How to Plan Your Luxury Istanbul Sultana Tour

Istanbul is a beautiful city with rich history and culture, and it’s no wonder why it’s one of the most visited cities in the world. If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul and looking to explore the city’s major attractions, then the Luxury Istanbul Sultana Tour is a great option for you. This private full-day tour will take you to the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the Hippodrome, among other highlights. Here’s how to plan your Luxury Istanbul Sultana Tour step by step.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step to planning your Luxury Istanbul Sultana Tour is to book your tour. You can book your tour online through the GetYourGuide website. The tour is available every day except Tuesdays and costs 205 Euros per person. The tour includes a private guide, transportation, and entrance fees to all the attractions on the tour. Book the tour here

Step 2: Know What to Expect

The Luxury Istanbul Sultana Tour is a full-day tour that lasts approximately 8 hours. You will be picked up from your hotel in Istanbul by your private guide and driver. The tour will take you to the following highlights:

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul. It was built in the early 17th century and is known for its six minarets and stunning blue tiles. You will have the opportunity to explore the mosque and learn about its history and architecture.

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia was originally built as a church in the 6th century and was later turned into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. Today, it is a museum that showcases the city’s rich history and culture. You will have a guided tour of the museum and learn about its fascinating past.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. It is one of the most visited attractions in Istanbul and is home to several museums, including the Imperial Treasury and the Harem. You will have a guided tour of the palace and learn about the Ottoman Empire’s rich history.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It is home to over 4,000 shops that sell everything from traditional Turkish carpets to spices and souvenirs. You will have the opportunity to explore the market and try out your bartering skills.

Hippodrome

The Hippodrome was once the center of Byzantine political and sporting life. It was the site of chariot races and other events, and you can still see the original structures that are still standing today.

Step 3: What to Bring

When planning for your Luxury Istanbul Sultana Tour, it’s important to pack accordingly. Here’s what you should bring with you: – Comfortable walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking – Sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun – A small umbrella or rain jacket in case of rain – A camera to capture your memories

Step 4: Be Prepared

Here are a few additional tips to help you prepare for your Luxury Istanbul Sultana Tour: – Eat a good breakfast before your tour as it will be a long day – Bring some local currency with you for any additional purchases you want to make at the Grand Bazaar – Dress appropriately. Some attractions may require you to dress modestly, and it’s always a good idea to dress comfortably for a full day of sightseeing.

Book Your Tour Now

The Luxury Istanbul Sultana Tour is an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the highlights of Istanbul. With a private guide and transportation included, you’ll be able to explore the city’s major attractions without the hassle of planning everything yourself. So book your tour today and get ready to experience the best of Istanbul!

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

If you are planning to visit Istanbul, Turkey for the first time, you might have a lot of questions on your mind. In this blog, we have gathered the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul to help you plan your trip better.

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul is a city that you can visit any time of the year, but the best time to go is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are not as overwhelming as in the peak summer season. Also, you can enjoy the beauty of spring and autumn in Istanbul.

2. What is the currency used in Istanbul, Turkey?

The currency used in Istanbul and the whole of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). You can easily exchange your foreign currency to Turkish Lira in exchange offices, banks or at the airport.

3. What is the language spoken in Istanbul?

The official language spoken in Istanbul is Turkish. However, many locals and workers in the tourist industry can speak English and other foreign languages, too.

4. What are the top attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is famous for its rich history, culture, and architecture. Some of the top attractions in Istanbul are:

• Hagia Sophia
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar
• Basilica Cistern
• Galata Tower
• Bosphorus Bridge
• Spice Bazaar

5. How to get from the airport to the city center?

Istanbul has two airports, Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport. From Istanbul Airport, you can take the metro, bus, or taxi to the city center. If you’re landing at Sabiha Gokcen Airport, you can take the bus or taxi to the city center. We recommend using the metro or bus, as it is more affordable and faster.

6. Is Istanbul a safe city for tourists?

Yes, Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists. However, you should always take basic safety precautions such as not flashing your valuables and keeping an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like public transportation or tourist attractions.

7. What should I wear when visiting Istanbul?

Istanbul is a Muslim country, but it is not as conservative as other Muslim countries. Therefore, tourists can wear whatever they feel comfortable in, but it is advised to dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious places. Women should cover their heads and shoulders and wear long skirts or pants.

8. How to get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has a well-developed public transportation system that includes the metro, buses, trams, and ferries. You can buy an Istanbulkart, which is a rechargeable electronic ticket that can be used on all forms of public transport. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive during rush hours.

9. What are the traditional foods to try in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a rich cuisine that combines the flavors of the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans. Some of the traditional dishes to try in Istanbul are:

• Doner kebab
• Kofte
• Manti
• Pide
• Baklava
• Meze
• Icli kofte

10. Are there any customs or traditions that I should be aware of when visiting Istanbul?

Yes, there are some customs and traditions you should be aware of when visiting Istanbul. Some of them are:

• When visiting mosques, take off your shoes before entering and dress modestly.
• When using your right hand to eat, greet people or exchange money, as the left hand is considered unclean.
• Take your shoes off when entering people’s homes.
• Respect the elderly and use appropriate titles like ‘abla’ for older women and ‘abi’ for older men.

