Kick off your Istanbul Spice Bazaar tour and Bosphorus and Golden Horn cruise with pickup from your hotel in central Istanbul. Meet your guide, hop aboard a luxury minibus, and head to Sultanahmet also know as the Old City to discover the colorful Spice Bazaar.
As you stroll with your guide through this bustling market, absorb the wonderful aromas of this market which was established in the 17th century. Learn about the variety of spices, fruits and nuts that line the endless countertops of these stalls and shops. Afterward, continue to the Rüstem Pasha Mosque and see why this small building is revered by so many. Walk up to the mosque and gaze at its blue tiles, a wonderful exhibition of Ottoman architecture.
Next, take a short drive to the Eminonu Pier and hop aboard your boat. As your sightseeing cruise begins, ogle the blue waters of the Golden Horn that splits European Istanbul apart. Since most cruises target only the Bosphorus Strait, enjoy this opportunity to see the Golden Horn which is spectacular in its own right.
As you traverse the serene waters admire the impressive Aynalıkavak Palace, Galata Tower and Eyup Sultan Mosque. About 45 minutes into your cruise, pass by the the Old City and drift into the Bosphorus. For the next hour and a half cruise by Istanbul’s top shoreline attractions such as Dolmabahçe Palace, the Rumeli Fortress and marvel at the immensity of two Bosphorus bridges. Hear from your guide about the history of these landmarks and capture photos of stately mansions, wooden Ottoman homes and mosques that speckle both European and Asian banks.
As your boat returns to Eminonu bid farewell to the stunning scenery. Hop off your boat at the port and end your tour back at the Spice Bazaar.
