Viator Rating : 5 (77 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 6.9/10 (Solid Experience)
Istanbul
Istanbul Old City Tour & Bosphorus Cruise (History & Culture)
Overview
The Old City Istanbul Tour & Bosphorus (History and Culture) shows off the best of Istanbul! This tour gives people a close-up look at the city's history and culture. It's great for anyone who wants to see famous places and learn about Istanbul's past.
Get ready to see amazing places like Balat & Fener, where you can walk through colorful streets and see old buildings. The tour takes you on a boat ride on the Bosphorus Strait, which splits Europe and Asia. You'll also visit the Hagia Sophia, a really old church, and the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque), known for its beautiful blue tiles. Don't forget the Hippodrome of Constantinople, where exciting chariot races happened long ago!
This tour includes lunch, entrance fees, and a ride in a comfy, air-conditioned vehicle. A tour guide will be with the group to tell stories and answer questions. What is not included is any alcoholic beverages and soda pop and there are no headphones provided for the Hagia Sophia Museum. This tour is a great way to see Istanbul's most famous spots and learn about its rich history! 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (8 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Upsell Risk (6 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (6 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
See Istanbul's Top Spots: Visit famous places like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
Cruise the Bosphorus: Take a boat trip between Europe and Asia.
Learn About History: Hear stories from a friendly tour guide.
Enjoy a Tasty Lunch: Have a yummy lunch as part of the tour.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors loved seeing the historical sites and learning about Istanbul's history.
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Many enjoyed the Bosphorus cruise and the views from the water.
-
The tour guides were knowledgeable and friendly.
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The lunch was a nice addition to the tour.
Some found the tour to be rushed.
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A few wished they had more free time to explore on their own.
The Journey
Balat & Fener
Discover the colorful and historic neighborhoods of Balat and Fener, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history whispers from every corner. Explore the architectural gems, including the unique Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, famed for its iron construction. Step into the spiritual world of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople (St. George Church), a significant Orthodox Christian site, and see a relic believed to be a piece of the True Cross. Wander through the streets, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere, admiring the colorful houses, and soaking in the neighborhood's unique charm before venturing towards the Asian side of Istanbul.
Bosphorus Strait
Experience the magic of Istanbul from the water with a Bosphorus cruise, sailing between two continents. Witness the breathtaking views of Ottoman palaces like Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi, historic waterfront mansions (yalı), and the iconic Bosphorus bridges connecting Europe and Asia. This scenic voyage offers a unique perspective on Istanbul's skyline, blending historical grandeur with the natural beauty of the strait, providing a cultural journey through the heart of this transcontinental city. A cruise along the Bosphorus is a must for anyone wanting to truly understand Istanbul's strategic and cultural significance.
Hagia Sophia
Marvel at the Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum, reflecting Istanbul's layered history. Explore its stunning interior, adorned with Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman calligraphy, and experience the spiritual ambiance of this iconic landmark. Originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century, it was converted to a mosque in the 15th century and later became a museum, before recently reverting to mosque status. The Hagia Sophia stands as a symbol of cultural exchange and a testament to the enduring legacy of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, inviting visitors to witness the convergence of art, religion, and history.
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
Visit the Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, a breathtaking example of Ottoman architecture famed for its six minarets and stunning blue Iznik tiles. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmet I in the early 17th century, this active mosque welcomes visitors to admire its grand courtyard, intricate tile work, and soaring domes. Experience the serenity of this sacred space and learn about its historical significance as a symbol of Istanbul's Islamic heritage. The play of light through the stained-glass windows and the intricate designs create an ambiance of awe and reverence.
Hippodrome of Constantinople
Step back in time at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the former center of Byzantine social and sporting life. Imagine the roar of chariot races and the excitement of public events that once filled this historic arena. Although little remains of the original structure, the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk still stand as silent witnesses to the Hippodrome's glorious past. Wander through this ancient site and envision the grandeur of the Byzantine Empire, where emperors, athletes, and citizens gathered to celebrate their culture and power.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes lunch, entrance fees to attractions, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. A tour guide will accompany the group. It does not include alcoholic beverages or soda pop. Headphones for the Hagia Sophia Museum are also not included. Pickup and drop-off locations will be confirmed upon booking.
Hot Tip
Wear comfy shoes, because you'll be doing lots of walking! Also, bring a hat and sunscreen, especially if you're taking the tour in the summer.
Review Summary
Customers finds this tour highly informative and well-paced, praising the knowledgeable guides and the mix of historical sites and scenic boat rides. Many appreciate the small group size and the opportunity to explore both the Old City and the Bosphorus. However, some travelers note that lunch is not included and that the walking portions can be tiring, especially for those with mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
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