260 activitati in Istanbul, TURKEY
A Half Day Tour of Old Istanbul's Highlights
Take in the highlights of Istanbul, a truly enchanting city that is full of history, culture and intrigue at every turn. Once the seat of the powerful Ottoman Empire, today Istanbul is home to more than 14 million people and a diverse range of cultures. Take in architectural masterpieces such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia as your guide leads you to the city’s most spectacular landmarks before finishing the trip at Istanbul’s famous Grand Bazaar. Boasting over 4,000 shops and tiny cafés under its roof, it is believed to have the most individual stalls of any marketplace in the world. Begin your tour by driving to the very heart of old Istanbul, the Sultanahmet Square. Once the sporting and social centre of Constantinople with a huge horseracing circuit, it is now a beautiful square in the heart of the city and still contains relics of the original structure. Tour its key points and learn about the atmospheric events that would regularly take place here. Proceed to the Blue Mosque, one of the most striking buildings in the city and one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. With its domes, secondary domes and minarets, the mosque is a striking visual spectacle and its blue-tiled interior provides its nickname. Next head to Hagia Sophia, considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture. Having been used as both a cathedral and a mosque, the vast and intricate building is now a fascinating museum. Finish your unforgettable city tour at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, renowned for its multitude of stores and stalls. Browse the vast array of goods on display and make sure to barter and haggle the price with the stall owners! Others Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. There is no transfer back to the hotels, the last stop is Grand Bazaar. As mosques are closed on Fridays, there will only be external visits on that day. IIstanbul classic tour includes St.Sophia tickets.
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Shopping in Grand Bazaar
Take the plunge into Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. In the company of your expert guide you will explore some of the 61 covered streets and over 3,000 shops, and soak up the atmosphere of this pulsating, exotic place. Dating all the way back to the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar has been catering to the daily needs of local residen Take the plunge into Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. In the company of your expert guide you will explore some of the 61 covered streets and over 3,000 shops, and soak up the atmosphere of this pulsating, exotic place. Dating all the way back to the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar has been catering to the daily needs of local residents for generations and now sells a greater range of produce than ever - if not everything under the sun then not far short. Whether you’re after a hookah, clothes, jewellery, carpets or antiques, the chances are you’ll find it in what surely ranks as one of the world’s unbeatable retail therapy experiences. The practical benefit of being accompanied by a guide comes from local knowledge and expertise: is your Turkish rug authentic and handmade? Is the antiquity you are thinking of buying genuine and is it legal to be taken out of Turkey? Is the jewellery you have your eye on made with real gems and to the highest standard? On all these questions your helpful guide will be able to advise you, as well as handling the tricky business of negotiating a fair price. Depending on your interests and tastes you will be taken to the most reputable leather shop, the fairest antique’s emporium, the jewellery seller with the reputation for the highest quality or the finest place for kilims and carpets. Shopaholics have a treat in store at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s great shopping experiences. Meeting/pick-up point: Hotel reception. Duration: Approximately 5 hours. Start/opening time: 8 am -8.30am (morning tour), 1 - 1.30pm (afternoon tour). End/closing time: 12pm - 12.30pm (morning tour), 5pm 5.30pm(afternoon tour). Languages: English.
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Shopping tour
If you love shopping, you will love this tour! Due to its strategic location on the Bosphorus Straits, İstanbul has historically been a key trading city with goods coming all the way from the Far East. In this shopping tour, you will find the best shops and goods available. On the İstanbul Shopping Tour, you will visit the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) which has become one of the most demanding places of İstanbul in years with more than 100 vendors purveying everything from spices to Turkish Delights. Chance to find the best souvenir in one of the speciality shops. A unique Turkish silk, a fine trendiest fashion fabric, famous with its softness. Explore a unique place for art lovers! A boutique, family-owned atelier producing handmade ceramics without sacrificing quality. Along with Hittite productions of terra cotta, quartz Seljuk productions, quartz İznik (Nicea)-Ottoman productions, the shop also has various examples from the Turkish culture. Visit to the bustling Grand Covered Bazaar where you will find goods including jewelry, carpets, spices, clothes and much more. Walk along the hans (caravanserai) without ever growing bored.Last visit to a calligraphy master who is known for his works on different materials such as dried leaves. Save money with the great deals you will find at these locations and enjoy the sights along the way of İstanbul city. Start/opening time At 9am - 9.30am. End/closing time At 1pm - 1.30pm. Languages English Others Tour cannot be operated on Sundays as Grand Covered Bazaar is closed.
