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8 Hour
Free Refund
Tour Detail
Best of Istanbul: Old City & Bosphorus Cruise
Hippodrome ➝ Blue Mosque ➝ Hagia Sophia ➝ Bosphorus Cruise
⭐ Guaranteed Daily Departure
Overview:
Experience the essence of Istanbul in one perfectly curated day, combining the city’s most iconic historical landmarks with a scenic Bosphorus Cruise between two continents. This full-day guided tour is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Istanbul’s rich past, vibrant culture, and breathtaking waterfront views—without feeling rushed.
Walk through centuries of history as you explore iconic landmarks such as the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, and the legendary Grand Bazaar. Hotel pick-up from central locations ensures a smooth and comfortable start to your day.
✳️ Tour Highlights
- Explore Istanbul’s UNESCO-listed Old City landmarks
- Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Ancient Hippodrome
- Discover the historic Golden Horn
- Cruise the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off from central locations included
⭐ TOUR ITINERARY
⏰ 08:00 – 08:30 | Hotel Pick-Up
You will be picked up from your centrally located hotel in Istanbul and transferred to the tour meeting point.
🟢 Ancient Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Square)
Begin your journey in the historic heart of Constantinople. Once the center of Byzantine public life, the Hippodrome features remarkable monuments including:
- Egyptian Obelisk
- Serpent Column
- Column of Constantine
- German Fountain of Wilhelm II
Your guide will share stories of chariot races, imperial ceremonies, and ancient traditions.
🟢 Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
Visit one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, famous for its six minarets and stunning İznik tile interiors. Still an active place of worship, the Blue Mosque represents the height of classical Ottoman architecture.
🟢 Hagia Sophia
Explore the architectural masterpiece that has stood at the crossroads of empires since 537 AD. Originally built as a cathedral, later a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again—Hagia Sophia symbolizes Istanbul’s layered religious and cultural history.
🟢 Grand Bazaar
Conclude the tour inside the world’s oldest and largest covered market. Enjoy free time to browse shops offering carpets, ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, souvenirs, and local crafts.
☕ Midday Break
Be transferred back to their hotel for a short rest (Arrangement depends on season and group logistics.)
🟢 Golden Horn (Panoramic Drive)
Pass along the Golden Horn, the historic natural harbor that once protected Byzantine and Ottoman fleets. Enjoy panoramic views and learn about its strategic importance throughout history.
🟢 Egyptian Market (Spice Bazaar)
Continue to the vibrant Egyptian Market, one of Istanbul’s most colorful and aromatic bazaars. Stroll through historic corridors filled with spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, teas, and traditional products. Free time is provided to explore and shop at your own pace.
🟢 Bosphorus Cruise (Europe & Asia)
Conclude the tour with a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise, sailing between two continents. From the water, admire Istanbul’s most elegant landmarks, including:
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Çırağan Palace
- Rumeli Fortress
- Maiden’s Tower (view from sea)
- Beylerbeyi Palace
Your licensed guide will provide live commentary during the cruise.
⏰ 17:00 | End of Tour
After the Bosphorus Cruise, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Relaxing and enjoyable way to take in Istanbul’s skyline Enjoyable day out on luxury yacht with great Turkish hospitality. Guide was informative without being overly intrusive, allowing guests to take it all in. Service staff courteous and efficient with complimentary drinks and snacks. Good bar choice of drinks. Tour leader very affable and engaging guy. Thank you ! Damon H.. I Barcelona, Spain 🇪🇸