This full-day private van tour explores the Bosphorus coastline on both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul. The day begins on the Asian shore in Üsküdar and follows the water north and west through Kuzguncuk, Beylerbeyi, Çamlıca Hill, Çengelköy and Kanlıca, before crossing the Bosphorus Bridge to the European side to finish in Bebek and Arnavutköy. Guests experience local neighbourhood life, Ottoman-era architecture, an imperial summer palace, panoramic city views and some of the Bosphorus's best-loved waterside villages — all with a professional guide and private transport.

Asian Coastline

1. Üsküdar Centre

We start in the heart of Üsküdar, a traditionally conservative, working-class Anatolian district whose character is slowly changing today. The visit takes in the local market and several mosques from the Ottoman Empire heritage, giving guests a first taste of everyday local life on the Asian side.

2. Kuzguncuk Neighbourhood

A traditional Ottoman neighbourhood on the Bosphorus coastline, rich in history and lined with colourful 19th- and 20th-century Ottoman-style houses. Its streets feel like an open-air exhibition, and today the area welcomes visitors with charming cafés and restaurants where the spirit of the old neighbourhood can still be felt.

3. Beylerbeyi Palace

A summer residence of the Ottoman imperial family since 1865, set directly on the Bosphorus. Depending on time, guests can either visit just the palace garden or tour the whole palace (40–50 minutes).

4. Çamlıca Hill

A hilltop viewpoint and an integral part of the Anatolian landscape, offering unique panoramic views over Istanbul. This large green area is a popular picnic spot for locals wanting to escape the city, and guests can stop for tea, coffee or a cold drink at one of the hilltop cafés. The hill is reached by a short 10-minute taxi ride.

5. Çengelköy Neighbourhood

A local neighbourhood best known for its food and coffee culture, including hot and cold chocolate drinks. Locals come here to enjoy fresh fish and kokoreç (grilled sheep's intestines), among other local specialities.

6. Kanlıca

A famous Bosphorus-front neighbourhood known for its traditional yogurt and one of the best views along the strait.

Crossing to the European Side

The group crosses the Bosphorus Bridge by car to continue the tour on the European shore.

7. Bebek

A high-class, trendy urban village and a popular place to "see and be seen" among Istanbul's affluent locals, artists and celebrities. Guests take a walk along the Bebek coastline.

8. Arnavutköy

Famous for its colourful 19th-century Ottoman wooden mansions (yalılar) and narrow cobblestone streets, Arnavutköy is well known for its traditional and modern waterfront fish restaurants — a fitting final stop on the Bosphorus coastline.

• Professional English-speaking tour guide
• Private, air-conditioned van for the full day
• 20% VAT

• Entrance fees to listed sites and museums (incl. Beylerbeyi Palace)
• Lunch and drinks
• Tips for guide and driver
• Personal expenses
• Anything not specifically mentioned in the "Included" section