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EUR3000EUR
Special Discount Offer: All inclusive Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show from Istanbul
Relax and have fun on the boat with exciting entertainment activities. Delicious dinner with quality alcohol drinks (only if you have chosen the option) is waiting for you in the evening time on Bosphorus River. Our driver will pick you up from your hotel (European side of Istanbul) and you will be delivered to one of the harbours of Istanbul. Once you will get on the beautiful ship, it will depart from the port. And your Bosphorus Cruise will start! From the first minutes of sailing, you will be amazed by the spectacular views of the night city. The buildings start to showing their night glamour after switching the lights on. And the best way to see it from the distance is - by the river. Nothing will distract you from enjoying amazing views. Fresh river breeze and mild wind will provide more comfort while you are watching all the beauty. Also, you will see ancient buildings of Empires, as they are the most important parts of the history of Turkey. Furthermore, you will be given the opportunity to feel the Turkish culture. And the best way to that is ...dancing and watching the show. Well-prepared artists will make sure you to feel the culture with your muscles and unconsciously you can start dancing as well. You will never get bored as the show is promised to be rich. On the other hand, don`t forget to surprise your stomach with delicious food prepared by the chef and his team specially for your dinner. Don`t hesitate to eat and drink as it is a compliment to the crew that you enjoyed the meal. Take photos as many as you can, because this tour will stay in your memory for the entire of your life! Your drop off service will be waiting for you at midnight and you will be safely delivered to your hotel. Languages English
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Morning Shopping tour
If you love shopping, you will love this tour! Due to its strategic location on the Bosphorus Straits, İstanbul has historically been a key trading city with goods coming all the way from the Far East. In this shopping tour, you will find the best shops and goods available. On the İstanbul Shopping Tour, you will visit the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) which has become one of the most demanding places of İstanbul in years with more than 100 vendors purveying everything from spices to Turkish Delights. Chance to find the best souvenir in one of the speciality shops. A unique Turkish silk, a fine trendiest fashion fabric, famous with its softness. Explore a unique place for art lovers! A boutique, family-owned atelier producing handmade ceramics without sacrificing quality. Along with Hittite productions of terra cotta, quartz Seljuk productions, quartz İznik (Nicea)-Ottoman productions, the shop also has various examples from the Turkish culture. Visit to the bustling Grand Covered Bazaar where you will find goods including jewelry, carpets, spices, clothes and much more. Walk along the hans (caravanserai) without ever growing bored.Last visit to a calligraphy master who is known for his works on different materials such as dried leaves. Save money with the great deals you will find at these locations and enjoy the sights along the way of İstanbul city. Start/opening time At 9am - 9.30am. End/closing time At 1pm - 1.30pm. Languages English Others Tour cannot be operated on Sundays as Grand Covered Bazaar is closed.
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Istanbul Morning Tour
The tour starts by visiting The Topkapı Palace Museum exhibiting the treasury of Ottoman Empire. After that we will visit Sultan Ahmet Mosque which is known as The Blue Mosque which is famous with its six minarets, then a short tour to see the Hippodrome, German Fountain of Wilhelm II, Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpentine Column. After the shopping and lunch we visit Hagia Sophia which was constructed in the 6th century after Christmas by Emperor Justinian.
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Golden Horn, Eyup Sultan Mosque, Cable Car and Miniaturk Half Day Tour
Learn more about the holy sites of Islamwith this eye-opening visit to the Eyup Sultan Mosque and his Tomb – two of the most sacred sites in the Muslim world after Mecca and the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem (or al-Quds, in Arabic), and by far the two holiest sites in Istanbul. Thousands of believers visit these sites every day. So who was this Eyup? Eyup el-Ensari was the flag bearer of the Prophet Mohammed who died in this city when the Arab’s sieged it in the 7th century. Nowadays, the mystical atmosphere is heavily present. Later on, hop aboard a cable car that takes you to Pierre Loti Coffee House, named after the French author and poet, Pierre Loti, who used to sit at this cafe to write while contemplating the scenario. It is located on top of a hill covered with splendid green nature. As you ascend, admire the breath-taking backdrop that slowly glides by below you. Contemplate a privileged vantage point of the Golden Horn from here. Your next stop is the curious Miniaturk, one of the most surprising open field miniature parks. It exhibits scaled models of the most famous landmarks of Istanbul, Anatolia and in general all of the former Ottoman territories, bestowing the miniature with a fairy-tale-like nature. Admire the countless tiny human that populate this construction, from Muslims in the mosques and Jews in the synagogues, to railroad workers and flower sellers.
