Istanbul City Tour and Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Lunch

Explore Istanbul’s Main Attractions with Ease and Comfort

This full-day Istanbul tour offers a thorough glimpse into the city’s most iconic sights for $110.06 per person. It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting with hotel pickup on the European side, making logistics straightforward. The tour includes skip-the-line tickets to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, saving valuable time, along with visits to the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and a scenic Bosphorus sightseeing cruise. A traditional Turkish lunch is also included, with vegetarian options available.

While the tour covers many highlights efficiently, it’s worth noting that some stops, such as the Grand Bazaar, may feel rushed, and the pace can be lively. Most participants find the guides knowledgeable and the experience well worth the price, especially for those with limited time to see Istanbul’s key sites.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Price: $110.06 per person, covering entrance fees, lunch, and boat ride
• Duration: Approximately 7 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Highlights: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise
• Skip-the-Line Access: Saves time at the busiest attractions
• Guided Tour: Led by professional licensed guides with detailed explanations
• Group Size: Limited to 18 travelers for an intimate experience

Istanbul’s Architectural Marvels at Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

The tour begins with a visit to Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned as one of the Eight Wonders of the World. With 45 minutes allocated, visitors experience its impressive architecture, which has survived centuries of history. The guide highlights its significance and unique features, making this stop a major highlight for lovers of history and architecture.

Next is the Blue Mosque, famous for its exquisite blue Iznik tiles decorating the interior. This mosque is distinctive as the only imperial mosque built with six minarets. On Fridays, it is reserved for prayer, so the visit is mainly exterior, but the interior can be explored on other days. The 30-minute stop includes free admission but requires modest dress covering shoulders and knees.

Exploring Istanbul’s Ancient Social Hub: The Hippodrome

The Hippodrome Square serves as a glimpse into the city’s Byzantine past. Formerly the sporting and social center of Old Byzantium, it hosted 100,000 spectators and features historical monuments such as the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column. The 15-minute stop allows for quick photos and orientation, and admission is free.

Discovering the Vibrant Markets: Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. Guests may opt for an optional handicrafts presentation nearby but are free to explore the bazaar independently. The one-hour stop is a chance to browse hundreds of shops selling jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and souvenirs. However, the Sundays closure of the bazaar is an important consideration.

Following the bazaar visit, the tour guides guests to the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, which is the second-largest covered market in Istanbul. Here, the scent of spices, dried fruits, herbal medicines, and Turkish delights fills the air. The 30-minute stop offers a sensory overload and opportunities for shopping.

Authentic Turkish Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Midday, the tour pauses for a delicious 3-course lunch, with vegetarian options available. The hour and fifteen-minute sit-down meal provides a chance to enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in a relaxed setting. Beverages are not included, so guests should plan accordingly. The lunch spot offers a taste of local flavors, making it a satisfying break during the busy day.

Scenic Shoreline Drive and Bosphorus Cruise

After lunch, the tour takes a scenic drive along the Golden Horn, an inlet of the Bosphorus that forms the natural harbor of Old Istanbul. Then, guests board a boat for a 1 hour 30 minutes cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. This cruise offers panoramic views of 19th-century wooden mansions, Rumeli Fortress, Dolmabahce Palace, and other historic landmarks along the Asian and European shores.

The Bosphorus cruise is frequently praised as the relaxing highlight of the day, providing both a scenic perspective and a memorable experience of Istanbul’s unique position between two continents.

Logistics and Comfort: Pickup, Drop-Off, and Group Size

This tour features hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels on the European side, simplifying logistics. The vehicle used is air-conditioned, and the entire group is kept small, with a maximum of 18 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Disinfection protocols are in place, providing reassurance about health and safety.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The included features are the skipped queues at key attractions, museum tickets, boat fee, lunch, and professional licensed guides. Be aware that beverages, gratuities, and appropriate mosque attire are not included. Guests should dress modestly for mosque visits—shoulders and knees covered—and can purchase disposable coverings on-site if needed.

Some reviews mention that the tour can feel rushed, especially at attractions like the Grand Bazaar, and that the pace is lively. Also, the optional handicrafts presentation at the Bazaar may not appeal to everyone, and some travelers report feeling pressured at certain shops, which is a common issue in markets worldwide.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a rundown of Istanbul in a single day, especially those on a tight schedule. The mix of architectural landmarks, bustling markets, and a scenic cruise provides a well-rounded experience. It suits visitors who enjoy guided tours, as the guides offer detailed commentary, but might be less suitable for those with walking difficulties or who prefer more leisurely, unstructured exploration.

Final Thoughts on the Istanbul City and Bosphorus Tour

The $110.06 price point offers good value, considering the skip-the-line tickets, lunch, and cruise. The tour covers significant landmarks and provides a convenient way to experience Istanbul’s diverse attractions efficiently. The guides receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, making the day informative and enjoyable.

However, the tour’s fast pace and some optional stops like the bazaar presentation may not suit everyone. Travelers should be prepared for a busy day with minimal free time, but those seeking a guided introduction to Istanbul’s highlights will find it highly worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What attractions are included in this tour?
The tour visits Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and a scenic Bosporus cruise.

Is lunch included, and what type of food is served?
Yes, a 3-course traditional Turkish lunch is included. Vegetarian options are available, and beverages are not included.

What is the duration of the Bosphorus cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, providing scenic views of Istanbul’s Asian and European shores.

Are skip-the-line tickets provided?
Yes, the tour includes skip-the-line admission tickets for Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, saving time at busy entrances.

Is hotel pickup provided?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels on the European side of Istanbul.

What should I wear for mosque visits?
Guests must wear clothing covering shoulders and knees. Single-use coverings can be purchased on-site if necessary.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I skip the optional handicrafts presentation at the Grand Bazaar?
Yes, it is optional. Guests can freely explore the bazaar or opt to skip that part entirely.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with walking difficulties?
This tour is not recommended for those with walking difficulties due to the walking involved and the busy nature of some stops.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked 36 days in advance, indicating strong demand and availability for planning.

Is this tour good for limited time visitors?
Absolutely, it covers all major highlights in just one day, making it perfect for visitors with limited time in Istanbul.