Add to favorites In favorites
Activities in Istanbul

Estambul Byzantine & Christian Tour + Bosphorus Cruise

On this tour, we’ll travel back to the past of Constantinople to discover its ancient walls and the most colorful neighborhoods of Istanbul. We’ll also sail along the waters of the Bosphorus aboard a luxury cruise. A must-do!

On this tour, we’ll travel back to the past of Constantinople to discover its ancient walls and the most colorful neighborhoods of Istanbul. We’ll also sail along the waters of the Bosphorus aboard a luxury cruise. A must-do!

Tour Details

After picking you up from your hotel, we’ll head to the impressive Walls of Constantinople. Built in the 4th century, these defenses were impregnable for centuries. We’ll learn about their strategic importance while enjoying unique panoramic views of the city.

Our next stop will be Yedikule Fortress, known as the Fortress of the Seven Towers. We’ll enter its famous dungeons and admire the Golden Gate, the monumental entrance through which Byzantine emperors made their triumphant entries after battle.

We’ll continue the route by visiting the Kariye Museum, or Church of the Holy Savior in Chora. Here, we’ll marvel at its Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, considered among the most beautiful and best preserved in the world.

Later, we’ll immerse ourselves in the multicultural atmosphere of the Fener and Balat neighborhoods. As we stroll through their labyrinthine cobbled streets, we’ll discover the Church of St. Stephen of the Bulgars, an architectural gem built of iron, and the Church of St. Mary of Blachernae, famous for its sacred spring. We’ll also visit the Church of St. George (Aya Yorgi), a peaceful place that safeguards centuries of Orthodox heritage.

To end the day in the most relaxing way, we’ll board a luxury boat for a Bosphorus cruise. As we sail between 2 continents, we’ll admire from the water iconic monuments such as the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Rumeli Fortress, and the majestic bridges connecting Europe and Asia. During the cruise, we’ll serve tea and Turkish coffee along with some snacks.

Before finishing the journey, we’ll make a stop in the charming village of Kanlıca, on the Asian shore. There, you’ll have the opportunity to try its famous traditional yogurt before returning to the port.

Finally, we’ll take you back to your hotel after approximately 7 hours of tour.

View complete description

More Information

Duration

7 hours.

Language

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English. The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Included

Hotel pickup and drop–off

Transport by bus or minibus

English–speaking guide

Boat ride on the Bosphorus

Tea and coffee during the boat ride

Snacks

Not included

Food and drinks

Admission to the Church of the Holy Savior in Chora: 20 (US$ 23.57) per person

When to book?

You can book up until 12 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Sustainability conditions

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

    A - This activity requires a minimum of 1 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Bosphorus Tours Corporate name: Hevra Turizm ve Ins. Dis Tic.Ltd. Sti. Registered Office: Bindirdirek mah. Goktas Sok. n8. Cemberlitas Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): 4620374354 Contact information Email: info@bosphorustour.com Phone: 00 90 554 797 2646

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Log in to rate the reviews of other travelers

Don't have an account? Register here
Select a list of favourites
  • Create a new list