14-night Balkan Jewels & Ephesus Cruise

Buggy safari tour with private sightseeing of Dubrovnik

 This outrageously fun and unique tour will first take you on a off-road buggy ride along the coast of Dubrovnik. You will be driven in a lightweight buggy that will take you all the way up to the mount Srdj. Along the way, you will pass by many interesting and unique locations to experience all sides of Croatia, and take a couple of memorable photos. You will not only admire the beauty of the Adratic sea from a panoramic viewpoint, but will also pass by former landmine fields, locations from the recent war, various fortresses and endless woods. After your buggy adventure, you will have some free time for lunch before you proceed with the second “dose” of your daily fun.
Your next stop is old town Dubrovnik where you will learn about the amazing history of Ragusa – ancient Dubrovnik. You will find out how the daily life in Ragusa really looked like, and about the privileges that the citizens of Dubrovnik Republic always enjoyed, through out the history, due to the greatness of this magnificent city.
Notes - part of the route will be off road; we suggest wearing comfortable clothes; your guide will take you to see some of the museums Dubrovnik Card includes

Inclusions: private buggy safari, english speaking driver/guide, fuel and 1 bottle of water pp, private guide for sightseeing,1-day Dubrovnik Card

Exclusions: food, drinks, gratuities, items purchased for personal use 

Dubrovnik pick up, bike tour, wine tasting and lunch in Konavle, 5 hours

You will meet your guide at the meeting point for private transfer for your biking, wine tasking and lunch experience in beautiful Konavle region.

After a brief instruction by your guide, you will start the half day biking tour in picturesque Konavle region, Dubrovnik’s inland. You will ride accompanied by a personal guide at a relaxed pace, stops are made every few kilometers on each place of interest.

You will breeze along the river and old mills to reach Pridvorje – a home to a Franciscan monastery. Afterwards, you will proceed further to a local family estate to refresh yourself with local homemade specialties such as dried figs, olive oil, wine and liquers.

• Biking and round transfers

• Wine tasting
• Personal guide

• Private guide
• Wine tasting
• Snacks and lunch
• E-Bikes
• Round transfers
• Bottle of water

• Tips
• Items purchased for personal use

Dubrovnik & Oysters Tasting, 4 hours, from Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik sightseeing, 3 hours, from Dubrovnik

Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for You at the Dubrovnik Harbor. He will be holding a sign with Your name on it. You will be transferred to city center for Your sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik. Your personal, professional guide will reveal You secrets and history of UNESCO's gem.

Today You will embark on a journey to the past of Dubrovnik. Let Yourself be taken back to the past and get an insight of what the daily life in "Ragusa" looked like. During this tour, You will understand the privileges the citizens of this magnificent city enjoyed. They had one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe dating back to the 14.ct, fountain with fresh water from one of the first water supply system and a developed care system for the old and poor citizens. Dubrovnik is over a thousand-year-old. Its history is visible in every part of this city.

Highlights:

• Old Town of Dubrovnik
• Museums
• Personal guide

• Private guide
• Dubrovnik card (you can choose from the following: Art Galley Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik city walls,     Dulcic-Masle-Pulitika Gallery, Marin Drzic House, Maritime museum, Natural History Museum, Rector’s Palace and Rupe Ethnographic Museum) 

• Lunch
• Tips

Dubrovnik & Wine tasting, 3 hours, from Dubrovnik

Today is perfect to “travel back in time” into the past of Dubrovnik and get an insight of what the daily life in Ragusa really looked like. Your private guide will explain many things on this tour, and you will be able to understand all the privileges that the citizens of Ragusa once had. Ragusa, historical city that later developed into Dubrovnik, had one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, founded in 1317 within the Franciscan monastery. The city had fresh water fountains from one of the first water supply systems in the world. And regarding the recent topics – did you know that the Republic of Dubrovnik invented quarantine? In that way they could stop the spreading of any Middle Ages disease, inside their walls.

After the sightseeing tour, you will continue to fine bars for wine tastings and tasty bites. Dubrovnik region is well-known for its indigenous grapes so prepare for ultimate enjoyment of fine wine delight!

