Top Istanbul On the Water

Experience Istanbul's beauty and history on a morning Bosphorus yacht cruise with a stopover on the Asian side. As you glide along the strait, take in stunning views of the city's iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque and Dolmabahce Palace. Then, discover local culture on the city's Asian side. With comfortable facilities and informative commentary on board, this excursion is a great way to explore Istanbul without breaking a sweat.

The Bosphorus Strait divides Europe from Asia, and a Bosphorus cruise is a signature Istanbul experience. This round-trip yacht cruise, with live commentary and fun facts from an experienced guide, covers all the classic waterfront sights—bridges, palaces, the Maiden’s Tower, the Rumeli Fortress, and more. But it also includes a stop for coffee and snacks in the characterful Kanlıca neighborhood and onboard Wi-Fi so you can share as you go.

Enjoy stunning views of historic Istanbul from the water during this narrated boat tour down the Bosphorus. Cover many of the city’s top attractions from the scenic strait, passing highlights like Galata Tower, Dolmabahce and Topkapi palaces, and Rumeli Fortress. You’ll also head to Asia and back, with a get-down stop on Istanbul’s Anatolian side and free time to explore on your own.

Prepare to be awed by Istanbul’s magnificent architecture, rich history, and eclectic bazaars as you discover the unmissable highlights of the Old City on this 1-, 2-, or 3-day private tour. Marvel over the glorious Hagia Sophia, learn how the Blue Mosque earned its famous nickname, and see the ancient Basilica Cistern. Tour Topkapi Palace to gain an insight into the lavish lifestyles of the Ottoman sultans and their harem, and browse the legendary Grand Bazaar, where you find everything from carpets to Turkish delight. Flexible daily itineraries: Day 1 - Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome Square, German Fountain, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar. Day 2 - Bosphorus Cruise by Public Ferry, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Cicek Passage, Galata Tower (from outside), Spice Market. Day 3 - Suleymaniye Mosque, Fener and Balat Districts, St. Stephen Church (Iron Church), Pierre Lotti Panoramic Hill by Cable Car, Kadıkoy Market (or alternative sites).

Fit all of Istanbul's attractions at the top of your bucket list into one packed day, with the help of an expert local guide. Stroll Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, brimming with iconic buildings and storied streets. Tour the Blue Mosque, one of the most important sites in the Muslim world. Delve into history of the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Istanbul Hippodrome as well as the 'sunken palace' of Basilica Cistern. And you won’t want to miss the bustling Grand Bazaar.

Instead of driving around Istanbul all day in a stuffy tour bus, discover the city’s beauty in style on this relaxing sunset cruise down the Bosphorus, the waterway that marks the border between Asian Turkey and European Turkey. From the open-air deck of your luxury yacht, see riverside landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Ortaköy Mosque and the Rumeli Fortress, all lit by the beautiful dusk light.

Explore the top attractions in Sultanahmet (the old city) on a full-day tour with a knowledgeable guide. Take in UNESCO World Heritage sites and famous monuments in Istanbul including the stunning Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Hippodrome. Then follow your guide through the Grand Bazaar, browsing the shops of hundreds of vendors with an array of textiles, jewelry, perfumes, spices and more. Your guide shares the long history of Istanbul with your small group, which is limited to 10 participants to ensure a more intimate experience.

Behold the magnificent Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque on this 3.5-hour small-group guided walking tour of Istanbul’s best monuments. You will delve into the complex culture of Istanbul as you discover its famous monuments intertwined history. Not only will you see the beauty of Hagia Sophia Museum and Blue Mosque, but explore the Hippodrome of Constantinople and the German Fountain. People are limited to 15 on this tour, so you can receive more personalized attention from your guide.

Experience Istanbul like a pro, when you buy a combination ticket for the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern. Upon arrival at each location, your guide escorts you past the long queue for fast entrance (except at the Hagia Sophia) After a brief overview, you’re ready to explore at your own pace. Enjoy the freedom to see the three world-famous attractions in any order that works for you. (Note: Cistern admission at 11am only.)

Make your Istanbul adventure totally unique with a 1- 2- or 3 day private sightseeing tour. Opt for a single day and see the whole of the Old City, plus the Grand Bazaar. Extend the tour to include a second day and visit the Spice Bazaar, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim, and Istiklal Street, plus a Bosphorus cruise. Please note that your guide is happy to alter the itinerary completely to accommodate your personal interests.

Uncover ancient Greek mythology and the history of the Trojan War during this guided day trip to Troy from Istanbul. During a walking tour, learn about the famous archaeological site of Troy and see a replica statue of the Trojan Horse. Then, delve into the interesting era’s of Troy and discover how this settlement transformed over time. Plus, enjoy a visit to the small coastal town of Eceabat for lunch.

