Overview
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 Istanbulâs European and Asian sides. Along the way, you will pass by famous landmarks including Dolmabahçe Palace, ĂıraÄan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Anadolu Fortress, Kuleli Palace, KĂŒĂ§ĂŒksu Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, and the iconic Bosphorus Bridges. This tour perfectly combines history, culture, architecture, and scenic beauty, offering a thorough introduction to Istanbulâs rich heritage and the stunning Bosphorus coastline. A professional guide provides detailed explanations in English at all sites.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Some snacks during the sunset cruise such as baklava cookies and fruits
- two hours bosphorus sunset cruise
- Englısh professional tour guide
What's Not Included
- Admission and entry tickets (chora mosque)
- Public transportation tickets and expenses
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
Meeting point in front of Kariye Mosque with your guide.
Stop 2
The Ahrida Synagogue, built in the 15th century by Jews from Ohrid, is one of the oldest and largest synagogues in Istanbul.
Stop 3
The Yanbol Synagogue was built in the 18th century in Balat by Jews who came from Yambol, Bulgaria.
Stop 4
Balat Bazaar is one of Istanbulâs most vibrant areas, known for its colorful streets, historic charm, and cozy cafĂ©s.
Stop 5
The colorful stairs in Balat are a popular photo spot that reflect the lively spirit of the neighborhood.
Stop 6
The Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Balat is a significant place of worship with deep roots dating back to the Byzantine era.
Stop 7
The Fener Greek Girlsâ High School, built in the 19th century, is a historic school known for its striking red-brick architecture.
Stop 8
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.
Stop 9
The Sveti Stefan Church, also known as the âIron Church,â is a unique Bulgarian Orthodox church built entirely of cast iron.
Stop 10
It is the meeting and starting point for our guests for the Sunset Cruise.
Stop 11
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.
Stop 12
Dolmabahçe Palace, built in the 19th century, is a magnificent palace overlooking the Bosphorus, reflecting the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.
Stop 13
ĂıraÄan Palace is a historic Ottoman-era palace now operating as a luxury hotel, renowned for its stunning Bosphorus views.
Stop 14
Ortaköy Mosque, located on the Bosphorus shore, is one of Istanbulâs iconic landmarks with its stunning Baroque architecture.
Stop 15
The Bosphorus Bridge is an iconic structure connecting the Asian and European sides of Istanbul.
Stop 16
KuruçeĆme Park is a popular waterfront park along the Bosphorus, ideal for walking and relaxation.
Stop 17
Bebek Park is one of Istanbulâs popular green spaces, offering scenic Bosphorus views and a relaxing spot for walking.
Stop 18
Rumeli Fortress, built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, is a historic castle of strategic importance for controlling the Bosphorus.
Stop 19
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge is an important suspension bridge connecting the Asian and European sides of Istanbul.
Stop 20
Anadolu Fortress, built in the 14th century by the Ottomans, is a historic castle on the Anatolian side of the Bosphorus.
Stop 21
KĂŒĂ§ĂŒksu Palace and Pavilion, built in the 19th century along the Bosphorus, are elegant and ornate structures created for Ottoman sultans.
Stop 22
Beylerbeyi Palace, built in the 19th century along the Bosphorus, is a magnificent palace that served as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans.
Stop 23
ĂskĂŒdar Square is one of Istanbulâs historic and lively areas, surrounded by cafĂ©s, markets, and historic buildings along the waterfront.
Stop 24
The Maidenâs Tower is a historic structure built on a small islet in the Bosphorus and is one of Istanbulâs iconic landmarks.
Stop 25
The Galata Bridge spans the Golden Horn, connecting Istanbulâs European side to the Karaköy district, and is a famous landmark.
Stop 26
Galataport, located on Istanbulâs Karaköy waterfront, is a modern development featuring shopping, dining, and a cruise port.
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Not recommended for people who are prone to seasickness
- Not recommended for people with vertigo