Private Shore Excursion: Jewels of Istanbul Tour with a Boat Ride

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5 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Enter the captivating world of Istanbul's rich history, led by whispers of the past. 

Embark on your journey at Dolmabahce Palace, a masterpiece infused with European charm.

Witness its grandeur before crossing Galata Bridge to admire the intricate tile work at Rustem Pasha Mosque, a creation by the renowned architect Sinan. 

Sail along the gleaming Bosphorus, taking in the imposing silhouettes of Dolmabahce Palace and Rumeli Fortress. 

Wrap up your adventure with a visit to the Spice Market, where treasures await. Admire the vibrant atmosphere of one of the city's most magnificent bazaars.

What's Included

Port Pickup and Drop off
Full refund if your ship cannot dock
Boat ride on the Bosphorus Strait
Professional, licensed English-speaking guide
Guaranteed return to ship on time
Modern, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
24/7 Customer support, assistance with other arrangements and tours
Food and drink
Gratuities
Entrance fee to Dolmabahce Palace

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
ISTANBUL PORT enterance

Your guide and driver will be waiting for you holding a sign with your name on it, directly at the port.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Dolmabahce Palace

    Meet your guide at the port and embark on an engaging journey through Istanbul's historical wonders. Begin your adventure at the Dolmabahce Palace, a stunning blend of European and Ottoman architecture. Imagine 285 rooms, 43 grand halls, and a symmetrical splendor that leaves you in awe. It’s like stepping into a frozen world of luxury and opulence. However, you will not be touring its interior, captivate exterior of Dolmabahçe Palace which stands as a symbol of lavishness, unparalleled in its magnificence worldwide.

    1 hour • Admission ticket not included
  • Galata Bridge (Pass by)

    Following your visit to Dolmabahce Palace, you will have the opportunity to walk on the historic Galata Bridge constructed during the Ottoman Period.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Rustem Pasha Mosque

    Next, your guide will lead you to one of the mosques created by the renowned Master Architect Sinan, the Rustem Pasha Mosque. Notably, the Rustem Pasha Mosque stands out among Sinan's creations due to its richly adorned, tiled interior. It is believed that Rüstem Pasha commissioned the distinctive İznik tiles to support court designer Kara Memi, renowned for his exquisite floral patterns.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Bosphorus

    Then, enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine on your lunch break (at your own expense). After lunch, you will embark on a scenic boat trip along the Bosphorus, offering a spectacular journey between the continents of Europe and Asia. The cruise passes by iconic landmarks such as the Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi Palaces, as well as wooden villas and mansions.

    1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • Rumeli Fortress (Pass by)

    You will also catch a glimpse of the impressive Rumeli Fortress from the sea, although there will be no interior visit. Throughout history, Istanbul faced numerous sieges before Mehmet the Conqueror successfully took the city in 1453, with the Roman city walls playing a crucial role in its defense.

    Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Misir Carsisi (Spice Market)

    Wrap up your remarkable journey by exploring the lively Spice Market, the most famous covered shopping complex after the Grand Bazaar. Indulge in a variety of shopping delights, a perfect conclusion to a day of adventure and exploration.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Please note that the Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays (if you'd like to do an interior visit).
Supplied by Vexperio

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Shopping Tours
Walking Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Water Tours
Car Tours
Shore Excursions
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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