Discover the beauty of Istanbul with an exciting journey that combines a bus tour of the Old City, a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus, and a relaxing cable car ride down Pierre Loti Hill. Along the way, you will explore iconic landmarks like the Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar. Relax in a spacious, air-conditioned coach as you travel to your first stop with this guided tour. Start at the Blue Mosque, famous for its 20,000 stunning blue tiles and six tall minarets. Learn about its history, built for Sultan Ahmet I, and how it became the last grand mosque of the Classical era.
Next, visit the Hippodrome, once the heart of Constantinople's social and sporting life. Here, you will see fascinating historical monuments like the German Fountain of Wilhelm II, the Bronze Serpentine Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Column of Constantine. Stop at Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking structure built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. Originally a Greek Orthodox Church, it later transformed into a mosque and now stands as a symbol of Istanbul’s rich history. Learn about its incredible architecture and its significance as the largest church in the world for nearly 1,000 years.
Before reaching the Grand Bazaar, stop for a chance to shop for unique gifts at a local store. Then, explore the Grand Bazaar itself, the world’s oldest and largest covered market. Wander through 65 vibrant streets filled with over 4,000 shops, offering everything from jewelry to spices.
In the afternoon, hop back on the coach for a scenic drive along the Golden Horn. As you travel, your guide will share stories about the historic wooden houses, mosques, churches, synagogues, and remnants of the Roman Wall that line the route. Reach Pierre Loti Hill, where you can capture panoramic views of the Golden Horn. After enjoying the breathtaking scenery, descend the hill on a relaxing cable car ride. Visit the Eyup Sultan Mosque, a sacred place where Ottoman sultans were crowned. See the Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari Tomb, honoring the Prophet Muhammad’s companion, and learn about the mosque’s special role in Ottoman history.
Finally, end your journey with a delightful cruise on the Bosphorus Strait. From the water, admire Istanbul’s skyline and its famous landmarks, including the Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, Maiden’s Tower, Galata Tower, and the majestic bridges connecting Europe and Asia. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, available if you select this option during booking.