N
Great time
Great tour and informative! .
Best of Istanbul Old City with Bosphorus Cruise
+39 photos
At a glance
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Price from
- $55 / person
- Rating
- 4.8 / 5 · 158 reviews
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Small group, up to 20
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation
- Meeting point
- Meet us at our Sirkeci office. Please arrive at our office to check in. Please arrive 15 minutes before the activity begins. Please provide a valid phone number so we can contact you if needed. If you need help, contact us anytime on WhatsApp.
- Confirmation
- Instant
Prices checked on Sep 12, 2026Things to do in Istanbul
Description
Experience Istanbul’s rich history with the Istanbul Old City and Bosphorus tour. This Tour will take you through the city’s most remarkable landmarks and immerse you in the captivating allure of Constantinople. In just 12 hours, you can explore the historical epochs of Istanbul and embrace the ancient vibes of Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. This Tour is ideal for all travelers, whether you’re here for business or leisure. You will visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, one of the most important mosques in history and a historical landmark of the old city of Istanbul, as well as other iconic sites. Take advantage of this chance to witness the magnificent beauty of Istanbul! Secure your spot today and embark on a remarkable journey through the city's varied and contrasting landscape. Discover the sights, relish the flavors, and indulge in the distinct charm of Istanbul – the city that links two continents.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Discover one of Istanbul's most important landmarks and learn about its Byzantine and Ottoman history, architecture, mosaics, and Islamic details. (Hagia Sophia entrance is not included. Guests who do not wish to enter will receive the guide's explanation from outside.)
Learn about the former residence of the Ottoman sultans and the imperial life that once centered around this vast palace complex. (Topkapi Palace entrance is not included. You will receive information from the guide outside the palace area.)
Explore the historic heart of Istanbul’s Old City, once the center of Byzantine Constantinople and later of Ottoman Istanbul. See the famous square and learn about the ceremonies, public events, and daily life that shaped this area over centuries.
Visit one of Istanbul's most recognizable mosques, famous for its elegant domes, six minarets, and blue Iznik tiles. Learn about its architecture and religious importance while experiencing the atmosphere of this active place of worship.
Enjoy free time in the historic Eyup area, with the opportunity to have lunch and explore the neighborhood. (Lunch is included only if specified in the selected option. Guests without lunch included can purchase a meal separately on-site.)
Visit the distinctive Bulgarian Iron Church, renowned for its unusual cast-iron construction. Learn about the history of Istanbul’s Bulgarian Orthodox community and the story behind this remarkable church.
Visit the spiritual center of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Istanbul. Explore its richly decorated interior and learn about its religious significance and long-standing role in the Orthodox Christian world.
Explore Balat’s colorful streets and historic character, one of Istanbul’s most photogenic neighborhoods. See traditional houses, local cafes, narrow streets, and traces of the area’s multicultural past.
Visit one of the great works by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. Admire its impressive architecture and peaceful courtyard while enjoying elevated views across Istanbul, learning about its place in Ottoman history.
Relax on a scenic 2h cruise between Europe and Asia while viewing Istanbul from the water. See waterfront palaces, mosques, bridges, fortresses, historic mansions, and both shores of the city.
Highlights
WiFi on board
2-Hour Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
Air-conditioned vehicle
All Fees and Taxes
Coffee and/or Tea
Professional Tour Guide
What's included
Included
WiFi on board
2-Hour Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
Air-conditioned vehicle
All Fees and Taxes
Coffee and/or Tea
Professional Tour Guide
Not included
Hagia Sophia admission ticket
Topkapi Palace admission ticket
Lunch, unless included in the selected option
Hotel pickup and drop-off, unless included in the selected option
Personal expenses
Tips / gratuities
Pickup Locations & Times
Pickup is available only for packages that include transfers. We offer service from select central Istanbul areas. Pickup time is usually 8:20 for hotels in Istanbul's city center, except the Asian side of Istanbul. Enter your hotel name and full address, or the full location details for apartment or Airbnb stays. Provide a valid phone number with country code, preferably one that supports WhatsApp. Transfers are shared so that times may vary due to traffic, route order, and hotel location. Be ready at the confirmed time. If the vehicle cannot reach your accommodation, we will provide a nearby meeting point. Please check your seat and belongings before leaving the vehicle.
Traveller Ratings
4.8
158 reviews
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Hagia Sophia: Entrance is not included. Guests who wish to visit inside may purchase a ticket on-site. Guests who do not enter will receive the guide’s explanation from outside.
- Topkapi Palace: Interior visit is not part of this tour due to the limited tour schedule. The guide will provide information and historical explanations from outside.
- Lunch is included only when stated in the selected option. Guests without lunch included may purchase a meal separately during the tour.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off are included only with the Hotel Pickup option.