11. What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Istanbul?

Istanbul has many great neighborhoods to stay in, depending on what you are looking for. Some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Istanbul are:

• Sultanahmet
• Beyoglu
• Kadikoy
• Nişantaşı
• Uskudar
• Ortakoy
• Bebek

12. How much time should I spend in Istanbul?

We recommend spending at least four to five days in Istanbul to explore the top attractions and get a feel for the city’s rich culture and history. However, if you have more time, you can also visit the nearby cities of Bursa and Edirne, which are easily accessible from Istanbul.

13. What are the best day trips from Istanbul?

Istanbul has many great day trips that you can take to explore the nearby attractions. Some of the best day trips from Istanbul are:

• Prince’s Islands
• Bursa
• Edirne
• Black Sea Region
• Sapanca Lake

14. What are the cultural festivals and events in Istanbul?

Istanbul has many cultural festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals and events in Istanbul are:

• Istanbul Tulip Festival in April
• Istanbul Music Festival in June
• Istanbul Shopping Fest in July
• Istanbul Biennial in September
• Istanbul Jazz Festival in November

15. What are the best places to shop in Istanbul?

Istanbul is famous for its bazaars and markets where you can find a variety of goods. Some of the best places to shop in Istanbul are:

• Grand Bazaar
• Spice Bazaar
• Nisantasi
• Istinye Park
• Kanyon
• Istanbul Cevahir
• Bagdat Caddesi

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, Istanbul is a beautiful city that offers a variety of attractions, cuisine, and culture. We hope this FAQ has helped answer some of your questions before visiting Istanbul. Remember to be respectful of the local customs and traditions and enjoy your stay in Istanbul.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that straddles both the European and Asian continents, making it a unique and fascinating destination for travelers. If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, there are many things to see and do to make the most of your time in this historic city. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul:

Step 1: Explore the Historical Sights of Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is the heart of the historical old city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are many iconic landmarks in Sultanahmet that you should explore, including:

• Hagia Sophia: Originally a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, the Hagia Sophia is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul. The enormous dome and stunning mosaics make it an architectural wonder.
• Blue Mosque: Also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is a beautiful building with stunning blue tiles adorning its interior. Make sure to dress modestly when visiting and remove your shoes when entering.
• Topkapi Palace: Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace is now a museum. You can explore the palace’s many rooms and gardens.
• Basilica Cistern: An underground cistern built during the Byzantine period, the Basilica Cistern is a unique and atmospheric attraction. Make sure to look for the two Medusa heads at the base of two of the columns.

Step 2: Take a Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus is the strait that separates Europe and Asia, and taking a cruise along it is a wonderful way to get a different perspective on Istanbul. You can see the city’s skyline from the water, as well as many of its iconic landmarks. Be sure to take a tour that includes a stop on the Asian side of Istanbul, where you can try some delicious local food.

Step 3: Visit the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the biggest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops. You can find anything from jewelry to textiles to spices here. It’s a great place to get souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home. Remember to haggle – it’s part of the experience!

Step 4: Wander Through the Neighborhoods

Istanbul has many colorful neighborhoods that are worth exploring. Here are a few to check out:

• Beyoglu: This neighborhood is home to the famous Istiklal Street, a pedestrian thoroughfare that’s always buzzing with activity. There are many boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants along the street.
• Bosphorus: The Bosphorus neighborhood is located on the European side of Istanbul and offers stunning views of the strait, as well as charming cobblestone streets and Ottoman-era mansions.
• Kadikoy: Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Kadikoy is a vibrant neighborhood with a bustling market and a thriving restaurant scene. It’s a great place to go if you want to get away from the tourist crowds.

Step 5: Sample the Local Cuisine

Istanbul is famous for its delicious cuisine, which has influences from both Turkish and Ottoman traditions. Here are some dishes that you should try:

• Doner Kebab: A Turkish classic, doner kebab is made by stacking marinated meat on a vertical spit and slowly roasting it. The meat is shaved off and served in a pita with vegetables and sauce.
• Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough and honey, baklava is a must-try dessert in Istanbul. You’ll find it in many cafes and restaurants across the city.
• Turkish Delight: A type of candy made with sugar, cornstarch, and flavorings like rosewater or lemon, Turkish delight is a popular treat in Istanbul. You can find it in stores all over the city.

Step 6: Relax in a Turkish Bath

A Turkish bath, or hamam, is a traditional way of bathing that has been around for centuries. It involves being scrubbed down and massaged by an attendant in a steam room. There are many historic hamams in Istanbul that you can visit for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. In conclusion, Istanbul is a city full of history, culture, and amazing food. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time as a tourist in this fascinating city. So pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Istanbul!