Imperial Splendor: Dolmabahce Palace & Bosphorus Yacht Cruise
20 Reviews
5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 20 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor
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Recommended by 100% of reviewers
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Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Istanbul, Turkey
4 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Overview
Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich history as you tour the opulent Dolmabahce Palace with an expert guide. Discover the city’s treasures on a relaxing Bosphorus yacht cruise, where you’ll admire Istanbul’s highlights from the water and enjoy a brief stop at Kanlica Village.
Begin your morning with a half-day tour featuring a visit to Dolmabahce Palace—the former royal residence of the Ottoman Sultans—and the elegant Dolmabahce Mosque.
Experience the Bosphorus in a relaxed, informative, and truly enjoyable way. After your guided exploration, embark on a 2.5-hour luxury yacht cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. This intimate, small-group tour is designed to offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing you to appreciate Istanbul’s unique charm from a fresh perspective.
What's Included
- Tea and coffee Coffee and/or Tea
- Fruits
- Entrance tickets of Dolmabahce Palace
- All Fees and Taxes
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pick up and Drop off Taksim and Fatih
- Snacks
- Alcoholic beverages Alcoholic Beverages
- Tips
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup point
Show on Google Maps
Pickup details
Pick - up service is provided only from the hotels located in Fatih and Taksim.
What To Expect
Dolmabahce Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace is a magnificent palace located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the most significant architectural and historical landmarks in the city. Here's some information about Dolmabahçe Palace:History: Construction of Dolmabahçe Palace began in 1843 and was completed in 1856. It served as the main administrative center and residence for the Ottoman sultans from the mid-19th century until the end of the Ottoman Empire.Architecture: The palace is a blend of various architectural styles, combining elements of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Ottoman architecture. It features an impressive façade, grand halls, and exquisite interior decorations.Layout: Dolmabahçe Palace is situated on the European side of Istanbul, along the Bosphorus Strait. The palace complex covers an area of approximately 45,000 square meters and consists of several buildings, including the main palace, the harem section, the imperial stables, and the clock tower.
1 hour 15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Dolmabahce Mosque
The Bezmi Alem Mosque, also known as the Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan Mosque, is a historical mosque located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, Turkey. Here's some information about the Bezmi Alem Mosque:History: The Bezmi Alem Mosque was built in the 19th century and completed in 1851. It was commissioned by Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan, the mother of Sultan Abdülmecid I and the widow of Sultan Mahmud II. The mosque is named after her.Architecture: The mosque is an impressive example of Ottoman architecture. It was designed by the architect Senekerim Balyan, who was part of the renowned Balyan family of architects during the Ottoman Empire. The architectural style of the Bezmi Alem Mosque is characterized by its grand dome, elegant minarets, and spacious courtyard.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Bosphorus Strait
The Bosphorus Strait is a natural waterway that connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. It divides Istanbul into two parts, with the European side on the west and the Asian side on the east. Cruising along the Bosphorus offers stunning views of the city's iconic landmarks, palaces, and beautiful waterfront mansions.Bosphorus Cruise Tours in Istanbul Turkey, A Short Overview of the Bosphorus
Istanbul is a maritime city, and many travelers find that climbing aboard one of its famous flotillas of ferries ends up being a highlight of their stay. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Bosphorus and Golden Horn (Halic) were alive with caiques (long, thin rowboats), their oars dipping rhythmically into the currents as they carried the sultan and his courtiers from the palace to the pavilion, and from Europe to Asia. The caiques are long gone, but in their place are the sleek speedboats of the monied elite and the much-loved public ferries used by the rest of Istanbul's population.
2 hours 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Ciragan Palace Kempinski (Pass By)
The Çırağan Palace (Çırağan Sarayı), also known as the Çırağan Palace Kempinski, is a historic palace-turned-luxury hotel located on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey. Here's some information about the Çırağan Palace:History: The Çırağan Palace has a rich history that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. It was originally constructed in the 19th century during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I. The palace served as the residence of Ottoman sultans and witnessed significant events in Turkish history.Architecture: The Çırağan Palace showcases magnificent Ottoman architecture. It features a fusion of architectural styles, combining elements of classical Ottoman design with influences from European Neoclassical and Baroque styles. The palace boasts grand domes, ornate façades, and intricate interior decorations.
