Join a full-day Istanbul Old City and Bosphorus cruise experience and explore the city’s most famous landmarks from both land and sea. Visit Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Eyup Sultan Mosque, Pierre Loti, and the historic Hippodrome before enjoying a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus. This tour offers a complete way to discover Istanbul’s history, culture, and panoramic views in one day.
Istanbul Old City and Bosphorus Cruise Itinerary
- Tour Day: Hotel Pickup | Istanbul Old City and Bosphorus Cruise Full-Day Tour | Hotel Drop-off
Visit Highlights
- Hagia Sophia: Learn about the transformation of this historic building from church to mosque and its importance in world history.
- Blue Mosque: Experience the atmosphere of this active mosque and admire its detailed interior decoration.
- Hippodrome of Constantinople: Walk through the former center of Byzantine public life and see its historic monuments.
- German Fountain: Discover the story behind this symbolic gift located in Sultanahmet Square.
- Obelisk of Theodosius: See one of the oldest monuments in Istanbul, brought from ancient Egypt.
- Serpentine Column: Observe the ancient column that once stood in the Temple of Apollo at Delphi.
- Grand Bazaar: Enjoy free time inside one of the world’s oldest markets with thousands of traditional shops.
- Bosphorus: Relax on a scenic cruise and view Istanbul’s skyline from the water.
- Eyup Sultan Mosque: Visit a significant spiritual landmark located near the Golden Horn.
- Pierre Loti Hill: Take in wide views of the Golden Horn from this popular hilltop viewpoint.
- Cable Car: Ride the cable car for an easy and enjoyable access to Pierre Loti Hill.
What’s Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Professional tour guide.
- Bosphorus cruise ticket.
- Cable car ticket.
What’s Not Included
- Hagia Sophia entrance fee.
- Lunch.
- Personal expenses.
Important Information
- Language: The tour is conducted in English.
- Duration: 8 hours.
- Hagia Sophia: The guide provides information from outside.
- Grand Bazaar: Closed on Sunday.
Tour Days and Times
- Monday: 08:00 AM.
- Tuesday: 08:00 AM.
- Wednesday: 08:00 AM.
- Thursday: 08:00 AM.
- Saturday: 08:00 AM.
- Sunday: 08:00 AM.
Meeting Point
- Your hotel reception in Istanbul.
Istanbul Old City and Bosphorus Cruise Program
Tour Day: Hotel Pickup | Istanbul Old City and Bosphorus Cruise Full-Day Tour | Hotel Drop-off
- Pickup from your Istanbul hotel and begin the Istanbul Old City and Bosphorus Cruise Full-Day Tour.
- Visits include Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome of Constantinople, German Fountain, Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpentine Column, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus, Eyup Sultan Mosque, and Pierre Loti Hill.
- Free time for lunch during the tour.
- Drop-off at your Istanbul hotel at the end of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Istanbul Old City and Bosphorus Cruise
1. How long does the full-day tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, covering both the Old City highlights and the Bosphorus cruise experience.
2. Is lunch included in this tour?
No. Lunch is not included in the tour price. You will have free time during the day to eat at a local restaurant of your choice.
3. Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes. Pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels in Istanbul are included.
4. What will we see during the Bosphorus cruise?
During the cruise, you will see historic palaces, bridges, waterfront mansions, and important landmarks along the Bosphorus.
5. Do we visit both the Old City and Eyup Sultan on the same day?
Yes. This tour combines the main Old City landmarks with a Bosphorus cruise and visits to Eyup Sultan and Pierre Loti Hill in one day.
6. Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Istanbul?
Yes. This full-day program is ideal for first-time visitors who want to see both the historic center and the Bosphorus in a single day.