The Istanbul: Best of One Day Two Continents Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating blend of European and Asian cultures that defines this vibrant city. Spanning eight hours, the tour takes participants on a journey across the Bosphorus Strait, immersing them in the architectural wonders and scenic beauty that make Istanbul a true global destination. From the grand Camlica Mosque to the panoramic vistas of Camlica Hill, the experience promises to leave a lasting impression. What intrigues most, however, is the chance to uncover the rich historical narratives that have shaped this enchanting crossroads of civilizations.
Key Points
- This tour offers an 8-hour experience visiting top Istanbul attractions across Europe and Asia, including the Great Camlica Mosque, Camlica Hill, and Bosphorus Bridge.
- Highlights include panoramic views from Camlica Hill, a Bosphorus cruise showcasing Ottoman architecture, and a cable car ride to Pierre Loti Hill.
- The tour provides hotel pickup/drop-off, licensed guides, and entrance fees, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free sightseeing experience.
- Customer reviews praise the tour’s transportation, service, and organization, but some note occasional delays and a rushed pace.
- The tour is suitable for adults, children, and infants, but not recommended for wheelchair users.
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Istanbul
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary Highlights
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Participant Information
- Customer Reviews and Feedback
- Bosphorus Bridge and Cruise
- Camlica Hill and Mosque
- Pierre Loti Hill and Eyup Sultan Mosque
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Split the Tour Into Two Separate Days?
- Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Length?
- What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Mosques?
- Are There Any Additional Costs for Using the Cable Car?
- Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Istanbul
- More 1-Day Tours in Istanbul
- More Tour Reviews in Istanbul
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Istanbul we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Istanbul: Best of One Day Two Continents Tour is a comprehensive sightseeing experience that covers the highlights of both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Priced at $73.18 per person, the 8-hour tour includes a live English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all necessary transportation and entrance fees.
Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour visits iconic landmarks like the Great Camlica Mosque, Camlica Hill, and the Bosphorus Bridge, offering panoramic views of the city.
A Bosphorus cruise and a cable car ride to Pierre Loti Hill are also included, along with a lunch break.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Istanbul
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a visit to the Great Camlica Mosque and the Museum of Islamic Civilizations, providing insights into Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.
Next, participants enjoy panoramic views of the city from the highest point, Camlica Hill.
The tour then crosses the Bosphorus Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait and the imperial palaces along its shores.
A Bosphorus cruise allows travelers to admire the Ottoman wooden houses lining the coastline.
The tour continues with a cable car ride to Pierre Loti Hill and a visit to the Eyup Sultan Mosque, a significant site for Muslim pilgrims.
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Visit Great Camlica Mosque and Museum of Islamic Civilizations
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Enjoy panoramic views from Camlica Hill
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Cross the Bosphorus Bridge
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Cruise along the Bosphorus Strait
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Ride a cable car to Pierre Loti Hill and tour Eyup Sultan Mosque
Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transfers by air-conditioned coach, entrance fees, a licensed guide, lunch, and local taxes and service charges. However, it excludes tips, personal expenses, and a shopping visit at the end of the tour. Plus, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Hotel pick-up/drop-off | Tips |
| Air-conditioned coach transfers | Personal expenses |
| Entrance fees, licensed guide, lunch | Shopping visit at the end |
The tour is suitable for adults, children, and infants, but pets are not allowed. Participants should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and a camera.
Participant Information
Suitable for adults (ages 7-99), children (ages 3-6), and infants (2 and younger), participants must bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and a camera.
Pets, however, aren’t allowed on the tour.
The tour caters to a wide range of participants, ensuring everyone can enjoy the best of Istanbul’s sights and experiences.
Here’s what you can expect:
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Explore the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural heritage
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Enjoy panoramic views from the highest point in Istanbul
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Cruise along the Bosphorus and witness imperial palaces
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Indulge in a delicious included lunch
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Uncover the hidden gems of the city with a knowledgeable guide
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Customers have provided a range of feedback on this tour, with an overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on 28 reviews.
Ratings for transportation and value for money were both 3.9/5, while service and organization scored higher at 4.5/5 and 4/5, respectively.
