Everything was ver impressive and explained in detail by our guide!
About Activity
What's Included
Includes
- Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off (Takim and Fatih areas only)
- Bosphorus Yacht Cruise
- Complimetary Services on the Bosphorus Yacht cruise
- Stopover in Kanlica
- Walking Tour in Fener and Balat Districts
- Comfortable Transportation
- Professional English-Speaking Guide
Excludes
- Chora Museum entrance tickets (Ticket Price: 20 euro extra)
- Lunch
Departure & Return
Departure Point
- Our person will be holding VELENA TRAVEL board
Itinerary
The walls of Istanbul, often referred to as the Theodosian Walls, are a series of historic fortifications that once protected the ancient city of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). These walls are among the most remarkable examples of medieval defensive architecture and played a crucial role in the city's history.
The Castle of Seven Towers, also known as the Yedikule Fortress (Turkish: Yedikule Hisarı), is a historic fortress located in the Fatih district of Istanbul. It is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, steeped in history and architectural grandeur.
The Golden Gate of Istanbul, once a grand ceremonial entrance in the Theodosian Walls, is one of the most iconic and historically significant gates of ancient Constantinople. Though much of its grandeur has faded, it remains a symbol of the city's imperial past and its pivotal role in Byzantine and Ottoman history.
The Chora Museum (Kariye Museum, or Kariye Camii) is a stunning example of Byzantine art and architecture located in the Fatih district of Istanbul. Originally a church, it is renowned for its exquisite mosaics and frescoes, which depict biblical stories with breathtaking detail and artistry.
The Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, also known as the Iron Church (Demir Kilise in Turkish), is a unique and historically significant church located on the banks of the Golden Horn in Istanbul. Renowned for its striking iron construction, it is a rare example of prefabricated cast-iron ecclesiastical architecture.
The Church of Aya Yorgi in Balat, Istanbul, is a historic Greek Orthodox church dedicated to Saint George. It is one of the many culturally significant sites in the Balat neighborhood, an area known for its rich religious and architectural diversity.
The Church of St. Mary of Blachernae (Panagia Blacherniotissa) is one of the most significant religious and historical landmarks of Byzantine Constantinople (modern Istanbul). Located near the Golden Horn in the Ayvansaray neighborhood, this church was a revered site dedicated to the Virgin Mary, playing a central role in Byzantine religious and political life.
The Golden Horn (Haliç in Turkish) is a historically and geographically significant waterway in Istanbul. Shaped like a natural horn, this estuary separates the European side of the city into its historic and modern districts, connecting the Bosphorus Strait to the Sea of Marmara.
The Bosphorus (Boğaziçi in Turkish) is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, a natural strait that connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and separates the European and Asian sides of the city. Known for its stunning views, rich history, and strategic significance, the Bosphorus is both a geographic marvel and a cultural treasure.
The Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü in Turkish) is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, spanning the Golden Horn and connecting the historic old city (Sultanahmet) with the vibrant districts of Karaköy and Beyoğlu. It is both a functional bridge and a cultural symbol of Istanbul, bustling with activity day and night.
The Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi in Turkish) is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Located in the Beyoğlu district, near the historic Galata Bridge, this medieval stone tower has become a symbol of Istanbul’s rich history and cultural diversity.
The Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi in Turkish) is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Located in the Beyoğlu district, near the historic Galata Bridge, this medieval stone tower has become a symbol of Istanbul’s rich history and cultural diversity.
The Dolmabahçe Mosque (Dolmabahçe Camii), located near the Dolmabahçe Palace on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, is a striking example of 19th-century Ottoman architecture. Its waterfront location and elegant design make it one of the most picturesque mosques in the city.
The Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı) is one of Istanbul's most opulent landmarks, reflecting the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire's final years. Located on the European shore of the Bosphorus, it served as the administrative center of the empire in the 19th century and is a masterpiece of Ottoman-European fusion architecture.
The Çırağan Palace (Çırağan Sarayı), located on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, is a symbol of Ottoman luxury and grandeur. Once a royal residence, it has been transformed into a prestigious five-star hotel, the Çırağan Palace Kempinski, hosting high-profile events and guests from around the world.
The Ortaköy Mosque, officially known as the Büyük Mecidiye Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Camii), is one of Istanbul's most picturesque and iconic landmarks. Nestled along the Bosphorus in the lively Ortaköy neighborhood, the mosque is celebrated for its stunning architecture and waterfront location, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Bridge.
