Bosphorus Cruise

The day starts with a morning public ferry ride, departing from the Old town. During our one hour and a half nonstop cruising along the Bosphorus between the Asian and European sides, we will see impressive 18th-19th century Ottoman buildings and private homes, now belonging to the leading business men of modern Turkey. We will also see the Rumelian castle (better known as Rumelian Fortress), built by the water on European side to stop receiving Naval help by the Byzantine Empire before conquering the city in 15th Century. It is recorded that the fortress was built within only four months. We return to Old town where we disembark the ferry. After lunch at a local restaurant with local tastes, we will visit the Galata Tower. Built by an Italian colony in the 14th century, the tower will give us a spectacular 360 degree view of the city. Don’t forget to bring your camera as this is surely a great opportunity for nice photographs. Later we will have a possible walk through some of the artisans’ streets and give you time for local shopping for souvenirs. We will then walk through the famous Istiklal Street and enjoy being a local in the city. This is a large avenue and is the core of the modern city with all kind of shops, cafes, art galleries, music stores, where you can see today’s young generation enjoying themselves. It is quite possible to see people at any age range today, being such a popular attraction for people from all around. Optional break at a café along the street to try a Turkish coffee, or if you are feeling for a glass of wine, or a nice cocktail, this is the right place for refreshment. We will end our walk up in the Taksim Square. End of tour. Return to hotel.