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Istanbul By Land & Sea

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul By Land & Sea

DETAILS

  • 81/2
    hrs Estimate Duration
  • Meal
  • Shopping

OVERVIEW

Begin with a boat ride on the Bosphorus Strait, you’ll delight in a mixture of past and present sites including unforgettable castles, towering minarets, and world-famous modern luxury hotels. You’ll continue to the Old City by bus to visit the Blue Mosque, designed by architect Mehmet Aga to rival the Hagia Sofia. This is one of the most famous religious buildings in the world. Its interior walls are adorned with beautiful bluish green tiles which gives the mosque its name. On another side of the square is the Hippodrome and its remnants - the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine and Constantine Columns. Continue your walk through this bustling square to reach the majestic Hagia Sophia, the most important Byzantine monument in the world. The intricate mosaics that adorn its ceilings and walls are of immeasurable artistic and historic value. Next visit one of the most colorful sites in Istanbul – the Grand Bazaar. You’ll have a chance to explore the exotic atmosphere of the covered part briefly. A stop for lunch is scheduled during the tour to enjoy a Turkish style meal.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait.
• Discover Istanbul’s most legendary landmarks, including the Blue Mosque with its stunning blue green tiles.
• Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the world famous Grand Bazaar


HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Need to Know:

Note: Expect differences in tour durations due to traffic conditions. Participants are required to remove their shoes to enter the Blue Mosque. As this tour visits a place of worship, please dress respectfully. Should the Blue Mosque be closed to visitors due to religious festivities, you’ll visit another historical mosque. On Sundays, the Grand Bazaar is closed so your visit will be replaced with free time at the Spice Market. In this case, due to the size of the Spice Market, your overall tour duration will be shortened slightly. The boat trip is operated depending on weather conditions. Drinks are available on the boat for purchase. There is approximately 1 mile of walking over uneven surfaces and some inclines and steps on this tour. Your Turkish lunch includes water; additional drinks are available at an extra charge. Bare shoulders or exposed knees are strictly forbidden while visiting St. Sophia Museum and Blue Mosque. Ladies need to have their heads covered. Those who are not dressed according to the dress code will not be allowed inside these sites. Please be advised that due to ongoing restoration work, the view to the interior and the main dome of St. Sophia is currently obstructed by a scaffolding.

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ACTIVITY ATTRIBUTES

Excursion Type:

Scenic & City Tours

Activity Level:

Image Title
  • 1
    Easy
  • 2
    Moderate
  • 3
    Challenging
Tours with this activity level involve physical exertion for extended periods of time; can involve uneven or steep terrain or swimming in a light current. Recommended only for physically fit and adventurous travelers.
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