After meeting your guide for a pickup from your central hotel in Istanbul, climb aboard your luxury coach and head to the Spice Bazaar. Along the way, hear alluring stories of Istanbul.
Arrive and wander this myriad of shops and stalls seeing a variety of fruits, nuts, vibrant spices, and enjoying captivating aromas. Try some treats and snacks and then walk with your expert guide to the small Rüstem Pasha Mosque to admire its walls covered in beautiful blue Iznik tiles.
From here, head to your boat for a sightseeing cruise at the inlet to the Bosphorus Strait and Golden Horn, which splits European Istanbul apart. Get your camera ready to snap selfies as your boat traverses past Istanbul’s top attractions. See the vast Bosphorus Bridge, Rumeli Fortress, and Dolmabahçe. Then, gaze over towards the Asian coastline and relish views of mosques and elegant mansions.
In the afternoon, hop off your boat in Asia on the Bosphorus coastline for a delicious 3-course lunch at a scenic restaurant. Drinks are also available (own expense). See the sample menu for details.
Next, climb by coach to Istanbul’s peak, Camlica Hill, and savor a stunning panoramic vantage point that captures the elegance of Istanbul. Continue back across the Bosphorus Bridge for a guided tour of Dolmabahçe Palace. Learn about the Ottoman sultans that once lived here. Then, glimpse into a world of opulence and luxury as you saunter by chambers, the Crystal Staircase and revel at the gaudy array of the sultan’s wealth in Medhal Hall.
Leave the palace and head back to your hotel by coach where your tour ends.
Note: Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays and is replaced with a visit to St. Chora Church museum.
