Istanbul excursions, day tours

Private half day tour Istanbul

With Just Istanbul Tours, you can join our Istanbul half-day guided tour of Istanbul's prominent historical sites. Visit famous sites such as the Sultanahmet Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, and see the rich history of the city with knowledgeable guides. While experiencing the lively atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, you can buy souvenirs and taste historical Ottoman flavors during the tour.

Half-day boat trip in Istanbul

With Just Istanbul Tours travel agency, you can join a half-day boat tour on the Bosphorus! You can see and photograph magnificent views of the city's skyline and iconic structures from the Bosphorus. You can see the beauty of Istanbul's shores and bridges once again from the ship along the Bosphorus. Take a journey with us to the place where the Black Sea and Marmara meet.

What can I see in half a day in Istanbul?

In Istanbul, you can see many iconic structures and feel the lively atmosphere of the city in 1 day, especially with the advantages of the Istanbul semi-open city bus tour. Some of these places are:

• Sultanahmet Square: In the centre of the square, you must visit the magnificent Sultanahmet Mosque; you cannot help but be amazed by its striking architecture.
• Hagia Sophia Mosque: You should definitely see and visit this building, known for its historical importance, which used to be a cathedral, then turned into a mosque, then a museum, and then back into a mosque.
• Topkapi Palace: See with your own eyes the residence of the Ottoman sultans and examine the extensive art collections and valuable gifts sent to the sultans.
• Grand Bazaar: You can visit every inch of Istanbul's fastest shopping mall, seeing how trade was on its first day, in one of the oldest covered bazaars in the world.
• Galata Bridge and Tower: Walk across the bridge for panoramic views of Istanbul and climb the tower for breathtaking postcard views.
• Bosphorus cruise: Take a short boat tour to see Istanbul from the sea and pass by historic Ottoman mansions.
• Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue: End your tour in the heart of Istanbul, among famous boutique stores, brand cafes and historical buildings.

Take advantage of the open-top, double-decker city tour bus for sightseeing and interesting historical information along the way.

Can I rent a boat for half a day on the Bosphorus?

Yes, you can charter a boat on the Bosphorus in Istanbul for half a day, a few hours, or a whole day. Chartering a private boat provides a personalized experience and flexibility in terms of itinerary and duration. Chartering a boat on the Bosphorus is a great way to adventure the seaways of Istanbul and see the magnificent views of the city and its surroundings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to relax and sightsee, chartering a yacht offers both luxury and adventure.

Half a day or a lifetime is not enough to see Istanbul!

A lifetime is not enough to see and visit the richness of Istanbul in its entirety. Feel its timeless charm with Just Istanbul Tours, where every visit offers a new experience. Let us guide you through the wonders of this magnificent city.

Hagia Sophia Mosque

A testament to Istanbul’s rich history and architectural wonder, the Hagia Sophia Mosque is a must-see. Originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD, the structure was later converted into a mosque and now serves as both a museum and a mosque. You can’t help but be amazed by its massive dome, stunning mosaics, and intricate calligraphy that blends Christian and Islamic influences. Witness Istanbul’s cultural evolution over the centuries as it transformed from Byzantine to Ottoman splendor. The Hagia Sophia Mosque stands as a symbol of religious tolerance and architectural creativity, and is a must-see on any tour of Istanbul.

Galata Tower

Galata Tower is one of the symbols of Istanbul and offers a magnificent panorama of the city. This architectural marvel dating back to the Middle Ages provides an idea of ​​the strategic importance of Istanbul. Originally built as a watchtower in the 14th century, the tower later functioned as a fire tower and observatory, and now serves as a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can climb to the top for sweeping views of the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, and the Istanbul skyline. The wonderful Galata district surrounding the tower beckons with its quaint streets, charming cafes, and famous boutiques that blend contemporary life with historical charm. Galata Tower is a must-visit destination that offers a unique perspective on the beauty and cultural heritage of Istanbul.

Basilica Cistern Istanbul

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is a historic site renowned for its grandeur and ancient engineering. Constructed during the Byzantine period, probably in the 6th century, this vast underground pool was once used to store water for the city’s residents. Filled with magnificent marble columns, some sections repurposed from ancient structures, it creates an eerie, beautiful atmosphere. The dimly lit pathways and reflections in the shallow water of the cistern give it an otherworldly feel, making it a fascinating place for visitors exploring Istanbul’s rich history. The Basilica Cistern stands as a testament to ancient ingenuity and architectural mastery, offering a unique glimpse into Istanbul’s past.

Topkapı Palace Museum

Topkapi Palace and Museum in Istanbul is a magnificent palace complex that served as the main residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Built in the 15th century, the palace encompasses a series of pavilions, courtyards, and gardens overlooking the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The vast Topkapi palace offers a legendary journey through Ottoman history, displaying exquisite works of art, expensive gifts, historical objects, and treasures accumulated over the centuries. Highlights include the Imperial Treasury, which houses priceless jewelry, ceremonial objects, and relics of Islamic religious significance. The harem section offers insight into the private lives of the sultans and their families, with its intricately decorated rooms and tiled courtyards.

