overview

This small-group Bosphorus Cruise and Egyptian Bazaar tour offers a 3-hour experience in Istanbul, Turkey.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour provides an intimate way to explore the city’s famous landmarks. Reviewers rate it 3.7 out of 5 stars based on 208 reviews.

Priced at $70 per person, the tour includes guided commentary, admission tickets, and a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.

Highlights include the 17th-century Spice Bazaar and a 1.5-hour boat ride showcasing Dolmabahçe Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, and Rumeli Fortress.

Pickup and drop-off options are available, with accessibility limitations.

Spice Bazaar Exploration

The 17th-century Misir Carsisi, or Spice Market, beckons visitors with its vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas.

Travelers enjoy 45 minutes of free time to explore this iconic marketplace, browsing stalls filled with an array of spices like cardamom, mint, and cinnamon.

A knowledgeable guide provides commentary on the bazaar’s history and tips on finding the best deals.

Sights, sounds, and scents combine to create an immersive cultural experience, connecting visitors to the city’s rich culinary heritage.

The Spice Bazaar exploration offers a chance to discover the captivating essence of Istanbul’s storied markets.

Bosphorus Cruise Highlights

A 1 hour 30 minutes cruise along the Bosphorus Strait offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the connection between Europe and Asia from the water.

During the cruise, visitors can view famous landmarks like the grand Dolmabahçe Palace, the elegant Beylerbeyi Palace, and the imposing Rumeli Hisari Fortress.

The cruise provides a unique perspective on these iconic structures, allowing travelers to appreciate their architectural grandeur and significance.

As the boat glides along the strait, passengers can enjoy the dynamic interplay between the continents, gaining a deeper understanding of Istanbul’s rich history and cultural tapestry.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Customers can choose to be picked up directly at their preferred meeting point or from their hotel in the European side of Istanbul.

Pickup times are from 8:00 to 8:30 AM for the morning tour, or 12:00 to 12:30 PM for the afternoon tour.

The tour ends at a different location, with transport provided back to hotels.

This is a small-group tour with a maximum of 15 travelers.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

It’s also not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes a professional guide to provide commentary, as well as tickets for the local ferry cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.

Admission to the iconic Spice Bazaar, Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and the Bosphorus Strait are all covered in the tour price.

While gratuities, food, and drinks aren’t included, the tour takes care of the major sights and experiences.

It’s an efficient and comprehensive way to explore Istanbul’s top attractions along the Bosphorus.

Just remember to bring your camera to capture the views as you cruise between Europe and Asia.

Accessibility and Safety Considerations

While the Bosphorus Cruise and Egyptian Bazaar tour offers an immersive experience, it’s important to consider accessibility and safety.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended due to the nature of the activities. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a moderate amount of walking.

The tour operator notes that the Spice Bazaar may be closed during specific religious holidays, so travelers should confirm their schedule before booking.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can cancel their Bosphorus Cruise and Egyptian Bazaar tour free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This flexible cancellation policy gives customers peace of mind when booking their tour.

Some key points about the policy:

1. Full refund available for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance.
2. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours of the tour.
3. Rescheduling is also available, subject to availability and any rate differences.
4. Customers should review the policy carefully and plan accordingly to avoid any penalties.

This cancellation policy ensures a hassle-free booking experience for travelers.

Important Considerations

Along With the flexible cancellation policy, there are a few other important considerations for the Bosphorus Cruise and Egyptian Bazaar tour. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Pregnant travelers are also not recommended to join. The Spice Bazaar may be closed during specific religious holidays, so confirmation of operating hours is required at the time of booking. To ensure a seamless experience, guests should be prepared for the tour’s duration of 3 hours and the maximum group size of 15 travelers.

Consideration	Details
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible; infants must sit on laps
Pregnancy	Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Spice Bazaar	Closed during specific religious holidays
Tour Duration	3 hours
Group Size	Maximum of 15 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on the cruise. The tour includes the local ferry cruise, but any additional food and drinks are not provided and must be purchased separately during the tour.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific photography restrictions or guidelines.

What Kind of Attire Is Recommended for the Tour?

Comfortable, casual attire is recommended for the tour. Wear weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and bring sun protection if necessary. Avoid excessively formal or restrictive clothing that could hinder mobility during the activities.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary and duration are set and cannot be customized. The 3-hour small-group tour follows a fixed schedule with a cruise on the Bosphorus and visit to the Spice Bazaar. Travelers must adhere to the provided itinerary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Infants must sit on laps, but the tour is suitable for all ages. The operator notes it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the boat ride.

The Sum Up

This intimate small-group tour offers an immersive cultural experience in Istanbul. Cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, admiring grand landmarks, then explore the vibrant Egyptian Bazaar, savoring the rich aromas of its colorful spices. With an expert guide, travelers can explore the city’s history and traditions, making the most of their time in this captivating destination.