Istanbul Platinum Combo Tour

Cruise on a private boat to see the Bosphorus, one of the most beautiful sights in the world and explore the heart of the old city of Istanbul. From the bus, see Golden Horn, the arm of the Bosphorus and a natural harbor of the historical peninsula separating the old and the new parts of Istanbul where the first colonies settled during the Byzantine era - the residential area for Byzantine Jews, Italian traders and other non-muslim minorities. Drive along the traces of history at Balat, viewing the Metal Church of St. Stephen the Bulgarian, the Jewish Hospital (Or-Ahayim), the Fener Orthodox Patriarchate and the 22 km. long Byzantine City Walls - the strongest fortification of the middle ages. Check out the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) with its mystical smells and different aromas of various spices. Visit shops selling fruits, vegetables, fish, flowers and more. On your cruise, you will pass through the waterway separating Europe and Asia, with the possibility to take photographs of marble palaces and ancient wooden villas of Ottoman architecture next to modern residential and luxury apartments. From the boat, you will see Rumeli Fortress, a historical armament and unique example of military architecture built by the Conqueror to control and protect the Bosphorus.After lunch at a typical Turkish restaurant, visit Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Mohammed, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy and much more. Visit the Sultan Tombs, the five tombs of Ottoman Sultans within the graveyard at Hagia Sophia. The ceramic panels here are the most beautiful examples of the 16th century with purple, red, green and blue flower motives. Prince robes and a small piece from the Kaaba covers are displayed on the sarcophagi. Learn all about these from your professional guide!