Highlights
Explore the Spice Market with its vibrant colors, exotic scents, and an array of traditional Turkish products.
Discover Rüstem Pasha Mosque, a hidden gem featuring stunning Iznik tiles and intricate Ottoman architecture.
Experience a scenic Bosphorus cruise offering panoramic views of palaces, fortresses, and mosques along the European and Asian shores.
Gain insights from a knowledgeable guide on Istanbul’s culture, landmarks, and the strategic significance of the Bosphorus.
Enjoy a half-day tour that combines the best of Istanbul’s markets, mosques, and waterways for a memorable experience.
What to expect
Morning: Meet & Start the Day
Meet your guide at your hotel or designated meeting point and start with a brief introduction to the day’s journey.
Spice Market
Begin at the
Spice Market, a 17th-century market full of color, fragrance, and flavor. Walk through the bustling aisles filled with exotic spices, teas, Turkish delights, dried fruits, and authentic souvenirs. Absorb the lively atmosphere while your guide explains the significance of the spices and their role in Turkish cuisine. You’ll also have a chance to try samples and make purchases.
Rüstem Pasha Mosque
Visit the
Rüstem Pasha Mosque, one of Istanbul’s hidden gems and a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture designed by the famed architect Mimar Sinan. This small yet beautiful mosque is adorned with exquisite Iznik tiles in vibrant blues and reds. Learn about its history, architecture, and the significance of the intricate patterns and designs from your knowledgeable guide.
Bosphorus Cruise
Embark on a relaxing Bosphorus cruise to see Istanbul from a new perspective. As you glide along the waters of the Bosphorus strait, enjoy views of Istanbul’s unique skyline and its blend of European and Asian influences.
Sights along the cruise include:
- Dolmabahce Palace: An elegant Ottoman palace along the waterfront.
- Ortakoy Mosque: An iconic mosque by the shore with a picturesque backdrop.
- Rumeli Fortress: A massive medieval fortress on the European side.
- Bosphorus Bridge: The bridge connecting the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Relax as you enjoy the stunning views, and hear tales from your guide about Istanbul’s history, key landmarks, and the significance of the Bosphorus in connecting two continents.
Relax as you enjoy the stunning views, and hear tales from your guide about Istanbul’s history, key landmarks, and the significance of the Bosphorus in connecting two continents.
Return to Starting Point
Conclude the tour with a drop-off back at your hotel or starting location.