Highlights:

• Old Town of Dubrovnik
• Museums
• Personal guide
• Wine tasting

• Private guide
• Tickets to preferred museums
• Wine tasting (5 wines) with snacks
• One way transfer to city center

• Additional food
• Tips

Dubrovnik & Game of thrones, full day, from Dubrovnik

This exceptional tour will take you on a stroll through the amazing locations used for some of the most memorable scenes in the hit series Game of Thrones. The day will start by visiting the Arboretum early in the morning. Arboretum is a magical botanical garden within Dubrovnik city walls that is also a fictional royal garden of King’s landing. You saw many iconic scenes with Lady Olenna, Cersei Lannister, members of Stark family and many others, exactly on this location. From Arboretum, you will continue to old town Dubrovnik. Another one among GoT locations is the fortress of Saint Lawrence (Lovrijenac) above all extraordinary location that is a fictional Red Keep.

This exceptional tour will take you on a stroll through the amazing locations used for some of the most memorable scenes in the hit series Game of Thrones. The day will start by visiting the Arboretum early in the morning. Arboretum is a magical botanical garden within Dubrovnik city walls that is also a fictional royal garden of King’s landing. You saw many iconic scenes with Lady Olenna, Cersei Lannister, members of Stark family and many others, exactly on this location. From Arboretum, you will continue to old town Dubrovnik. Another one among GoT locations is the fortress of Saint Lawrence (Lovrijenac) above all extraordinary location that is a fictional Red Keep.

After sightseeing of the old city and Saint Lawrence fortress, you will continue towards island Lokrum with a public boat. Many scenes were filmed in the botanical gardens of the former Benedictine monastery on the island. Experience this lovely tour through the eyes of passionate GoT guides!

 

Dubrovnik pick up, Peljesac wine & oyster story, 5 hours

Your private tour will start Mali Ston. There you will enjoy tasting oysters freshly taken out of the sea. Next part of your tour will include jeep safari ride through local vineyards in Peljesac with wine tasting as well as learning about the wine production. 

Highlights:

• Ston tour
• Wine and oyster tasting
• Personal guide
• Jeep safari ride
• Transfers 

• Wine and oysters tasting
• Round transfers
• Private guide

• Tips
• Lunch
• Tickets for museums

Dubrovnik pick up, Kayak safari tour, 4 hours

Your day will start with a unique experience that will allow You to actively enjoy and explore the natural beauty of the Dalmatian coast. Traveling by kayak gives You an intimate and more private insight of this UNESCO gem. This private tour starts with a transfer to Banje beach. Upon arrival Your guide will teach You how to use the paddles. As soon as you feel ready You will start paddling in the direction of the Old harbor and the Old Town city walls. Enjoy exploring Dubrovnik from slightly different perspective. 



Highlights:

• Kayaking tour with beautiful scenery
• Personal guide

• Private instructor
• Kayaks
• safety equipment
• fruit snack and bottle of water

• Lunch
• Tips

Dubrovnik pick up, Dubrovnik and silk experience, 5 hours

You will embark on a journey to the past of Dubrovnik and get an insight of what the daily life in "Ragusa" looked like. During this tour, you will understand the privileges the citizens of this magnificent city enjoyed. They had one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe founded in 1317 within the Franciscan monastery.

After the tour of Dubrovnik Old town, you will meet the driver and be transferred to a little village called Gruda. There a local artist will present to you the Silk production and tailoring heritage of Dubrovnik.


Highlights:

• Private guide
• Round transfers
• Silk demonstration
• Heritage tour

• Private guide
• Round transfers
• Silk demonstration
• Traditional sweets and homemade liquor

• Tips
• Items purchased for personal use
• Additional food and drinks

Dubrovnik pick up, car&driver on disposal, 6 hours

Your personal English speaking driver will be waiting for you at the Dubrovnik Harbor. You will have the car and driver at your disposal for 6h.

We suggest you to visit Cavtat, Konavle or Ston. Cavtat is a town filled with numerous palaces, residencies and cultural monuments from the Roman times.


Highlights:

• Personal driver
• Flexible tour
• If desired a private guide can be arranged

• Personal driver and car on disposal

• Tips

Dubrovnik tour and Coral factory

Your sightseeing tour will begin with exploring the main street in Dubrovnik - Stradun (Placa).

You will visit some of the most famous landmarks of Dubrovnik. As a break, You will stop in “Clara Stones” workshop, wonderful jewelry shop where You will have a private demonstration of how jewelers make beautiful jewelry from a rude coral; and please, feel free to try making something Yourself!