The Bosphorus Bridge, officially known as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge (15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü), is one of Istanbul's most iconic structures, spanning the Bosphorus Strait and connecting the European and Asian sides of the city. This engineering marvel symbolizes Istanbul's unique status as a bridge between continents.
The Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisarı), also known as Rumeli Castle, is a historic fortification located on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Built by Sultan Mehmed II in 1452, it played a critical role in the conquest of Constantinople, marking a turning point in world history.
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (FSM), commonly known as the Second Bosphorus Bridge, is a pivotal structure in Istanbul, connecting the European and Asian continents over the Bosphorus Strait. Named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, who captured Constantinople in 1453, the bridge is a testament to modern engineering and plays a crucial role in the city's transportation network.
Kanlıca is a picturesque neighborhood located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul's Beykoz district. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, historic charm, and the famed Kanlıca yogurt, this area offers a serene escape from the city's bustling pace. Historical Significance: Kanlıca has been a notable settlement since the Ottoman era, renowned for its clean air and lush surroundings. The origin of its name is subject to various theories, with one suggesting it derives from "Kağnılıca," referencing the ox carts (kağnı) used by local villagers. Culinary Delight – Kanlıca Yogurt: A visit to Kanlıca is incomplete without tasting its famous yogurt, traditionally served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This delicacy has been a hallmark of the neighborhood, attracting both locals and tourists to its charming cafes
The Anadolu Fortress (Anadolu Hisarı), located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, is a historic fortification that played a pivotal role in the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Situated in the Anadolu Hisarı neighborhood of Beykoz, this fortress offers visitors a glimpse into the strategic military history of the Ottoman Empire.
The Küçüksu Pavilion, also known as Küçüksu Kasrı, is a historic Ottoman imperial pavilion located in the Beykoz district on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. This elegant structure exemplifies 19th-century Ottoman architecture and offers insight into the leisure pursuits of the Ottoman elite.
The Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayı) is a stunning Ottoman-era palace located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Known for its exquisite architecture and serene gardens, it served as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans and a guesthouse for visiting dignitaries.
The Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), also known as Leander’s Tower, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, located on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus. Steeped in history and surrounded by myths, this tower offers stunning views and a glimpse into Istanbul's rich past.
Language Offered
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Cancellation Policy
Reviews
The tour was amazing! The tour guides were very kind and knowledgeable (both for the tour of the fortress and the churches we visited and the one of the Bosphorus cruise). I loved the bizantine style of San Salvador de Chora!!! This church is really worth visiting! My husband loved the views from the top of the fortress! We had enough time to have coffee and something to eat before going on to the Bosphorus cruise where we were invited with Turkish tea and delicious things to eat. The fact that we could have some breaks during the tour was something I would like to highlight since I had had some other non-stop 8:30 to 3pm tours which were completely exhausting and inhuman!!! This one was totallaly different in that respect, we could learn a lot while enjoying ourselves at the same time! The quality of the ship was also excellent! Thank you very much Bosphorus Tours for such an excellent experience!!!
Very good guide. Too short time
An excellent, very comprehensive, and highly recommended tour. The guide was very attentive and really looked after the group.
5/5 amazing experience, good tour
Fantastic tour, love our guide Murat; I hope we have him on another tour. He encouraged our curiosity and enjoyed answering our questions. Absolutely recommend!
Interesting, informative and fun day spent with our guide Murat walking through Istanbul’s past, present and it’s diversity! What a great day - thankyou 🙏🏻⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The tour company was superb! Valena is the best. Their crew was super professional and courteous. I can’t recommend enough! Serder our tour guide was very good and full of humor. I would definitely take this again when I come back.
The guide was really good and friendly, it was really nice to discover the city’s history and to have a break on the asian side. The Bosphore is beautiful and the yogurt was great as well.
The guide was great, funny, smart and interesting! Good coffee and the yogurt was tasteful! Loved the view and the moment !
It was an amazing trip. The people were very nice and explained everything perfectly. My mom and me were very happy with the experience
A really interesting view of both European and Asian Istanbul. Guide quite knowledgeable. During the 2.5 hour cruise we learned some of the history of Istanbul. While we were sailing around the Bosporus, we were also served some typical snacks, a glass of hot tea (traditional), and a cup of Turkish coffee.
