• Balat - Discover the lively Balat neighborhood and visit Turkey’s only iron church. Explore St. George Church to see a relic of the cross on which Jesus was crucified. Enjoy a boat ride to Istanbul’s Asian side and visit the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Begin your day in Balat, visiting St. Stephen Church, the unique iron church from the Ottoman era. Stroll through Balat’s streets to St. George Church to view the sacred cross relic. Afterward, enjoy free time in Balat’s center, admiring the colorful houses and stairs before taking a boat to Istanbul’s Asian side.

• Bosphorus Strait - The Bosphorus Tour offers an enchanting journey through Istanbul’s unique geography and rich history. As the strait connecting the European and Asian sides, the Bosphorus serves as a natural and cultural divide, highlighting the city’s dual continental identity. During the tour, visitors enjoy a scenic boat ride with views of landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace and Beylerbeyi Palace. The tour showcases the majestic bridges linking the continents. As the boat glides along, passengers experience the cultural intersection that defines Istanbul’s history. The Bosphorus Tour is a cultural voyage highlighting the city’s strategic importance as a bridge between East and West. It offers a memorable exploration of Istanbul’s geographical and historical tapestry, bringing the city’s unique character to life.

• Saint Stephen’s Orthodox Church - At Saint Stephen’s Bulgarian Orthodox Church, travelers will encounter one of Istanbul’s most unique religious buildings, entirely made of cast iron and known as the Iron Church. If open, visitors can explore its interior, admiring the iconostasis, icons, and architectural details while learning about the Bulgarian Orthodox community and the church’s history. If entry is not possible, the guide will explain its story, significance, and unique construction from outside.

• Venerable Patriarchal Church of Saint George - At Saint George Patriarchal Cathedral, travelers will discover the history and significance of one of Istanbul’s most important Orthodox Christian sites. If the cathedral is open, there will be a brief interior visit; if not, the guide will provide explanations from outside, with time for photos.

• Blue Mosque - The Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a majestic symbol of Istanbul’s cultural and religious heritage. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmet I in the early 17th century, it blends Ottoman and Byzantine architectural styles. The mosque features stunning blue tiles, earning it the nickname “Blue Mosque,” and boasts an impressive courtyard and six minarets. As an active mosque, it remains a spiritual center. Visitors experience an authentic ambiance of Islamic art and architecture, as well as a connection to centuries of Ottoman history.

• Hagia Sophia Mosque - The Hagia Sophia, a symbol of Istanbul, is a sacred site with a history spanning over 1,500 years. Originally a cathedral, it later became a mosque and, for a period, functioned as a museum. Reflecting both Byzantine Christian and Ottoman Islamic influences, it stands as a testament to cultural and religious coexistence. The building’s architectural beauty, adorned with mosaics and calligraphy, provides an authentic atmosphere of mysticism. While its status has evolved over time, the Hagia Sophia remains a significant and iconic landmark, inviting visitors to explore the diverse layers of its rich history.

• Hippodrome - The Hippodrome of Constantinople, located in the heart of Istanbul, is a historic site that encapsulates centuries of cultural and sporting significance. The Hippodrome served as an arena for chariot races and other public events, witnessing the pageantry of the Byzantine Empire. Today, remnants of its grandeur, such as the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and Constantine Obelisk, offer glimpses into its rich past.

• Lunch
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Tour Guide

• Alcoholic beverages
• Carbonated beverages
• Headphone for Hagia Sophia Museum
• Entrance fees

This uniquely crafted tour unveils Istanbul’s multifaceted identity, seamlessly blending its historical narrative with the pulsating energy of its present. From the grandeur of architectural masterpieces to the lively markets resonating with centuries-old traditions, this journey promises an unparalleled immersion into the heart and soul of one of the world’s most captivating cities.

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