This is the end of our services.


Highlights:

• Sightseeing experience 
• Personal guide
• Demonstration of coral jewelry production 
• Transfer to city center

• Private guide
• Demonstration of coral jewelry production
• Transfer to city center
• Tickets to preferred museums

• Lunch
• Tips

Dubrovnik tour with emphasis on Jewish Heritage

Today, you will start an interesting exploration of magnificent Dubrovnik, together with your private guide. This sightseeing tour will focus on the history of Jewish community in Dubrovnik, from the 14th century until the present day.

Discover the Jewish monuments around the city – Jewish fountain on the Pile plateau, Jewish street - later ghetto in the 16th century and over stone fragments in the norther part of the city.

Visit the second oldest synagogue in Europe which is still in service, and the Jewish museum which vividly testifies about the different times and altering attitudes towards Jewish people over time. All of this interesting monuments and locations will let you discover everyday life of Jewish people in Dubrovnik.

Highlights:

• Unique sightseeing experience 
• History and culture exploration 

• Private guide
• 1-day Dubrovnik Card
• Tickets for Dubrovnik synagogue

• Food
• Drinks
• Gratuities
• Items purchased for personal use

Dubrovnik Cooking class

This tour will take you to the home of a local family in Konavle where you will learn the history and tradition of the region through cooking class.

Your hosts will welcome you with traditional liqueurs and figs made in their own production. Next, they will show you through their beautiful property and the garden, where you will pick up traditional vegetables and fruits.

Obtaining the necessary ingredients for preparing the traditional meals, dishes and refreshments cooking class becomes a very fun journey.

The class will end with a tasteful traditional meal in which You will all enjoy together like a traditional family.

Highlights:

• Unique gastronomy experience 
• Off the beaten track 
• Local way of life

• Round transfers
• Traditional lunch
• Culinary and history tour

• Tips

* Please let us know: if You have any food dislikes or allergies  

Magic gastro and history experience in Dubrovnik

• Unique gastro sightseeing experience 
• Private guide
• Local food 

• private guide
• drinks and food consumption in 5 restaurants
• transfer from Gruz harbor to town center

• Tips
• Return transfer

Dubrovnik: Pearl of the Adriatic Walking Tour - 4 hours

Begin your day as you disembark and meet your expert local guide for an introduction to this wonderful city, proclaimed a city museum by UNESCO. The old city is cocooned inside a circuit of imposing city walls. Over a mile in length, the towering ramparts are a masterpiece of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Stroll along the beautifully-paved, main city promenade which dates back centuries and find the 14th-century Franciscan Monastery whose elegant cloister ranks among the most inspiring sites of the city. Also see the church of St Blaise, the remarkable Sponza Palace and the Rector’s Palace before finishing your tour with superb views from atop the vast city walls.

Highlights:

• Discover the charming Mediterranean city of Dubrovnik, proclaimed a city museum by UNESCO, including the impressive city walls

• Dubrovnik’s Gruz Port and the gates of Dubrovnik (no transport is required if guests tender into the Old Town harbour)
• An expert local guide for 4 hours in Dubrovnik
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Dubrovnik: Kayaking the Adriatic - 4 hours

You will be met today by your driver for the short drive to the beach in Dubrovnik in front of Lokrum Island for a privately guided kayaking expedition. Paddlers are rewarded with lovely views of the city from the island, the rugged coastline of caves. Paddle to a private cove camouflaged by coastal cliffs - the perfect spot to swim, snorkel and relax on the beach At the end of the tour you will be transferred back to the ship.

Highlights:

• The beautiful natural idyll of the Elaphite Islands
• A privately-guided kayak excursion with an expert kayak leader

• All necessary equipment for the kayak excursion
• Private transfers by luxury car or minivan between Dubrovnik and Zaton Bay
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Dubrovnik: Tastes of the Peljesac Peninsula - 6 hours

One of the finest coastal drives in Europe awaits you today as you journey with your private guide and driver along the Peljesac Peninsula to Mali Ston, where vast defensive walls are said to be second only in length to those in China. The inlet at Mali Ston offers the perfect environment for cultivating oysters so while here, why not take the opportunity to sample a fresh oyster right at the spot where they were pulled out of the sea.

