Be Drawn in by the Views on Tour of the Galata Tower and City of Istanbul

Have you ever wanted to see Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks from a bird’s-eye view? Well, you can with the Galata Tower and City of Istanbul tour! This tour is perfect for those who want to experience Istanbul’s breathtaking views and rich history. Here’s how to plan your tour of Istanbul:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step in planning your tour is to book it. You can easily book your Galata Tower and City of Istanbul tour on Viator’s website. This tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, admission tickets, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. Make sure to book your tour at least 24 hours in advance to ensure availability. Book the tour here

Step 2: Pickup Details

The Galata Tower and City of Istanbul tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Make sure to select the correct pickup location when booking your tour. The tour starts at 9:00 AM, so be ready and waiting at your hotel lobby at least 30 minutes beforehand.

Step 3: Explore Istanbul’s Iconic Landmarks

The Galata Tower and City of Istanbul tour takes you through Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Here are some of the highlights:

Stop 1: Galata Tower (1 hour, admission ticket included)

The tour starts at the Galata Tower, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. The tower offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus strait, the Golden Horn, and the city’s skyline. You can take a leisurely stroll around and take in the breathtaking views while your guide shares fun facts about the tower’s history.

Stop 2: Golden Horn (1 hour, admission ticket free)

After the Galata Tower, the tour takes you to the Golden Horn, a natural harbor that divides Istanbul’s European and Asian sides. You can snap some photos while the guide provides you with insights on the area’s history.

Stop 3: Spice Bazaar (1 hour, admission ticket free)

Next up is the Spice Bazaar, one of the city’s oldest and largest covered markets. Here you can indulge in the sights and scents of a variety of spices, sweets, and souvenirs. Your guide will provide insight into the market’s history and trade practices.

Stop 4: Bosphorus Cruise (1 hour, admission ticket included)

Finally, the tour ends with a boat cruise on the Bosphorus strait. Here you can experience a firsthand view of both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul while your guide shares historic and cultural anecdotes about the city.

Step 4: Cancellation Policy

It’s always good to know a tour’s cancellation policy before booking. The Galata Tower and City of Istanbul tour has a flexible cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time or make any changes less than 24 hours before, you won’t receive a refund.

Book Your Tour Now

The Galata Tower and City of Istanbul tour is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Istanbul. It provides a unique perspective of the city’s most famous landmarks with insightful facts from the guide. Make sure to book in advance, select the correct pickup location, and cancel within the policy window if necessary. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tour today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

Istanbul, once the capital of the Ottoman Empire and currently the largest city in Turkey, is a fascinating destination with a rich historical heritage and a unique culture. Before you embark on your journey to this amazing city, make sure you’ve got the answers to the most frequently asked questions about this city.

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit the city is during the months of April, May, September, and October. The temperature during this time is moderate, and the crowds are thinner.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is known for its unique history and culture, and there’s no shortage of places to visit. The top tourist attractions in Istanbul include:

a. Hagia Sophia

Initially built as a Christian cathedral in the 6th century, Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic buildings of Istanbul. It was later turned into a mosque and is now a museum.

b. Topkapi Palace

Built-in the 15th century, the Topkapi Palace was home to Ottoman sultans for centuries. Today, the palace is a museum where you can admire the stunning architecture and learn more about Ottoman history.

c. Blue Mosque

With its six minarets and stunning blue tiles, the Blue Mosque is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul. It’s still an active mosque, so make sure to check the prayer schedule before you visit.

d. Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar is the oldest and the largest covered market in Istanbul, offering a wide range of products, including spices, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs.

3. What are the best things to do in Istanbul?

Istanbul offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. Some of the best things to do in Istanbul include:

a. Enjoy a Bosphorus Cruise

Cruising along the Bosphorus Strait provides breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline, intercontinental bridges, and waterfront palaces.

b. Visit Local Museums

If you’re interested in art and history, make sure to visit some of the museums in Istanbul, like the Istanbul Archaeology Museum and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art.

c. Indulge in Turkish Delight

One of the most traditional and delicious Turkish sweets is Turkish Delight. You’ll find lots of varieties in the local bazaars.

d. Try Turkish Bath

The Turkish bath, or hammam, is an essential part of Turkish culture. Relaxing in a hot and steamy bath, enjoying a massage, and sipping tea is a unique experience.

4. What is the currency in Istanbul?

The official currency of Istanbul is the Turkish Lira. You can exchange your currency at airports, exchange offices, or banks. Most of the places in Istanbul accept credit cards, but it’s always better to carry some cash with you, especially when you’re visiting local markets.

5. What is the local language in Istanbul?

While Turkish is the official language, many people in Istanbul speak English, especially in the tourist areas. However, you may come across some locals who don’t speak English. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Turkish, such as “Merhaba” (Hello), “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you), or “Nerede?” (Where?)

