This guided tour starts with a 1-hour visit to Kariye (Chora) Church, a remarkable Byzantine church celebrated for its exquisite mosaics and frescoes. After exploring Kariye, you will head to Balat, a vibrant neighborhood full of colorful historic houses, churches, synagogues, and lively streets reflecting local culture. Following the Balat visit, enjoy a 2-hour Bosphorus cruise, taking in breathtaking views of both Istanbul’s European and Asian sides. Along the way, you will pass by famous landmarks including Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Anadolu Fortress, Kuleli Palace, Küçüksu Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, and the iconic Bosphorus Bridges. This tour perfectly combines history, culture, architecture, and scenic beauty, offering a thorough introduction to Istanbul’s rich heritage and the stunning Bosphorus coastline. A professional guide provides detailed explanations in English at all sites.
Meeting point in front of Kariye Mosque with your guide.
1 hourAdmission not includedSee on map
The Ahrida Synagogue, built in the 15th century by Jews from Ohrid, is one of the oldest and largest synagogues in Istanbul.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
The Yanbol Synagogue was built in the 18th century in Balat by Jews who came from Yambol, Bulgaria.
Pass by (no stop)Admission free
Balat Bazaar
Balat Bazaar is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant areas, known for its colorful streets, historic charm, and cozy cafés.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
The colorful stairs in Balat are a popular photo spot that reflect the lively spirit of the neighborhood.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
The Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Balat is a significant place of worship with deep roots dating back to the Byzantine era.
Pass by (no stop)Admission free
The Fener Greek Girls’ High School, built in the 19th century, is a historic school known for its striking red-brick architecture.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
The St. George Cathedral in Balat
The St. George Cathedral in Balat is the center of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and one of the most important places of worship in the Orthodox world.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
The Sveti Stefan Church, also known as the “Iron Church,”
The Sveti Stefan Church, also known as the “Iron Church,” is a unique Bulgarian Orthodox church built entirely of cast iron.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
It is the meeting and starting point for our guests for the Sunset Cruise.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
The Bosphorus Strait
The Bosphorus Strait is a historic and strategic waterway connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, separating the continents of Asia and Europe.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Dolmabahçe Palace, built in the 19th century,
Dolmabahçe Palace, built in the 19th century, is a magnificent palace overlooking the Bosphorus, reflecting the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Çırağan Palace
Çırağan Palace is a historic Ottoman-era palace now operating as a luxury hotel, renowned for its stunning Bosphorus views.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Ortaköy Mosque, located on the Bosphorus shore,
Ortaköy Mosque, located on the Bosphorus shore, is one of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks with its stunning Baroque architecture.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
The Bosphorus Bridge
The Bosphorus Bridge is an iconic structure connecting the Asian and European sides of Istanbul.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Kuruçeşme Park
Kuruçeşme Park is a popular waterfront park along the Bosphorus, ideal for walking and relaxation.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Bebek Park is one of Istanbul’s popular green spaces, offering scenic Bosphorus views and a relaxing spot for walking.
Pass by (no stop)Admission free
Rumeli Fortress, built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, is a historic castle of strategic importance for controlling the Bosphorus.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge is an important suspension bridge connecting the Asian and European sides of Istanbul.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Anadolu Fortress, built in the 14th century by the Ottomans, is a historic castle on the Anatolian side of the Bosphorus.
Pass by (no stop)Admission free
Küçüksu Palace and Pavilion, built in the 19th century along the Bosphorus, are elegant and ornate structures created for Ottoman sultans.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Beylerbeyi Palace, built in the 19th century along the Bosphorus, is a magnificent palace that served as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Üsküdar Square is one of Istanbul’s historic and lively areas, surrounded by cafés, markets, and historic buildings along the waterfront.
Pass by (no stop)Admission free
The Maiden’s Tower
The Maiden’s Tower is a historic structure built on a small islet in the Bosphorus and is one of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
The Galata Bridge spans the Golden Horn, connecting Istanbul’s European side to the Karaköy district, and is a famous landmark.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Galataport, located on Istanbul’s Karaköy waterfront,
Galataport, located on Istanbul’s Karaköy waterfront, is a modern development featuring shopping, dining, and a cruise port.
Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map
Our guide will meet all travelers at the entrance of the Chora Mosque. Please be ready in the meeting point before 30 min from starting time of the tour.
The map shows Istanbul. The exact meeting point is the address above.Open larger map
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
| If you cancel | Refund |
|---|---|
| At least 1 days before | 100% |
| Between 0 and 1 days before | 0% |
Ratings from Viator 5.0 (1) · Tripadvisor 5.0 (44)
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