- Guests who prefer not to join the Bosphorus cruise may finish the tour after the land portion. Travelers with hotel drop-off included will be returned to their hotel, while guests without drop-off will finish the tour in Eminonu.
- The itinerary order may change due to traffic, local conditions, weather, sea conditions, or operational requirements, and the Bosphorus cruise operates subject to suitable weather and sea conditions.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Best of Istanbul Old City with Bosphorus Cruise take?
Best of Istanbul Old City with Bosphorus Cruise lasts about 10 hours. The itinerary has 10 stops.
How much does Best of Istanbul Old City with Bosphorus Cruise cost?
Prices start at $55 per person for this Istanbul experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There are 4 booking options, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Can I cancel Best of Istanbul Old City with Bosphorus Cruise for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered. Pickup is available only for packages that include transfers. We offer service from select central Istanbul areas. Pickup time is usually 8:20 for hotels in Istanbul's city center, except the Asian side of Istanbul. Enter your hotel name and full address, or the full location details for apartment or Airbnb stays. Provide a valid phone number with country code, preferably one that supports WhatsApp. Transfers are shared so that times may vary due to traffic, route order, and hotel location. Be ready at the confirmed time. If the vehicle cannot reach your accommodation, we will provide a nearby meeting point. Please check your seat and belongings before leaving the vehicle. Pickup points include MEET_AT_DEPARTURE_POINT, CONTACT_SUPPLIER_LATER, LOC-6eKJ+or5y8o99Qw0C8xWyEImGbFa+5CBKbpmTZC40Eg=.
What languages is Best of Istanbul Old City with Bosphorus Cruise offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 20 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Reviews(158)
V
Amazing 12-hour introduction to Istanbul by land and sea
Batu is an excellent tour guide and the entire tour operated by Sea & Land was perfectly arranged and organized. We paid the flat fee and it covered every entrance and transfer. Everything from the itinerary to the lunch to the transfers between places of interest and to our hotel room were smooth and comfortable. Thank you Batu and Sea&Land for a wonderful day and evening in Istanbul. Batu personalised each stop with history, stories and personal recommendations. He even gave us a list of places to see based on our expressed interests. We had an amazing time.
3
We never feel tired! Amazing Istanbul Tour
It was our first time in Istanbul, and we decided to try this tour—we definitely have no regrets! Even though it was a whole-day trip, we enjoyed every moment. Our tour guide, Ilayda, never disappointed us. She was so charming, knowledgeable, approachable, and friendly. She made the entire experience more enjoyable and memorable. Thank you so much, Ilayda, for accompanying us throughout the tour. We truly enjoyed it and would definitely highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Istanbul. See you again!
W
Blue mosque experience
We were picked up at our hotel. We switched tour van and met with our guide Batuhan. There was a marathon so the traffic was bad. Our guide Batuhan Gur was very accommodating and very nice. He waited for everyone and made sure that all of us are safe. He answered all my questions. Tips. Wear comfortable shoes or slip in walking shoes as entering the mosques you will be asked to remove shoes. You can also bring your own light scarf to cover your head and shoulders. The tour included lunch. I didnt really like it. It was a hot and humid day and the van’s AC wasnt cool enough. Our guide Batuhan Gur gave us time on our own so we can do some shopping and picture taking. Me n my hubby enjoyed the tour. 😉
5
Bosforus tour
Very nice tour on Bosforus, totally worth it , beautiful views, friendly staff
_
Boston tour
Nice bosfor tour nice views with the sunset and kind guide
C
Outstanding
Mahdi and Mahmoud are the best trip guides ever
S
Bosfor sunset
Great your personal kind everything was beautiful
T
Bosphorus
We had a great time and it is to be recommended, guide Medi was very good and very helpful
W
boat trip
nice experience they let you see all of Istanbul in a short time and while sitting.
Compare similar tours in Istanbul
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best of Istanbul Old City with Bosphorus Cruise | 10 hours | 4.8 (158) | $55 | |
 WONDERS of ISTANBUL : Full Day Private Guided City Tour | 5–7 hours | 5.0 (445) | $75 | View |
 Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour | 7–21 hours | 5.0 (10,115) | $100 | View |
 Istanbul Taste of Two Continents Food Tour - Spice Market & Ferry | 5h 30min | 5.0 (3,592) | $135 | View |
 ISTANBUL BEST: Iconic Landmarks Full Day PRIVATE Guided City Tour | 6–8 hours | 5.0 (1,478) | $85 | View |
 Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Luxury Yacht Cruise with Snacks | 2h 30min | 4.9 (2,384) | $47 | View |
 Istanbul Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern with Tickets | 3 hours | 4.9 (131) | $135 | View |