Buyuk Mecidiye Camii (Pass By)
The Ortaköy Mosque, also known as the Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, is a famous mosque located in the Ortaköy neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. Here's some information about the Ortaköy Mosque:History: The Ortaköy Mosque was built in the mid-19th century during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I. It was designed by the Armenian architect Nigoğayos Balyan, who was a member of the prominent Balyan family of architects in the Ottoman Empire.Architecture: The mosque combines various architectural styles, including Neo-Baroque, Neoclassical, and Ottoman elements. It is known for its distinct and elaborate design, featuring a large central dome and two minarets with intricate ornamentation. The mosque's façade is adorned with colorful tiles and intricate stone carvings.
Bosphorus Bridge (Pass By)
Which was inaugurated on October 29, 1973, on the fiftieth anniversary of the Turkish Republic, has the longest span in Europe and the fourth in the world. This suspension bridge has a total length of 1560 metres (1706 yards) and a width of 33.4 metres (110ft). The span between pylons is 1074 metres (1175 yards) and the clearance above sea level is 64 metres (210ft). The construction of the steel box-girder suspension was carried out by a British-german consortium.
Galatasaray Island (Pass By)
Location: Su Ada is a small island located in the Bosphorus Strait, between the districts of Beşiktaş and Üsküdar on the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, respectively.History: Su Ada was originally a breakwater built in the 19th century to protect the nearby Ottoman palace from strong currents. It was later transformed into an artificial island and developed as an entertainment and recreational complex.Facilities: Su Ada is primarily known for its luxury restaurant, beach club, and swimming pool facilities. The island offers a tranquil atmosphere, with its lush greenery, private cabanas, and lounging areas. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in a variety of culinary delights at the restaurant.
Rumeli Fortress (Pass By)
Rumelishisari Fortress - (Rumelihisari Castle)
At the narrowest point of the Bosphorus stands the Rumelihisarr Fortress, built by Sultan Mehmet, the Conqueror on the European shore. The Sultan himself on the 26th day of March 1452 laid the foundation stone of the Fortress with a view to controlling the passage of the ships through the Bosphorus and using it as a base for his attack on the city. The fortress or castle was built upon the ancient site of Hermaion. It was completed in five months on August 28th 1452. The cannon on the towers could command this narrowest part of the Bosphorus opposite the older fortress of Anadoluhisarr. Darius in 500 BC had thrown a pontoon bridge across the Strait at this point and passed over 700,000 men. To Sultan Mehmet, the Conqueror, it was the key to Constantinople. The design of the walls and the towers display the Prophet's and the Conqueror's name - Muhammet - Mehmet.
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (Pass By)
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, also known as the Second Bosphorus Bridge, is a bridge in Istanbul, Turkey spanning the Bosphorus Strait. When completed in 1988, it was the 5th-longest suspension bridge span in the world
Anadolu Hisari Fort (Pass By)
Anadoluhisarı, known historically as Güzelce Hisar is a medieval Ottoman fortress located in Istanbul, Turkey on the Anatolian side of the Bosporus.
Kucuksu Pavilion (Pass By)
Kucuksu Summer Palace
Called the "Garden of Lamps" in Ottoman times, the royal garden at Kucuksu was much loved by Murat IV (1623-1640), who called it the "Silver Cypress." Beginning in the 17th century, particularly in the beginning of the 18th century, there was a great deal of construction here.
Beylerbeyi Palace (Pass By)
Beylerbeyi Palace
Since Byzantine times, Beylerbeyi and its vicinity have been a settled area. According to the famous Swiss traveler Inciciyan, Constantine the Great erected a cross there, and the area was called the "Crucifix Gardens" in Byzantine times.
KIz Kulesi (Pass By)
Kizkulesı (Maiden's Tower - Leander's Tower)
About 180 meters away from the shores of Üsküdar stands this tower which bears two different names. Europeans who named it the Leander's Tower thought that it was there where Leander was drowned while attempting to swim the Bosphorus to reach his beloved Hero, the priestess of Aphrodite. But, in fact,Leander never crossed here even in the legend which refers to the Hellespont, Dardanelles. The Turkish name is KIZ kulesi ( Maiden's Tower ). It is now a modern lighthouse. In the past, it served as a fort to tax ships up to one-tenth of their cargo, similar to Pfalz Castle on the Rhine.The story of the Maiden's Tower, which has never been verified goes like this.