The unusual and harsh territory of Peljesac is also perfect for growing very high quality grapes and olives in very small quantities so this is the perfect place to visit to a small family winery. Though the cellar of the winery is located directly under the family home, the white and red wines produced here are well known throughout Croatia due to their high quality. Enjoy tastings of Croatian wine before returning past the salt pans of Ston to your cruise ship in Dubrovnik.

Highlights:

• Sample some fresh oysters from the Inlet at Mali Ston
• Taste some fantastic Croatian wines, whose grapes were grown on the Peljesac peninsula

• Oyster and wine tastings
• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 6 hours throughout the tour
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Dubrovnik: Elaphite Islands by Private Motor Yacht - 8 hours

Stoked by the sun and cheered by the breeze, start your private boat tour around the beautiful Elaphite islands. This picturesque archipelago within the vicinity of Dubrovnik comprises 13 islands, islets and rocks. Abounding in lush subtropical vegetation of laurel, cypress and pine trees, and fragrant thyme and rosemary, the islands were formerly the favourite summer residence of the Dubrovnik aristocracy.

Discover the three largest islands in the group with your skipper. The island of Kolocep has an interior covered by dense pine forest while the inhabitants live in a quaint fishing village that stretches along the sandy beach. Continue to Lopud, dominated by its Franciscan Monastery and home to the beautiful Gjorgic-Mayneri Park. Enjoy time at leisure to stroll through the winding streets, swim on the Sunj beach and perhaps enjoy lunch in one of the excellent local restaurants. Later, visit Sipan, the largest of the islands where hillsides are decorated with numerous summer villas, Renaissance churches and baroque chapels. Return to Dubrovnik from here.

Highlights:

• Explore the quaint island of Kolocep
• Visit the island of Lopud, home to the beautiful Gjorgic-Mayneri Park
• Spend time on Sipan, the largest of the islands

• Jeanneau Prestige 36 private motor yacht (or similar) with expert skipper
• Fuel and marina fees for the specified itinerary
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Dubrovnik: Cooking Class in the Konavle Valley - 6 hours

Journey to the heart of the Konavle Valley accompanied by your private guide and driver. Situated just inside the hinterlands near Dubrovnik, this area is known for its carefully-preserved folk customs, rich national costumes and cuisine.

On arrival in one of the typical villages of the region, receive a warm welcome from your host who chats to you about local life in the area while you try some homemade liquors and pastries. Your host shows you how to prepare delicious homemade bread before you head out into the garden in order to collect the necessary ingredients for your cooking class. You even have the opportunity to milk a goat in order to have fresh milk and cheese for your selected dish.

Afterwards, enjoy the fruits of your labour as you tuck in to the meal you have helped prepare all together before returning to your cruise ship.

Highlights:

• Discover the rural traditions of the Dalmatian  countryside
• Learn the secrets of the delicious local cuisine with a private cooking class

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide throughout (6 hours)
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours

Dominated by the remarkable Parthenon, which has stood for over 2,000 years, Athens is a city of major architectural and archaeological treasures. At Piraeus Port you will receive a warm welcome from your guide and driver who provides a captivating insight into the city’s history and culture during your full day tour.

For most, the highlight of a visit to Athens is the world famous Acropolis and the Parthenon. Dedicated to the Goddess Athena, it is one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world. This afternoon, delight in the mesmerising display of eclectic Greek and Oriental art at the Benaki Museum. Complete your day with a drive past the Panethenaic Stadium, the pure marble masterpiece that served as the original site for the modern Olympics. At the end of the tour you are privately transferred back to your cruise ship.

Highlights:

• Ascend the Acropolis to the Parthenon, one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world
• Tour the Benaki Museum

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 8 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
  All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Piraeus: Cape Sounion - 5 hours

Meet your guide as you disembark your cruise ship in Piraeus and venture along the scenic coast to Cape Sounion where you visit the ancient ruined Temple of Poseidon. This temple is believed to date from the 5th century BC and was built to honour Poseidon, who ranked second only to Athena herself in terms of power. The Temple enjoys an impressive position, high on the cliffs, and has, over the centuries, been marked by many travellers’ carved signatures, including that of Lord Byron. After touring the site, you return to your cruise ship in Piraeus.

