Istanbul Two Continents Tour with Lunch and Bosphorus Cruise





Description
Join our tour to experience the unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views that Istanbul has to offer. Begin your journey at the **Eyüp Sultan Mosque**, a sacred site deeply rooted in the city’s Ottoman heritage. Continue to **Pierre Loti Hill**, where you’ll be captivated by panoramic views of the Golden Horn, a serene escape from the city’s vibrant energy. Cross over to the Asian side to visit the majestic **Beylerbeyi Palace**, an architectural gem showcasing Ottoman elegance, set against the stunning backdrop of the **Bosphorus Strait**. As the tour unfolds, take in the unparalleled beauty of the Bosphorus, where Europe and Asia meet, surrounded by historic landmarks, grand mansions, and iconic bridges. This tour is your gateway to experiencing Istanbul’s timeless charm.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Çamlıca Hill, one of Istanbul's highest points, offers a stunning panoramic view of the city, including both the European and Asian sides, as well as the Bosphorus Strait. Located on the Asian side, this serene spot is surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant gardens, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery, take memorable photos, and relax at charming cafes and tea gardens on the hill. As a highlight of the tour, Çamlıca Hill provides an unparalleled vantage point to experience Istanbul's unique beauty and charm.
Çamlıca Mosque, the largest mosque in Turkey, is a magnificent example of modern Islamic architecture, blending traditional Ottoman and Seljuk styles with contemporary design elements. Located on Çamlıca Hill on the Asian side of Istanbul, the mosque offers breathtaking views of the city and the Bosphorus. Opened in 2019, it can accommodate up to 63,000 worshippers and features stunning domes, intricate calligraphy, and spacious courtyards. Visitors can explore its serene interior, visit the Islamic art gallery, and enjoy the surrounding gardens. A visit to Çamlıca Mosque provides a spiritual and cultural insight into Turkey’s rich heritage.
Beylerbeyi Palace, situated on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus, is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and a symbol of imperial elegance. Built in the 19th century during the reign of Sultan Abdülaziz, this summer residence served as a retreat for Ottoman sultans and a venue for hosting distinguished foreign guests. The palace features a harmonious blend of Western and traditional Ottoman design, with lavishly decorated interiors, intricate chandeliers, and stunning hand-painted ceilings. Surrounded by lush gardens and offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, Beylerbeyi Palace provides visitors with a glimpse into the grandeur of Ottoman royal life.
Eyüp Sultan Mosque, one of the most revered and historically significant mosques in Istanbul, holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors. Located near the Golden Horn, it is built in honor of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a close companion of the Prophet Muhammad and a key figure in Islamic history. The mosque and its surrounding complex, including a sacred tomb (turbe), attract pilgrims seeking spiritual blessings and tranquility. Renowned for its beautiful Ottoman architecture, the mosque features intricate calligraphy, elegant domes, and peaceful courtyards. Visitors often feel a profound sense of spirituality and connection while exploring this historic and cultural gem.
Pierre Loti Hill, named after the famous French novelist Pierre Loti who was inspired by Istanbul’s charm, is one of the city’s most picturesque spots. Located in the Eyüp district, this scenic hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Golden Horn, surrounded by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can reach the hill via a short and enjoyable cable car ride or by walking through the historic Eyüp neighborhood. At the top, there’s a charming café where you can relax with a traditional Turkish tea or coffee while soaking in the stunning views. Pierre Loti Hill is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Istanbul's tranquil beauty away from the bustling city.
The Bosphorus Strait, a natural waterway dividing Istanbul into its European and Asian sides, is one of the city's most iconic and enchanting landmarks. Stretching 32 kilometers, the strait connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, making it a vital route for international trade and a hub of cultural and historical significance. The Bosphorus offers breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline, dotted with historic palaces, grand mansions, and vibrant neighborhoods. Visitors can enjoy its beauty through a scenic boat cruise, witnessing landmarks like the Bosphorus Bridge, Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Rumeli Fortress. The Bosphorus is not only a geographical marvel but also a timeless symbol of Istanbul's unique blend of East and West.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
We offer free pick-up services from hotels located in the following areas: Aksaray, Beyazıt, Laleli, Eminönü, Sirkeci, Cankurtaran, Taksim, Şişli, Cihangir, Beyoğlu, Karaköy, and Tophane. If your hotel is not in these locations, we can still arrange a transfer for you. Please ensure you provide your hotel name when booking this tour. To avoid delays, we kindly ask you to be ready at the designated pick-up location—either at your hotel or a specified address—at the scheduled time.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(8)
If zero was available, I would give it a zero! The tour operator did not show up or answer calls. Hours of our day were wasted! Do not book with Sally Tours. Viator should stop doing business with them!
Istanbul Two Continents Tour with Lunch and Bosphorus Cruise, Lunch was wonderful, we really enjoyed it, everything went well without delay, Istanbul is a pleasant city
23.01.2020 An exciting walking tour of Istanbul was held with guide Alena Denisova. We can describe our excursion as a great walk through the magnificent Istanbul in a circle of friends, everything was so heartfelt and not tense that we did not notice how they found 15 km, it must be said that Alena loves this city itself and talks about it very passionately, visited all the sights in the historical part of the city, especially thank you for lunch in a very cozy cafe on the hill, which opens a panorama to the Bosphorus, I even made a mini-film about this revenge, emotions were overwhelming, standing at the height of the bird's flight, wanted to spread my wings and fly away. Alena just loves Istanbul and wants to come back to this city more and more. And with Alaina, I became very good friends, it only took one day, how open and social she is and a great tour guide. I recommend this guided tour with Alaina, fun, exciting, educational and in a friendly atmosphere. Maximova Natalia, Russia, Yaroslavl
The company is well organized. Helped a lot during the trip. I liked it all. Thank you very much.
this is so far one of the best agencies I have yet seen ! I mean even in my place ( germany ) you don't get such a beautiful service. Definitely recommending it.
With me fixed, it's the first time I've written a review. I prefer a sightseeing holiday, because I did not go to Turkey until October 2019. I was advised to go to Istanbul and get to know him - there is something to see! We were happy with the tour. I wish I'd baited such an amazing city before.
I was quite pleased with this tour. The weather is lucky. For the first stay in Istanbul, very worthy experiences. I recommend it. Istaway travel wish you luck!
Familiarity with Turkey decided to start with Istanbul, as not lovers of lying on the beach. And getting to know Istanbul decided to start with a tour. The impressions are MOST POSITIVE, even enthusiastic ... at times it felt like they were caught in an oriental fairy tale. The tour is interesting and rich...Still impressed....