Camlica Mosque, Camlica Tower, Maiden Tower, Asian Side Tour

Exploring the Asian Side of Istanbul with a Focus on Landmarks and Views

This 7-hour private tour offers a comprehensive look at Istanbul’s Asian Side, highlighting its most iconic sights and panoramic views. Priced at $318 per group up to 3 people, the experience is designed for those interested in exploring key landmarks comfortably, with hotel pickup and guided commentary included. The tour balances visiting impressive structures like Camlica Mosque and Camlica Tower with scenic stops at Kadikoy and the Maiden Tower by the sea.

One of the tour’s strengths is its focus on culture and city vistas, making it ideal for travelers who want to see Istanbul from a different perspective. It’s especially suitable for small groups seeking a personalized experience, though it does not include entry fees, meaning visitors should prepare for additional costs at certain sites. The 7-hour duration fits well into a day of sightseeing, with flexible start times depending on availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private group experience for up to 3 travelers at $318.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in the city center, guided commentary, and lunch.
• Tour covers top landmarks such as Camlica Mosque, Camlica Tower, and Maiden Tower.
• Panoramic views from Camlica Hill and Camlica Tower are major highlights.
• Pass through Kadikoy, a lively local village with food and shopping.
• No entry fees included, so plan for extra costs at specific sites.

Starting from the Heart of Istanbul: Hotel Pickup and Route

This private tour begins with hotel pickup in the Fatih district, ensuring convenient access from the city center. From there, a comfortable vehicle takes travelers across the Bosphorus, offering scenic views as the journey begins. The route is designed for efficiency, giving ample time at each main stop while maintaining a relaxed pace.

The tour’s flexible scheduling allows you to check availability for different start times, making it adaptable to various travel plans. The transportation is included throughout the day, ensuring smooth transitions from one site to another, with designated stops at key locations to maximize sightseeing.

Visiting Camlica Mosque: Istanbul’s Largest and Most Recent Landmark

The first major stop is Camlica Mosque, one of the newest and biggest mosques in Istanbul. Its impressive architecture and expansive grounds make it a standout feature of the Asian Side. Visitors are usually struck by the mosque’s size and design, which reflects a blend of traditional Ottoman style with contemporary elements.

The guided visit offers insights into the mosque’s cultural and religious importance. Since entry fees are not included, visitors may choose to explore further if they wish, but the emphasis remains on appreciating the mosque’s grand exterior and spiritual ambiance. The location on Camlica Hill provides stunning views over Istanbul, making it a perfect photo opportunity.

Elevated Perspectives at Camlica Tower with a Top-Notch Restaurant

Next, the tour heads to Camlica Tower, the tallest structure in Istanbul. Standing at a significant height, the tower offers panoramic vistas of the cityscape and the Bosphorus. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views from the top restaurant, where the scenic backdrop includes both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

The observation deck and restaurant on the upper levels lend this stop a special appeal, allowing travelers to appreciate Istanbul’s sprawling beauty from above. The tower’s modern design contrasts with the historic sites, providing a different perspective on the city’s development and skyline.

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Passing Through Kadikoy: A Vibrant Local Village

A key feature of this tour is a passage through Kadikoy, a lively neighborhood on the Asian Side. Known for its local food and vibrant shopping scene, Kadikoy offers an authentic taste of Istanbul life away from the tourist crowds.

While the tour doesn’t specify a long stop in Kadikoy, passing through this area gives a sense of the local atmosphere and daily urban rhythm. It’s an opportunity to see Istanbul’s diverse neighborhoods and perhaps pick up some local snacks or souvenirs if time permits.

Seaside Visit to Maiden Tower: A Historic Landmark

The tour concludes with a visit to the Maiden Tower (also known as Leander Tower), situated by the seaside. This iconic structure offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s maritime history and is a favorite photo spot, especially with its scenic backdrop of the Bosphorus.

The seaside drive around the Maiden Tower provides excellent views and photo opportunities. Although the tour doesn’t specify interior visits or entry fees, the exterior and surrounding views are enough to appreciate the tower’s significance as a symbol of Istanbul.

Practical Details: Timing, Group Size, and What’s Included

This private tour is tailored for small groups of up to 3 people, ensuring personalized attention from the guide. The 7-hour duration can be checked for availability, with start times adaptable to your schedule. The included services are hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, guiding, and lunch.

Entry fees to the sites are not included, so travelers should consider additional costs for interior visits or special access. The tour is conducted in English, providing clear explanations of each landmark’s history and significance.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible with the reserve now & pay later option, allowing you to secure the spot without immediate payment. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind before confirming plans.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

What sets this tour apart is its focus on Istanbul’s Asian Side, which is often less crowded and offers stunning viewpoints, especially from Camlica Hill and Camlica Tower. The combination of religious, modern, and historic landmarks provides a rounded experience suitable for travelers interested in architecture, culture, and city views.

The small group size, guided commentary, and inclusion of lunch enhance comfort and value. However, the lack of entry fees means extra planning for interior visits if desired. The tour’s pacing and scenic stops make it an engaging way to see some of Istanbul’s most photogenic locations.

The Sum Up: A Compact, View-Focused Exploration of Istanbul’s Asian Side

This 7-hour private tour offers a practical way to explore Istanbul’s Asian Side with a focus on landmarks, views, and local neighborhoods. The combination of Camlica Mosque, Camlica Tower, and the Maiden Tower ensures a well-rounded experience, emphasizing scenic vistas and cultural insights.

Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, small-group experience with flexible timing and comfortable transportation, this tour balances sightseeing with relaxation. The absence of included entry fees is a minor consideration, but overall, it provides a value-packed overview of Istanbul’s Asian Side highlights.

Those interested in architecture, panoramic views, and understanding local life will find this tour particularly rewarding, especially if they prioritize a personal guide and a smooth, stress-free day of exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $318?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, guiding, and lunch for the entire 7-hour tour.

Are entry fees to the sites included?
No, entry fees are not included, so visitors should budget extra if they want to visit interior parts of the mosque, tower, or Maiden Tower.

How flexible are the start times?
Start times are based on availability, and travelers can check to see what options are open, making it adaptable to different schedules.

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, it is designed for a private group of up to 3 people, ensuring a more personalized experience with your guide.

What do I need to bring?
A scarf is recommended, especially if you plan to visit Camlica Mosque, to respect local customs.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby