How to Plan Your Istanbul Full Day Top Highlights Small Group Tour
Are you planning a trip to Istanbul and want to make sure you get to see all the top landmarks? Look no further than the Istanbul Full Day Top Highlights Small Group Tour. This 7-hour tour will take you to all of the must-see sights in Istanbul, accompanied by a knowledgeable tour guide. In this post, we’ll go through everything you need to know to plan your tour, from highlights to logistics.Highlights
The Istanbul Full Day Top Highlights Small Group Tour covers all the top landmarks in Istanbul, including:- The Blue Mosque
- The Hagia Sophia
- The Topkapi Palace
- The Grand Bazaar
Logistics
The Istanbul Full Day Top Highlights Small Group Tour is offered by a third-party company and can be booked online at https://www.getyourguide.com/istanbul-l56/istanbul-full-day-top-highlights-small-group-tour-t396646/?partner_id=UWJ1LS2. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional licensed tour guide, an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle, and all entrance fees. The tour starts at 9am and lasts approximately 7 hours.Pro Tips
Here are a few pro tips to help you make the most of your tour:- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your footwear can handle it.
- Bring water and snacks. While the tour does include a lunch break, you may want some extra sustenance to keep you going throughout the day.
- Bring a camera. You’ll want to capture all the stunning sights you’ll be seeing.
- Be respectful of religious sites. Remember that the Blue Mosque is still an active place of worship, so dress appropriately and be mindful of your behavior.
Book Your Tour Now
The Istanbul Full Day Top Highlights Small Group Tour is the perfect way to see all the top landmarks in Istanbul in just one day. With a knowledgeable guide and all logistics taken care of, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights. To book the tour, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a beautiful city that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. Istanbul has hosted numerous empires and served as a significant landmark for cultural exchange and commerce for centuries. In this FAQ, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Istanbul.1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?
The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) seasons when the weather is mild and comfortable. During the summer months (July-August), the weather can be hot and humid, and winter months (December-March) can be cold and rainy.2. What are the must-visit attractions in Istanbul?
Istanbul has numerous attractions that one should visit, but here are some of the must-visit ones:Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of Ottoman Sultans for more than 400 years, is now a museum. It is famous for its architecture and a breathtaking view of the Bosphorus Strait.Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, known as the jewel of Byzantine architecture, served as a church, mosque, and museum over the centuries. It is famous for its grand dome and interior mosaics.Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque, located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, is famous for its blue tiles and six minarets.Grand Bazaar
Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, features over 4000 shops that sell traditional Turkish crafts and cultural artifacts.Bosphorus Cruise
A Bosphorus cruise is the best way to explore Istanbul’s magnificent skyline and view landmarks such as the Maiden’s Tower, Bosphorus Bridge, and Dolmabahce Palace.3. What is the currency used in Istanbul, and can I use my credit card?
The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Yes, you can use your credit card in Istanbul, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting the local markets and eateries.4. What is Turkish cuisine, and what are some must-try dishes?
Turkish cuisine is a blend of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Some of the must-try dishes include:Kebabs
Kebabs are the most famous Turkish dish, with numerous variations like doner, shish kebab, and Adana kebab.Baklava
Baklava is a sweet made up of layers of filo pastry filled with nuts and honey syrup.Meze
Meze is a range of small dishes that are served as appetizers, containing various ingredients such as eggplant, cheese, and hummus.Pide
Pide is a type of Turkish pizza that is famous for its blend of cheese, meat, and vegetables.5. What is the public transportation system like in Istanbul?
Istanbul has an extensive and affordable public transportation network that includes buses, metro, tram, funicular, funicular subway, and ferries. Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card that can be used to pay for all modes of public transportation.6. What is the best way to get to Istanbul from the Istanbul Atatürk Airport?
The Istanbul Atatürk Airport is located on the European side of Istanbul and is accessible by metro, bus, taxi or private transfer. The M1 metro line connects the airport to the city center, with a journey time of approximately 30-40 minutes.7. How safe is Istanbul for tourists?
Istanbul is a relatively safe city for tourists but, like many other big cities, there are pickpockets and petty theft, especially in crowded areas such as public transportation, busy streets, and tourist attractions. It’s always a good idea to be cautious, especially at night, and take necessary precautions like safeguarding your belongings.8. Is there anything I should know about the local customs and traditions in Istanbul?
Istanbul is a predominantly Muslim country, and it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions. Some guidelines to follow include:- Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques, churches, and other religious sites.
- Avoid public displays of affection.
- Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, a mosque, or certain public places.
- When eating, wait for the host to invite you to begin and use your right hand to eat.
Book Your Tour Now
Istanbul is a city that is rich in history, culture, and cuisine. It has something to offer everyone, whether you’re a history buff or a foodie. Now that you have read this FAQ, you’re ready to plan your next trip to Istanbul and explore this magnificent city.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul
Istanbul, the only city in the world that is situated on two continents, offers a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavors. This city is a melting pot of history, tradition, culture, and modernity, which offers something for everyone. As a tourist in Istanbul, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do, especially if you have limited time. The following guide will help you maximize your time and experience the best that Istanbul has to offer.1. Visit the Hagia Sophia
The Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul. It is a masterpiece of architecture, art, and history. The structure was built in the 6th century AD, and for nearly a thousand years, it was the largest cathedral in the world. It was later converted into a mosque, and now it is a museum.How to get there:
You can take a tram or bus to Sultanahmet, which is the historical district of Istanbul. The Hagia Sophia is located in the heart of Sultanahmet.Opening hours and admission:
The Hagia Sophia is open every day except Mondays. The opening hours are from 9 am to 7 pm. The admission fee is TL 100.2. Explore the Topkapi Palace
The Topkapi Palace was the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years. It is a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture and design. The palace is a vast complex consisting of four courtyards, numerous rooms, and exhibitions.How to get there:
You can take a tram or bus to Sultanahmet. The Topkapi Palace is located next to the Hagia Sophia.Opening hours and admission:
The Topkapi Palace is open every day except Tuesdays. The opening hours are from 9 am to 5 pm. The admission fee is TL 100.3. Visit the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. It was built in the early 17th century and took seven years to complete. The mosque is named after Sultan Ahmed I, who commissioned its construction.How to get there:
You can take a tram or bus to Sultanahmet. The Blue Mosque is located next to the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace.Opening hours and admission:
The Blue Mosque is open every day except during prayer times. The opening hours are from 9 am to 6 pm. Admission is free.4. Wander around the Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It has been around since the 15th century and consists of over 60 streets with more than 4,000 shops. You can find everything from spices to jewelry to textiles.How to get there:
You can take a tram or bus to Beyazit. The Grand Bazaar is located in the heart of Istanbul’s old city.Opening hours and admission:
The Grand Bazaar is open every day except Sundays. The opening hours are from 9 am to 7 pm.5. Take a Bosphorus Cruise
The Bosphorus Strait separates the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Taking a cruise along the Bosphorus is an excellent way to see the city from a different perspective. You can see the historic palaces, fortresses, and mansions that line the strait.How to get there:
You can take a ferry from Eminonu, Kabatas, or Besiktas. There are different types of cruises available, such as public ferries, private boats, and dinner cruises.Opening hours and admission:
The hours and admission fees vary depending on the type of cruise you choose.6. Experience Turkish Cuisine
Turkish cuisine is a fusion of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian flavors. It is a mouth-watering experience that you do not want to miss. Some of the must-try dishes include kebabs, baklava, Turkish delight, and Turkish tea.Where to eat:
There are many great restaurants in Istanbul, but some of the best ones are located in the areas around Taksim Square and Sultanahmet.How much it costs:
The cost of eating out in Istanbul varies depending on the restaurant and the dish. However, you can find great food at affordable prices.Book Your Tour Now
Istanbul is a city that has something for everyone. From the historic landmarks to the vibrant culture and cuisine, there is no shortage of things to do and see. By following this guide, you can maximize your time and experience the best that Istanbul has to offer.Table of Contents
