Istanbul's Byzantine architecture, Ottoman history, and fascinating culture are at your fingertips on this full-day outing. Spend the morning cruising along the waters of the Bosphorus, have lunch near the colorful Grand Bazaar, and then scope out landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.

Head down to the docks, passing by the Golden Horn and medieval neighborhoods on your way to the boat. Board a spacious vessel for a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, the deep strait separating the continents of Europe and Asia. Snap photos as you drift by marble palaces, wooden villages, and Ottoman landmarks.

Head back to shore and grab a seat in a comfortable vehicle for a ride to the Grand Bazaar, a sprawling souk where vendors peddle everything from gold jewelry to Turkish carpets. Cozy up to a table in a local restaurant for a tasty lunch, fueling up on classic Turkish fare before the afternoon portion of your tour.

From there, your guide leads you into the heart of the Sultanahmet District. Marvel at the iconic dome and sky-high minarets of the Hagia Sophia, admire the beautiful blue tiles of the 17th-century Blue Mosque, and walk around the ancient Obelisk of Theodosius in the Hippodrome of Constantinople. Your last stop is at Firca Ceramic, a family-owned atelier specializing in handmade pottery. Admire colorful kiln-fired wares, terracotta reproductions of Hittite pieces, and beautifully patterned dishes before you return to your hotel.