Dolmabahçe Palace

Located on the European shores of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Dolmabahçe Palace is a magnificent example of 19th-century Ottoman imperial architecture. Commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid and completed in 1856, the palace served as the main administrative center and residence of the Ottoman sultans after Topkapı Palace. The Dolmapahce palace interiors are a harmonious blend of Baroque, Rococo, and Ottoman architectural styles, with crystal chandeliers, elegant furniture, and sumptuous tapestries. Major attractions include the staircase with its Baccarat crystal balustrade and the ceremonial hall, decorated with an ornate chandelier gifted by Queen Victoria of England.

Sultan Ahmet Mosque

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is an architectural jewel in the heart of Istanbul. Built in the early 17th century by Sultan Ahmet I, the architect was Sedefkar Mehmet Ağa. The mosque is famous for the magnificent blue tiles that decorate its interior walls, which is why it is called the Blue Mosque. Its design combines elements inspired by Byzantine Christian churches with traditional Islamic architecture, and this harmony is evident in its spacious prayer hall, soaring minarets, and central dome surrounded by smaller domes. The exterior features six minarets, a rarity in mosque architecture, symbolizing the mosque's importance and grandeur at the time it was built.

Istanbul Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is a historic marketplace dating back to the 15th century. Spread over 60 streets, it is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, showcasing the rich tapestry of Turkish culture, craftsmanship and commerce. Visitors to the Istanbul Grand Bazaar are immersed in a visual, auditory and olfactory feast. The labyrinthine corridors are lined with thousands of shops and stalls offering exquisite Turkish carpets, colourful ceramics, traditional textiles, intricate jewellery, spices and more. Haggling is a traditional practice here, adding to the lively atmosphere and allowing visitors to interact with local vendors.

Istanbul Maiden tower

The Maiden's Tower is a historical landmark located on a small island in the Bosphorus, just off the coast of Üsküdar, Istanbul. This iconic tower has a rich history dating back to ancient times and has served various purposes throughout its existence. Built in ancient times, the Maiden's Tower has been used as a lighthouse, fortress, and quarantine station for centuries. Its current form, with its cylindrical structure and roof, was achieved after restoration during the 18th century Ottoman period. According to legend, a Byzantine emperor built the tower to protect his daughter from a prophecy that she would die from a snakebite. Despite his efforts, however, a snake hidden in a fruit basket brought to the tower bit the princess, fulfilling the prophecy. Today, the Istanbul Maiden Tower stands as a symbol of Istanbul's maritime history and offers magnificent panoramic views of the Bosphorus.

Istanbul Spice Market

The Spice Market in Istanbul, also known as the Egypt Bazaar, is a vibrant and aromatic marketplace of historical and cultural importance. Located in the Eminönü district of Istanbul, close to the Golden Horn, this bazaar dates back to the 17th century and continues to be a center of activity and trade. Visitors to the Spice Bazaar are greeted by a riot of color and scent as they wander through its narrow streets and covered passages. The bazaar is famous for its wide range of spices, dried herbs, dried fruits, nuts, Turkish delight, tea and other eastern culinary delights. Merchants skillfully display their products in various sacks and baskets to create an atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists.

Taksim Square

Taksim Square is the dynamic heart of modern Istanbul, known for its vibrant atmosphere, cultural significance and historical landmarks. Located in the Beyoğlu district, this iconic square has long been the focal point of the city’s social life. At the center of Taksim Square is the Republic Monument, erected in 1928 to commemorate the founding of the Republic of Turkey. This monument symbolizes Turkey’s independence and its modernization under the leadership of the Republic’s founding leader, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Around the square, visitors can find a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels that reflect Istanbul’s dynamic and cosmopolitan character. Leading to Taksim Square is Istiklal Street, a lively street filled with historical buildings, art galleries, theaters and boutiques.

The Galata Bridge

The Galata Bridge connects the districts of Eminönü and Karaköy, spanning the gulf of the Golden Horn. This bridge has a rich history and is a vital part of Istanbul’s urban life, both practically and culturally. Built in the 19th century, the current bridge underwent its last visual renovation in the 1990s. The Galata Bridge is known for its double-decker design, with the lower deck serving vehicular traffic and the upper deck serving pedestrians and fishermen. The bridge is not only a way to cross the Golden Horn, but also a social hub where locals and tourists gather to view the Istanbul skyline and engage in various activities. Fishermen line the upper deck of the bridge, casting their lines into the sea. Nearby restaurants serve freshly caught fish and traditional seafood dishes.

The Süleymaniye Mosque

Located in Istanbul, the Suleymaniye Mosque is a symbol of the city’s cultural and religious heritage with its magnificent architecture. Built in the 16th century under the auspices of Suleiman the Magnificent, the mosque stands out as one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture and Mimar Sinan. Located on a hill overlooking the Golden Horn, the Suleymaniye Mosque has an impressive appearance with its huge dome, four minarets and elegant courtyard. Its interior is decorated with intricate tile work, calligraphy and stained glass windows, creating a mystical and awe-inspiring atmosphere for worshippers and visitors.