Bosphorus Strait Cruise with Rumeli Fortress or Kücüksu Palace Tour

Start your day with a hotel pickup, and travel to Kasımpaşa port to board your sightseeing boat. Once on board simply settle into your seat on deck to soak up the views. After a quick introduction from your onboard guide, cruise along the waters of the glorious Bosphorus Strait, the famous stretch of water that splits Istanbul onto the European and Asian continents.

Have your camera ready to capture photos of legendary Istanbul landmarks such as Bosphorus Bridge, a contemporary-looking suspension bridge that spans the water, and the 14th-century Galata Tower that dominates its surroundings. As you cruise, learn about the city and its sights from your guide’s commentary. Hear how Dolmabahçe Palace was one of the last buildings to be built during the Ottoman Empire, and learn about the sultans who spent summer vacations at nearby Rumeli Fortress.

Dock on the Asian side of the Bosphorus, and hop out for a visit to Küçüksu Palace. The historical building was built in the mid-19th century for one of the city’s extravagant sultans and its lack of size is more than made up for by its grandeur. Ogle the palace’s gilded interiors and furnishings lined with gold while exploring with your guide. Küçüksu Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays, so if your tour falls on those days, the visit will be replaced with a tour of Rumeli Fortress.

Return to your boat after your tour, and cruise over the water to Eminönü, a pier near one of the city’s spice bazaars. Step back onto dry land, where your tour ends.