GOLDEN HORN (HALIC)

Combine panoramic views from the Galata Tower with an in-depth guided tour of the Hagia Sophia with this affordable combo. Hagia Sophia Skip the line and go on a journey through history at Hagia Sophia. Your guide will unlock the secrets of this architectural marvel that has witnessed centuries of empires rise and fall. Look at the soaring dome, its intricate mosaics detailing biblical scenes. Explore the main floor, each step echoing with the footsteps of sultans, scholars, and worshippers. Learn about the blend of Byzantine and Ottoman influences that shaped the Hagia Sophia's unique character on your guided tour. Galata Tower Standing tall for centuries, Galata Tower whispers tales of its rich past as a watchtower, prison, and observatory. See all of Istanbul from the Galata Tower's observation deck and witness the city's European and Asian sides unfold before you, covering over 1,000 years of history. Identify symbols of the city's heritage like Dolmabahce Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Suleymaniye Mosque, their grandeur magnified by the Bosphorus Strait and Golden Horn. The audio guide unveils the tower's fascinating history as a defensive structure, while the observation deck provides the perfect platform for capturing panoramic photos.

Escape the buzzing streets of Istanbul by taking a tour of the peaceful Prince’s İslands. Hop aboard a private boat and set sail from the ever-serene Golden Horn, onto the first of 2 islands, Heybeliada. Heybeliada is the second-largest island in Istanbul. Notice narrow beaches, pine forests, and 19th-century villas- but most intriguing of all, no motor vehicles! Finally, visit Büyükada, the biggest of the islands, with plenty of touristic charm. While you’ll spot Ottoman-Victorian mansions here, this island is also crowded with more modern structures today. While on the boat, a delicious luncheon will be served. Munch on chicken Shish kebabs, cold appetizers, rice, and salad while basking in the picturesque scenery of Istanbul’s Princes Islands. Besides the breathtaking views, historical buildings such as Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery, Ayios Dimitrios Church, Hamidiye Mosque, and more will give you an insight into the history of the Ottoman and Byzantium emperors. The ferry will safely return you to Istanbul and an air-conditioned bus will take you back to your hotel.

This budget-friendly deal combines stunning views from the Galata Tower with a refreshing Bosphorus cruise. Bosphorus cruise Sail past Istanbul's history on a 90-minute Bosphorus cruise. Your cruise will take you past historical sites like Topkapi Palace and Galata Tower. Don't miss the iconic Bosphorus Bridge, which connects Europe with Asia. Keep an eye out for the Rumeli Fortress on the European side of the strait at its narrowest point. It played a crucial role in the Ottomans' conquest of Istanbul. Tune into the multilingual audio guide for details you won't find in the guidebook. Galata Tower Rising like a watchful guardian over the modern heart of Istanbul, the Galata Tower boasts a history as impressive as its views. First built in 1348, it stood as the city's tallest structure for centuries. There's no place like the tower's open-air observation deck for unobstructed panoramas of Istanbul. See iconic landmarks like Dolmabahce Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Suleymaniye Mosque, their grandeur magnified by the sprawling panoramas of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn. Itinerary Bosphorus cruise Galata Tower Dolmabahce Palace Ciragan Palace Ortaköy Mosque Bosphorus Bridge Beylerbeyi Palace Üsküdar Maiden Tower Topkapi Palace Hagia Sophia Seaside Villas