Positive experiences with the guides and the Bosphorus cruise were commonly cited highlights.
However, some customers noted delays and a rushed pace during the tour.
Bosphorus Bridge and Cruise
A highlight of the tour is the crossing of the iconic Bosphorus Bridge, which connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Spanning an impressive 1,704 meters in length, this bridge is the fourth-longest suspension bridge in the world, offering breathtaking views of the city and its waterways during the included Bosphorus cruise.
The cruise allows visitors to admire:
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The impressive imperial palaces and Ottoman-era wooden houses lining the shores
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The bustling harbor traffic of ferries, cargo ships, and fishing boats
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The scenic landscapes of both the European and Asian sides of the city
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The striking minarets and domes of historic mosques and landmarks
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The unique blend of cultures and architectural styles that define Istanbul
Camlica Hill and Mosque
One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Great Camlica Mosque and the panoramic views from Camlica Hill, the highest point in Istanbul. Towering over the city at an elevation of 268 meters, Camlica Hill offers visitors breathtaking vistas spanning both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Great Camlica Mosque | A stunning architectural marvel featuring traditional Ottoman design elements and accommodating over 60,000 worshippers |
| Museum of Islamic Civilizations | An impressive museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage and history of the Islamic world |
| Cable Car Ride | Visitors can take a thrilling cable car ride to the top of Camlica Hill for the best panoramic views |
| Panoramic Views | From the top of the hill, guests can enjoy sweeping, 360-degree views of the Bosphorus Strait and the city skyline |
| Photo Opportunities | The viewpoint offers ample opportunities to capture iconic photos of Istanbul’s stunning landscapes and landmarks. |
Pierre Loti Hill and Eyup Sultan Mosque
Beyond the iconic Bosphorus Bridge, the tour ventures to the charming Pierre Loti Hill, accessible via a picturesque cable car ride. Atop this elevated vantage point, visitors can gaze upon the serene Eyup Sultan Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most revered religious sites.
The tour explores:
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The stunning panoramic views of the Golden Horn and historic skyline from Pierre Loti Hill.
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The significance of the Eyup Sultan Mosque, which holds a special place in Islamic tradition.
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The opportunity to wander through the quaint neighborhoods surrounding the mosque.
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The chance to sample local cuisine and tea at the cafes dotting the hilltop.
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The tranquil atmosphere and culture provided by this scenic stop on the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Split the Tour Into Two Separate Days?
No, it’s not possible to split this tour into two separate days. The tour is designed as a single 8-hour experience and doesn’t offer the option to split it over multiple days. The full itinerary is scheduled to be completed in one day.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Length?
While the tour is offered as a one-day experience, the company may be able to accommodate requests to extend the length or split it across multiple days, depending on availability and traveler needs. Customers should inquire directly to explore any flexible options.
What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Mosques?
When visiting mosques, modest attire is required. Visitors should cover their head, shoulders, and legs. Women must cover their hair with a scarf or headscarf. This dress code ensures appropriate respect for the sacred sites.
Are There Any Additional Costs for Using the Cable Car?
The cable car ride to Pierre Loti Hill is included in the tour price. There are no additional costs for using the cable car during this tour. The tour package covers all transportation and entrance fees.
Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?
Customers can generally customize tour itineraries, but there may be additional costs. It’s best to check with the tour provider about options to visit specific sites and any changes to the standard tour pricing and inclusions.
Istanbul: Best of One Day Two Continents Tour, Europe&Asia
“The excursion was very successful and the guide was friendly and cultured. However, lunch was disastrous. The meal arrived cold, no drinks, very or…”
Recap
The Istanbul: Best of One Day Two Continents Tour offers a captivating experience that seamlessly blends the rich cultural heritage of Europe and Asia.
Visitors will enjoy stunning sights, including the Great Camlica Mosque, Camlica Hill, and a scenic Bosphorus cruise.
With knowledgeable guides, a cable car ride, and historical exploration, this tour provides an immersive and unforgettable way to experience the unique charm of Istanbul across two continents.
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