Thanks Serdar for a fun and very informative tour! Everything was explained perfectly with humor! Great views and snacks.
Very nice yacht, friendly staff, very personable tour guide, and lots of nice little extras like pillows, blankets, coffees and snacks. Playlist was fire, too.
Very good experience from pick-up from the hotel to drop off. Our guide provided interesting cultural and amusing facts. All was completed with courtesy snacks, drinks, and tea.
The tour operators are very friendly and customer focused. Istanbul is a beautiful city and you get great views doing this tour. Serdar the guide is very knowledgeable with a great sense of humor! Enjoy!!
Well organized tour, from booking and pick up to the short off-the boat excursion. The yaht is specious enough that you don't feel on top of each othere even with a larger group. Informative commentary by the guide. Dolphins sighting is a bonus.
We had a lovely afternoon seeing Istanbul from the water. The crew were all so friendly and informative and served us great snacks and some lovely warm drinks.
We enjoyed the trip very much. Can picked us up from our hotel and took us to the yacht. The cruise itself was pleasant and very calming The commentary was perfect. Informative and humorous. I would highly reccomend them.
Classy, informative and a lot of fun - great experience! Truly a treat thank you for looking after us so well on such a beautiful yacht too!
Informative and entertaining. Enjoyed a lot. Tour Guide speaks a several languages. I recommend the tour highly. Loved it
Excellent experience, the tour was fantastic and the guide was very pleasant.
Our guide, Sinan, did an excellent job. He spoke to us about history and religion. It is worth it. Keep in mind that you must travel to the meeting point
Great guide who always showed the necessary willingness to assist us
I was in doubt about whether to book the tour or visit on my own due to the price, but it was definitely worth it. Sinan explained each part of the tour to us in detail. A very good tour and highly recommended.
It is an essential excursion. You learn and see things related to a period prior to the Ottoman one that are not as well known, but remain fascinating. In addition, you walk through several well-known sites that are worth seeing, besides going from one point to another by van, making travel easier. It also includes a boat trip of about two hours through the Bosphorus and the Asian side is visited. Finally, the guide Sinan is spectacular. Very approachable and explained things great.
I loved the experience, Sinan our guide was always looking out for the whole group, on a good tour you always want to go outside the old part. Highly recommended
Very good guide, Sinnan, with detailed explanations of the ancient walls of Constantinople and the mosaics and frescoes of Chora Church, as well as the Orthodox churches and the Ecumenical Orthodox Center. The Bosphorus cruise was fine, but no longer exceptional without Sinnan, and with little time to be on the Asian side and enjoy a longer walk to get to know that part of Istanbul, which perhaps should be at least an hour.
Spectacular tour, the guide explains things great, we had a wonderful time 😁
The guide's attention and the knowledge he possesses are very good. With great availability to answer questions and requests.
A highly recommended excursion. Cruise on the Bosphorus. And a visit to ancient Constantinople.
This advertisement is false. It is not private; it is in a group. The guide Ozcar speaks very poor Spanish. The guide says that it is impossible to complete the entire tour in one day or within the 7 to 9 hours that were contracted. The agency says that it is done on the boat, not on land, but the Galata Tower is on land. Everything was very bad.
Excellent work by the guides. It's worth a lot
Very good guided tour fully recommended
Great tour, unbeatable service and attention. Very interesting explanations of Sinan in perfect Spanish.
A wonderful experience, it was me, my husband and the guide Sergu who for the first part of the tour explained very well all the beauty we saw. It was my birthday, and on the yacht while crossing the bosphorus they even made me a surprise party with cake!!Super Sergio and congratulations to the staff
Beautiful long trip, it was almost a private tour, Sergio was a perfect guide, kind and warm, the perfect staff even in yatch, it’s my birthday and they celebrated me with a cake!super💗
Fantastic tour with combination of guided tour on land and at sea. Nice with trip outside the busiest tourist areas. Very skilled guide to the historic sites like the city wall and the Orthodox churches and the surrounding area. We got hiking in charming streets and recommended good lunch. The land trip was followed by a great cruise on the Bosphorus. Highly recommended.
We really liked the experience, it is a private boat that runs along the Bosphorus with a guide in English that you understand very well. They give you snacks and drinks! Super recommended!!
Too bad for the climate that did not assist us but the Serdar staff and guide gave us a wonderful day. Super recommended
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