All Istanbul 1-Day Tours and Trips
The Best 1-day Trips in Istanbul with 11 Reviews
Most Popular
Bursa Day Tour (Snow Hill Tour) - 1 day
4
Start your day with a pickup from your European-side Istanbul hotel, and travel to the port where your ferry awaits. Cruise south across the Sea of Marmara to Yalova, and then continue your journey by air-conditioned minivan. After just over two hours of traveling, arrive into Bursa, the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire.
Get to know Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, on a day trip from Istanbul! With a private guide at your side, travel by minivan and ferry to the city and then visit some of its landmark monuments. Gaze in awe at the colorful grandeur of the Green Mosque, and then learn of the city as an Ottoman-era silk powerhouse on a trip to Bursa Silk Market and the Koza Han building. After lunch, ride to the top of Mt Olympus (Snow Hill) by cable car and some impressive city views.
Ottoman Empire was one of the largest empires in the history. Bursa was its first capital. The city that is settled on the northwestern slopes of Mount Uludag is known as "Yesil Bursa" (meaning "Green Bursa") from its beautiful parks and gardens located throughout the city. This fourth largest city of Turkey is also known for its peaches, chestnuts, and silk industry.
Departure by ferry-boat via Yalova, enjoying the lovely countryside view. Drive to Bursa, former Ottoman Capital and lunch of famous "Kebap of Alexander The Great". Climb to Uludag, the legendary Mount Olympos, by Teleferik (Cable Car), visit to Ulucami (Grand Mosque), the Green Mosque and the Green Mausoleum, the old Silk Market in the Covered Bazaar. Late evening return to Istanbul and transfer to hotels.
The city is frequently cited as "Green Bursa" in a reference to the beautiful parks and gardens located across its urban tissue, as well as to the vast forests in rich variety that extend in its surrounding region. The city is synonymous with the mountain Uludağ which towers behind the city core and which is also a famous ski resort. The mausoleums of early Ottoman sultans are located in Bursa and the numerous edifices built throughout the Ottoman period constitute the city's main landmarks. The surrounding fertile plain, its thermal baths, several interesting museums, notably a rich museum of archaeology, and a rather orderly urban growth are further principal elements that complete Bursa's overall picture.
Cruise
Istanbul Princes Island Tour - 1 day
Explore Büyükada, the largest of Turkey’s Princes’ Islands, on this full-day trip from Istanbul! Cruise across the Sea of Marmara, watching the sights of Istanbul slip from view, and then explore the pedestrianized island in the best possible way – by horse-drawn carriage! Hear the history of this laid-back island from your expert local guide and then spend time at leisure, perhaps relaxing on its beaches, before returning to Istanbul.
PHAETON RIDE, SPLENDID HOTEL, WOODEN HOUSES Büyükada, literally “Big Island” in Turkish, is the original Princes' Island, and the largest and most populated of the Princes’ Islands. Büyükada was used as an exile destination and as a monastery region during the Byzantine Christian period. During the Byzantium history the island was also used as a prison for those who were opposing the Emperor. It was Büyükada where the Byzantine empresses Irene and Zoe and Anna Dalassena were sent on....
Take the ferry to one of the Princes' Islands, Buyukada (Big Island) which is a quiet sea front town and summer holiday escape from the city. Leaving the Golden Horn by ferry, you will round Sarayburnu (Seraglio Point), the headland on which the domes and minarets of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque can be seen. We will pass four islands with their charming old Ottoman houses and finally reach Buyukada, the largest of the islands. Upon arrival to the island, you will see the lavish Ottoman mansions and other beautiful Victorian summer villas around the island .
We will take a tour of the island by Phaeton (horse and cart) and will pass elegant old wooden mansions and beautiful natural scenery. you can enjoy a delicious lunch in a cozy sea-side fish restaurant and relax looking back at the domes and minarets among skyscrapers of modern Istanbul's skyline. This a perfect day for relaxing and enjoying one of Istanbul's residents' favorite summer retreats. Return by ferry and drop off to hotel or port.
City sightseeing
Tour 3 - Byzantine & Ottoman Relics - 1 day
Tour of "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.
Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. (Entrance ticket is not included)
Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets,
built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world
with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir.
(Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
Lunch at a Turkish Restaurant.