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Half Day Morning Asian Side Tour with Beylerbeyi Palace
Our tour begins with a drive across the magnificent Bosphorus Suspension Bridge, which divides the continents of Europe and Asia. Then, we continue to Camlica Hill, the highest point of Istanbul. From here you can take photos of the stunning panorama before you. A short drive from here is the summer palace of the Sultans which is located in a small village by the Bosphorus called Beylerbeyi. Beylerbeyi Palace is a mansion built under the influence of Western architecture in the 19th century and we will take a guided tour of its extravagantly decorated interior. The tour will end with a visit to Bagdat Street, the most popular street on the Asian side of Istanbul with elegant boutiques and shopping alternatives.
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Best kebab restaurant in Istanbul
Indulge your taste buds at Develi Restaurant in Samatya, home of authentic Turkish cuisine, and while you eat soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the fine sea views from the terrace. Listed by the Observer newspaper in London among The Best 100 Restaurants, Develi has a well-deserved reputation for consistently delivering the finest in Turkish cuisine. It’s magnificent location in Samatya, with spectacular views over the Marmara Sea, and its newly refurbished terraces combine to assure its popularity with visitors, who have been flocking here since 1966. It is also popular however with locals and it is a good place to see the indigenous inhabitants savouring some of the national dishes. Try the kebabs, available with a range of delicious fillings and renowned in Istanbul as among the best in the city. Other local classics include hummus, stuffed meatballs and shish kebab. Be sure not to miss the homemade baklava, a Develi speciality created only from the finest local ingredients. Prompt and attentive service rounds off an exceptional dining experience. So when in Istanbul, do as the locals do and make your way to Develi in Samatya. You are assured not only of a wholesome and delicious meal, but also the ambience of a genuine Turkish restaurant in an unbeatable setting. The best of Turkish food, excellent service and spectacular views all await the discerning diner at Develi Restaurant in Samatya. Menu 1 Develi Pide (Hot Bread) Tulum Cheese and Butter Seasonal Salad Small Turkish Pizza with minced meat Urfa Kebap (minced meat on a skewer served with onion and bread) Turkish Dessert Menu 2 Develi Pide (Hot Bread) Tulum Cheese and Butter Seasonal Salad Traditional Stuffed Meatballs Hummus (with butter-pinenut) 1/3 Urfa Kebap 1/3 Shish Kebap 1/3 Alinazik Kebap (Pureed Eggplant with yoghurt and meatballs) Baklava or Seasonal Fruits Menu 3 Develi Pide (Hot Bread) Tulum Cheese and Butter Seasonal Salad Eggplant with a home-made tomato sauce 1/3 Spicy Antep Kebap 1/3 Shish Kebap 1/3 Alinazik Kebap (Pureed Eggplant with yoghurt and meatballs) Baklava or Seasonal Fruits Menu 4 Develi Pide (Hot Bread) Tulum Cheese and Butter Seasonal Salad Eggplant with a home-made tomato sauce Traditional Raw Meatballs and greens Cold bean dish with tomato sauce Hummus (made with butter and pine nuts) Traditional Stuffed Meatballs 1/3 Urfa Kebap 1/3 Shish Kebap 1/3 Alinazik Kebap (Pureed Eggplant with yoghurt and meatballs) 1/3 Vegetable Kebap (made from seasonal vegetables) Baklava or Seasonal Fruits Menu 5 Develi Pide (Hot Bread) Tulum Cheese and Butter Seasonal Salad Abugannus (eggplant salad with yoghurt dressing) Traditional Raw Meatballs and greens Cold bean dish with tomato sauce Traditional Stuffed Meatballs Antep Cheese Hummus (made with butter and pine nuts) 1/3 Urfa Kebap 1/3 Shish Kebap 1/3 Alinazik Kebap (Pureed Eggplant with yoghurt and meatballs) Baklava or Seasonal Fruits Limited local beverages (2 Glasses of Rakı or 2 glasses of wine or 2 beers or 3 soft drinks) Other beverages Rakı, wine, beer and soft drinks.
