How to Plan Your Private Tailor Made Istanbul Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, one of the best ways to explore the city is through a private tailor made tour. These tours offer the flexibility to create a sightseeing tour that caters to your interests and schedule. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your private tailor made Istanbul tour, so you can make the most out of your time in this incredible city.

Experience

The private tailor made Istanbul tour is the perfect way to discover the best of what Istanbul has to offer. This 1, 2, or 3-day tour covers all the major attractions, including the Hagia Sophia Museum, the iconic Blue Mosque, the bustling maze of the Grand Bazaar, and the obelisk of the Hippodrome of Constantinople. The tour is designed to give you a personalized experience of Istanbul with the help of an experienced guide.

Highlights

Some of the possible attractions you’ll visit on your tour include the following:

The Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is a great architectural beauty and an important monument during the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. For many centuries this was the largest church in the world, and it still boasts the 4th largest dome after St. Paul’s in London, St. Peter’s in Rome, and the Duomo in Florence. Dedicated to the Hagia Sophia, or ‘divine wisdom,’ it is one of the greatest surviving examples of Byzantine architecture.

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, officially known as the “Sultanahmet” Mosque, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. It is adorned with more than 20,000 handmade blue Iznik tiles, giving it its nickname. This magnificent mosque was built in the early 17th century during the reign of Sultan Ahmet I.

The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is the oldest and largest covered market in Istanbul, with over 60 streets and more than 4,000 shops. It is a shopper’s paradise, where you can find everything from Turkish rugs, ceramics, spices, and jewelry. The bazaar is a lively and bustling place, full of color and energy.

The Obelisk of the Hippodrome of Constantinople

The Hippodrome of Constantinople was a sports arena that was built in the 3rd century AD. The Obelisk was brought to Istanbul from Egypt by the Roman Emperor Constantine in 390 AD. This impressive monument stands 32 meters tall and is one of the oldest standing monuments in Istanbul.

How to Book Your Private Tailor Made Istanbul Tour

Booking your private tailor made Istanbul tour is easy. Just head over to the GetYourGuide website and book your tour. The tour is available for 1, 2, or 3 days, depending on your schedule and interests. Your experienced guide will meet you at your hotel, and together you’ll create a personalized itinerary that suits your interests.

Book Your Tour Now

Planning your private tailor made Istanbul tour is a great way to discover the best of what this incredible city has to offer. With the help of an experienced guide, you’ll be able to see all the major attractions and explore the city at your own pace. Book your tour today and get ready to experience Istanbul like never before! Book your tour here

Everything You Need to Know About Istanbul

Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, has a rich history and culture that has drawn visitors from all over the world. From the stunning architecture of the famous Hagia Sophia to the bustling bazaars and delicious cuisine, Istanbul has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city, here are some frequently asked questions that will help you plan your visit.

1. Where is Istanbul located?

Istanbul is a transcontinental city located in Turkey, spanning both Europe and Asia. The city is separated by the Bosphorus Strait, which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. The European side of the city is on the west, and the Asian side is on the east.

2. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) months. The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller during these times. The summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot and crowded, and the winter months (December-February) can be rainy and chilly.

3. What are some popular attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is full of historic and cultural landmarks. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• Hagia Sophia
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar
• Spice Bazaar
• Bosphorus Bridge
• Chora Church

4. How do I get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a prepaid card that can be used on all public transportation options. Taxis are also available, but they can be more expensive during peak hours. Walking is another great way to explore the city, as many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

5. What is the local currency, and can I use credit cards?

The local currency in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TL). Many larger stores and restaurants do accept major credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash for smaller shops and street vendors.

6. What is the food like in Istanbul?

Istanbul is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include Turkish kebabs, meze (small dishes), pide (Turkish pizza), and baklava (a sweet pastry). Turkish coffee and tea are also a staple in the local cuisine.

7. Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

Istanbul is generally a safe city, but like any other major tourist destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It’s also important to be cautious when using public transportation and to keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

8. Can I visit Istanbul on a budget?

Yes, Istanbul can be visited on a budget. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can be quite inexpensive, and many of the top attractions, such as the Hagia Sophia, offer discounted tickets for students and seniors. The city also has many free attractions, including public parks and historic landmarks.

9. What should I wear when visiting Istanbul?

Istanbul is a Muslim country, but it’s also a modern and diverse city. Tourists are not expected to dress in conservative clothing, but it’s important to dress respectfully when visiting religious sites and mosques. It’s also important to dress appropriately for the weather, as summers can be hot, and winters can be chilly.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Istanbul?

Visitors from many countries, including the United States, need a visa to enter Turkey. Visas can be obtained online, at Turkish airports, or at the Turkish embassy in your home country. It’s important to check the visa requirements for your specific country well in advance of your trip. In conclusion, Istanbul is a truly unique city with an abundance of historic and cultural landmarks to explore. With a bit of planning and preparation, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this vibrant city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

As one of the world’s most vibrant cities that’s a mix of European and Asian cultures, Istanbul has plenty of attractions and activities to offer for tourists. Whether you are visiting for a long time or just have a short stay, there are lots of things to see and do while in Istanbul. In this guide, we will share some of the best things to do in Istanbul, so you can spend your time exploring the city like a local.

1. Visit the Historic Landmarks

Istanbul has a rich history that dates back to the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman era. Some of the most famous historic landmarks in Istanbul include:

Hagia Sophia

This historic and magnificent building is one of Istanbul’s top attractions. The Hagia Sophia was a church in the 6th century and was later turned into a mosque during the Ottoman era. Today, it stands as a fascinating blend of the two cultures with its large dome and intricate mosaics.

The Blue Mosque

Officially called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Its six minarets, beautiful blue tiles, and impressive courtyard make it a must-visit attraction.

Topkapi Palace

Once the home of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace is a remarkable example of Ottoman architecture. Its sprawling campus features opulent reception halls, lush gardens, and a treasury that houses some of the most valuable artifacts in the world.

2. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus Strait is a waterway that separates the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Taking a Bosphorus cruise is an excellent way to see the city from a different perspective. You can either take a public ferry or charter a private boat to explore the Bosphorus at your leisure. The cruise offers a stunning view of the city’s skyline, magnificent bridges, and waterfront mansions.

3. Shop at the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets with over 4,000 shops situated over 60 streets. You can find almost anything in the bazaar, from spices and jewelry to ceramics and textiles. If you like to shop, this is a must-visit place in Istanbul.

4. Taste Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is one of the world’s most flavorful and diverse. Istanbul is home to some of the most delicious food in Turkey, so make sure you try as many local dishes as possible. Some of Istanbul’s popular culinary delights include:

Kebabs

Turkish kebabs are made of grilled meat, and they come in many variations, such as adana kebab, doner kebab, and shish kebab.

Baklava

This sweet pastry dessert is made of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup. Baklava is available in many pastry shops around Istanbul.

Turkish Delight

This sugary treat is flavored with fragrant rosewater, lemon, and pistachio nuts. You can find Turkish delight in souvenir shops around Istanbul.

5. Visit the Princes’ Islands

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the Princes’ Islands are a great retreat. These nine small islands are located in the Sea of Marmara, just a short ferry ride from Istanbul. Each island has its own unique charm, but the most popular islands for tourists to visit are Buyukada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada. The islands offer a peaceful environment with serene beaches and forests, great for nature lovers.

6. Explore the Street Art Scene

Istanbul’s street art scene is growing, and the streets are covered with intricate and colorful murals. Murals can be found in the bohemian districts such as Kadikoy, Karakoy, and Beyoglu. Some artists even organize street art tours that showcase the best murals in the city.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you want to explore its rich history, taste its delicious cuisine, or soak up its vibrant culture, there is no shortage of things to do and see. With this guide, you can plan your trip to Istanbul to make the most out of the limited time you have, and experience the city like a local.