One Day Two Continents (Half-Day Tour from Constantinople to Chalcedon)
Discover Istanbul across two continents!
We start at the iconic 16th-century Süleymaniye Mosque for stunning city views, then wander through historic Old Town streets. Next, let's dive into the colorful Spice Bazaar and visit the nearby Rüstem Pasha Mosque, famous for its magnificent İznik tiles.
After that, we cross Galata Bridge and catch a scenic ferry over to Kadıköy (ancient Chalcedon) on the Asian side, ending your journey with a vibrant stroll through its old town/market.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel, cruise ship port or in front of Süleymaniye Mosque
Süleymaniye Mosque
The 16th-century Süleymaniye Mosque complex captivates visitors with Mimar Sinan’s grand Ottoman architecture and sweeping panoramic views over the Golden Horn and Bosphorus.
Historical Streets
It's time to have a walk in the narrow streets of the Old City (ancient Constantinople).
Rüstem Pasha Mosque
The 16th-century Rüstem Pasha Mosque is an architectural jewel famous for its intimate atmosphere and breathtaking walls covered in intricately painted Iznik tiles.
The Spice Bazaar
The 17th-century Spice Bazaar awakens your senses with bustling vaulted stalls overflowing with colorful exotic spices, aromatic teas, dried fruits, and authentic Turkish delights (candies).
Spice Bazaar (aka Egyptian Bazaar)
It's a 17th-century bazaar building which is famous for numerous spices, herbs, dried fruits and local products.
Galata Bridge (Golden Horn)
Connecting the Old City to the modern districts over the Golden Horn, the iconic Galata Bridge offers a lively stroll lined with local anglers, passing ferries, and sweeping views of Istanbul’s skyline.
Ferry ride from Karkaöy to Kadıköy (Europe to Asia)
We use the public service which operates every 15-20 minutes. The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes.
Kadıköy (ancient Chalcedon)
Situated on Istanbul’s Asian shore, ancient Chalcedon—now vibrant Kadıköy—charms visitors with its bohemian spirit, bustling open-air food markets, trendy cafés, and authentic local street life.
End of the tour
We'll finish the tour in Kadıköy. If you want, you can spend more time here or I can help you return to your hotel or cruise ship port.
Ending Point
Kadıköy (Asian Side)
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee, hotel meet-up
Transportation Fees
Food, Drinks, Snacks
Souvenirs
Tour Important Information
The Spice Bazaar is closed on Eid holidays.
Mosques are closed earlier on Friday due to the Friday prayer.
Please contact me for Friday.
Important message from the supplier
I can work everyday
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Yasin K.
Merhaba (Hello) from a friendly Istanbulite! My name is Yasin, a licensed tour guide who is in love with his city.
First of all, Istanbul isn’t just a city; it’s a living museum where empires, religions, and cultures have collided and harmonized for centuries. I've been living in this amazing city for 38 years and have about 11 years of experience as a guide. My purpose isn't just to show you historical monuments but to help you feel the true soul of this city through its rich history, vibrant culture and incredible cuisine.
I am very interested in both Roman/Eastern Roman (Byzantine) and Ottoman heritage of Istanbul, so I can offer you very specific tours which you'll always remember. I have basic information on ancient/medieval Greek and can read Ottoman Turkish. I can also explain caligraphic inscriptions easily. I believe that to truly experience the magic of historical architecture, you need to understand what its inscriptions are telling us. That is why I have dedicated years to mastering this field.
I’m also passionate about photography and exploring healthy, traditional local cuisine and fortunately, Istanbul offers endless opportunities for both! I’d be delighted to share these experiences with you as well.
Feel free to contact me for either a full-day or a half-day tour. I can provide you with a complete program or customizable itinerary. Let's explore this amazing city and unique culture together!
Reviews
Susan P.
“Fascinating Tour”
Yasin was a wonderful guide who gave us an in-depth tour of Topkapi Palace and, at our request, took us through some less touristy neighborhoods of Istanbul. We were grateful for the range of experiences and Yasin's thoughtful commentary.
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Yasin K.
Thank you so much for the review! It was a great pleasure guiding you :)
Charles W.
“2nd 1/2 day tour with Yasin”
We had booked a 2nd 1/2 day tour with Yasin. Again he was punctual, and walked us to the sights we had planned with him. Helpful with tickets, and informative and helpful - again a positive experience. It should be noted that we had planned these excursions with him some months before, and had chosen the itinerary. He responded to emails promptly and was very good with accommodating our requests. Definitely can recommend.
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Yasin K.
Thank you so much for the review! I really appreciate it. Hope to see you guys again in Istanbul :)
Charles W.
“1st 1/2 day tour with Yasin”
Very positive experience indeed. Yasin arrived punctually at the hotel and took us all in a taxi to the Topkapi Palace. He was helpful in procuring tickets; his accredited guide status meant we legitimately could skip some queues. Yasin was knowledgeable and informative on the parts of the palace we saw. Most importantly, he got us back to the hotel within our specified time, notwithstanding Istanbul traffic.
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Yasin K.
Thank you so much for the review! I really appreciate it :)
$260/ per group
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