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Bosphorus Cruise
Make the most of your time in Istanbul and set eyes upon one of the most stunning rivers in the world: the Bosphorus. It takes but a minute of contemplating this river for its image to stay in your mind forever. This time-friendly tour is the ideal option if you are only staying in Istanbul for a short period of time. Begin by hopping onto an exciting cable car that will take you to v Make the most of your time in Istanbul and set eyes upon one of the most stunning rivers in the world: the Bosphorus. It takes but a minute of contemplating this river for its image to stay in your mind forever. This time-friendly tour is the ideal option if you are only staying in Istanbul for a short period of time. Begin by hopping onto an exciting cable car that will take you to visit the Pierre Loti Hill. Once on top of this idyllic space, a comfortable bus will be waiting for you to take you on the romantic Panoramic Golden Horn Tour. The bus will drop you off on the shores of the infamous river, where you will embark on the third phase of your compact adventure: a relaxing 90 minute cruise down the Bosphorus. As you see the beauty of Istanbul slowly gliding along the horizon, a charming and knowledgeable guide who knows this river like the palm of his hand will let you in on all of the most interesting stories that its waters contain. From this privileged vantage point you will set eye upon some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, such as Dolmabahce Palace, Leanders Tower, two large suspension bridges, Rumeli Hisari Fortress and a series of magnificent mansions by the shores of the Bosphorus. Finally, as you disembark near the Spice Bazaar, you will be whisked back to your hotel, as if waking from a dream. Meeting/pick-up point: Pick up at the hotel. Duration: Four hours. Start/opening time: At 1pm-1:30pm. Languages: English.
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Escape to Princes' Islands
It is hard to believe that one would ever be willing to escape from Istanbul but the queen of all cities of the world is not a jealous lady, and she enables her lovers to take a short time off. One of the best places to spend this time is the Princes’ Islands, once a solitary place for monks and now a vivid summer attraction. The small cruise to Buyukada, the largest and most famous amongst the Princes’ Islands, has a short stopover at some of the smaller inhabited ones, so you have a chance to see the unique composition of each island before arriving at Buyukada. Upon arrival you will have a short guided walking tour through the streets decorated with beautiful wooden houses. Lunch is served in a local fish restaurant, with an awesome view of Istanbul’s shores. In the afternoon guests will have the opportunity to make their own way either by renting a bike, shopping around the local stores or renting a phaeton (a comfortable carriage pulled by two horses) around the island – motor vehicles are not allowed on the island. Languages English.
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Istanbul highlights tour
Complete your visit to the magnificent city of Istanbul with a trip to the Topkapi Museum, one of the most important museums not only in Turkey but in the whole of the Balkan Peninsula. Inside, feel how the mind-boggling extravagance and abundant richness of it fills you with awe. Discover another side of Turkey’s history, that of the privileged few who ruled it. This is the big one. As you approach the Topkapi Museum, even at a distance you will begin to get an idea of the sheer opulence contained within those walls ahead. It is a treasure chest of unparalleled wealth, containing every gizmo and artefact you can imagine from a variety of historical ages. See the first, second, third and fourth sprawling courtyards. Wander in the ample space of the Audience Hall, visit the high court, the historical kitchens with their ancient pots and pans and fine cutlery. Roam towards the royal stables, where time ago magnificent steeds used to shoot the breeze while waiting to pummel the grounds in a gallop. And there is still more: the treasury, the gardens, the kiosks… It is a truly privileged insight into the life of the people who pulled the strings in the Ottoman Empire. After that, this tour takes you to an additional two destinations: the awe-inspiring Hagia Irene Church and the Grand Bazaar. Alongside your guide, you will learn the stories behind these fabulous places and, in the bazaar, watch examples of Turkish handicrafts; all in all, a truly enlightening day. Languages English Others Topkap Palace Museum is closed on Tuesdays. It will be replaced with Chora Museum.
