Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar
- Enjoy apple tea, pomegranate tea and nut tastings in the vibrant Spice Bazaar
- Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome in historic Old City
- Discover the aromas, flavors and culture of Istanbul’s legendary bazaars
- Cruise between Europe and Asia on the Bosphorus and see Ottoman palaces
Description
Discover the flavors, history and iconic landmarks of Istanbul on this full-day sightseeing tour combining the city's most famous highlights with authentic tasting experiences.
Begin the day with a scenic drive along the historic Golden Horn, where you will see important landmarks such as the Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, the Iron Church of St. Stephen, and the historic Jewish Hospital (Or-Ahayim).
Continue along the impressive Byzantine City Walls, once the strongest defensive fortifications of the medieval world.
Arrive at the lively Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) where the air is filled with the aromas of spices, herbs and sweets. Here you will enjoy a local tasting experience, sampling traditional apple tea, pomegranate tea and a selection of Turkish nuts and dried fruits, while learning about the flavors that are an essential part of Turkish cuisine.
Next, embark on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise, sailing along the legendary waterway that separates Europe and Asia. Admire magnificent Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions and the impressive Rumeli Fortress from the boat.
After the cruise, enjoy a delicious lunch of traditional Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon continue to Sultanahmet, the historic heart of Istanbul.
Visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia, built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian and considered one of the greatest architectural masterpieces in the world.
Just opposite stands the elegant Blue Mosque, famous for its beautiful blue Iznik tiles and its six graceful minarets.
Continue to the historic Hippodrome, once the center of sporting and political life during the Byzantine Empire. Here you will see the Serpentine Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the German Fountain of Wilhelm II.
Before or after visiting the Grand Covered Bazaar, enjoy another delightful tasting experience featuring traditional apple tea served with freshly prepared baklava, one of the most famous desserts of Turkish cuisine.
End the day exploring the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest markets in the world with nearly 4,000 shops selling jewelry, carpets, ceramics, antiques and authentic Turkish souvenirs.
Includes
Free pick up and drop off from city center hotels
Tea & Baklava tasting
Professional live guide
Drive along the Golden Horn with panoramic views from the bus
See the Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate from the bus
See the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church (Iron Church) from the bus
See the historic Jewish Hospital (Or-Ahayim) from the bus
View the Byzantine City Walls from the bus
Visit the Spice Bazaar
Enjoy a Bosphorus Cruise
View Rumeli Fortress from the boat
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with typical Turkish cuisine
Visit Sultanahmet Center
Visit Hagia Sophia Museum
Visit the Blue Mosque
Visit the Hippodrome
Free time for shopping at the Grand Covered Bazaar
Excludes
Personal expenses
Drinks at lunch
Gratuities
Important Information
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be some walking during the tour
Bring a camera to capture the beautiful sights
Sunscreen is recommended for protection against the sun
When visiting Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, modest clothing is required; women are advised to bring a headscarf, and shoulders and knees should be covered
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
