Istanbul Imperial & Bosphorus Tour – Incl. Lunch

Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage come alive on the Imperial & Bosphorus Tour. From the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia to the scenic Bosphorus cruise and bustling Grand Bazaar, this comprehensive package offers an immersive experience for travelers. With guided visits, professional commentary, and a Turkish-style lunch, the tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable exploration of the city’s top attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking to learn about the vibrant spirit of Istanbul, this tour promises to captivate and leave you eager to discover more.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Istanbul.

Key Points

• Comprehensive tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome, with guided visits and in-depth commentary.
• Scenic Bosphorus cruise offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and the meeting point of Europe and Asia.
• Exploration of the vibrant Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, immersing in the city’s rich commercial heritage.
• Inclusiveness of hotel/port pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets, air-conditioned transportation, and a Turkish-style lunch.
• Maximum group size of 25 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

Tour Highlights

The tour highlights the iconic landmarks of Istanbul, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome, offering visitors an immersive experience in the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Guests will enjoy guided visits to these renowned sites, learning about their architectural marvels and significance.

The tour also includes a scenic Bosphorus cruise, providing breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and the meeting point of Europe and Asia.

Plus, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, where they can enjoy the local culture and shop for authentic Turkish souvenirs.

This comprehensive tour ensures a well-rounded exploration of Istanbul’s top attractions.

Inclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive package of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.

It provides hotel pickup and drop-off from city center hotels in the European side of Istanbul, as well as pickup and drop-off at the cruise ship port.

Entrance tickets to all the featured attractions are included, allowing visitors hassle-free access.

Plus, the tour features a professional guide who’ll provide in-depth commentary and insights throughout the day.

Travelers will also benefit from air-conditioned transportation and a Turkish-style lunch at a rooftop restaurant, with a vegetarian menu available upon request.

The tour’s inclusions cater to the diverse needs and preferences of participants, creating a well-rounded and memorable experience in the heart of Istanbul.

Additional Details

Though the tour is designed for a wide range of participants, there are certain considerations travelers should keep in mind. Infants must sit on laps during the tour, and it isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.

Service animals are permitted, and the tour is accessible by stroller, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Visitors to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia will be provided with cover-ups and head scarves, as these are required attire. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Plus, the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar may be closed on certain religious holidays, and the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia can only be viewed from the outside on Fridays.

Pickup Information

Free pickup and drop-off from city center hotels in the European side is provided. Pickup time will be informed after booking, and pickup from the cruise ship port is also available.

This makes it convenient for travelers to start and end their day-long tour of Istanbul’s highlights.

The tour includes guided visits to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome, as well as a Bosphorus cruise and trips to the lively Grand Bazaar and Spice Market.

With a maximum group size of 25, the tour offers a personalized experience with a professional guide.

Vegetarian options are available for the included Turkish-style lunch at a rooftop restaurant, ensuring all dietary needs are accommodated.

Group Size

The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience for participants.

This smaller group size allows the guide to provide more personalized attention and cater to the individual needs and interests of each traveler. With fewer people, it’s easier to navigate through crowded sites, listen to the guide, and ask questions.

The intimate setting also fosters a more social atmosphere, allowing travelers to interact with one another and share their experiences throughout the day. This group size strikes a balance between providing a private, customized tour and maintaining an engaging, social dynamic for all involved.

Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

Along With the Bosphorus cruise, the Istanbul Imperial & Bosphorus Tour also includes guided visits to two of the city’s most iconic landmarks – the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Travelers will have the opportunity to explore these architectural marvels, each with its own rich history and cultural significance.

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is famous for its stunning blue-tiled interior and impressive domes.

Hagia Sophia, on the other hand, is a former Byzantine cathedral-turned-mosque, boasting intricate mosaics and a grand, awe-inspiring interior.

During the tour, visitors will have the chance to admire these sites up close and learn about their fascinating pasts from the knowledgeable guide.

Bosphorus Cruise

Cruising along the Bosphorus Strait, the tour provides travelers with a unique opportunity to take in sweeping views of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and lush shoreline.

Passengers aboard the cruise will marvel at the city’s seamless blend of ancient and modern architecture, including the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace and the grand Ortaköy Mosque.

The tranquil waters offer a serene respite from the bustling city streets, allowing visitors to admire the picturesque landscapes on both the European and Asian sides of the city.

Throughout the cruise, the tour guide will share fascinating insights into Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage, making this a truly memorable experience for all who participate.

Bazaar Visits

After the tranquil Bosphorus cruise, the tour takes visitors to two of Istanbul’s most iconic shopping destinations – the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market.

At these bustling marketplaces, travelers can explore a dazzling array of traditional handicrafts, spices, textiles, and other local goods, seeing the vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas that characterize the city’s rich commercial heritage.

The Grand Bazaar is a sprawling labyrinth of over 4,000 shops, offering everything from ornate rugs and ceramics to intricate jewelry and leather goods.

The Spice Market, on the other hand, captivates the senses with its vibrant displays of aromatic herbs, spices, and dried fruits.

Both locations provide an unparalleled opportunity to engage with Istanbul’s thriving bazaar culture and bring home unique souvenirs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cancel or Reschedule the Tour?

You can generally cancel or reschedule tours, though policies vary. Check the tour operator’s terms and conditions for their specific cancellation and rescheduling policies, which may include fees or restrictions. Many offer flexibility to accommodate traveler needs.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour requires modest dress for visiting religious sites. Participants should cover their shoulders, arms, and legs. Head scarves are provided for the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia if needed.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, some attractions may have reduced admission fees for certain groups. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any available discounts prior to booking.

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

Generally, tour participants aren’t allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour typically includes a Turkish-style lunch at a rooftop restaurant, and there’s also the option for a vegetarian menu.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Site Visit?

The tour allocates approximately 1-2 hours for visits to each major site, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome. The duration allows guests to thoroughly explore these iconic landmarks with their guide.

Recap

The Istanbul Imperial & Bosphorus Tour offers an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Travelers can explore iconic landmarks, enjoy a scenic Bosphorus cruise, and discover the vibrant markets.

The comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable tour, with hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets, professional commentary, air-conditioned transportation, and a Turkish-style lunch included.