About this experience
On my tour, you will see the diverse Istanbul and encounter the contrasts of this city. We will visit the bohemian district of Etiler, where movie stars and show business celebrities live, visit an observation deck with the best view of the Bosphorus. We will walk through the colorful streets of Besiktas, try waffles while relaxing on the Bebek waterfront. Crossing the bay by ferry, you will hear the history of the Bosphorus bridges and the legend of the Maiden's Tower. And in the Asian part of the city, you will peek into an ancient mosque built by the greatest architect of the Ottoman Empire.
What to Expect
Luxury District
Immerse yourself in Istanbul chic by visiting the elite Etiler neighborhood - only very wealthy people can afford real estate here. Walking through this area, we will approach the American University, surrounded by lush plane trees. Here is an observation deck with an excellent view of the Bosphorus. You will see the Rumeli Fortress and learn about the fall of Constantinople and what is hidden behind the ominous name 'strangled throat'.
Contrasts of Istanbul
The prestigious Besiktas area is spread out on the green hills of the European part of Istanbul. The juxtaposition of historical and modern buildings and the colorful narrow streets amaze and astonish. Descending to the water, we will reach the Bebek pier - its luxury and beauty have won the hearts of Turkish series directors. Enjoying the splash of the waves, you will hear a story about the past and architecture of Istanbul and taste soft Turkish waffles with toppings.
Visiting the Other Shore
By ferry, we will head to the Asian part of the city. We will feed seagulls and drink Turkish tea on the deck of our ferry, admiring the Dolmabahce Palace and mosque on the Ortakoy waterfront. I will tell you the fateful legend of the Maiden's Tower, about the Bosphorus bridges, and how the Ottoman battles took place. On the other shore, you will stroll through the Uskudar district, the most populous and reflective of the spirit of Istanbul. You will admire the Asian architecture of the houses and Ottoman architecture of the mosques, and then visit the oldest mosque built in the 16th century by the greatest architect Mimar Sinan.
Organizational Details
- Included in the price: ferry ride, waffles, tea, and bagel
- Parents traveling with children are required to inform about the child's age before booking
- In winter, the ferry ride continues, and you can comfortably sit on the heated lower deck
- The tour will be conducted by me or one of our team's guides
