Istanbul Full Day Europe and Asia Sides Tour

Exploring Istanbul’s unique position straddling two continents makes for an unforgettable tour experience. This full-day journey, priced at $103.72 per person, spans approximately 10 hours and offers a comprehensive look at the city’s most iconic sights on both the European and Asian sides. With pickup included and a mobile ticket, it suits travelers seeking a well-organized, all-encompassing day in Istanbul. The tour is especially appealing for those who want to see historic landmarks, panoramic views, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise—all in one day. The consistent 5.0-star rating from 15 reviews highlights its popularity and quality.

While the itinerary is packed with diverse stops, the tour balances busy sightseeing with moments of relaxation, thanks to the boat cruise and scenic viewpoints. It is designed for most travelers, including those with moderate mobility, but the full-day schedule requires a good level of stamina. The tour’s success largely rests on the expertise of the guides, who bring stories and insights that enhance each location.

Key Points

• Complete full-day experience covering both European and Asian sides of Istanbul
• Price of $103.72 per person includes lunch, boat tour, and entrance fees
• Duration of approximately 10 hours, with pickup from your hotel or meeting point
• Highlights include Bosphorus boat cruise, Beylerbeyi Palace, Eyüp Sultan Mosque, and Pierre Loti Hill
• Guided by knowledgeable professionals, with a focus on storytelling and local insights
• Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive view of Istanbul, especially those short on time

Starting the Day: Pickup and Bosphorus Boat Tour

The tour begins at 10:00 am with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point in Fatih. The first major activity is boarding a boat for a two-hour cruise along the Bosphorus. During this cruise, a breakfast plate is served, allowing you to enjoy magnificent views of Istanbul’s coastline, dotted with historic sites. The boat ride is a highlight that combines scenic beauty with cultural stories, giving a panoramic perspective of the city’s skyline.

This boat experience not only offers convenience but also provides a relaxed way to start the day, with admission tickets included. It’s an excellent chance to appreciate Istanbul’s unique geography and architecture from the water, setting the tone for the rest of the exploration.

Exploring Çamlca Hill and the Largest Mosque in Turkey

After the cruise, the tour heads to Çamlca Hill, where you gain spectacular views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus. Standing atop this elevation, visitors can see the entire city spread out beneath them, which is perfect for photography and soaking in the scale of Istanbul.

Next, the visit continues at Çamlca Mosque, the largest mosque in Turkey, opened in 2019 by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Its prominent location makes it visible from many parts of the city, and the visit gives insight into contemporary Turkish architecture and religious significance. Both stops are free of charge, making this part of the tour accessible and informative.

Beylerbeyi Palace and Bridge Crossings

The next stop is Beylerbeyi Palace, a former imperial summer residence built between 1861 and 1865 for Sultan Abdulhamid II. This Ottoman palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of sultans, with its ornate design and historical furnishings. Note: the palace is typically closed on Mondays, and in such cases, visitors explore Çamlca Tower instead.

From this vantage point, the tour includes a photo opportunity at the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, which was the first suspension bridge connecting Europe and Asia, opened in 1973. The crossing over the Bosphorus is a defining feature of Istanbul’s geography, and the tour provides an outside view of this engineering feat.

Passing Rumeli Fortress and the Castles

Traveling along the European side, the group passes Rumeli Fortress, an imposing historic structure that dominates the skyline. Visitors get great photo opportunities in front of the fortress, capturing a symbol of Ottoman military prowess.

As the bus proceeds, it passes Rumeli Castle and the Anatolian Fortress, offering glimpses into Istanbul’s defensive history. The guide shares stories and explanations about these landmarks, enriching the visual experience.

Visiting Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Sacred Site

The journey continues to Eyüp Sultan Mosque, one of the most holy and revered sites in Turkey. Located on the Eyüp district’s hill, the mosque is built on the tomb of Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. The site’s special status makes it a spiritual center, attracting many visitors and pilgrims.

The two-hour stop here allows enough time to explore the mosque, its surroundings, and the Tomb of Abu Ayyub, offering a peaceful moment amidst the busy tour.

Pierre Loti Hill and Café with Panoramic Views

The tour then takes visitors down to Pierre Loti Hill, an area named after the French novelist Pierre Loti. Visitors ascend via cable car, or by car if the cable car is crowded, making for a scenic descent.

Once at the top, the Pierre Loti Café offers spectacular views over the Golden Horn. This spot is perfect for photography and enjoying a relaxing break amid panoramic vistas. The area’s peaceful ambiance and historical charm make it a great place for reflection after a busy day.

Final Highlights and Hotel Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a chance to take more photos and absorb the scenery before the guide leads the group back to the meeting point, typically by around 8:00 pm. The drop-off is at the original pickup location, providing a convenient end to the day.

The guided experience ensures that all major highlights are covered efficiently, making it a value-packed option for those limited on time but eager to see the city’s top sights.

Logistics, Pacing, and Group Size

The tour departs from Garanti BBVA ATMHoca Paa, Kennedy Cad. No:9 in Fatih and is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 50 people. The group size is manageable, and the air-conditioned vehicle makes traveling between sites comfortable. The timing is well-paced, with designated durations at each stop, although some sites like Eyüp Sultan Mosque involve longer visits, which may be physically demanding for some.

Value and Booking Considerations

At $103.72 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with admission tickets, lunch, and boat cruise included. It is highly recommended for first-time visitors or those seeking a full overview of Istanbul’s diverse attractions in a single day.

The tour is booked on average 42 days in advance, indicating strong interest and reliability. It includes pickup and drop-off for added convenience, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Final Thoughts on the Istanbul Full Day Europe and Asia Sides Tour

This tour stands out for covering both the European and Asian parts of Istanbul, making it a great choice for travelers who want a broad yet detailed introduction to the city. The scenic boat cruise and panoramic viewpoints are highlights, and the knowledgeable guides bring each site to life with engaging stories.

While the full-day schedule can be intense, it is well worth it for those eager to maximize their sightseeing time. The value for money is clear, given the inclusion of entrance fees, lunch, and transportation. It is especially suitable for first-time visitors or those short on time but wanting to see Istanbul’s most iconic sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but the full-day schedule requires a good level of stamina. Those with mobility issues should consider this when planning.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. The tour includes plenty of outdoor stops, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a lunch break is part of the itinerary, included in the overall price, providing a chance to enjoy local flavors.