Classic Istanbul Day Tour
Discover Istanbul's most iconic monuments in a single day with a private English-speaking guide. We start at the heart of the Byza
We pick you up and head to the private pier. Boarding the yacht and a welcome with Turkish tea. Your guide introduces the route while the captain starts the engines and we leave the pier with the Bosphorus stretching out ahead of us.
20 minWe sail south past Dolmabahçe Palace (white marble seen from the water), Çırağan Palace (now an ultra-luxury hotel), the Ortaköy Mosque beneath the first bridge and the most expensive yalıs (wooden Ottoman mansions) in the world. Your guide tells you the story of each building.
30 minWe reach the imposing Rumeli Hisarı Fortress, built by Mehmed the Conqueror in just 4 months in 1452 to prepare for the conquest of Constantinople. We pass under the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, with views of the Asian fortress opposite.
20 minWe follow the Asian coast past Beylerbeyi Palace (the sultans' summer residence) and the little village of Kanlıca, famous for its yoghurt. Turkish meze are served on board as we sail.
30 minWe drop anchor at a strategic point in the strait to watch the sun set over the Istanbul skyline. The domes and minarets stand out against the golden sky as the city lights begin to come on. The perfect moment for photos, or simply to enjoy.
Read more about Sunset over the Bosphorus 30 minWe sail back to the pier with Istanbul fully lit up. The palaces, mosques and bridges reflected in the dark waters of the Bosphorus make an unforgettable sight. Farewell at the pier.
Read more about The illuminated Bosphorus and return 40 minIt includes: Private yacht with captain (3 hours); Licensed English-speaking guide on board; Turkish aperitif: meze, seasonal fruit and nuts; Drinks: tea, coffee, water and soft drinks; One-way transfer to the pier. Not included: Alcoholic drinks (you may bring your own); Tips for the captain; Return transfer (can be arranged).
The tour starts at 17:00 and lasts about 3 hours. Meeting point: Kuruçeşme or Bebek pier (to be confirmed depending on availability).
This is a private tour: just you and your group with the guide (maximum 10 people), never shared with other tourists. That means the pace can be adapted and we can go deeper into the topics that interest you most.
Yes, subject to availability. We recommend booking at least 24–48 hours in advance to secure your date, but we can often arrange last-minute tours.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. The price is confirmed in a free, no-obligation quote before you book.
Of course. The guide adapts the pace and explanations for families. Young children get free or reduced entry at many sites in Türkiye; the age limit varies from one site to another.
What you'll see, explained in depth: history, tips and prices for each stop around Istanbul.
A guide to cruising the Bosphorus in Istanbul: public and private options, prices, what to see from the boat and the bes
Kuzguncuk is one of Istanbul's prettiest neighbourhoods and a favourite location for Turkish TV dramas. Five things to s
A restored Ottoman shipyard on the Golden Horn, with steam engines, vintage cars, aircraft and boat trips from its own p
The little Neo-Baroque mosque beneath the Bosphorus Bridge is one of the most beautiful in Türkiye. How to get there, wh
Explore more day tours with a private English-speaking guide.
Discover Istanbul's most iconic monuments in a single day with a private English-speaking guide. We start at the heart of the Byza
Discover the Asian side of Istanbul on a walking tour with the ferry included: three neighbourhoods, each with its own personality
A lively tour of the most authentic Istanbul, using public transport like a local. From the fragrant Spice Bazaar to the panoramic