Explore Istanbul and enjoy a cruise on the Bosphorus during an unforgettable day!
Your day will begin with a visit to the historic district of Sultanahmet, the true heart of Istanbul where Byzantine and Ottoman heritages mingle.
You'll start at Sainte-Sophie, an impressive work of architecture dating back to the 6th century and built under Emperor Justinian. Inside, you'll admire its huge dome, mosaics and fascinating history.
Next, you'll visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and Iznik earthenware tiles that give it a unique atmosphere. Right next door, you'll discover the Hippodrome, once the center of chariot races and imperial festivities, with its historic monuments such as the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpentine Column.
Your morning will end at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, home to nearly 4,000 stalls where you can unearth carpets, jewelry, spices and other handcrafted souvenirs.
At noon, you'll enjoy lunch in a typical Istanbul restaurant, where you'll sample local specialties.
In the afternoon, you'll embark on a 1h30 cruise on the Bosphorus aboard a private boat. You'll admire the Ottoman palaces, medieval fortresses and sumptuous wooden mansions that line the shores of the strait separating Europe from Asia. In particular, you'll see the Fortress of Rumeli, built in the 15th century to control maritime access.
Finally, you'll end your excursion with a bus ride along the Golden Horn, a natural bay that has played a key role in the city's history. You'll pass through the historic Balat district, known for its colorful houses and iconic religious buildings such as the Church of St. Stephen of the Bulgarians and the Orthodox Patriarchate of Fener.
Finally, you'll take the cable car to the Café Pierre Loti overlooking the Golden Horn.
You'll then be dropped off at your hotel after this day rich in discovery.