Istanbul Imperial & Bosphorus Tour – Incl. Lunch

Exploring Istanbul in a single day is a bold challenge, but this Istanbul Imperial & Bosphorus Tour manages to pack in all the major sights and experiences. Priced at $127.90 per person, the tour lasts around 7 hours and includes hotel pickup, making navigation easy in this bustling city. Guided visits to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Hippodrome are complemented by a scenic Bosporus cruise and a leisurely lunch at a rooftop restaurant. With high praise from previous participants—earning a 5.0/5 rating—this tour is highly recommended by 98% of travelers.

While the itinerary covers a full spectrum of Istanbul’s most celebrated attractions, the tour’s pace can be brisk, and some stops, such as the Grand Bazaar, are brief. Still, for those seeking a rundown without worrying about logistics, this guided experience offers a practical and enriching way to discover the city’s highlights.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour covering Istanbul’s top sites, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome
• Scenic Bosphorus cruise with magnificent views of waterfront palaces and fortresses
• Delicious Turkish lunch at a rooftop restaurant, with vegetarian options available
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your Istanbul hotel on the European side
• Entrance tickets are included for all major stops, saving time and effort
• Tour is suitable for most travelers but involves walking and some busy areas

Starting the Day with Istanbul’s Iconic Hagia Sophia

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or meeting point in the morning. The first stop is the Hagia Sophia Museum, an architectural marvel built in AD 537. Known for its massive dome and status as a symbol of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia was once the world’s largest building and is celebrated as one of the Eight Wonders of the World.

Inside, visitors can marvel at the intricate mosaics and vast interior space. If visiting on a Monday, the tour switches to the Chora Church, famed for its stunning mosaics, due to Hagia Sophia’s closure that day. The admission ticket is included, making this an effortless start to the day.

Visiting the Blue Mosque and Its Blue Tiles

Next, the group heads to the Blue Mosque, constructed between 1609 and 1616 under Sultan Ahmed I. This active mosque is also a major tourist destination, famed for hand-painted blue tiles that adorn its interior. The mosque’s five domes and six minarets are illuminated beautifully at night, creating a striking silhouette.

Depending on the day, the Blue Mosque may only be visible from outside during Friday mornings due to Friday prayers. The admission is free, and the visit lasts around 30 minutes. The cover-ups and head scarves are provided, ensuring visitors can enter comfortably and respectfully.

Exploring the Hippodrome and Its Ancient Monuments

The tour then takes a short walk to Hippodrome Square, which once served as the sporting and social hub of Byzantium. This historic site could hold 100,000 spectators and features several noteworthy monuments, including the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column.

The Serpent Column, originally part of a Greek sacrificial tripod in Delphi, was relocated to Constantinople in 324 AD. The German Fountain nearby commemorates Emperor Wilhelm II’s visit in 1898 and showcases neo-Byzantine architecture with gold mosaics inside. These monuments offer a tangible connection to Istanbul’s layered past.

Brief Stop at Sultanahmet Square and Lunch

The tour includes a one-hour lunch break at Restaurant Changable in Sultanahmet Square, where a Turkish meal awaits. The menu features olive oil marinated vegetables, fried pastry rolls with cheese, grilled meatballs (Kofte) with rice, and a seasonal fruit platter. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

This meal provides a restful pause amid sightseeing, with the restaurant offering good local flavors. Drinks are not included, so visitors may want to bring water or purchase drinks locally.

Visiting the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market

Post-lunch, the group visits the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets. Spanning over 4,000 shops across 61 covered streets, it attracts up to 400,000 visitors daily. The market’s vibrant atmosphere is perfect for browsing handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles.

Due to its size, the tour offers a brief overview with free time to explore independently. If visiting on a Sunday, when the Bazaar is closed, the group will instead stroll around Nuruosmaniye Street nearby.

Next, the Spice Market (also known as Egyptian Bazaar) entices visitors with the aroma of herbs, saffron, cinnamon, and mint. It’s an ideal place to experience the sensory richness of Istanbul’s markets.

Scenic Bosphorus Cruise and Waterway Highlights

The final major activity is a 1.5-hour Bosphorus cruise departing from Kabataş. The cruise offers panoramic views of Istanbul’s waterways, lined with historic waterfront mansions, fortresses like Anadolu Hisari, and the Baroque palaces of Ottoman sultans.

This boat ride is a highlight, allowing travelers to see how the city straddles two continents—Europe and Asia. The views and soundscape of the Bosphorus offer a peaceful contrast to the busy city streets.

End of the Tour and Hotel Drop-off

After the cruise, the tour concludes with hotel drop-off in the European side of Istanbul. The entire experience is designed to be comprehensive yet manageable, covering Istanbul’s most famous sights in one well-organized day.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour is suitable for most travelers, but some walking is involved, and the pace might feel brisk during busy periods. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during transfers between locations. Service animals are allowed, and cover-ups are provided at religious sites for respectful visits.

Advance booking is recommended, with most bookings made approximately 31 days in advance. The tour operates most days, except during religious holidays when some markets may be closed.

Istanbul Imperial & Bosphorus Tour – A Practical Choice for Sightseeing

This full-day guided tour offers an efficient way to see Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, learn about their history from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch. The included tickets and hotel transfers streamline the experience, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those wanting a broad overview.

The scenic Bosphorus cruise adds a special touch, providing memorable views of the city’s waterfront. The tour’s high rating and positive reviews reflect its popularity, particularly the guides’ expertise and the variety of highlights covered.

However, the wide itinerary means the tour can feel rushed, especially at markets like the Grand Bazaar, where exploration time is limited. Travelers should be prepared for some walking and a busy schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off on the European side of Istanbul are included, easing transportation logistics.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $127.90 per person, covering entrance tickets, guide services, lunch, and transportation.

How long does the Bosphorus cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and offers views of waterfront palaces, fortresses, and villages.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, a vegetarian menu option is available for lunch, and it can be requested at the time of booking.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, German Fountain, Serpent Column, Grand Bazaar (or Nuruosmaniye Street on Sundays), lunch in Sultanahmet Square, Spice Market, and a Bosporus cruise.

Is there free time at the markets?
Yes, there is free time at the Grand Bazaar for exploration. The visit duration is designed to give a taste of these bustling markets.

What should I wear during the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Cover-ups and head scarves are provided for religious sites, but it’s best to bring your own scarf if possible.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with walking difficulties?
It is generally suitable for most, but walking involves some effort, and the pace can be brisk. The tour might not be ideal for individuals with significant mobility challenges.

What happens if markets are closed?
The tour adapts by visiting Nuruosmaniye Street around the Grand Bazaar area on Sundays, when the market is closed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of major sites, a scenic Bosphorus cruise, and hotel pickup makes this a convenient and comprehensive introduction to Istanbul. The high ratings and positive reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise and the overall value.