Highlights:

• Venture along the coast to Cape Sounion to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Poseidon

Istanbul Port - Treasures of Istanbul (Full Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Byzantine Highlights- (Half Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Cultural Istanbul-(Full Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Ottoman Collection - (Half-Day Tour)

Istanbul Port - Private Bosphorus Cruise (Half Day)

• 1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
• Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
• Bosphorus cruise on a private yacht for 1½ hours.
• Bottled water provided through the tour. 
• Welcome Package.
• VAT taxes.

• Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
  •  At the discretion of the guests
• Personal expenses of the guests

Istanbul Port - Private Cooking Class in a Local Home with Market Visit

• Private Cooking Class experience.
• A deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver
• Private chauffeur driven a/c deluxe vehicle throughout the program.
• Services of an officially licensed, English speaking guide throughout the tour program.
• Local ferry tickets.
• Bottled water provided throughout the tour. 
• Welcome Package.
• VAT taxes.

• Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
  •  At the discretion of the guests
• Personal expenses of the guests

Istanbul Port - Private Culinary Walking Tour ( Half Day Tour)

• 1 half day of sightseeing in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
• Licensed professional guide in English language.

• Services of Sea Song Tour’s English speaking, officially licensed guide throughout the tour program.

• Entrance fees to all museums, parks, and historic sites as marked on the itinerary.
• Bottled water provided through the tour. 
• Welcome Package.
• VAT taxes.

• Gratuities to the Guide & Driver
  •  At the discretion of the guests
• Personal expenses of the guests

Istanbul: Jewish Heritage Tour - 7 hours

An English speaking officially licenced lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the exit of the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am, with a sign reading their names, for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.

First visit of the day is to the Galata Tower which was built in 1303 by immigrants from Genoa, Italy. While sipping your Turkish coffee there, you will be amazed at the spectacular view of the Golden Horn and the old buildings located on its shores depicting how Istanbul looked hundreds years ago.
The private tour will continue with a visit to the Neve Shalom and the oldest Synagogue in Istanbul- the Ahrida Synagogue, built around 1470 by Jewish immigrants from Macedonia.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sites.

The guests will be then taken to the Jewish Museum of Turkey. There is evidence that this building as a former synagogue existed in 1671. However the actual building was re-erected over its original foundations presumably in the early 19th Century. Zulfaris Synagogue has opened its doors as the Jewish museum in 2001. Continue to visit the Balat section, where the Star of David appears.

At the end of the day,a private lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the cruise pier.

Closed weekly days for sites/museums:
• Synagogues are closed on Saturdays and Sunday
* Neve Shalon Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
• Zulfaris Synagogue (Jewish Museum) is closed on Saturdays.

* Please forward us a copy of your guests’ passport page with the photo, as required by the Chief Rabbi of Istanbul, to obtain His official approval for the synagogue visits in Turkey.

Added Value:

Tour can operate: Starting mornings

Wheelchair Accessible: Partial

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, a licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums

Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses

Istanbul: Edirne Highlights - 11 hours

An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at Istanbul cruise pier at 8 am and you will be driven to Edirne (approx. 3 hours), known formerly as Adrianople and was the second capital of the Ottoman Empire. Edirne is situated in Thrace, in westernmost Turkey on the border of Greece and is known for the Selimiye Mosque, built in the 16th century by the famous architect Sinan. The mosque's main structure comprises 18 small domes dominated by a huge central dome on 8 columns with 3 balconied minarets on 4 sides.

The tour will include visits to Selimiye & Complex (Vakiflar), Turkish - Islamic Works Museum The works are exhibited in the room numbered 14 in Dar - ül Tedris Madrasa in the courtyard of Selimiye Mosque with the Archaeological and Ethnographical Museums, In the hand works part, there is a village kitchen, Carpet, Kilim and Rush Mat weaving looms are located and other incredible mosques such as the Yildirim Mosque, Uc Serefeli Mosque and the Beyazit II Mosque.

Lunch will be served at local restaurant close to the sights, at your own cost.

There are also impressive caravanserais such as the Rustem Pasha and the lively restored Arasta and Bedesten bazaars. You may also see some beautiful Ottoman bridges in Edirne and around the area, such as Uzunkopru, which was also built by the architect Sinan. In the evening You will be transferred back to your cruise ship around 7 pm.

