$79
Private Bosphorus Cruise by Private Boat After meeting your guide on the pier, set off on a short orientation drive through the modern city of Istanbul, crossing the Galata Bridge en route to the Golden Horn. The impressive Suleymaniye Mosque, built by Turkish architect Sinan and dedicated to Sultan Suleyman The Magnificent, can be viewed en route. At the Golden Horn, take a short walk to the cruise boat station where your private boat will be waiting for your enchanted trip on the Bosphorus. While your guide paints a picture of the history of Byzantium, Constantinople, and Istanbul, you will sail past Dolmabahce and Ciragan Palaces, monuments to the Sultans of days gone by. Glide under the modern Bosphorus Bridge and past the historical Beylerbeyi Palace. Look out on the Anatolian Fortress built in 1393 or the European fortress (1452) and picture a city that was Europe's largest and wealthiest through most of the middle ages. After cruising between Asia and Europe, you will continue your tour with a visit to Istanbul's famous Grand Bazaar area where you will have the opportunity to see a demonstration on Turkish Carpets and time for shopping. After you visit the Bazaar, you will be returned to the pier. Please note: The covered area of the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday; a visit to the Spice Market will be substituted.
Once called Constantinople, the former capital of the Byzantine Empire is the only city in the world to straddle two continents: Europe and Asia. This is the Golden Horn, the door between East and West, and your first vision of its domes and minarets is unforgetable. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Sultan treasures in Topkapi Palace await - as does the Grand Bazaar, laden with carpets, beaten brass and spices from afar.
Comfortable dress and flat-soled walking shoes are recommended. Some guests may want to bring a light jacket or sweater for the cruise portion. Sunglasses and sunscreen are suggested.
270 minutes