How to Plan Your Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall Tour

If you’re visiting Istanbul and looking for a unique and exciting way to spend your day, consider taking the Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall Tour. This full-day tour is organized by themes and takes you on a journey from the Black Sea to the Pacific Ocean, marveling at over 1500 species of aquatic life along the way. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to plan your tour from start to finish.

Experience

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel and a transfer to the Aqua Florya Shopping Mall, home to the world-renowned Istanbul Aquarium. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore themed exhibits and underwater tunnels where you can witness sharks, stingrays, groupers, piranhas, and octopus up close. One of the highlights of the tour is the 5D cinema, where you can immerse yourself in the fog, wind, and waters of different parts of the world. You can also wander through the Mirror Labyrinth or go on a Rainforest Quest for a truly interactive and immersive experience. After exploring the aquarium, you’ll have some free time to shop and/or eat at the Aqua Florya Mall before being transferred back to your hotel.

Booking Your Tour

To book your Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall Tour, head to the GetYourGuide website and click the ‘book here’ button. The tour costs approximately $44 per person and includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, admission to the Istanbul Aquarium, a guided tour of the aquarium, and free time to explore the Aqua Florya Mall.

What to Bring

It’s essential to come prepared for a day of walking and exploring. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing and bring a hat and sunscreen if visiting during the summer months. You may also want to bring a camera to capture your memories.

Tour Schedule

The Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall Tour typically runs from 10 am to 4 pm, with pick-up times varying depending on your hotel location. The guided tour of the aquarium takes approximately 1-2 hours, followed by free time to browse the mall and have lunch.

Tips for Your Tour

– Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time to avoid rushing. – Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning marine life and immersive exhibits at the aquarium. – Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved in the tour. – Take advantage of your free time at the Aqua Florya Mall to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.

Book Your Tour Now

The Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall Tour is a must-do for anyone interested in marine life and interactive exhibits. With an incredible range of species on display and interactive experiences like the 5D cinema, this tour promises to be a memorable experience for the whole family. Book your tour today to experience the wonders of the underwater world in Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful and historic city, located at the intersection of Europe and Asia. It’s a city that has a rich history in terms of politics, religion, and culture. For this reason, tourists from all over the world flock to Istanbul every year to experience its beauty, history, and culture. If you are planning a trip to Istanbul, you are bound to have many questions about what to expect. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about visiting Istanbul.

1. What are the top things to do in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a city that offers endless possibilities for tourists. Some of the top things to do in Istanbul include:

• Visit the Blue Mosque
• Explore the Hagia Sophia Museum
• Shop at the Grand Bazaar
• Cruise on the Bosphorus
• Visit the Topkapi Palace
• Explore the Spice Bazaar
• Visit the Basilica Cistern
• Explore the Dolmabahce Palace
• Visit the Chora Church
• Have a Turkish bath

2. What’s the best way to get around Istanbul?

Istanbul is a big city, but thanks to its public transportation system, it’s easy to get around. The best way to get around Istanbul is by using the metro, tram, or bus system. The metro system is the fastest way to get around the city, especially during rush hour. The tram system is also a great option, as it connects many of the major sites in Istanbul. Finally, the bus system is cheap and reliable, but it can be crowded during peak hours.

3. When is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). During these times, the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists. If you visit Istanbul during the summer, be prepared for hot weather and large crowds.

4. What should I wear in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a fairly conservative city, so it’s best to dress modestly. This means avoiding short skirts or shorts, and making sure your shoulders are covered. At mosques and other religious sites, women are required to cover their heads. Men should avoid wearing shorts or tank tops in these areas.

5. What’s the local currency in Istanbul, and where can I exchange my currency?

The local currency in Istanbul is the Turkish lira (TRY). You can exchange your currency at banks, or at currency exchange offices, which are found throughout the city. It’s best to avoid exchanging money at hotels or in tourist areas, as you may get a poor exchange rate.