Added Value:

Tour can operate: Starting mornings

Wheelchair Accessible: Partial

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Included: Transportation by a cheaffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums

Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses

Istanbul: Highlights - 7 hours

Istanbul: Private Art Collections - 7 hours

An English speaking private lecturer/guide will meet you at at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for departure by chauffeur driven a/c deluxe minivan, to start your private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.

Today’s private tour will start with a visit to the Istanbul Modern Museum of Art, situated at the shores of the Bosphorus. Istanbul Modern Museum of Art exhibits Turkey’s art heritage, and creates a platform for Turkish peoples’ creativity, dynamism, cultural identity and universal values.

A drive along the scenic Bosphorus Avenue will take you to the Family Villa of the Sabanci’s, the Internationally successful Turkish industrialist, now housing Mr. Sabanci’s lifetime collection of rare art pieces and celebrated paintings by Int’l and local masters, displayed in his former Family Home, recently donated to his Foundation as a Private Museum.

Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurant by the shores of the Bosphorus (at your own discretion and cost).

After lunch, you will visit Private Museum of Lady Sadberk, donated to the nation by art-loving wife of Vehbi Koc, another leading industrialist. The beautiful, late-Ottoman wooden mansion contains a fabulous collection of Turkish arts and crafts, including jewelry, silverware, and Iznik ceramics of the classic period.

At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise pier by 4 pm.

Closed weekly days for sites/museums:

• Istanbul Modern Museum is closed on Mondays.

• Sabanci: Museum is closed on Mondays.

• Lady Sadberk Han Museum is closed on Wednesdays.

Added Value:

Tour can operate: Starting mornings

Wheelchair Accessible: Partial

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Included: Transportation by a chaeffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums

Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses

Istanbul: Private Yacht Cruise along the Bosphorus - 7 hours

An English speaking officially licensed lecturer/guide will meet the guests at the Istanbul cruise pier at 09:00 am for a private sightseeing tour of Istanbul.

Today’s tour will start with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace- the largest and the finest example of Ottoman Baroque Architecture, a monument to the Ottomans’ westernization process in the 19th century. The Ottoman response to the overwhelming changes in the post-renaissance world was rapid westernization, initiated in the imperial lifestyle at first that gave way to the creation of a series of baroque-style European-fashion palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus.

You will then board a private boat for a cruise on the Bosphorus against the majestic skyline of Istanbul. Your private boat will cruise along the romantic Bosphorus visiting both the Europe Side and the Asia Side of Istanbul by the shores of local fishing villages, en route when it is possible to take memorable photos of the fascinating environments including the 15th century Rumelihisar? Fortress, the Summer Palaces of Lady Ottoman Sultans, and the historical Wooden Houses (Yalis) of famous Turkish families. The cruise ends on the Asian side of Istanbul.

Lunch will be served at a local seafood restaurants in Kanlica Village by the Bosphorus.

After lunch, you will proceed to the top of the Grand Camlica Hill, where you will enjoy the panoramic view of the European side of Istanbul.

Your private tour will continue with a visit to the Beylerbeyi Palace, the residence of the Ottoman Sultans in late 19th and early 20th century.

After this visit, a scenic drive on the Asian shores of the Bosphorus will take you to the Kanlica Village where you will have a taste of the famous “local yogurt” and “apple tea” in a local café by the Bosphorus.

At the end of the day, the lecturer/guide will take the guests back to the hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.

Closed weekly days for sites/museums:

• Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.

• Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays and Thursdays.

Added Value:

Tour can operate: Starting mornings

Wheelchair Accessible: No

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums

Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses

Istanbul: The 16th Century Masterpieces of Sinan the Architect - 7 hours

Your English speaking private guide will meet you at the Istanbul cruise pier at 9 am for a private full day sightseeing tour of Sinan the architect’s Istanbul buildings.

The private tour will start with a visit to Rustem Pasha Mosque. It was designed by famous “Sinan the Architect” for Grand Vizier Rustem Pasha. Rustem Pasha Mosque is famous for its exquisite Iznik tiles, set in beautiful floral and geometric designs, which cover not only the facade of the porch but also the walls and columns.

Continue to Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, which is the most important of all the imperial mosques in Istanbul. Suleyman the Magnificent and his wife are both buried here and the mosque is considered the most beautiful of the city’s Imperial mosques. It was built between 1550 and 1557 by Sinan, and is erected on the crest of a hill. The mosque is conspicuous by its great size, and has four minarets – one in each corner of the courtyard. The interior is also spectacular; the mihrab (prayer niche facing Mecca) and the mimber (pulpit) are finely carved in white marble, and there are magnificent stained glass windows.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant close to the sights (at your own discretion and cost).

