Top Istanbul Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Prepare to be awed by Istanbul’s magnificent architecture, rich history, and eclectic bazaars as you discover the unmissable highlights of the Old City on this 1-, 2-, or 3-day private tour. Marvel over the glorious Hagia Sophia, learn how the Blue Mosque earned its famous nickname, and see the ancient Basilica Cistern. Tour Topkapi Palace to gain an insight into the lavish lifestyles of the Ottoman sultans and their harem, and browse the legendary Grand Bazaar, where you find everything from carpets to Turkish delight.

Experience Istanbul’s timeless sights on a full-day tour of the city’s stunning historic places. Listen for the ancient echoes of pounding hooves and charioteers at Hippodrome Square and spot the distinctive tiles of the Blue Mosque. See the Byzantine mosaics and minarets of Hagia Sophia, then follow in the footsteps of powerful sultans, courtiers, and generals at Topkapi Palace. Finish your tour in the vibrant Grand Bazaar, browsing bright displays of handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs.

Fit all of Istanbul's attractions at the top of your bucket list into one packed day, with the help of an expert local guide. Stroll Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, brimming with iconic buildings and storied streets. Tour the Blue Mosque, one of the most important sites in the Muslim world. Delve into history of the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Istanbul Hippodrome as well as the 'sunken palace' of Basilica Cistern. And you won’t want to miss the and the bustling Grand Bazaar or savory 3-course lunch.

Instead of driving around Istanbul all day in a stuffy tour bus, discover the city’s beauty in style on this relaxing sunset cruise down the Bosphorus, the waterway that marks the border between Asian Turkey and European Turkey. From the open-air deck of your luxury yacht, see riverside landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Ortaköy Mosque and the Rumeli Fortress, all lit by the beautiful dusk light.

Istanbul is one of the world’s greatest cities, and this hop-on hop-off tour offers a truly flexible way to explore it. Board your open-top, double-decker bus at any stop along the two routes, and enjoy the views as you listen to the audio commentary. Then, create your own sightseeing itinerary as you hop on and off at any of the stops to visit highlights such as the spectacular Topkapi Palace, the UNESCO-protected Hagia Sophia, the Egyptian Bazaar, and more. Your ticket is valid for 1, 2, or 3 days and entry to select attractions.

Experience somber battlefields and historic World War I memorial sites during this guided day trip to Gallipoli from Istanbul. With an expert guide, visit heartbreaking sites on the Gallipoli peninsula where Australian, New Zealand and Turkish soldiers lost their lives during a merciless WWI campaign. Hear rare stories about the fallen troops at famous sites including Lone Pine, ANZAC Cove, Ari Burnu Cemetery and the Nek.

Tick through Istanbul’s highlights without transport hassles or getting lost, and with a guide to reveal their history on this small-group full-day tour. Admire and hear tales of the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome that you’d probably miss alone, and clearly hear the guide’s commentary with numbers limited to just 10. Plus, enjoy an included authentic Turkish lunch—an extra you might skip if exploring independently.

Cruise the stunning Bosphorus Strait and Golden Horn and experience three of the best Istanbul sights on this adventure-filled full-day sightseeing tour. This tour takes you on a boat ride on the Bosphorus Strait to savor spectacular sights of bridges, palaces, mosques and fortresses. Stop at Dolmabahçe Palace for a guided tour and explore the alluring scents and colors of the Spice Bazaar. Visit Rüstem Pasha Mosque on top of Camlica Hill and capture wide views of the skyline. Plus, enjoy a delicious 3-course meal along the beautiful shoreline.

Make your Istanbul adventure totally unique with a 1- to 2-day private sightseeing tour. Opt for a single day and see the whole of the Old City, plus the Grand Bazaar. Extend the tour to include a second day and visit the Spice Bazaar, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim, and Istiklal Street, plus a Bosphorus cruise. Please note that your guide is happy to alter the itinerary completely to accommodate your personal interests.

Experience the serenity of the biggest Princes' Island in Turkey, Büyükada, on this full-day guided tour from Istanbul. After traversing the Sea of Marmara by boat, arrive on the quaint island to spend time exploring by horse-drawn carriage. On Büyükada, learn about the island’s history from your guide, and enjoy ample time to lounge on its beautiful beaches. 

See the sights of Istanbul on a half-day tour that takes in the city’s famous historical landmarks and cultural sites. See Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Entrance fees are included, as is hotel pickup and drop-off for your convenience.

Benefit from a flexible schedule and personalized attention on this half-day private tour in Istanbul. Perfect for those short on time, this private tour lets you move at your own pace and focus on things that interest you. Highlights can include a tram ride, a funicular ride, the neighborhood of Karakoy, and the Blue Mosque. All private transportation included.