6. How can I get around in Istanbul?

Istanbul offers many public transportation options that are convenient and affordable, including buses, trams, metro, and ferries. You can buy a transportation card called Istanbulkart that works on all modes of public transport. Taxis and private transfers are also available, but they can be more expensive.

7. What is the weather like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The summers are warm and dry, with temperatures around 25-30°C. The winters are cold and rainy, with temperatures around 0-10°C. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit due to the mild climate.

8. Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Istanbul is a safe city for tourists, but like any other big city, you should take some precautions. Pickpocketing and theft can happen in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings. It’s also recommended to avoid political rallies and demonstrations.

9. What are the traditional foods of Istanbul?

Istanbul is a paradise for food lovers, and there are many traditional dishes to try. Some of the most popular ones include:

a. Kebab

Kebab is a famous Turkish dish consisting of grilled meat, usually lamb, beef, or chicken, served with rice and salad.

b. Meze

Meze is a selection of small dishes, usually served as appetizers, such as hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and eggplant dishes.

c. Baklava

Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough, filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup.

d. Turkish Tea and Coffee

Turkish tea and coffee are an essential part of Turkish culture. Turkish tea is a black tea that is brewed in a special teapot called “çaydanlık” and served in small tulip-shaped glasses. Turkish coffee is brewed in a cezve, and it’s stronger than regular coffee.

10. Can I visit Istanbul during Ramadan?

Yes, you can visit Istanbul during Ramadan, but there are some things to keep in mind. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, and most of the restaurants and cafes are closed during the day. However, Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city, and many restaurants remain open during the day. It’s also recommended to respect the local customs and dress modestly during Ramadan. In conclusion, Istanbul is a beautiful city with a rich culture and history. By keeping these frequently asked questions in mind, you’ll be ready to explore this amazing city and make the most of your journey.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most fascinating and diverse cities in the world, and there are many things to do and see here. As a tourist, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do in such a bustling city where there are so many attractions, landmarks, and historical sites. In this guide, we provide a detailed summary of the top things to see and do in Istanbul.

1. Visit the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, known locally as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. It was built in the 17th century and is famous for its six minarets and blue Iznik tiles. The mosque, which takes its name from the blue tiles that adorn the walls, is open to all visitors and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. Visitors are required to dress appropriately – with long trousers or skirts and covering their shoulders – and leave their shoes at the entrance.

2. Explore the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world, and is one of the top things to do in Istanbul. It is located in the heart of the city, close to the Spice Bazaar, and is home to over 4,000 shops selling everything from traditional Turkish carpets and ceramics to clothing and jewelry. The market is open from 9 am to 7 pm during the week, and from 9 am to 6 pm on Sundays.

3. Take a Bosphorus cruise

A cruise along the Bosphorus is one of the best ways to see Istanbul from a different perspective. The Bosphorus is the strait that separates Europe and Asia, and a cruise along this waterway offers views of both continents. There are many different cruise options available, including short cruises and dinner cruises.

4. Visit the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of the most important landmarks in Istanbul, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was originally built as a church by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I in 537 AD, and it was later converted into a mosque by the Ottoman sultan Mehmed II in the 15th century. Today, it is open to visitors and is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions.

5. Walk through the neighborhoods of Istanbul

Istanbul is a city of many neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Walking through these neighborhoods is a great way to experience the city like a local. Some of the most popular neighborhoods to visit include the historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, the trendy Beyoglu neighborhood, and the colorful Balat neighborhood.

6. Visit the Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace was once the residence of the Ottoman sultans, and it is now a museum that showcases the rich history of the Ottoman Empire. The palace, which is located in the heart of Istanbul, is home to many different exhibits, including the Imperial Treasury, the Harem, and the Sacred Relics.

7. Try Turkish cuisine

Turkish cuisine is famous for its rich flavors, and there are many different dishes to try in Istanbul. Some of the most popular dishes include kebabs, meze, and baklava.Visitors can also try traditional Turkish tea and coffee, and sample some of the many different types of Turkish delight.

8. Visit the Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is an underground water reservoir that was built in the 6th century. It is located in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, and it is one of Istanbul’s most fascinating historical sites. Visitors can walk on a raised platform over the water, and see the old columns and statues that were used to support the ceiling.

9. Take a Turkish bath

A Turkish bath, or hammam, is a traditional bathing ritual that has been practiced in Turkey for centuries. Visitors can experience this traditional treatment at one of Istanbul’s many hammams, where they can relax in steam rooms and enjoy a massage and scrub.

10. Visit the Chora Church

The Chora Church, also known as the Kariye Museum, is a Byzantine church that was built in the 4th century. It is famous for its stunning mosaics and frescoes, which depict scenes from the life of Christ. In conclusion, Istanbul is a city that is full of history, culture, and beauty, and there are many things to see and do here. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s landmarks and historical sites or sampling its rich cuisine and taking in its vibrant neighborhoods, this city has something to offer every traveler.