Istanbul Half-Day Afternoon Europe Tour

Discover the historic heart of Istanbul with our **Istanbul Half-Day Afternoon Europe Tour**, a perfect combination of culture, history, sightseeing, and relaxation.

This carefully curated 6-8 hour Tour takes you across the European side of Istanbul, visiting some of the city's most sacred, scenic, and colorful locations. It offers a rich and unforgettable experience.

Begin with a delicious lunch in the historic **Eyüp district**, home to the revered **Eyüp Sultan Mosque**, a significant spiritual site. Take panoramic views from the famous **Pierre Loti Café**, enjoy a scenic **cable car ride**, and explore the colorful, history-filled streets of **Balat and Fener**.

Finally, unwind with a **2-hour Bosphorus Cruise**, sailing between two continents while admiring Istanbul's iconic skyline.

Led by expert multilingual guides and including hotel pickup, lunch, all entrance fees, a cable car ticket, and a scenic boat cruise, this Tour is a must-do for travelers seeking to experience Istanbul's soul in just one afternoon.

Reserve your spot today and immerse yourself in Istanbul's European beauty, history, and magic!

Tour Program:

🍽️ **12:30 PM – Hotel Pickup & Lunch in Eyüp**

Enjoy authentic Turkish dishes, accompanied by dessert and a refreshing soft drink, before embarking on your sightseeing adventure.

🕌 **Eyüp Sultan Mosque & Tomb**

Visit one of Istanbul's holiest sites, where Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, the companion of Prophet Muhammad, is buried. You can visit or worship for 1 hour.

☕ **Pierre Loti Café**

Relax at the famous Pierre Loti Café while admiring breathtaking panoramic views of the Golden Horn. After 30 minutes, the view will unveil the beauties of Istanbul.

🚡 **Eyüp Cable Car Ride**

Descend the hill via the scenic cable car, capturing unforgettable photos of Istanbul's skyline.

🏘️ **Balat & Fener Neighborhoods** _(Summer Season Only — April 1 to July 31)_

Wander through the colorful streets of Balat and Fener, known for their historic churches, synagogues, and traditional Ottoman houses.

🛳️ **Bosphorus Cruise (2 Hours) Sunset**

Conclude your afternoon with a serene 2-hour boat tour along the Bosphorus. Sail between Europe and Asia, passing Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden's Tower, and more — all while enjoying unlimited Turkish tea, free Wi-Fi, and multilingual commentary.

🏨 **Hotel Drop-off**

After the cruise, you'll be comfortably transferred back to your hotel.

Tour Duration by Season:

The tour start time is always the same (pickup at 12:30 PM), but the end time adjusts based on the season and sunset schedule:

- 🌸 **Spring–Summer (April 1 – July 31):** Ends around **9:00 PM** (with Balat & Fener included) - 8 hours

- 🍂 **Autumn (August 1 – September 30):** Ends around **8:00 PM** (without Balat & Fener) - 7 hours

- ❄️ **Winter (October 1 – March 31):** Ends around **7:00 PM** (without Balat & Fener) - 6 hours

⚠️ **Important Note:**

Travelers who prefer not to join the Bosphorus Cruise at the end of the program can skip the boat tour and will be dropped off at their hotel after the bus tour portion.