Topkapı Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultans exhibiting imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics
of Prophet Mohammed, kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons, calligraphy section etc. Live guide commentary is not allowed in special sections. (Harem is not included in the program)
Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine). It was also the second largest church in İstanbul after Hagia Sophia. It’s a typical Byzantine structure with its materials and architecture, was built on the site of an old temple in 330.
Walking tours
Istanbul private custom tour: 1 - 1 day
Our guide takes you from your hotel/seaport with private vehicle to visit most visited places of istanbul.
Discover the extraordinary sights of Istanbul according to your own itinerary with a private guide for 1 to 5 days.
Straddling 2 continents on the Bosphorus Straits, Istanbul was the capital of the Roman Empire and later Ottoman Empire. Today it’s the largest city in Turkey, and one of the most populous cities in the world with about 15 million inhabitants.
Choose the attractions you want to see according to your own schedule, and avoid getting lost in the crowd. Guides can be booked for 1, 2 ,3,4 or 5 days,
Must-see monuments include the iconic Blue Mosque, former mosque of the Hagia Sophia, and stunning subterranean Basilica Cistern. Soak up the exciting atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, and the enticing aromas of the Spice Market. Learn the history of Istanbul at Ottoman palaces, such as Dolmabahce Palace, and the former residence of the sultans at Topkapi Palace.
Go to the imperial Suleymaniye Mosque, or admire the 17th-century Yeni Cami (New Mosque). See the Medieval Galata Tower in the Karaköy quarter, or the Byzantine frescoes of the Chora Museum. Explore some of Istanbul’s fabled neighborhoods, such as Taksim, and wander down busy Istiklal Street. Enjoy picturesque views from Pierre Lottie Hill. Discover the remains of the old city walls, or go to the Archaeology Museum to see ancient Islamic art and Roman artifacts.
These are just a few of the things you can do on your tour. A guide will be provided in the language of your choice, with help pre-booking skip-the-line tickets to the most popular attractions on request for added convenience.
At the end of the tour we drop you back to your hotel/seaport.
Sightseeing Tours
Troy Experience Group Tour - 1 day
This 1 day tour, starts and ends in Istanbul, Turkey. This is a full day tour starting and ending in Istanbul. It visits ancient Troy of Helen and Paris fame and scene of Homer's 'The Iliad', the battle of Troy and the Trojan Horse'.
Departing along the scenic coastline of the Sea of Marmara, we journey back in time with a visit to the ancient city of Troy — legendary home of the famous Trojan Horse and the timeless tale of Helen of Sparta and Paris of Troy.
War sites
Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Stopover on the Asian Side - 1 day
5
First time in Turkey and this was an incredible way to view the city. The staff was kind, polite, and wanted to ensure every guest was happy. I HIGHLY recommend. Comfortable, drinks/meals provided, and easy to relax as a foreigner.
Cruise
Tour 1A-Istanbul Classics (HD Afternoon) - 1 day
Tour of "Sultan Ahmet Center", the heart of the "Old City" from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.
Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian.(entrance ticket is not included)
Blue Mosque, facing Hagia Sophia, famous with its blue İznik tiles and unique with 6 minarets,
built in the name of Sultan Ahmet.
Hippodrome, center of sportive events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities of the
old city. Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are
the monuments decorating the Hippodrome.
Grand Covered Bazaar, most attractive shopping center and the biggest "souk" in the world
with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewellery, gold, carpets, leatherware and souvenir.
(Art demonstration of handmade Turkish carpets upon request)
Walking tours
Tour 5 - Dolmabahce palace & Two Continents - 1 day
Dolmabahçe Palace, recent residence for Ottoman Sultans built by two Ottoman architects Karabet and Nikogos Balyan on a 110.000 m² area and served as the main administrative center
of the Ottoman Empire. Famous with great collection of European antiquity, furniture and
4.5 tons chandelier, the palace has 285 rooms and 46 halls.
Bosphorus Bridge, unique chance to step from one continent (Europe) to another (Asia) in 2 minutes.
Çamlıca Hill, famous for its widest bird’s eye panoramic view of İstanbul from Marmara Sea to the Black Sea, gives a chance to see the Bosphorus and Golden Horn from one of the best point of the highest and most appealing places of the city.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour RBC - Romantic Bosphorus Cruise - 1 day
An enchanted evening cruise starts while you sip your welcome drink and enjoy the marvelous scenery as the sun sets on the Bosphorus. Chance to view and photograph the precious relics of three world dominating Empires: Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman.
