• Dolmabahce Palace - Constructed in a lavish European style, Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi) served as the residence for Ottoman sultans during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, prior to the empire’s decline. The interior’s grand crystal chandeliers, marble staircases, and luxurious carpets illustrate Istanbul’s shift towards a more European mindset.
• Ortakoy - The vibrant waterside district of Ortaköy in Istanbul is alive with the buzz of bars, restaurants, cafés, and nightclubs. The main attraction is the Ortaköy Mosque (Ortaköy Cami), a 19th-century edifice showcasing a mix of baroque and neoclassical styles. Behind it, the Bosphorus Bridge stands, linking old Istanbul with the new.
• Bosphorus Bridge - The Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu) in Istanbul is one of three bridges spanning continents over the Bosphorus Strait, connecting Europe and Asia. Upon its opening in 1973, the 5,118-foot (1,560-meter) bridge ranked as the fourth-longest suspension bridge globally. Although it has since moved down the rankings, it remains a remarkable sight.
• Rumeli Fortress - Constructed in just four months, the 15th-century Rumeli Fortress was pivotal in the fall of Byzantine Constantinople. Alongside the Anatolian Fortress (Anadolu Hisarı) on the Bosphorus, Rumeli Fortress was utilized by the Ottomans to block aid and supplies to Constantinople. Today, it functions as both an open-air theater and a historical site.
• Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge - Surprisingly, for a city divided between two continents, Istanbul lacked connecting bridges for much of its history. Following the Bosphorus Bridge’s construction in the 1970s, the second bridge, Fatih Sultan Mehmet, was completed in 1988. It is part of Istanbul’s O-2 highway, linking the city’s European and Asian sides.
• Emirgan Park - Situated on Istanbul’s European shores, Emirgan Park (Emirgân Korusu) is one of the city’s largest parks, offering a natural retreat within the urban landscape. The park is a favored weekend spot due to its jogging paths and picnic areas, and it hosts the annual Istanbul Tulip Festival, which blooms every April.
• Anadolu Citadel - Anadolu Hisari
• Kucuksu Pavilion - Commissioned in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdulmecit, Küçüksu Palace (Küçüksu Kasri), also known as Küçüksu Pavilion (Küçüksu Sarayı), was intended as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans. The palace’s design merges European and Ottoman styles, featuring an intricately carved exterior, grand staircases, and an interior adorned with gilded accents and chandeliers.
• Beylerbeyi Palace - Nestled in the shadow of Istanbul’s first bridge, Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi) historically served as a summer home for Ottoman sultans. The palace’s 24 rooms boast a blend of Ottoman and Western decor, with 19th-century European furniture and garden pavilions, and its ornate exterior is visible from the Bosphorus Strait.

• Mobile audio guide
• Bosphorus Cruise

Step aboard a sightseeing cruise and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Istanbul’s iconic Bosphorus. Admire the city’s breathtaking skyline, historic landmarks.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Istanbul from a unique perspective with a Bosphorus day cruise. Departing from the heart of the city, set sail on the serene waters of the Bosphorus Strait, a magical waterway that divides Europe and Asia.

Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the majestic Bosphorus Bridge, historic Ottoman palaces, and traditional neighborhoods lining the shores. Your journey will be enhanced by informative commentary detailing the rich history and culture of Istanbul. As you glide along the sparkling waters, soak in panoramic views of the city’s skyline and enjoy a truly unforgettable experience that captures the essence of this vibrant and historic metropolis.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.