Istanbul: Full Day Trip Istanbul & Bosphorus Cruise Tour

Enjoy the captivating history and vibrant culture of Istanbul with this full-day tour. Explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, while also enjoying a scenic Bosphorus cruise to take in the city’s stunning skyline. Priced at €146.28 per person, this 7-hour excursion offers personalized service for up to 10 participants, led by a professional English-speaking guide. Savor a traditional Turkish lunch and discover the city’s rich heritage, but there’s more to discover beyond the itinerary highlights. Get ready to uncover the enchanting layers of this remarkable destination.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Istanbul.

Key Points

• The full-day Istanbul and Bosphorus Cruise Tour covers iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and includes a scenic Bosphorus cruise.
• The tour is priced at €146.28 per person, with a duration of 7 hours and a maximum of 10 participants for personalized experience.
• The package includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, entrance fees, and a traditional Turkish lunch, with drinks excluded.
• The Bosphorus Cruise offers unique views of Istanbul’s history, architecture, and the dividing line between Europe and Asia.
• The tour is led by a professional English-speaking guide, providing insightful commentary and recommendations throughout the day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day Istanbul & Bosphorus Cruise Tour is priced at €146.28 per person.

This small-group tour lasts 7 hours and is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. A professional English-speaking guide leads the tour, which includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, and a traditional Turkish lunch (excluding drinks).

Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour covers iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and a scenic Bosphorus cruise. Participants will also explore the Egyptian Bazaar and visit Beylerbeyi Palace and Camlica Hill for panoramic city views.

Itinerary Highlights

Iconic landmarks dot the tour’s itinerary, inviting guests to marvel at Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Visitors will explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral-turned-mosque with its stunning Byzantine architecture. Next, they’ll admire the striking Blue Mosque, adorned with intricate blue tiles that give the building its distinctive appearance.

The grand Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans, offers a glimpse into the opulence of the past. After exploring these iconic sites, guests will embark on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, taking in the panoramic views of the city’s mosques, palaces, and mansions from the water.

The tour also includes a visit to the vibrant Egyptian Bazaar and the picturesque Beylerbeyi Palace, before concluding at the stunning Camlica Hill for breathtaking vistas of Istanbul.

Bosphorus Cruise Experience

After visiting the Egyptian Bazaar, guests board the boat for the Bosphorus Cruise.

During the scenic boat ride, they’ll witness the beauty of Istanbul from the water. The cruise offers a unique perspective, allowing travelers to see the Bosphorus mansions, palaces, and mosques that line the shores.

As the boat crosses the iconic Bosphorus Bridge, guests can admire the stunning panoramic views of the city.

The Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia, is a captivating waterway that offers a tranquil and picturesque experience, showcasing Istanbul’s rich history and architecture from a different vantage point.

Dining and Refreshments

During the tour, participants enjoy a lunch break at a restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine.

The lunch is included in the package price, though drinks and beverages are not. The menu features a variety of authentic Turkish dishes, allowing visitors to enjoy the local culinary experience.

After exploring the historic sites and the vibrant Egyptian Bazaar, this lunch break provides a chance to recharge and savor the flavors of Istanbul.

The tour continues after the meal, with the Bosphorus cruise offering stunning views of the city from the water.

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Included and Excluded

The tour package includes several key elements to provide a comprehensive Istanbul experience.

Travelers will enjoy hotel pick-up and drop-off by an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as admission fees to the iconic landmarks on the itinerary. A traditional Turkish lunch is included, though drinks and beverages are not.

The services of a professional, English-speaking tour guide are also provided. However, the package excludes personal expenses, service charges, local taxes, and tips or gratuities. Guests are responsible for covering the cost of any drinks or additional refreshments during the tour.

Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off

As part of the comprehensive tour package, travelers are provided with hotel pick-up and drop-off service via an air-conditioned vehicle. This added convenience ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s exploration of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

The included transportation:

1. Eliminates the need for participants to navigate public transit or drive themselves.
2. Allows the group to travel together in a comfortable, climate-controlled setting.
3. Enables the tour guide to provide commentary and insights during the transfers.
4. Ensures all travelers are picked up and dropped off at their respective hotels, providing a personalized experience.

This hotel transfer service is a thoughtful inclusion that enhances the overall tour experience.

Entrance Fees and Lunch

The tour package includes all necessary entrance fees, granting participants access to the iconic landmarks featured in the itinerary. This means visitors can explore the grand Hagia Sophia, the captivating Blue Mosque, and the magnificent Topkapi Palace without having to worry about additional costs.

On top of that, the tour includes a lunch break at a traditional Turkish restaurant, allowing guests to enjoy the local cuisine. While drinks and beverages aren’t included in the package, this lunch provides a delightful opportunity to savor the flavors of Istanbul.

The all-inclusive nature of the tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience, allowing visitors to focus on creating lasting memories in this remarkable city.

Professional English-speaking Guide

A knowledgeable, English-speaking guide accompanies participants throughout the day, ensuring a seamless and informative experience. The guide provides:

1. Insightful commentary on the historical and cultural significance of each landmark visited, including the iconic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace.

2. Guidance through the bustling Egyptian Bazaar, helping visitors navigate the vibrant spice and souvenir stalls.

3. Engaging narration during the scenic Bosphorus Cruise, highlighting the elegant mansions, palaces, and mosques lining the shores.

4. Recommendations on local cuisine and hidden gems, enhancing the overall culture.

The guide’s expertise and personalized attention ensure participants leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Istanbul’s rich heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to the tour details, passengers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the Bosphorus Cruise. The package includes one lunch, but any additional beverages or snacks must be purchased separately.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?

No, you don’t need any special equipment for the tour. The tour provider arranges all necessary transportation and admission tickets. You can simply come prepared to enjoy the sights and experiences of the day.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour is generally suitable for people with mobility issues, as it includes transportation, boat access, and support from the tour guide. However, some sites may have limited accessibility, so it’s best to discuss any special needs with the tour operator.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

The tour provider generally allows customers to customize the itinerary to suit their interests, though some core activities may be fixed. Customers can discuss their preferences with the guide to tailor the experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for this tour, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Casual attire is generally acceptable, though it’s best to avoid overly revealing or informal outfits out of respect for the cultural sites visited.

Recap

This full-day Istanbul tour offers a comprehensive experience of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to the scenic Bosphorus cruise, participants can enjoy the sights and flavors of this remarkable destination. With a professional guide, personalized service, and included lunch, this tour provides great value for those wishing to explore the best of Istanbul in a single day.

You can check if your dates are available here: