Top Istanbul Outdoor Activities

Istanbul is a city set on the water and to fully experience its beauty and diversity you need to get out onto the Bosphorus Strait. On this ninety-minute cruise you’ll see both the European and Asian halves of Istanbul, enjoy views of many picturesque mosques and palaces, and learn more about Istanbul’s centuries-long history through an audio guide app available in ten languages.

Prepare to be awed by Istanbul’s magnificent architecture, rich history, and eclectic bazaars as you discover the unmissable highlights of the Old City on this 1-, 2-, or 3-day private tour. Marvel over the glorious Hagia Sophia, learn how the Blue Mosque earned its famous nickname, and see the ancient Basilica Cistern. Tour Topkapi Palace to gain an insight into the lavish lifestyles of the Ottoman sultans and their harem, and browse the legendary Grand Bazaar, where you find everything from carpets to Turkish delight. Flexible daily itineraries: Day 1 - Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome Square, German Fountain, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar. Day 2 - Bosphorus Cruise by Public Ferry, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Cicek Passage, Galata Tower (from outside), Spice Market. Day 3 - Suleymaniye Mosque, Fener and Balat Districts, St. Stephen Church (Iron Church), Pierre Lotti Panoramic Hill by Cable Car, Rahmi Koc Museum (or alternative sites).

Make the most of an evening in Istanbul with a sparkling 5-hour dinner cruise experience on the Bosphorus Strait. Admire spectacular views of Istanbul’s beautifully illuminated palaces, mosques and Bosphorus bridges, and enjoy a delicious 3-course dinner with select drinks. Glittering entertainment from belly dancers, whirling dervishes and other artistes is included, along with hotel pickup and drop-off. Upgrade to an unlimited alcoholic drinks package if you wish.

The Bosphorus Strait divides Europe from Asia, and a Bosphorus cruise is a signature Istanbul experience. This round-trip yacht cruise, with live commentary and fun facts from an experienced guide, covers all the classic waterfront sights—bridges, palaces, the Maiden’s Tower, the Rumeli Fortress, and more. But it also includes a stop for coffee and snacks in the characterful Kanlıca neighborhood and onboard Wi-Fi so you can share as you go.

Enjoy stunning views of historic Istanbul from the water during this narrated boat tour down the Bosphorus. Cover many of the city’s top attractions from the scenic strait, passing highlights like Galata Tower, Dolmabahce and Topkapi palaces, and Rumeli Fortress. You’ll also head to Asia and back, with a get-down stop on Istanbul’s Anatolian side and free time to explore on your own.

Instead of driving around Istanbul all day in a stuffy tour bus, discover the city’s beauty in style on this relaxing sunset cruise down the Bosphorus, the waterway that marks the border between Asian Turkey and European Turkey. From the open-air deck of your luxury yacht, see riverside landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Ortaköy Mosque and the Rumeli Fortress, all lit by the beautiful dusk light.

Fit all of Istanbul's attractions at the top of your bucket list into one packed day, with the help of an expert local guide. Stroll Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, brimming with iconic buildings and storied streets. Tour the Blue Mosque, one of the most important sites in the Muslim world. Delve into history of the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Istanbul Hippodrome as well as the 'sunken palace' of Basilica Cistern. And you won’t want to miss the and the bustling Grand Bazaar or savory 3-course lunch.

Escape from the busy streets of Istanbul for a full-day excursion to the Princes Islands. Cruise past Topkapi Palace, Leanders Tower and Uskudar, then glide across the Marmara Sea to reach the islands of Heybeliada and Buyukada. Learn about the princes of the Byzantine Empire who once relaxed on these islands as you take a horse-drawn carriage tour. Have lunch at a fish restaurant and enjoy free time to explore on your own, taking in the beaches and historic sites at your leisure before returning to Istanbul.

Experience Istanbul’s timeless sights on a full-day tour of the city’s stunning historic places. Listen for the ancient echoes of pounding hooves and charioteers at Hippodrome Square and spot the distinctive tiles of the Blue Mosque. See the Byzantine mosaics and minarets of Hagia Sophia, then follow in the footsteps of powerful sultans, courtiers, and generals at Topkapi Palace. Finish your tour in the vibrant Grand Bazaar, browsing bright displays of handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs.

Arguably the most popular historical attraction in the city. Come to the museum at your chosen time and get essential information from a guide.

Make your Istanbul adventure totally unique with a 1- 2- or 3 day private sightseeing tour. Opt for a single day and see the whole of the Old City, plus the Grand Bazaar. Extend the tour to include a second day and visit the Spice Bazaar, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim, and Istiklal Street, plus a Bosphorus cruise. Please note that your guide is happy to alter the itinerary completely to accommodate your personal interests.

