Golden Horn: Our most recommended tours and activities

Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket

1. Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket

Discover the Topkapi Palace on a guided tour with skip-the-line tickets. Learn about Ottoman history in the Palace and the life of Sultan's family in the harem. Explore the splendor of Topkapi Palace, the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Discover how the complex of buildings, pavilions, and courtyards was a self-contained city, which most inhabitants rarely left. Explore the outer-terraced gardens and admire the view over the Golden Horn. Immerse yourself in the heart of the great Ottoman Empire. Stroll through the palace, and imagine the ruling Sultans who lived in its hundreds of rooms with their vast families and countless servants. Visit the harem, ruled by the Queen Mother who wielded domestic and political power. The harem housed hundreds of women and family members as well as hundreds of eunuchs, who performed a wide range of duties. Take a moment to spot the cupboard doors inlaid with mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell. Walk through the Harem is also the only way to see the very early, exceptionally-crafted Iznik tiles decorated with floral designs and verses from the Quran. The tour ends with a visit to the holy relics and the imperial kitchens.

Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option

2. Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise w/Audio Guide and Sunset Option

Hop on a sightseeing cruise to tour the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. Get a fresh look at Istanbul on this boat tour with an audio guide to tell you all the top tales as you glide by Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Maiden's Tower, and Galata Tower. Sail as far south to see the Bosphorus Bridge. Meet your host on the other side of Hagia Sophia and walk down to the pier behind the grand mosque. Jump on board to discover the Golden Horn, considered to be the world’s largest natural harbor. Sail through the magnificent Bosphorus strait forming the continental boundary between Asia and Europe. On your way, come across cultural and historical emblems of Istanbul like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Maiden's Tower, and Galata Tower. Learn about the city’s rich heritage with an audio guide. Admire the Bosphorus coastline on the European side from the cruise, and see a string of villages, each with its own individual character and attractions. Glide past Dolmabahçe Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge, among others. Be sure to keep an eye out for ancient castles, famous parks, and spectacular seaside residences from different centuries. Capture stunning pictures of the vibrant city of Istanbul along the water on this scenic cruise.

Istanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht

3. Istanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht

Take a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus Strait to see the European as well as Asian half of Istanbul. Jump aboard a luxury yacht from Kabatas and keep your cameras ready as you cross mosques, palaces, and seafront villas. Learn about the city’s centuries-long history through your guide. Start the tour at Kabatas Pier aboard an elegant yacht, drinking traditional Turkish drinks, and nibbling on canapés and fruit from tastefully arranged platters. Glide by palaces and minarets as you sail along the Bosphorus.  When dusk sets in, feel the soothing breeze from the Sea of Marmara on your skin as the sky puts on a colorful show, tinted with shades of orange and rose. Few places in the world are as mesmerizing as Istanbul in the setting sun. Hear the muezzin's call from a towering minaret. Cruise past majestic palaces and villas along the strait’s banks. Breathe in the legacy of ancient Byzantium, Constantinople, and the mighty Ottoman Empire with each breath of fresh salty air. Kick back and ride gentle waves in the comfort of a yacht. Watch the city and its iconic landmarks pass by, which is the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. End the experience at Karakoy Pier.

Istanbul: Fener Balat Half-day Guided Walking Tour

4. Istanbul: Fener Balat Half-day Guided Walking Tour

See another side of Istanbul in an area of the city with Greek, Armenian, Jewish, and Bulgarian heritage. Stroll around Fener and Balat districts, which are popular with locals for having breakfast and coffee. Pass by churches, synagogues, mosques, and many other historic sites. Begin your walking tour in the district of Fener to see a Greek church and a Greek primary school, followed by lots of colorful stairs. Then, see the house of Romanian prince Dimitrie Cantemir, the Church of Saint Mary of the Mongols, built in 1266, and Phanar Greek Orthodox College. After this, go to the Panagia Paramythia Church. Continue to the district of Balat, where you can see the Bulgarian Church, also known as the Iron Church due to the cast iron used in its production. Next, check out the famous timber houses in the area. Finish up your tour at the Ahrida Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the city, dating back to the 15th century. Finally, enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee to end your walking trip of these historical districts.

Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private City Guided Tour

5. Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private City Guided Tour

Discover the best of Istanbul on this 1, 2, or 3-day private tour that covers the major attractions, such as the Hagia Sophia Museum, the iconic Blue Mosque, the bustling maze of the Grand Bazaar, and the obelisk of the Hippodrome of Constantinople. A few of the possible attraction you'll visit on your tour include: The Hagia Sophia, a great architectural beauty and an important monument during the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. For many centuries, this was the largest church in the world, and it still boasts the 4th largest dome after St. Paul's in London, St. Peter's in Rome, and the Duomo in Florence. Dedicated to the Hagia Sophia or 'divine wisdom', it is one of the greatest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture. The Blue Mosque, more officially known as the "Sultanahmet" Mosque has striking blue tiles give it its more common name and make it one of Istanbul’s most iconic attractions. Located close to Topkapi Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque was considered the Supreme Imperial Mosque in Istanbul. Topkapi Palace, a relic of the glory days of the great Ottoman Empire. The former palace boasted a population of about 4,000 people at its peak and was home to 25 sultans over a period of 400 years. Located on a promontory overlooking the Golden Horn, it sits in tranquil gardens that provide shade from the blazing heat of the summer. Pop in to the museum to see the gorgeous Iznik tiles and the ornate stateroom of the harem, among other attractions. The Hippodrome is the former circus built in 203 AD by the Roman Emperor Septimus Severus. Three monuments from the original building remain, including the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, and the Constantine Column. Pause to look at the German Fountain of Wilhelm II, made from 8 marble columns. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With hundreds of small handcraft shops selling everything from handmade carpets to Turkish coffee, the atmosphere is electric, and it's a great place to try out your bargaining skills. The spice bazaar is located in Fatih. It's known as the Egyptian Market because during the Ottoman period, Egyptian exports were sold there. The Bosphorus is a narrow, navigable strait between Europe and Asia that connects the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. Rumeli and Anadolu Fortresses are located at the narrowest point of Bosphorus. There are also magnificent Ottoman palaces and mosques along the Bosphorus. Keep an eye out for them. Built in the 19th century, Dolmabahce Palace was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire and housed some of the last Ottoman Sultans. The palace site was created by filling in the small bay on the Bosphorus. This gave rise to its name — in Turkish, Dolma means "filled" or "stuffed," and bahce means "garden". Istiklal Street is brimming with life. There, you'll find a plethora of shops, restaurants, and bars, and from there, it's an interesting and scenic 2-kilometer walk down to the Tunel Galata Tower area. See this and more depending on which length tour option you select. Possible Itinerary for each day of the tour: Day 1: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, Hippodrome Day 2: Spice Market, Bosphorus Cruise, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, Istiklal, Galata Tower Day 3: Suleymaniye Mosque, Chora Church, Fener/Balat Districts, Pierre Loti Hill

Istanbul: Private Bosphorus Strait Sightseeing Yacht Cruise

6. Istanbul: Private Bosphorus Strait Sightseeing Yacht Cruise

Experience the incomparable opportunity to see two continents at once private yacht tour along the Bosphorus Strait, which runs between the beautiful shorelines of Europe and Asia. You'll also get to see the city of Istanbul from the water, gliding by some of the most famous sights and monuments. Take your time to unwind with your group of friends as you sit back and take in the most unforgettable views from your personal sundeck. Enjoy the trip as the friendly crew looks after the rest. Navigate past the waterfront palaces of Sultans and their Pasha’s villas. From the European Side, discover the Dolmabahçe Palace, Çirağan Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and the Bosphorus Bridge. Meanwhile, from the Asian Side, get a glimpse of the Anadolu Fortress, Beylerbeyi Palace, and more.

Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Tour with Live Guide

7. Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Tour with Live Guide

After finishing your busy day of sightseeing around Istanbul, you can relax on this 2-hour Golden Horn and Bosphoros cruise. You will meet your guide across from the Hagia Sophia, from where you will go together down to the pier behind the building. From there you will discover the Golden Horn, including the 32-kilometer-long Bosphorus which separates Europe and Asia. You will be able to see Istanbul’s main attractions, including magnificent palaces, ancient castles, and famous hills and parks, as well as spectacular seaside residences from different centuries. All of this sightseeing will of course include your passing under Istanbul's many famous bridges. You will pass by Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, Rumeli Fortress and Beylerbeyi Palace. You will also get to see some historical landmarks from a distance, such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Maiden Tower, and Galata Tower. 

Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Full-Day Tour from Istanbul

8. Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Full-Day Tour from Istanbul

Enjoy a full-day tour away from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul on a day trip to the Gulf of Izmit and the freshwater lake of Lake Sapanca. Following a pick-up from your hotels in the city center, transfer to Lake Sapanca for a walk in nature. Located on a tectonic hole, between Izmit Bay and the Adapazari Meadow, Lake Sapanca is known for its scenic beauty. Continue to the picturesque village of Masukiye to enjoy lunch under a canopy of trees. Then, drive to a waterfall before climbing Kartepe Mountain. Hike in the mountains, or take the ski lift if you prefer. Discover a popular area for picnics in summer and ski breaks in the winter. Transfer back to your hotel in Istanbul for the end of tour services.

