Half Day Morning Bosphorus Tour and Spice Market
Explore the Spice Market and cruise the Bosphorus on this scenic morning tour. Includes a panoramic Golden Horn drive and ends in Sultanahmet or Taksim. Días de tour en español: lunes y sábado
Service Provider: She Tours
Service Details
Start your day with a scenic and cultural journey through Istanbul’s historic heart and iconic waterways. This half-day tour is the perfect introduction to the city’s majestic views, rich aromas, and timeless beauty.
City Walls of Constantinople (Drive-By)
Begin with a panoramic drive along the ancient City Walls, originally built in the 5th century by Emperor Theodosius II. These formidable stone walls once encircled Constantinople and protected the Byzantine capital from invaders for centuries.
Golden Horn Drive (Drive-By)
Continue along the shores of the Golden Horn, a natural harbor that has shaped the city’s history and culture. Pass historic neighborhoods, mosques, and harbors as your guide shares insights into the area’s strategic and cultural significance.
Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar)
Arrive at the vibrant Spice Market, one of Istanbul’s most colorful and aromatic attractions. Built in the 17th century, it offers a dazzling array of spices, Turkish delights, teas, dried fruits, and local goods. Enjoy time to stroll through its lively stalls and shop like a local.
Bosphorus Cruise by Boat
Board a comfortable boat for a guided cruise along the Bosphorus, the legendary strait that separates Europe and Asia. Sail past the elegant waterfront palaces, grand mosques, and iconic landmarks that line both shores. From the deck, admire highlights such as:
• Dolmabahçe Palace
• Ortaköy Mosque
• Rumeli Fortress
• Bosphorus Bridge
• Historic Ottoman mansions and charming fishing villages
Your guide will point out the sights and share the stories behind Istanbul’s spectacular skyline.
Tour Highlights
Maiden’s Tower, Rumeli Fortress, Walls of Constantinople, Dolmabahce Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, Bosphorus, Bosphorus Bridge, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, Taksim Square, Spice Bazaar
Why Book This Service
- Experience Istanbul’s most iconic waterway, the Bosphorus, by boat.
- Discover the Spice Market’s vibrant colors and fragrances.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Horn and ancient city walls.
- Perfect for travelers with limited time in the city.
- Includes expert narration from a licensed guide throughout.
- Ideal morning activity ending in central Istanbul for further exploration.
What's Included
- Hotel pick up by air-conditioned non-smoking tour coaches
- Entrance fees
- Professional licensed tour guide
- Service charges & local taxes
Please Note
- This is a half-day morning tour that ends in Sultanahmet or Taksim; no return hotel transfer is provided.
- The Spice Bazaar may be closed on religious holidays.
- The cruise is conducted on a shared boat with live or recorded commentary.
- Operates in all weather conditions; boats have indoor and outdoor seating.
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended for the market visit.
Meeting Point
At Your Hotel
Cancellation Details
Booking can be cancelled up to 3 day(s) before the tour start.
12 reviews for Half Day Morning Bosphorus Tour and Spice Market
Tour Pictures from Travelers
Muy buena experiencia por la mañana. El paseo en bote estuvo perfecto y el mercado ofreció muchas opciones para hacer compras y degustar dulces.
Crucero matutino muy relajante. La brisa marina fue perfecta y el guía explicó la historia de los monumentos. El bazar de especias maravilloso.
Small group, big views. The cruise under the Bosphorus Bridge was highlight-worthy, and the market had a great selection of teas and spices.
Loved the boat cruise under the clear morning sky. The guide shared history of the bridges, and the Spice Market stop gave me plenty of time to explore and sample Turkish tea.
Smooth start with prompt hotel pickup. The morning breeze on the Bosphorus was refreshing, and the charming spice market stroll afterward was delightful with vivid colors and aromas!
Excellent mix of sightseeing and local culture. The Bosphorus cruise was relaxing, and exploring the Spice Bazaar afterward felt immersive. Took home some saffron.
Perfect half-day experience! We glided past Ottoman waterfront mansions, caught fresh sea air, and finished with vibrant spice stalls. The timing was just right.
Comfortable boat, friendly crew, and informative guide. The morning light made the Bosphorus glimmer, and the Spice Market’s sweets area was a real treat.
Morning light on the mosque silhouettes was magical. The guide pointed out landmarks, and the Spice Market gave us free time to shop for pistachio delights.
Well-paced cruise and market visit. The spices smelled amazing, and the salty sea air on the ride was unforgettable. Great for morning sightseers.