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Dolmabahce palace, Bosphorus bridge and Camlica hill tour
Discover the beauty of Istanbul. Start by visiting the impressive Bosphorus Bridge, built back in 1973; fall in love with the 1,074 metre-long structure, which at the time of construction was the fourth longest suspension bridge in the world. It is a very picturesque setting where you will enjoy breath-taking views. Continue then to Camlica Hill, the highest peak in Istanbul, just a s Discover the beauty of Istanbul. Start by visiting the impressive Bosphorus Bridge, built back in 1973; fall in love with the 1,074 metre-long structure, which at the time of construction was the fourth longest suspension bridge in the world. It is a very picturesque setting where you will enjoy breath-taking views. Continue then to Camlica Hill, the highest peak in Istanbul, just a short drive from the Bosphorus. From this beautiful 268 metre hill you can contemplate the splendid panorama of the Bosphorus Strait and of the classical Istanbul buildings. You will have the opportunity to stop and take pictures of the postcard setting during the drive over the suspension bridge. Explore the exclusive Dolmabahce Palace, the final stop on your tour. Imagine a palace with 285 rooms, six traditional Turkish baths and 68 toilets. The regal ceiling made from 14 tons of gold will leave you agog! Learn about the history of the Dolmabahçe Palace, an architectural jewel that was built by the Ottoman Sultan Abdulmecid between the years 1843-1856. Observe the modern approach to architecture with an essentially French influence. You’ll notice the rich tastes and splendour of the era, evident in every corner and artefact in the decor. The Bohemian crystal chandeliers are something you can’t miss, as well as the breath-taking crystal staircase and the largest handmade Hereke rug in the Great Ceremonial Hall. You will be able to ask your guide questions about the history of the palace, and you will be enraptured be the tales of legends, myths and poems. Meeting/pick-up point: Pick-up at the hotel. Duration: Four hours approx. Start/opening time: Between 1pm and 1:30pm. End/closing time: Between 5pm and 5:30pm. Languages: English. Others: Dolmabahçe Palace Museum is closed on Mondays and Thursdays. It will be replaced with Chora Museum.
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Bosphorus Cruise Tour
The wide, winding and beautiful Bosphorus is a turquoise Turkish jewel that’s yours to cruise, even if you’re tight on time. Before you embark on our excursion on the mighty blue, breathe in the aromas and be dazzled by colour at the Spice Bazaar. Here you your knowledgeable local guide will explain the many miracles contained within the many potent herbs and spices! Observe the cavernous beauty and intricate detail of Rüstem Pa?a Mosque, an Ottoman structure in Istanbul’s Fatih district that was designed by the imperial architect Mimar Sinan and is famous for its beautiful intricate tiles. Finally we will set sail and take to the serenity of the meandering river. Cruise by the shores of the picturesque Bosphorus while your guide, an expert on this river, will explain the scene en route as it drifts serenely past you. Take in stunning close-up views of important landmarks such as the imposing Dolmabahce Palace, Maiden's Tower (also known as Leander's Tower) on its island perch and glide past two impressive suspension bridges. Float beneath the staunch stone structure that is Rumeli Hisari Fortress, built for Mehmet the conqueror to guard against invaders. Marvel at the beautiful mansions inhabited by the region’s wealthy, before we disembark near the Spice Bazaar, once again in the bustling hearth of the city.
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The Legacy of Istanbul
Discovering the delights of the old city such as the Blue Mosque, Haghia Sophia, the Mosque of Suleiman, the Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar, this tour is a full day with lunch in a local restaurant included and an afternoon spent exploring the Topkapi Palace and the tombs of five sultans. Discovering the delights of the old city such as the Blue Mosque, Haghia Sophia, the Mosque of Suleiman, the Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar, this tour is a full day with lunch in a local restaurant included and an afternoon spent exploring the Topkapi Palace and the tombs of five sultans in the graveyard at Haghia Sophia. Mosque of Suleiman the Magnificent - Built by the master architect, Sinan, Istanbul’s largest mosque represents the power and dignity of one of the greatest Ottoman sultans. Hippodrome – Once the centre for sports and entertainment in old Constantinople, the Roman capital, it was also a very important centre for politics. The Blue Mosque – Named after the delicate designs of the Ottoman tiles which decorate the walls of the shrine, the mosque is identifiable by its’ six minarets. Haghia Sophia – Boasting the 4th largest dome in the world, this stunning building began as a Byzantine basilica built in the 6th century AD during the reign of Justinian and was an architectural innovation at the time. Converted to a mosque following the Ottoman conquest of the city, by the order of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in 