6. Is it safe to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul is generally a safe city to visit, but like any big city, it’s important to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or expensive items, and be wary of pickpockets. In general, the areas around tourist sites are heavily policed, and you should feel safe walking around during the day.

7. Can I drink the tap water in Istanbul?

No, it’s not recommended to drink tap water in Istanbul. It’s best to stick to bottled water, which is widely available.

8. What’s the food like in Istanbul?

The food is one of the highlights of visiting Istanbul. The city is famous for its hearty and flavorful dishes, which are based on fresh vegetables, meats, and spices. Some must-try dishes include Turkish kebabs, pide (Turkish pizza), meze (small dishes served as appetizers), and baklava (sweet pastry).

9. What’s the best way to learn about Istanbul’s history and culture?

Istanbul is a city with a rich history and culture, so it’s best to learn about it by visiting museums, historical sites, and local cultural events. Some of the most interesting museums in Istanbul include the Hagia Sophia Museum, the Topkapi Palace Museum, and the Istanbul Archaeology Museum. You can also take a guided tour with a local expert, or attend a traditional dance or music performance.

10. What’s the drinking age in Istanbul?

The legal drinking age in Istanbul is 18 years old, and it’s illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under the age of 18. However, it’s common for younger people to drink in social situations, especially in bars and nightclubs.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

If you are planning a trip to Turkey, you will likely find yourself in Istanbul at some point. This bustling city has a lot to offer, from ancient history to modern shopping and dining. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. In this guide, we will give you some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul.

1. Visit the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Originally built as a church in the 6th century, it later served as a mosque before being converted to a museum in 1935. Today, visitors can admire the stunning architecture and artwork from both Christian and Islamic traditions. The dome is especially impressive, standing 55 meters high.

2. Explore the Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Now a museum, it contains a vast collection of Islamic art, weapons, and clothing. Visitors can also tour the palace’s courtyards, gardens, and harem.

3. Wander through the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. With over 5,000 shops spread over 60 streets, it is easy to get lost in its maze. Visitors can find everything from carpets to spices to jewelry. Bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to haggle.

4. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus is the strait that separates Europe and Asia. A cruise along this stretch of water offers stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and landmarks, such as the Rumeli Fortress and the Maiden’s Tower. Some cruises also include stops on both sides of the strait.

5. Visit the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. Built in the early 17th century, its six minarets and domed roof make it a recognizable feature of Istanbul’s skyline. Visitors are welcome to enter, but be aware of the dress code and prayer times.

6. Walk the Istiklal Avenue

Istiklal Avenue is one of Istanbul’s most famous shopping streets. It is pedestrian-only, making it a pleasant place to stroll and window-shop. Along the way, visitors can also admire the architecture of some of Istanbul’s historic buildings, such as the Çiçek Pasajı and the Galatasaray High School.

7. Visit the Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is an underground water storage tank that dates back to the Byzantine era. Visitors can walk along its raised platforms and admire the columns and lighting. Be sure to look for the Medusa heads at the base of two of the columns.

8. Sample Turkish Cuisine

No visit to Istanbul would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Some must-try dishes include kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. Visitors can find restaurants serving traditional fare throughout the city.

9. Take in a Whirling Dervish Performance

The Whirling Dervishes are a Sufi Muslim sect known for their spiritual dancing. Visitors can watch a performance of their traditional dance, which involves spinning in a circle while dressed in white robes. The Galata Mevlevi House is one place to catch a show.

10. Relax in a Turkish Bath

A Turkish bath, also known as a hamam, is a traditional spa experience that involves a series of steam rooms, hot pools, and massages. Visitors can choose from a range of hamams throughout Istanbul, including some that date back centuries.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a city with a rich history and a modern vibe. Whether you are interested in ancient architecture, world-famous shopping, or delicious Turkish cuisine, there is something for everyone. By following our tips, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Istanbul.