Discover the heart of the Old City and see Bosphorus all in one tour
Highlights
* Bosphorus Cruise
* Bosphorus Bridge ( from the boat)
* Dolmabahce Palace (from the boat)
* Spice Bazaar
* Golden Horn
* Topkapı Palace
* Sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Mohammed
* Sultan Tombs
included with
* Free pick up and drop off service from most of the city center hotels
* Muesum Entrance Fees
* Donations to the Mosques
* Lunch
* Round Trip Transfers from/to Central Hotels
* Guidance
* Transportation with A/C Vehicles
excluded by
* Drinks at lunch
* Optional Gratuities
Essential
Information
Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays and afternoon part of the tour will change to Tour to Byzantium visiting Chora Museum and Patriarchate of Fener
Itinerary
Golden Horn (from the bus), the arm of the Bosphorus and a natural harbour of the historical peninsula separating the old and the new parts of İstanbul where the first colonies settled during the Byzantines. The residential area for Byzantine Jews, Italian traders and other non-muslim minorities. Drive along the traces of history at Balat viewing Metal Church of St. Stephen the Bulgarian, Jewish Hospital (Or-Ahayim), Fener Orthodox Patriarchate and 22 kms. long Byzantine City Walls, strongest fortification of the middle age.
Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar), mystical smells of different aromas of various spices. Shops selling fruits, vegetables, fish, flowers etc.
Bosphorus Cruise on Plan Tours’ private boat, through the waterway separating the two continents, Europe and Asia, with a possibility to take photographs of marble palaces, ancient wooden villas of Ottoman architecture besides modern residentials and luxurious apartments.
Rumeli Fortress (from the boat - no interior visit), historical armament built by the Conqueror to control and protect the Bosphorus. A unique example of military architecture.
Lunch at a typical Turkish Restaurant
Topkapı Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Mohammed, kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy section etc. Live guide commentary is not allowed in special sections. (Harem is not included in the program)
Sultan Tombs, there are five tombs of Ottoman Sultans within the graveyard at Hagia Sophia.The ceramic panels are the most beautiful examples of the 16th century with purple, red, green and blue flower motives. Prince robes and a small piece from the Kaaba covers are displayed on the sarcophaguses.
