Istanbul Imperial & Bosphorus Tour – Incl. Lunch

Istanbul’s Imperial and Bosphorus Tour offers travelers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural experiences. From marveling at the stunning Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia to embarking on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus River, this tour provides an immersive way to discover the rich history and vibrant atmosphere that make Istanbul a captivating destination. With a delicious Turkish-style lunch, transportation, and a professional guide included, the tour ensures a convenient and enjoyable experience. Those seeking to explore Istanbul’s most renowned sites and gain a deeper understanding of its cultural heritage won’t want to miss this compelling opportunity.

Key Points

• The tour includes visits to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome, as well as a scenic Bosphorus River cruise.
• A delicious Turkish-style lunch with a vegetarian alternative is provided as part of the tour.
• The tour is led by a professional guide and includes comprehensive transportation with hotel and cruise port pickup and drop-off.
• The tour is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with walking difficulties.
• The tour schedule may vary based on the day of the week, with some attractions closed on certain days.

Tour Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the iconic Blue Mosque, followed by a tour of the renowned Hagia Sophia and the historic Hippodrome.

Guests will then enjoy a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus River, taking in the stunning views of the city’s coastline.

The tour also includes visits to the bustling Grand Bazaar and the vibrant Spice Market, where visitors can enjoy the local culture and browse an array of traditional goods.

To round out the day, the group will savor a delicious Turkish-style lunch at a rooftop restaurant, providing a panoramic perspective of the city.

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from city center hotels on the European side, as well as cruise port pickup and drop-off. Guests also receive entrance tickets to all the attractions visited, with a professional guide leading the way.

The tour further provides an air-conditioned vehicle, covers all fees and taxes, and offers a Turkish-style lunch, including a vegetarian option.

The tour inclusions are:

1. Comprehensive transportation with hotel and cruise port pickup and drop-off.
2. Admission to all the sightseeing attractions on the itinerary.
3. A delicious Turkish-style lunch with a vegetarian alternative available.

Tour Details

The Istanbul Imperial & Bosphorus Tour runs for a full day and accommodates a maximum of 25 travelers. It’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or anyone who struggles with walking.

Travelers will be picked up from their city center hotel on the European side and dropped off at the end of the tour. The tour includes a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus River as well as visits to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Hippodrome.

Lunch at a rooftop restaurant is also provided, with a vegetarian option available. Throughout the tour, travelers will have the services of a professional guide and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Important Notes

Upon booking, travelers will receive confirmation. Head scarves and cover-ups are provided for visits to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

While service animals are allowed, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with walking difficulties.

This Istanbul tour includes several key highlights:

1. The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues.

The Grand Bazaar and Spice Market are closed on religious holidays.

On Sundays, the Grand Bazaar is closed, and Nuruosmaniye is visited instead, while on Fridays, the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are only viewed from the outside due to Friday prayers.

Scheduling

The tour starts at 8:00 AM, but scheduling can vary depending on the day of the week.

During religious holidays, the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar are closed, while on Sundays, the Grand Bazaar is closed, and Nuruosmaniye is visited instead.

On Fridays, the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are only viewed from the outside due to Friday prayers.

This ensures that travelers can experience the highlights of Istanbul’s iconic sites, even with potential closures or changes in schedule. The tour’s flexibility allows for a seamless and comprehensive sightseeing experience, regardless of the day or religious calendar.

Bosphorus Cruise

Cruising along the Bosphorus River, travelers enjoy scenic views of the historic Istanbul skyline, including landmarks like the Topkapi Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge. This tranquil cruise provides a unique perspective of the city, allowing visitors to admire the blend of Eastern and Western architecture that lines the shores.

The journey offers three key highlights:

1. Passing by the iconic Dolmabahçe Palace, a magnificent 19th-century Ottoman imperial residence.

2. Witnessing the striking Rumeli Fortress, a medieval castle built by Mehmet the Conqueror to control the Bosphorus.

3. Observing the picturesque villages and neighborhoods that dot the shoreline, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of Istanbul.

Iconic Landmarks

After enjoying the serene Bosphorus cruise, travelers explore Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, including the stunning Blue Mosque, the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, and the historic Hippodrome. At the Blue Mosque, they marvel at the breathtaking architecture and intricate interior design. Next, they step into the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, a former church and mosque that now stands as a museum showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage. The Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine life, provides a glimpse into Istanbul’s vibrant past. These iconic landmarks offer a captivating blend of history, architecture, and cultural significance, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

Landmark	Significance
Blue Mosque	Stunning architecture and intricate interior design
Hagia Sophia	Impressive former church and mosque, now a museum
Hippodrome	Historic center of Byzantine life

Traditional Lunch

Upon returning from the Bosphorus cruise, travelers indulge in a delightful Turkish-style lunch at a rooftop restaurant, offering panoramic views of the city.

The lunch menu features a variety of traditional dishes, catering to different dietary preferences, including:

1. Meze platters with an assortment of savory appetizers, such as hummus, tzatziki, and stuffed grape leaves.
2. Hearty main courses like kebabs, lamb stew, or vegetarian moussaka, all prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
3. Sweet baklava pastries and Turkish tea or coffee to conclude the meal on a satisfying note.

This authentic culinary experience allows guests to enjoy the rich flavors and culture of Istanbul, complementing the day’s exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tipping Expected for the Tour Guide?

Tipping the tour guide is generally expected in the tourism industry. The amount is usually around 10-15% of the tour price, though it can vary based on the service provided and local customs.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants generally can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour, as the tour package typically includes lunch at a rooftop restaurant. However, guests may want to bring snacks or water if they have special dietary needs.

Do I Need to Speak Turkish to Join the Tour?

No, you don’t need to speak Turkish to join the tour. The tour includes an English-speaking professional guide who will provide commentary and assistance throughout the day’s activities. Group sizes are limited to facilitate easy communication.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Customers can typically customize tour itineraries to suit their preferences, though some attractions may be non-negotiable or have restricted access. It’s best to check with the tour operator about customization options prior to booking.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

There are no explicit age restrictions for tour participants. However, the tour may not be suitable for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with walking difficulties, as noted in the tour details.

Recap

The Istanbul Imperial & Bosphorus Tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise.

With a delicious Turkish-style lunch, transportation, and a professional guide, this tour provides a convenient way to discover Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture.

It’s an excellent choice for those seeking an in-depth and memorable introduction to this fascinating destination.