Istanbul Highlights & Bosphorus Cruise: A Discovery Exclusive (2023 ONLY)

8 hours | Istanbul | I S T - 1 0 9
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$ 139.95
Exceptional Value

Exceptional Value

Exceptional Value

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Points of Interest

  • Underground Cistern
Includes meal, Moderate activity

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or seasoned traveler, Istanbul never fails to fascinate. Your day begins with a visit to the Church of Holy Wisdom. Built by Constantine the Great in 325 and converted to a mosque by the Sultan Mehmet in 1453, it's considered one of the greatest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture. From here, you'll walk to the Basilica Cistern. Built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, its purpose was for storing water underground. Also called the Underground Palace, its vaulted ceiling is supported by 336 marble columns. For views of Istanbul from a different perspective, board a motorboat for a cruise on the Strait of Bosphorus. From the comfort of the interior saloon or deck, you'll see grand Ottoman palaces and castles as you dine on a traditional Turkish lunch. Back on land, put your haggling skills to work while shopping at the Spice Bazaar.

Special Notes:

The Bosphorus Cruise will be operated depending on weather conditions. The local cruise boats are with standard conditions and should not be considered of high-quality deluxe boats, but rather daily operational boats to introduce you the Bosphorus. The Spice Bazaar is closed on official holidays and religious festive days.
Modest attire is required during religious sites visits; knees, shoulders, and midriffs must be covered.
Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.
All tours in the Old Town require considerable walking, as it is closed to traffic
Expect dense traffic conditions in Istanbul.
This tour contains a significant amount of walking and is not suggested for wheelchair confined guests.

Details

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.

Depart ship and drive to Old City

  • Transport type: Air Conditioned Motorcoach
  • Travel time: 00:45

Drive to port

  • Transport type: Air Conditioned Motorcoach
  • Travel time: 00:30

Walk to St. Sophia from drop off point

  • Transport type: Walking
  • Travel time: 00:15

Visit of St. Sophia (including waiting time)

  • Time at site: 01:30
  • Wheelchair accessible: No
  • Restroom available: Yes

Walk to Underground Cistern

  • Transport type: Walking
  • Travel time: 00:15

Visit of Underground Cistern

  • Time at site: 00:45

Drive to local pier for Lunch Cruise

  • Transport type: Air Conditioned Motorcoach
  • Travel time: 00:30

Lunch Cruise

  • Time at site: 02:00

Drive to Spice Market

  • Transport type: Air Conditioned Motorcoach
  • Travel time: 00:30

Free Time at Spice Market

  • Time at site: 01:00