About this experience
Mysterious and majestic Istanbul is a bridge between Europe and Asia, between traditional East and modern West. During the tour, you will see Eyüp, a district where you can still feel what Istanbul was like before Atatürk and immerse yourself in its fairytale-like Eastern atmosphere.
What to Expect
Eyüp Sultan, Pierre Loti Hill, and View of the Golden Horn
Our journey to discover Istanbul's ancient past begins in the Eyüp district. You will visit the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, the first mosque built by the Turks after the conquest of Constantinople. I will explain why its modest facade differs so much from the interior hall decorated with white marble, show you the fountain and the inner courtyard where Muslims perform ablution before prayer. We will ascend Pierre Loti Hill by cable car, where you will admire the panoramic view of the Golden Horn – the curved inlet leading to the Bosphorus. The hill is named after a French sailor and novelist who loved to come here. You will learn why Pierre Loti was so enchanted by Istanbul and enjoy coffee with sweets at his favorite spot.
Visit to the Rahmi Koç Museum
After relaxing on the hill, we will cross to the other side of the district by boats. Here, you will enter the Rahmi Koç Museum, symbolizing Turkey's industrialization boom. Most of the buildings in this unique complex were constructed during the Ottoman Empire era. You will see the main exhibition of the museum, which includes dozens of car models: from the earliest retro models to modern ones. Among the exhibits of the industrial museum are cars from various brands and countries, boats, and carriages. I will explain how Rahmi Koç was built and its significance in Istanbul's history.
Logistical Details
- Entrance tickets to the museum (15 lira for adults, 6 lira for children) and boat ticket (2 lira) are not included in the tour price
- Optionally, at an additional cost, you can have lunch at a traditional cuisine restaurant
