Istanbul Tours
Bosphorus Cruise Tour
Depart: 08:30 Return: 17:00
Full Day Tour
Highlights
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)
- Bosphorus Cruise
- Rumeli Fortress (from the boat)
- Bosphorus Cruise
- Camlica Hill or Yeditepe Hill
- Imperial Gardens of Royal Yildiz Palace (from the boat)
- Bosphorus Bridge (from the boat)
- Beylerbeyi Palace (from the boat)
The Bosphorus Cruise Tour in Istanbul is a popular and iconic experience that allows visitors to explore the stunning Bosphorus Strait, which separates the European and Asian sides of the city. Sightseeing Opportunities: As you sail along the Bosphorus, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the unique blend of architectural styles representing Istanbul’s rich history. You’ll see traditional wooden Ottoman houses standing next to modern waterfront residences and grand palaces.
Included
- Hotel Pick-up & drop-off by air-conditioned non-smoking tour coaches
- Entrance Fees mentioned by the itineraries
- Professional Licensed Tour Guide
- Cruise
- Lunch
- Services Charges & Local Taxes
Excluded
- Drink at Lunch
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Tour Itinerary
DOLMABAHCE PALACE
Dolmabahçe Palace is an exquisite and opulent palace located on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey, along the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. It is one of the most impressive architectural marvels in the city and a significant symbol of Ottoman-era grandeur.
Construction of Dolmabahçe Palace began in 1843 and was completed in 1856, during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid It was designed by Armenian architects Garabet Balyan and his son Nigoğayos Balyan, who combined various architectural styles, including Ottoman, Neoclassical, and Baroque. The palace boasts a stunning blend of architectural influences. The exterior showcases a grand façade with a central dome and two symmetrical wings. The interior features lavish decorations, crystal chandeliers, intricate stucco work, ornate ceilings, and magnificent marble staircases.
ROYAL YILDIZ PALACE
One of the last residences of the imperial family, Yildiz Palace was commissioned by Abdulhamit II at the end of the 19th century. Exhibiting the finest blend of Rococo and Islamic styles, the Palace is set amidst a large and well-protected park covering an area of 500,000 sqm and containing plants from all corners of the world.
BEYLERBEYİ PALACE
Beylerbeyi Palace is a magnificent Ottoman-era palace located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey. Beylerbeyi Palace was built in the 19th century during the reign of Sultan Abdulaziz, between 1861 and 1865. It was commissioned as a summer residence and a guesthouse for visiting dignitaries. The palace showcases a blend of architectural styles, combining Ottoman, Baroque, and Neoclassical influences. It is renowned for its elegant design, intricate ornamentation, and well-preserved interiors. Beylerbeyi Palace is situated on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait, offering breathtaking views of the waterway and the European side of Istanbul.
SPICE BAZAAR (EGYPTIAN BAZAAR)
The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı in Turkish), is a vibrant and historic market located in Istanbul, Turkey.
The Spice Bazaar was constructed in the 17th century and has a long-standing history in Istanbul. It was initially built to generate income for the upkeep of the nearby New Mosque (Yeni Cami) complex. The Spice Bazaar is situated in the Eminönü district of Istanbul, near the Galata Bridge and the Golden Horn. It is easily accessible and is located in close proximity to other popular attractions like the Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet Square.
The architecture of the Spice Bazaar reflects traditional Ottoman design with its intricate domes, arched entrances, and ornate decorations. The structure features a L-shaped layout, consisting of several interconnected shops and stalls.
The Spice Bazaar is renowned for its wide variety of spices, herbs, dried fruits, nuts, Turkish delight, teas, and other culinary delights. Apart from spices, the market also offers a range of products such as textiles, ceramics, souvenirs, and traditional Turkish products.
RUMELİ FORTRESS
The Rumeli Fortress, also known as Rumelihisarı in Turkish, is a historic fortress located on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey.
The Rumeli Fortress was built by Sultan Mehmed II, also known as Mehmed the Conqueror, in 1452. Its construction was part of his preparations to conquer Constantinople (now Istanbul) from the Byzantine Empire. The fortress is strategically situated on a hill overlooking the narrowest point of the Bosphorus Strait, directly opposite the Anatolian Fortress (Anadoluhisarı). Its purpose was to control and defend the waterway, blocking any aid or reinforcement to the Byzantine capital.
, The fortress showcases impressive military architecture of the Ottoman Empire. It consists of three main towers, a curtain wall, and various smaller structures. The sturdy walls and towers were designed to withstand attacks and protect the garrison inside. During the siege of Constantinople, the Rumeli Fortress played a crucial role in the Ottoman conquest. It served as a staging point for the Ottoman forces and helped to isolate and weaken the Byzantine defenses.
Important Notes
Istanbul museums are closed on these days
Sunday: Grand Covered Bazaar and Spice Bazaar
Monday: Dolmabahce Palace / Beylerbeyi Palaces, Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, St. Sophia, Military Museum
Tuesday: Topkapı Palace, Military Museum.
Wednesday: Chora (Kariye) Museum, Rumeli Fortress, Sadberk Hanım Museum
Thursday: Dolmabahce Palace / Beylerbeyi Palaces
During religious holidays, the Spice Bazaar is closed