Join one of the best Bosphorus boat tours in Istanbul and admire the cosmopolitan city from a completely different perspective while enjoying the beautiful views of the Orient and the Occident at the same time. Your Istanbul Welcome Card Marine Officer will welcome you at the pier and help you on the boat, hand you over our Bosphorus tour plan and explain you what will see on the boat tour. Bosphorus Boat Tour The Bosphorus is 32km long, separates Europe from Asia and connects the Marmara Sea to the Black Sea. Cruise along the Bosphorus between Asia and Europe and discover Istanbul tourist attractions, magnificent palaces, ancient castles, and other historical sites, as well as fine seaside residences and the Bosphorus bridge. Furthermore, you will have a glance at the spectacular pieces of authentic civic architecture on the European and Asian coast. Our boat is departing hourly, if you should miss your departure time you can join the next departing boat.

Explore the top attractions in Sultanahmet (the old city) on a full-day tour with a knowledgeable guide. Take in UNESCO World Heritage sites and famous monuments in Istanbul including the stunning Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Hippodrome. Then follow your guide through the Grand Bazaar, browsing the shops of hundreds of vendors with an array of textiles, jewelry, perfumes, spices and more. Your guide shares the long history of Istanbul with your small group, which is limited to 10 participants to ensure a more intimate experience.

Experience the finest attractions in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district during this private, guided day tour of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Marvel at these famous monuments alongside your expert guide who will give you individual attention on this private voyage.

Uncover ancient Greek mythology and the history of the Trojan War during this guided day trip to Troy from Istanbul. During a walking tour, learn about the famous archaeological site of Troy and see a replica statue of the Trojan Horse. Then, delve into the interesting era’s of Troy and discover how this settlement transformed over time. Plus, enjoy a visit to the small coastal town of Eceabat for lunch.

This day trip to Pamukkale is one you definitely don’t want to miss when you’re in Turkey—it makes it simple to explore the city and its ancient sights and ruins from Istanbul.  After a short flight and easy transfer, see the red springs of Karahayit, explore the Roman ruins of Hierapolis, and swim in the thermal waters of the Cleopatra Antique Pool (additional expense), with a guide providing historical context along the way. You also have some time to explore the village of Pamukkale on your own before your return flight and transfer back to Istanbul.

Witness the beauty of Istanbul at dusk on this evening sightseeing cruise and watch the sunset over both the European and Asian sides. Marvel at all the sights as you sail past; keep a look out for Topkapi Palace, Maiden's Tower, Ortaköy & Mecidiye Mosque, Dolmabahce Palace, the Bosphorus Bridge and Cıragan Palace.

Explore the historical attractions in Turkey during this 7-day Turkey tour that begins and ends in Istanbul. You will traverse Istanbul with an expert guide aboard a comfortable air-conditioned coach to visit the poignant battlegrounds of Gallipoli, the mesmerizing Roman-Greco remnants of Ephesus, and the other-worldly geology in Cappadocia. Along the way stop at Pamukkale to marvel at the cream colored rock plateaus, take a dip in the hot Hierapolis natural springs and discover the history of Troy. Enjoy the peace of mind of six nights accommodation and daily breakfast and dinner meals, all included and planned for your convenience.

Take advantage of extended layover time in Istanbul on a round-trip tour of city highlights from the airport, customized to suit your interests and schedule. Zip with ease between iconic sights such as the Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, or Topkapı Palace, and benefit from historic and cultural insights provided by your professional guide.

Along a 2 hours evening sunset cruise, enjoy unique views, comfort and a relaxing environment on board with private yacht. Aboard the glass-encased luxury yacht, enjoy the Istanbul’s main attractions at dusk, including the Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, Ortakoy Mosque Bosphorus Bridge and much more… Savor a delicious traditional Turkish drink such as demirhindi and canapés as you cruise the strait and delight in the magic of Istanbul’s urban shoreline as night falls.

Cruise along the landmark lined waters of the Bosphorus Strait and stroll through the entrancing Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar during this 3.5-hour guided tour in Istanbul. On this tour, you will discover the bazaar’s abundant spices such as cardamom, mint, cinnamon, and have free time to explore on your own. Then, learn about Istanbul’s history from your expert guide as you set course for a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait. Aboard the ship, enjoy glimpses of famous Istanbul monuments like the impressive Rumeli Hisari Fortress and Dolmabahçe Palace.

Set sail along the Bosphorus, the meeting point of Europe and Asia, on this evening cruise. Experience Istanbul at its most atmospheric as you cruise past the illuminated city skyline and admire landmarks including Dolmabahce Palace, the Bosphorus Bridge, and the Maiden's Tower. While on-board, tuck into a 3-course dinner and enjoy a variety of entertainment including whirling dervishes, belly dancing, and DJs.

See Istanbul from three different vantage points on this tour, including a sightseeing cruise, panoramic tour and cable car ride. Take a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus and admire top Istanbul attractions such as the Bosphorus Bridge and Rumeli Fortress from the water. Then, take a coach drive around the Golden Horn districts to see the former Jewish quarter, old city walls, iron-built St Stephens and other lesser-known treasures. Lastly, catch the cable car up Pierre Loti Hill to witness the stellar city views from its hilltop cafe.