1453, it was converted to a museum in 1935 and is a ‘must-see’ on a visit to Istanbul. Grand Bazaar – This world-famous covered bazaar is where people have been trading diamonds, carpets, leather, copperware, food and perfumes for centuries and is steeped in mystique. A short demonstration of Turkish rugs is included in the tour. Topkapi Palace had been the Imperial residence of the Ottoman Sultans from the 15th to the 19th century. Its design, initially devised by Sultan Mehmed himself and then enhanced by the architect Sinan, hides clues of the rituals of the structure of Ottoman hierarchy and the running of state affairs. Home to the imperial treasury and the cabinet, as well as being the site of the barracks for the Janissaries, the elite of the army, every corner of the palace tells about the splendour of the Ottomans. Apart from the priceless treasury, a distinguished collection of Chinese porcelains, holy relics, sultan’s costumes and imperial weaponry are exhibited in different sections of the palace. There are five tombs of Ottoman Sultans within the graveyard at Hagia Sophia. Each of the five tombs actually houses the sultan as well as his family. Each one is individually designed with different decorations, including works by Mimar Sinan. The ceramic panels are the most beautiful examples of the 16th century with purple, red, green and blue flower motives. Meeting/pick-up point: Hotel pick-up. Duration: 8 hours. Start/opening time: At 07:45am. End/closing time: 3:45pm. Languages: English. Medical restrictions: This tour involves a lot of walking and may not be suitable for those with walking difficulties. Others: Please note that St. Sophia is closed on Mondays replaced by the 6th century Basilica Cistern, which provided water to the ancient city. Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
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Istanbul by Land and Sea
A full day with complimentary lunch exploring the Asian side of the city crossing the Bosphorous and visiting Camlica Hill, Beylerbeyi Palace and Baghdad street followed by a cruise of the Bosphorous, a great way to capture the ‘essence’ of this amazing city, passing by many of its’ famous sites. A full day with complimentary lunch exploring the Asian side of the city crossing the Bosphorous and visiting Camlica Hill, Beylerbeyi Palace and Baghdad street followed by a cruise of the Bosphorous, a great way to capture the ‘essence’ of this amazing city, passing by many of its’ famous sites. Beginning with the Bosphorous Bridge, which connects the European and the Asian sides of Istanbul, this was built in built in 1973 and affords a spectacular view of Istanbul’s modern and ancient sites while travelling over 60 metres above sea level. The highest point in Istanbul is Camlica Hill and we stop here for a panoramic view over the city provided that Istanbul chooses to show its beauties and blesses the visitors with a clear day. Moving on from here we visit Beylerbeyi Palace, one of the largest, lavishly furnished 19th century summer residences of the Ottoman sultans. The rooms are kept with their original furniture and visitors can imagine being house guests to the Imperial family. Baghdad Street, once the grouping point for the merchants who were set to travel the ancient Silk Road, this popular street on the Asian side of Istanbul has elegant boutiques and shopping alternatives. This will be a perfect chance to see the urban lifestyle of modern Istanbul. Lunch is served at a local restaurant before the tour continues with a cruise of the Bosphorous. Along this cruise, you will pass by the Rumeli Fortress, built by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror; Ortakoy, a very famous area for handicrafts and nightlife; Bebek, a popular wealthy residential district under the Ottoman rule, and continues to be so today; Besiktas, a commercial district of the new city; Dolmabahce, the magnificent 19th century palace, which was the home to the Ottoman Sultans in the last century of the Empire; Ciragan Palace, a magnificent marble palace built by Sultan Abdulaziz and designed and constructed by the Balyan family between 1863 and 1867; today it serves as luxury suites for the five star Kempinski hotel; Kizkulesi (Maiden’s Tower), an ancient lighthouse which has inspired many legends; Yali (wooden wealthy houses) constructed by the water’s edge of the Bosphorous and usually built with an architectural concept that takes into account the characteristics of the coastal location, mostly dating from the 19th century; Beylerbeyi Palace, one of the largest, lavishly furnished 19th century summer residences of the Ottoman Sultans. A short visit to the Spice Market is the surprise of the tour. In this oriental shopping area, where you experience the vibrant pulse of Istanbul at its best, rare spices, herbs, vegetables, fruits, live animals, flowers are sold. (Aphrodisiacs are available too!) Meeting/pick-up point: Hotel pick-up. Duration: 8 hours. Start/opening time: At 07:45am. Languages: English. Others: Please note that the Spice Market is closed on Sundays and Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays and this will be replaced by the 18th century Hidiv Pavilion.
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