Experience Istanbul’s timeless sights on a full-day tour of the city’s history, with lunch and transfers. Listen for the ancient echoes of pounding hooves at the Hippodrome and admire the distinctive tiles of the Blue Mosque. See the Byzantine mosaics of Hagia Sophia, then follow in the footsteps of powerful sultans, courtiers, and generals at Topkapi Palace. Finish your tour in the vibrant Grand Bazaar, browsing handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs.

Go back in time to the Byzantine times when Istanbul was Constantinople and enjoy an 8-hour small-group guided tour of monasteries and churches. On this tour, uncover the impressive history of Christian sanctuaries that peaked during the reign of the Byzantine Empire. Visit Kariye Museum, once Chora Church, and ogle its frescoes and mosaics. See mosques converted from churches such as Pammakaristos and Pantocrator. Immerse with your guide to discover the history of palatial remains plus enjoy lunch included on this tour. Numbers on this small-group tour are limited to 15 people for a more intimate experience.

Recall the days of ancient Rome on this full-day trip to Ephesus from Istanbul by air. With a professional guide, explore the spectacular Greco-Roman Ephesus, Turkey’s archaeological showpiece. Stroll the ancient streets to marvel at the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis. You also get time to walk through the Ephesus Archaeological Museum to see the excavations of the ancient city and shop for local handicrafts.

Enjoy stunning, sunset views of Istanbul’s top heritage sites, all from the comfort of a luxury yacht. During this Bosphorus cruise, you’ll sail down both European and Asian sides of the renowned strait, covering highlights like 19th-century Dolmabahce Palace, imposing Rumeli Fortress, and the iconic towers of Maiden and Galata. Guided tours include complimentary refreshments, including fruit and homemade lemonade.

Discover Istanbul on a full-day tour that travels on foot and public transit to historic landmarks and local cultural hubs. Start by touring the Hippodrome, Serefiye Cistern and Grand Bazaar, then take a break for Turkish coffee, pastry and hookah (tobacco pipe). Visit the book and paper market Sahaflar Çarşısı, which started in the Byzantine era, then tour Istanbul University. Continue to Suleymaniye Mosque, the Spice Bazaar and the Church of St George before winding through the districts of Fener and Balat — the old Greek and Jewish neighborhoods.

Sail between two continents and into the Black Sea on this full-day cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, with an onboard guide plus a delicious meze lunch on deck. Gaze over the shores of Europe and Asia as you cruise the Bosphorus; stop to visit the pretty Ortaköy neighborhood; and enjoy guided tours of the ornate Küçüksu Palace and Rumeli Fortress. There’s even a chance to swim in the Black Sea.

A dinner with dance shows on the Bosphorus. Food and entertainment... This combination never fails to guarantee having a great time. Especially, when accompanied by the mesmerizing Istanbul views at night, you will experience an unforgettable dinner cruise with us. We are inviting you to feast on amazing foods with unlimited alcoholic drinks while cruising along the European and Asian continents and enjoying traditional Turkish dances and shows with us. Highlights • Discover the Bosphorus Strait, while cruising between European and Asian sides of Istanbul • Watch traditional dances as well as Latin dances and enjoy live DJ performance while cruising • Admire the iconic palaces standing along the strait The boat will be ready to the pier at 08:00 pm. When you get on the boat, your appetizers are ready on the table and you can order drinks. The boat leaves the pier at 08:30 pm. And it's back at around 11:30 pm. The average tour duration is 3 hours.

Take the time to explore Istanbul’s most magnificent sites at your own pace with a full-day, guided tour of the city's historic places and landmarks. Follow in the footsteps of charioteers and Roman soldiers at the Hippodrome, then see the arcing tiles of the Blue Mosque. Listen for the whispers of courtiers and sultans inside Topkapi Palace, then see Hagia Sophia’s stunning murals and minarets. Browse the vibrant displays at the iconic Grand Bazaar, with inside tips on the best places to find carpets, handicrafts and local souvenirs.

Venture beneath Istanbul’s historic city streets to discover over 1,500 years of history and legends on a group tour of the Basilica Cistern. Begin with skip-the-line admission, which enables you to maximize your limited vacation time in Istanbul. Through immersive and illuminating commentary, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the mystery of this subterranean attraction. Throughout the visit, you’re free to ask questions for a more personalized tour experience

Experience the finest attractions in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district during this private, guided day tour of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Marvel at these famous monuments alongside your expert guide who will give you individual attention on this private voyage.

Prepare for an evening of nonstop entertainment with an exciting Rhythm of the Dance show at the legendary Hodjapasha Culture Center in Istanbul. Feel the electric rhythms of Turkey as you enjoy shimmying belly dancers, magnetic harem dances, energetic folklore performances, and dazzling costumes, accompanied by live music and 360-degree video projections.

See Istanbul’s most notable landmarks and secret backstreets on this small-group walking tour. Learn about the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman history from an English-speaking guide. Pass by Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar. On this tour, learn about the attractions, but not venture inside. Discover where locals eat and drink.