Asian Side and Beylerbeyi Palace Tour
Explore Istanbul’s Asian side with a visit to Camlica Hill, Turkey’s largest mosque, and the opulent Beylerbeyi Palace. Cross the Bosphorus for a half-day tour of scenic beauty and Ottoman splendor.
Service Provider: ITS
Service Details
(Available Daily Afternoon – Except Mondays)
Escape the bustling streets of the European side and discover the elegance and serenity of Istanbul’s Asian side, where sweeping views, spiritual landmarks, and Ottoman opulence await. This half-day tour blends panoramic scenery, architectural splendor, and imperial history.
Bosphorus Bridge Drive
Begin your journey by crossing the Bosphorus Bridge, which connects Europe and Asia in just minutes. Once the longest suspension bridge outside the U.S., it offers a dramatic symbol of Istanbul’s position between two continents.
Camlica Hill – Panoramic Viewpoint
Ascend to the summit of Camlica Hill, one of the highest points in Istanbul. Enjoy breathtaking views over the Bosphorus Strait, Sea of Marmara, and Princes’ Islands. The hill is a peaceful green oasis offering a rare, wide-angle view of both the Asian and European skylines.
Grand Camlica Mosque
Visit the monumental Grand Camlica Mosque, Turkey’s largest and most modern mosque, opened in 2019. Designed by two female architects, Bahar Mızrak and Hayriye Gül Totu, the mosque combines classical Ottoman and modern styles. It features a museum, art gallery, library, and conference hall — a cultural complex as much as a house of worship.
Beylerbeyi Palace
Continue to the elegant Beylerbeyi Palace, located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus. Built in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdülaziz as a summer residence and guest palace, it reflects the height of late Ottoman luxury. Explore its richly decorated reception halls, glittering with Bohemian crystal chandeliers, Sèvres and Chinese porcelain, and a main salon featuring a fountain inside the room — a symbol of serenity and refinement.
Notable royal guests included Empress Eugénie of France, Shah Nasruddin of Persia, and Grand Duke Nicholas of Russia. After your palace visit, return via scenic coastal roads or the bridge, completing your half-day journey into the refined world of Istanbul’s Asian side.
Tour Highlights
Beylerbeyi Palace, Bosphorus Bridge, Camlica Mosque, Camlica Hill
Why Book This Service
- Cross the Bosphorus Bridge and explore Istanbul’s Asian side in comfort.
- Enjoy panoramic views from the peaceful Camlica Hill.
- Visit the Grand Camlica Mosque, Turkey’s largest modern mosque.
- Tour the luxurious Beylerbeyi Palace, a jewel of late Ottoman architecture.
- Learn from a licensed guide offering rich historical insights.
- Ideal for travelers seeking a balance of scenic, cultural, and imperial highlights.
What's Included
• Museum entrance fees mentioned on the itinerary
• Professional Guidance
• Free pick up and drop off service from your hotel
• Transportation with A/C vehicles
• TURSAB insurance, which covers the costs of services accepted and committed by the travel agency
Please Note
- Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays. This tour is not available that day.
- Modest attire is required at the mosque: women should bring a scarf; knees and shoulders must be covered.
- Photography may be restricted inside the palace.
- This tour involves moderate walking through palace interiors and garden paths.
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off are generally included (check at booking).
- Entrance tickets and guiding are included in most packages unless stated otherwise.
Meeting Point
At Your Hotel
Cancellation Details
Booking can be cancelled up to 3 day(s) before the tour start.
13 reviews for Asian Side and Beylerbeyi Palace Tour
Tour Pictures from Travelers
This tour was a peaceful escape from Istanbul’s bustle. After the calm panorama atop Çamlıca Hill, we visited the Grand Mosque’s quieter side halls where the echo of footsteps resonated beautifully in the marble.
Beylerbeyi Palace surprised us with its hidden corners—small servants’ gardens, secluded prayer rooms, and a charming terrace café overlooking the Bosphorus. We had a calm tea break there, enjoying the cool breeze and peaceful views. Seeing the palace’s kitchen and servant quarters also added depth, reminding us that this majestic place once housed a living, breathing community.
If you want more than just big landmarks—some perspective, calm, and genuine beauty—this tour delivers in every way.
What a great mix of nature, architecture, and history. Çamlıca Hill was peaceful, the Grand Çamlıca Mosque was an architectural gem, and Beylerbeyi Palace was pure luxury. I especially loved the palace gardens overlooking the Bosphorus.
This tour showed me a completely different side of Istanbul. Çamlıca Hill had the best views of both continents, and the Grand Mosque was impressive in size and design. Beylerbeyi Palace amazed me with its luxury and history.
This tour was a perfect blend of breathtaking views and stunning architecture. We began by crossing the Bosphorus Bridge, and the moment we reached Çamlıca Hill, the panorama was jaw-dropping—two continents stretching before us under the morning sun. The grandeur of the Grand Çamlıca Mosque left us in awe with its soaring dome and expansive courtyard.
Our visit to Beylerbeyi Palace felt like stepping into a royal mini Versailles. The intricate porcelain decorations, crystal chandeliers, and the Sultan’s marble terrace overlooking the water were simply magical. The spacious halls and ornate furniture piece by piece told the story of Ottoman luxury. A perfect half-day for anyone who loves panoramic vistas and fine craftsmanship.
A wonderful, well-paced half-day tour. The Bosphorus Bridge crossing was symbolic, the mosque peaceful, and Beylerbeyi Palace felt like a journey through Ottoman elegance. Highly recommend for travelers who enjoy culture and architecture.
A beautiful tour with something for everyone. The highlight for me was Beylerbeyi Palace — less crowded and incredibly beautiful inside. Çamlıca Hill was relaxing, and the mosque visit was inspiring.
Great mix of history and culture, very informative guide.
If you’re looking for a peaceful afternoon with history and amazing views, this is the tour. Çamlıca Hill’s panorama was stunning, and walking through Beylerbeyi Palace felt like stepping into a royal movie set. The Grand Mosque was breathtakingly large yet peaceful.
Une belle découverte des trésors cachés d’Istanbul.
Fantastic afternoon exploring Istanbul’s quieter side. The views from Çamlıca Hill were unforgettable, and the palace was full of surprises — elegant rooms, marble staircases, and amazing art. A great balance of sightseeing and relaxation.