Full Day Golden Horn & Bosphorus Cruise

About Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, and is separated by the Bosphorus Strait. The city has a rich history that spans thousands of years and has been influenced by various cultures, including the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman empires. Istanbul is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, as well as modern attractions like the Bosphorus Bridge and the Istanbul Modern art museum. The Golden Horn is an estuary that separates the European side of Istanbul and is home to many historic neighborhoods and landmarks, such as the Galata Tower, the Spice Bazaar, and the Grand Bazaar. A cruise along the Golden Horn and Bosphorus offers breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline and an opportunity to see the city from a different perspective.

Golden Horn & Bosphorus Cruise Tour Program

• The Golden Horn & Bosphorus Cruise Tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel at 8:30 in the morning.
• You will first explore the beautiful Golden Horn by boat and sightsee the coast with its several churches and old buildings.
• Next, we will go up to Pierre Loti Hill by cable-lift, where you can admire the stunning views of Istanbul and some of its most beautiful spots from a high point. You can enjoy a refreshing drink while relaxing and taking in the view of the Golden Horn.
• We will then visit Chora Church (Kariye Kilisesi), one of the most beautiful and intact examples of Byzantine period architecture. It now serves as a museum where you can find some beautiful mosaic depictions of Christian culture.
• After that, we will explore the City Walls of Constantinople, one of the most complicated and effective fortification systems ever made, which surrounds and protects the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. The walls were built by Constantine The Great, and numerous additions and modifications were made throughout history.
• We’ll have lunch in a local Turkish restaurant before proceeding to the next stop, the Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar, Turkish: Misir Carsisi). This covered place is filled with merchandise from Egypt state during Ottoman rule, and you can find all sorts of gift items and spices here.
• Cruising through Bosphorus is an unforgettable experience that you don’t want to miss. Bosphorus separates Asia and Europe continents, and the Bosphorus Bridge connects the two parts of Istanbul. During the cruise, you’ll have a chance to view Dolmabahce Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, Ciragan Palace, and Rumeli Fortress.
• Finally, at around 17:00, the tour ends with a transfer back to your hotel.

* Note that Chora Church is closed on Wednesdays.