The royal Dolmabahçe Palace, the late residence of the Ottoman Sultans; Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges connecting the two continents Asia and Europe; Rumeli Fortress, the historical armament built by the Conqueror Sultan, marble palaces, ancient wooden villas of Ottoman style besides modern residentials. These are all things you will see on this tour.
In short, explore Istanbul from the sea, on Bosphorus, a unique link between East and West, Past and Present. Do all this, while enjoying a welcome drink and perhaps a wonderful sunset, if the weather permits.
CruiseSightseeing Tours
Private Full-day Guided Ephesus Tour from Istanbul - 1 day
Discover secrets of ancient Greece on this private, one-day Ephesus tour, available for departures from your hotel in Istanbul. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, the Isabey Mosque from the Seljuks period, and the Temple of Artemis, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World!
In the morning, our transfer car will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at the Istanbul airport. Take a domestic flight to Izmir which is the third biggest city in Turkey. From here, our tour car will pick you and take you on the tour in Ephesus. Lunch is included in a traditional local restaurant.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Bosphorus Sunset Cruise - 1 day
5
Outstanding service with healthy snacks for kids, great views! Highly recommend to take the yacht in the afternoon and see the sunset 💯
Cruise
Istanbul classics private walking tour - 1 day
Our guide takes you from your hotel/seaport to visit most visited places of istanbul. To go to visiting points we use public transport/taxi or walking.
We start our tour by Hippodrome , which at one time was the center of Byzantine social and recreational life. A few parts of this spectacular site remain, including the Obelisk of Thutmose III and Serpent Column.
Near the Hippodrome is the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Its exceptional architectural design features 1 main dome, 8 secondary domes, 6 minarets, and a vast number of blue tiles – hence the name.
And from here we go the Topkapi Palace, which dates back to 1459. It served as the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 4 centuries. In 1924, the palace was officially declared a museum.
And you will take a break and enjoy a lunch of delicious Turkish dishes
Afternoon we continu on our tour with Hagia Sophia, which served both Christianity and Islam at different times in history. When it was first built in 537, it was an Eastern Orthodox church.
In 1453, coverted to an imperial mosque. Approximately 5 centuries later, Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum.
We finalize our tour with Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, comprising 61 covered streets and more than 3,000 shops offering almost anything you might need. The bazaar is a part of the walled city and was built during the years 1455-1461.
At the end of the tour we drop you back to your hotel/seaport.
Walking tours
Istanbul Bosphorus by Night - 1 day
Experience the magic of Istanbul at night on this unforgettable dinner cruise. You'll sail along the Bosphorus, the stunning strait that divides Europe and Asia, passing under illuminated suspension bridges. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city’s palaces and mansions while being entertained by traditional folk dancing and belly dancing. This is an evening of beautiful scenery, delicious food, and cultural entertainment.
Duration: 19.30 pm to 23.30 pm.
A short drive to the boat to cruise up the Bosphorus. The waterway lies between Europe and Asia and passes under the suspension bridges whilst viewing Ottoman summer palaces, waterside mansions and modern villas lining the European and Asian shores. The panoramic view of Istanbul from the Bosphorus at night with dinner, traditional folk dancing and belly dancing will be memorable.
Getaways and short breaks
Private Full Day Guided Highlights of Istanbul Tour - 1 day
Explore the highlights of Istanbul in just one day on this convenient, private guided tour.
Capture the details and feel the atmosphere of the Old City by walking from place to place. All the museums and highlights are relatively close to each other, so the walking will not be extreme.
Begin with a walk through the heart of the city of Constantin to visit the dramatic former basilica of the Hagia Sophia. Move on to the Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultanahmet Mosque. Continue to Topkapi Palace, a relic of the glory days of the great Ottoman Empire. You will also visit the Hippodrome, the ancient stadium built in 203 AD by the Roman Emperor Septimus Severus. See the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, and the Constantine Column. You'll also get to check out the gazebo-like German Fountain of Wilhelm II, made from 8 marble columns. During the tour, your local guide will answer all your questions and keep you informed about all the places you see. The best part? With the tickets we already have for you, you will get to skip all the entrance lines!
At the end of the monument and sightseeing, we’ll stop at the Grand Bazaar; one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with hundreds of small handicraft shops selling everything from handmade carpets to Turkish coffee. Pick up a souvenir if you wish!
Culture shows and excursions
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