Explore the top attractions in Sultanahmet (the old city) on a full-day tour with a knowledgeable guide. Take in UNESCO World Heritage sites and famous monuments in Istanbul including the stunning Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Hippodrome. Then follow your guide through the Grand Bazaar, browsing the shops of hundreds of vendors with an array of textiles, jewelry, perfumes, spices and more. Your guide shares the long history of Istanbul with your small group, which is limited to 10 participants to ensure a more intimate experience.

Take the time to explore Istanbul’s most magnificent sites at your own pace with a full-day, guided tour of the city's historic places and landmarks. Follow in the footsteps of charioteers and Roman soldiers at the Hippodrome, then see the arcing tiles of the Blue Mosque. Listen for the whispers of courtiers and sultans inside Topkapi Palace, then see Hagia Sophia’s stunning murals and minarets. Browse the vibrant displays at the iconic Grand Bazaar, with inside tips on the best places to find carpets, handicrafts and local souvenirs.

Experience Istanbul like a pro, when you buy a combination ticket for the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern. Upon arrival at each location, your guide escorts you past the long queue for fast entrance (except at the Hagia Sophia) After a brief overview, you’re ready to explore at your own pace. Enjoy the freedom to see the three world-famous attractions in any order that works for you. (Note: Cistern admission at 11am only.)

Behold the magnificent Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque on this 3.5-hour small-group guided walking tour of Istanbul’s best monuments. You will delve into the complex culture of Istanbul as you discover its famous monuments intertwined history. Not only will you see the beauty of Hagia Sophia Museum and Blue Mosque, but explore the Hippodrome of Constantinople and the German Fountain. People are limited to 15 on this tour, so you can receive more personalized attention from your guide.

Skip the line and listen from your guide the story of The Basilica Cistern - is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. Venture into the underground palace that is filled ancient wonders such as the Medusa Pillar Bases, and the Hen’s Eye Column. This sunken palace has so much to hold that they shot scenes of Hollywood movies in it. Exploring had never been this adventurous!

See Istanbul’s most notable landmarks and secret backstreets on this small-group walking tour. Learn about the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman history from an English-speaking guide. Pass by Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar. On this tour, learn about the attractions, but not venture inside. Discover where locals eat and drink.

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner as straddle two continents on a 4-hour dinner cruise in Istanbul.The leisurely nighttime route along the Bosphorus takes you past the most iconic landmarks of both the Asian and European sides of the city. While you dine, enjoy live belly dancing, folk dancing, and whirling dervish performances. Afterwards, you’re free to join in the dancing.

Discover Istanbul on a full-day tour that travels on foot and public transit to historic landmarks and local cultural hubs. Start by touring the Hippodrome, Serefiye Cistern and Grand Bazaar, then take a break for Turkish coffee, pastry and hookah (tobacco pipe). Visit the book and paper market Sahaflar Çarşısı, which started in the Byzantine era, then tour Istanbul University. Continue to Suleymaniye Mosque, the Spice Bazaar and the Church of St George before winding through the districts of Fener and Balat — the old Greek and Jewish neighborhoods.

Explore the heart of Istanbul in just a half day on this comprehensive tour with a small group. Traveling with a group of just 15 people or fewer means you'll get personalized attention from your guide and the chance to ask questions. Highlights include Sultanahmet Square, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar.

Discover one of Istanbul’s most renowned landmarks during this Hagia Sophia history tour. Explore the mosque with a professional guide to learn about its history and the significance it played in daily life as a gathering place for religion, politics, and art during the Byzantine era. You’ll also discover insights into the architecture of the building and its golden domes.

Enjoy stunning, sunset views of Istanbul’s top heritage sites, all from the comfort of a luxury yacht. During this exclusive, private Bosphorus cruise, you’ll sail down both European and Asian sides of the renowned strait, covering highlights like 19th-century Dolmabahce Palace, imposing Rumeli Fortress, and the iconic towers of Maiden and Galata. Guided tours include complimentary refreshments, including fruit and homemade lemonade.

Experience the finest attractions in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district during this private, guided day tour of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Marvel at these famous monuments alongside your expert guide who will give you individual attention on this private voyage.

Go back in time to the Byzantine times when Istanbul was Constantinople and enjoy an 8-hour small-group guided tour of monasteries and churches. On this tour, uncover the impressive history of Christian sanctuaries that peaked during the reign of the Byzantine Empire. Visit Kariye Museum, once Chora Church, and ogle its frescoes and mosaics. See mosques converted from churches such as Pammakaristos and Pantocrator. Immerse with your guide to discover the history of palatial remains plus enjoy lunch included on this tour. Numbers on this small-group tour are limited to 15 people for a more intimate experience.