In the afternoon, you will visit the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque located in the Edirnekapi neighborhood near the Byzantine city walls. Located on the peak of the Sixth Hill near the highest point of the city, the mosque is a prominent landmark in Istanbul. The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque was designed by "Sinan the Architect" for the favorite daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent, Princess Mihrimah.

Last visit of the day will be to the Sehzade Mosque which was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman in memory of his eldest son by Hürrem, Prince Mehmet, who died the age of 21. It was the first major commission by the Imperial Architect Sinan and was completed in 1548. It is considered by architectural historians as Sinan's first masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture.

At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel/cruise ship by 4 pm.

Added Value:

Tour can operate: Starting mornings

Wheelchair Accessible: Partial

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Included: Transportation by a chauffeur driven a/c private vehicle, an officially licensed bilingual private lecturer/guide, entrance fees to the sites/museums

Not Included: Gratuities to the guide and driver, meals and personal expenses

Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 8 hours

Highlights/Description:

• Dolmabahce Palace
• Cruise on Bosphorus
• Rüstem Pasha Mosque
• Spice Bazaar

• Officially licensed, private guide
• Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
• 2 Hour Bosphorus Cruise with Private Yacht
• Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
• Bottled water
• Welcome package
• Applicable taxes

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Istanbul Half Day Sightseeing plus Private Bosphorus Cruise - 4 hours

Highlights/Description:

Your English-speaking, private guide will meet you at the cruise pier for your half day sightseeing tour of Istanbul.
 
First, you will proceed to explore the 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace to experience its eclectic style of architecture with Baroque and Rococo touch. Compared to Topkap? Palace, Dolmabahçe is more westernized in its architectural style. You will enjoy its elaborate interior decoration.
 
You will next board a private motor yacht for a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, which has been a geopolitically important strait between Europe and Asia connecting the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea. You will pass by some magnificent palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
 
At the end of the tour, your private guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier.
 
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:

• Officially licensed, private guide
• Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
• 2 Hour Bosphorus Cruise with Private Yacht
• Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
• Bottled water
• Welcome package
• Applicable taxes

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Jewish Heritage Half Day Tour (Istanbul) - 4 hours

Highlights/Description:

• Galata Quarter
• Ahrida Synagogue
• Jewish Museum
• Grand Bazaar

• Officially licensed, private guide
• Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
• Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
• Bottled water
• Welcome package
• Applicable taxes

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Old City of Istanbul Full Day Tour - 8 hours

Highlights/Description:

• Roman Hippodrome and Egyptian Obelisk
• Blue Mosque
• Haghia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace
• Basilica Cistern
• Grand Bazaar

• Officially licensed, private guide
• Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
• Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
• Bottled water
• Welcome package
• Applicable taxes

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Old City of Istanbul Half Day Tour - 4 hours

Highlights/Description:

• Roman Hippodrome
• Egyptian Obelisk
• Blue Mosque
• Haghia Sophia –OR– Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar

• Officially licensed, private guide
• Transfers to/from port in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
• Parking fees and entrance fees of the sites/museums stated in the tour program
• Bottled water
• Welcome package
• Applicable taxes

• Meals, unless otherwise noted
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

Istanbul - At Your Leisure Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Travelive)

At Your Leisure Option: Please see below for details on this option.

You decide where to go and what to see.

Included:

• Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking guide and driver for 8 hours
• Bottled water in the vehicle
• Gratuities to guide and driver**

Excluded:

• Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
• Entrance fees
• Items of personal nature

Highlights of Istanbul - 8 Hours

Highlights:

• Egyptian Obelisk and Hippodrome Square
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace including Harem and Treasury
• Temple of St. Sophia
• Grand Bazaar & Nuru Osmaniye District

• Transportation by A/C non-smoking deluxe vehicle
• Service of an English-speaking professional private tour guide throughout the program
• All entrance and parking fees for the sightseeing
• Complimentary beverages on vehicle throughout the journey
• All taxes and service charges

• Meals and beverages
• Honorary gratuities for guide and driver
• Personal expenses