Blue Mosque (Pass By)
THE MOSQUE OF SULTAN AHMET (THE BLUE MOSQUE)
One of the most famous monuments of the Turkish and Islamic world is the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, which enchants visitors of Istanbul.An example of classical Turkish art and architecture, it is the only mosque with six minarets. It is surrounded by two thousand year old historical monuments.
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque (Pass By)
ST. SOPHIA
Hagia Sophia: Typical examples of the unique qualities of Byzantine architecture arc found in Istanbul, the capital of ancient Byzantium. Architects, created a new style inspired by ancient nonuments. Such as the basilica, which was basically a market or gathering place, a Roman hall of justice, was Christianized to become a church. In the place of a judge to settle small trade disputes, Jesus became the judge in Christianity. The basilica is oblong in shape. The interior is separated into three naves by a series of columns, with the middle nave wider than those beside it. On the eastern side is a semi-circular apse extending outward. To the west is a passageway or hall, called a narthex.
Suleymaniye Mosque (Pass By)
Suleymaniye Mosque
The most impressive of the mosques which form the famous Istanbul silhouette is the mosque of Suleymaniye.
The well-proportioned and neat esthetics of its exterior and Only the three walls of the fountain's courtyard, the fountain, the crown doors, the mihrab, up to the first balcony of the minarets, and a part of the surrounding wall remain from the original construction. The qible wall of the arcade in the fountain courtyard is higher than the other walls. The outer hoops of the domes are eight-sided and rest on arches.
Galata Koprusu (Pass By)
The Galata Bridge is an iconic landmark in Istanbul, Turkey. It spans the Golden Horn, a natural harbor that divides the city's European side into two parts. The bridge connects the neighborhoods of Karakoy and Eminonu.The history of the Galata Bridge dates back to the Byzantine period, but the current bridge is a modern structure. The original bridge was constructed in the 19th century and was a wooden bridge. However, it was replaced with a more durable and functional bridge in the 1990s.
Galata Tower (Pass By)
The Galata Tower, also known as Galata Kulesi in Turkish, is an iconic medieval tower located in the Galata neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city and offers panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline.The tower was originally built in the 14th century by the Genoese colony that inhabited the area during the Byzantine period. It served as a defensive tower and a watchtower for the city. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone several renovations and restorations.
Galataport (Pass By)
Galataport is a large-scale urban regeneration project located in the Karaköy neighborhood of Istanbul, along the shores of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. It aims to transform the area into a modern and vibrant waterfront destination, offering a mix of residential, commercial, cultural, and recreational spaces.The project involves the revitalization of the existing port area, formerly known as the Salıpazarı Port, and its transformation into a multi-purpose complex. The development includes a cruise ship terminal, a marina, luxury residences, hotels, retail outlets, restaurants, parks, and cultural spaces.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(8)Q: Will I get seasick on Imperial Splendor: Dolmabahce Palace & Bosphorus Yacht Cruise?
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-395193P3
Traveler Photos
Reviews
5.00
20 reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 20 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
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Frequently Asked Questions (8)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
Filter by:
Q:
Will I get seasick on Imperial Splendor: Dolmabahce Palace & Bosphorus Yacht Cruise?
A:
If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023
Q:
What is the cancellation policy for the Imperial Splendor: Dolmabahce Palace & Bosphorus Yacht Cruise?
A:Apr 2025
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Q:
What's included in the price?
A:
Apr 2025
The following is included:
- Tea and coffee. Coffee and/or Tea.
- Fruits.
- Entrance tickets of Dolmabahce Palace.
- All Fees and Taxes.
- Air-conditioned vehicle.
- Hotel pick up and Drop off Taksim and Fatih.
- Snacks.
The following is NOT included:
- Alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic Beverages.
- Tips.
Q:
What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q:
What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025
Q:
My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:
If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025
Q:
Is this an accessible tour?
A:Apr 2025
Accessibility information for the Imperial Splendor: Dolmabahce Palace & Bosphorus Yacht Cruise is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Q:
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Imperial Splendor: Dolmabahce Palace & Bosphorus Yacht Cruise will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Tea and coffeeCoffee and/or Tea
- Fruits
- Entrance tickets of Dolmabahce Palace
- All Fees and Taxes
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pick up and Drop off Taksim and Fatih
- Snacks
- Alcoholic beveragesAlcoholic Beverages
- Tips
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers
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