Istanbul: Eurasia Bike & Boat Half-Day Tour

9. Istanbul: Eurasia Bike & Boat Half-Day Tour

Meet your tour leader in the historical neighborhood of Balat, in the European side of the city. Choose your bike for the day then board the public boat to Uskudar. From the boat, admire views of the city skyline and take photos of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Maiden Tower, Süleymaniye Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, and more. Arrive in Uskudar, which is on the Asian side of the city. Hop on your bike and pedal to Fenerbahce Park, stopping along the way to take in the sights and listen to your guide share information about the area. Once you’ve worked up a sweat from the bike ride, enjoy a refreshing cup of Turkish tea or coffee at a local cafe and admire the view of Princes’ Islands while you relax. Jump back on your bike and pedal to Kadıköy Pier for a boat ride to Karakoy. Next, cross over the Golden Horn Bay via the Metro Bridge then head back towards the tour’s meeting point in Balat. Tours usually finish around 2 PM, depending on the group’s cycling tempo. Afterwards, spend the day exploring the vibrant streets of Balat at your own leisure, and enjoy some fresh, local cuisine from one of the many street-side food vendors. During the experience all of the metioned monuments are only to be seen from outside.

Istanbul: Tourist Pass with Over 100 Attractions & Services

10. Istanbul: Tourist Pass with Over 100 Attractions & Services

Save time and money with a convenient 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 7- or 10-days online city pass in Istanbul. Access some of the city’s top sights, including over 100 attractions, tours and activities to choose from. Secure your pass to enjoy Istanbul in a simple, convenient and fun way.By presenting your GetYourGuide voucher at the entrance, gain access to (check the meeting point and tour schedule before your visit): • Hagia Sophia Guided Tour in English • Topkapi Palace Museum Guided Tour in English • Basilica Cistern Guided Tour in English • Dolmabahçe Palace Guided Tour in English • Blue Mosque Guided Tour • Grand Bazar Guided Tour • Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum Guided Tour in English • Galata Tower Guided Tour • Fire of Anatolia (requires a reservation) • Discounted one-way private airport transfer (requires a reservation) • Whirling dervishes ceremony (requires a reservation) • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise. Dinner and shows included (requires a reservation) • Combined Miniaturk Park Istanbul and Eyup Sultan Mosque and Pierre Loti Tour (requires a reservation) • Discounted Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour (requires reservation) • Tiled Pavilion Museum -under construction at the moment • Museum of the Ancient Orient -under construction at the moment • Photoshoot in Ottoman attire (1 per pass, not per person) • Madame Tussauds Wax Museum • SEA Life Aquarium • Sapphire Observation Deck with 4D Skyride Simulation • Museum of Illusions • Bosphorus Boat Tour • Princes’ Islands boat trip • LEGOLand (adults need a child to enter) • Xtrem Aventures • Pera Museum • Istanbul Airport Shuttle (1-way) • Sakıp Sabancı Museum • Upside Down House Photo Experience • Jungle, Dungeon and Safari (cannot be visited without children) • The Museum of Selfies • Bursa Day Trip • Sapanca Lake and Maşukiye Daily Tour • Istanbul Segway Tour • Emaar Aquarium and Underwater Zoo • Istanbul Toy Museum Pick-up and drop-off from hotels/rental places in Sultanahmet, Eminönü, Sirkeci, Laleli, Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş and Şişli for the Dinner Cruise, Miniaturk, Bursa Tour and Sapanca Lake Tour are also included with your pass.

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What people are saying about Golden Horn

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 2,850 reviews

Thank you for the amazing guide for Topkapi palace. I sure learn a lot of stuffs with our guide,Ahmet. He was very nice e and knowledgeable about the palace. The tour was long and it was a good things because we were presented many things from ottoman stories, the history of the palace. He also went to great lengths to explain the harem which I think most people want to see. He also gave us time to take pictures after the tour.

Very good service and Tannat was amazing as host. Taking time out to speal to each guest. The company provide a good selection of snacks and drinks to suit. I would definately recomend these guys. Thank you

Really enjoyed to see the most beautiful places of Istanbul from water, just amazing! The cruise was organised well, they contacted me to give more information about the pick up point, everything was on time.

Yessss .. superb service and well manage. Tq so much for smooth handling from a to z…. I really enjoy every single thing. Hussle free!

This is the best cruise. Istanbul cruise is the best attraction to do. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Very recommended