Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise & Dolmabahçe Palace Tour – Small Group [5512166P7]
Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise & Dolmabahçe Palace Tour – Small Group
This experience offers an exclusive private yacht cruise along the Bosphorus, providing panoramic views of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Travelers will see historic waterfront mansions, grand palaces, civil architectural gems, and legendary sites like the Maiden’s Tower, Rumeli Fortress from the water and cross under both Bosphorus bridges as Europe and Asia unfold on either side. The tour includes guided, skip-the-line access to Dolmabahçe Palace. Designed for small groups of 2 to 8 people, it ensures a relaxed pace and personalized storytelling. A complimentary wine tasting on board is also included as a refined gesture from your guide. Ideal for culture seekers, first-time visitors with limited time, and those looking for an insightful and comfortable exploration of the city.
This experience offers an exclusive private yacht cruise along the Bosphorus, providing panoramic views of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Travelers will see historic waterfront mansions, grand palaces, civil architectural gems, and legendary sites like the Maiden’s Tower, Rumeli Fortress from the water and cross under both Bosphorus bridges as Europe and Asia unfold on either side. The tour includes guided, skip-the-line access to Dolmabahçe Palace. Designed for small groups of 2 to 8 people, it ensures a relaxed pace and personalized storytelling. A complimentary wine tasting on board is also included as a refined gesture from your guide. Ideal for culture seekers, first-time visitors with limited time, and those looking for an insightful and comfortable exploration of the city.
ADDITIONAL INFO
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Not recommended for travelers with serious walking difficulties, vertigo, or balance disorders.
- Moderate mobility required (boarding/disembarking the yacht and walking inside the palace).
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
INCLUDED
- Engaging Storytelling and Historical Insights
- Complimentary Wine Tasting on board (gift from your guide).
- Skip-the-line access to Dolmabahçe Palace
- Professional Tourist Guide
NOT INCLUDED
- Dolmabahçe Palace Tickets (Approx. 1500₺ per person, payable on site)
- Luxury Yacht fee (10.000₺) paid on-site to operator. Intro provided after booking confirmation.
- Food and Drinks
- Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off (Not included, but assistance can be provided upon request.)
- Gratuities Are Not Included But Are Always Appreciated
CANCELLATION POLICY
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
ITINERARY
- The Dolmabahçe Palace is a masterpiece of Ottoman opulence, blending Neoclassical, Baroque, and traditional Ottoman styles along the Bosphorus shoreline. Completed in 1856, it was the administrative center of the late empire and the residence of the last Ottoman sultans. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, also spent his final days here, adding to its deep national significance.
- Spend around two unforgettable hours cruising along the Bosphorus, where grand palaces, elegant waterfront mansions (yalıs), historic fortresses, majestic bridges, and more unfold before your eyes. This scenic journey offers a unique perspective on Istanbul’s rich architectural and cultural heritage from the water.
- Once an imperial palace, now a luxury hotel, this structure reflects the last flourish of royal life in Ottoman Istanbul. Its Neo-Baroque style adds to the grandeur of the Bosphorus shore.
- Ortaköy Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Mosque) A blend of Baroque and Ottoman architecture, this picturesque mosque sits beneath the Bosphorus Bridge. It’s one of the most photographed sites in Istanbul.
- Opened in 1973, this was the first bridge to connect Europe and Asia. Cruising beneath it is an unforgettable way to feel the city’s unique geography.
- Rumeli Fortress built by Sultan Mehmed II before the conquest of Constantinople, this fortress guards the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. Its massive stone walls still echo the spirit of conquest.
- Bebek Coastline A scenic blend of nature and urban charm, Bebek is one of Istanbul’s most elite neighborhoods. Its elegant waterfront homes line the coast gracefully.
- Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (Second Bosphorus Bridge) Completed in 1988, this second major bridge was designed to relieve traffic flow through the city. Passing under it reveals the calm northern stretch of the Bosphorus.
- Küçüksu Pavilion A summer retreat for Ottoman sultans, this charming pavilion stands out with its European-inspired design. Though smaller than a palace, it radiates royal elegance.
- Kandilli Mansions Some of the most exquisite mansions on the Asian side are located here. These waterside residences belonged to elite Ottoman families.
- Kuleli Military High School With its neoclassical façade, this structure is an iconic part of the Bosphorus silhouette. It represents a long-standing tradition of military education since the 19th century.
- Beylerbeyi Palace A refined summer residence for Ottoman sultans and foreign dignitaries. This palace adds to the rich architectural narrative of the Asian shore.
- Maiden’s Tower Wrapped in legends and romance, this iconic tower sits at the meeting point of continents. It’s one of Istanbul’s most cherished and mystical symbols.
