Small-Group Walking Tour of Istanbul's Asian Side

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^$ 63

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Istanbul, Turkey

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3 Hours

Moderate

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From (USD)

^$ 63

Ferry tales: Our tour begins at the historic center’s main pier, where you’ll learn to navigate Istanbul’s stellar ferry system in crossing to the Asian side.
Üsküdar: Founded by Greek colonists in the 7th century B.C., Üsküdar was later the site of Constantine the Great’s triumphant final battle against Emperor Lucinius of the East. We’ll visit monuments, explore hidden nooks, and (fingers crossed!) gain permission to enter a traditional mosque.
Kuzguncuk: We’ll make our way by foot or minibus to Kuzguncuk, a small fishing village where Ottoman viziers and notables built their villas. Now an Istanbul suburb, Kuzguncuk retains a multi-ethnic flavor from centuries as a village shared by Jews, Greeks, and Armenians.
A strong finish: Depending on the group’s preference, our walk may end with lunch in Kuzguncuk or a return to the ferry piers in Üsküdar. Either way, you’ll leave with a deep appreciation of Asian Istanbul’s eclectic history & traditions.
Heads up: We may or may not be able to enter a mosque on this tour, but be prepared. When entering mosques, you are required to remove your shoes. Participants should wear long trousers or skirts. Also, females should bring some kind of hair covering (a lightweight scarf is perfect).

Meeting point

Please meet your guide in front of Sirkeci Train Station. The main entrance is directly across the street from the Sirkeci tram stop, on Ankara Caddesi. Note, this is not the historical entrance to the train station, but rather the modern-day entrance.

Helpful hints

You'll need to pay for your ferry tokens directly.

As in many cities, keep your wallet or purse secured and leave the bling behind. In need of retail therapy after your tour? Your guide can advise you where to go in search of that "must have" souvenir to take home. Be sure to have some local currency and a backpack for all your great buys.

Getting around

Plan to walk for approximately 2 miles at a gentle pace. If your mobility is limited, this tour may be too challenging for you. This itinerary is not suitable for wheelchairs.

Activity type

Walking Tour, Cultural, Scenic

Transportation used

Public transportation may be used from time to time. Have local currency available for tickets. Your tour may involve walking only.

Included amenities

Ph.D. or MA-level scholar guide. Entrance fees, meals, and/or transportation are not included.

Tour ID

TR-EUR-TUR-ISTA-EN-2011

Tour Participation Requirements

Activity Level

This experience is rated moderate. Full participation may require extended periods of walking over even and uneven surfaces, steep terrain and/or water activity in a slight current. There may be steps, inclines, cobblestone surfaces, and extended periods of standing. Participants with physical limitations should take this into account.

Age restrictions

Travelers must be 13 years of age or older to participate in this tour.

Special comments

Walks are held rain or shine with some variations to accommodate the weather. If you are running late for your meeting with our guide, we ask that you call to alert us so that we can relay the message to the guide.

Choose your date and time very carefully. Only a portion of this tour is refundable from the time of booking; within 72 hours of operation, it is fully non-refundable.

Small-Group Walking Tour of Istanbul's Asian Side