How to plan your Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour

If you are planning to visit Istanbul, exploring the wonders of the city with a private guided tour will make your visit more meaningful and enjoyable. The Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour is one of the most popular private tours in Istanbul, perfect for those who want to experience the history, culture and beauty of the city in one day. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour and provide you with all the necessary information.

Overview of the Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour

The Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour is an expertly guided private tour that covers the top Istanbul attractions. You will explore Istanbul’s most famous landmarks including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar. In addition, the tour includes a visit to the Bosphorus waterfront, where you can view Istanbul’s skyline. The tour takes approximately 8 hours and includes a delicious lunch at a traditional restaurant. You can choose to upgrade your tour to visit the Hagia Sophia before or after opening hours for a more crowd-free experience.

What to expect on the Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour

The Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour is an immersive experience that will take you on a journey back in time. Your expert guide will provide you with historical and cultural insights on Istanbul’s landmarks, making your tour educational and engaging. The tour starts with a visit to the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, which is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Your guide will take you through the mosque and explain the history and significance of its architecture. Next, you will visit the Topkapi Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will explore the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans. Here, you can experience the opulence of the palace and learn about the royal lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire. After the Topkapi Palace, your tour will take you to the Hagia Sophia, one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Your guide will take you through the basilica-turned-mosque and explain its transformation over the centuries. You can choose to upgrade your tour to visit the Hagia Sophia before or after opening hours to avoid the crowds. The tour then takes a break for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can sample traditional Turkish cuisine. After lunch, you will visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Here, you can experience the vibrant culture of Istanbul and explore the maze of shops offering everything from textiles and ceramics to spices and jewelry. Finally, the tour ends with a visit to the Bosphorus waterfront, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of Istanbul’s skyline.

How to book the Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour

You can book the Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour through Viator, a trusted platform for booking tours and activities. The tour costs $124 per person and includes all entrance fees, lunch, and transportation. To book the tour, visit the following link: book the tour here.

Final Thoughts

The Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour is an excellent way to experience the best of Istanbul in one day. A private tour allows you to personalize your itinerary and have a more intimate experience with your guide. We hope that this guide has provided you with all the necessary information to plan your tour and have an enjoyable experience. Have a great time exploring Istanbul!

FAQ About Istanbul: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Istanbul is a stunning and magical city that attracts millions of visitors every year. With so much to see and do in Istanbul, it’s natural to feel intimidated or uncertain about your trip. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive FAQ guide that answers questions about everything from visas to cultural customs.

1. Do I need a visa to visit Istanbul?

Yes. All visitors to Turkey, including Istanbul, need a visa. Fortunately, Turkey offers an electronic visa system that makes it easy to apply and obtain a visa without leaving your home. The eVisa is valid for up to 90 days and costs $35. You can apply on the official Turkish government website.

2. What language do people speak in Istanbul?

Turkish is the official language in Istanbul, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases, like “Merhaba” (hello) and “Teşekkür ederim” (thank you), can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable and interacting with locals.

3. Is Istanbul a safe city?

Yes, Istanbul is generally a safe city to visit. However, like any big city, tourists should exercise caution when out and about, especially at night. Petty theft, like pickpocketing, can be an issue in crowded areas. Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuable items with you.

4. What’s the best time of year to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Summer (June to August) can be hot, humid, and crowded, while winter (December to February) can be rainy and chilly. However, visiting during off-peak seasons can offer more affordable prices and fewer crowds.

5. What is the currency in Istanbul?

The currency in Istanbul is the Turkish lira. Visitors can exchange their money at banks, exchange offices, or withdraw cash from ATMs. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller purchases and street vendors.

6. What should I wear when visiting Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it’s also a predominantly Muslim country, so visitors should dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, or revealing tops in public. Men should avoid wearing shorts in mosques. It’s always a good idea to carry a scarf or shawl to cover your head or shoulders when needed.

7. What are some must-see attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a city full of history and culture, and there’s no shortage of must-see attractions. Some of the top things to see in Istanbul include: – The Hagia Sophia: A stunning Byzantine-era cathedral-turned-mosque-turned museum. – Topkapi Palace: The former Ottoman palace that houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and treasures. – Blue Mosque: A magnificent mosque with six minarets and striking blue tiles. – Grand Bazaar: A huge indoor market with over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices to textiles. – Bosphorus Cruise: A scenic boat ride that offers breathtaking views of Istanbul, including the Asian and European sides.

8. Is it appropriate to tip in Istanbul?

Tipping is not mandatory in Istanbul, but it is customary to tip service workers for good service. In restaurants, a 10% tip is usually standard, but you can tip more for exceptional service. At hotels, it’s common to tip bellhops and housekeeping staff a few lira.

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

Istanbul has a modern and extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trams, metro lines, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable transportation card that can be used on all modes of public transport. Taxis are also widely available and affordable, but make sure to agree on a price before getting in.

10. What are some local foods I should try in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a food lover’s paradise, with plenty of delicious and unique dishes to try. Some must-try foods in Istanbul include: – Turkish breakfast: A lavish spread of cheeses, olives, eggs, and bread. – Kebabs: Turkish-style grilled meat served with rice or bread. – Meze: A selection of small dishes like hummus, baba ganoush, and stuffed grape leaves. – Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, honey, and nuts. – Turkish delight: A sweet and chewy candy made with sugar and starch.

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Istanbul is a vibrant and fascinating city that offers something for everyone. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope we’ve helped you prepare for your trip and get the most out of your experience in Istanbul. Remember to keep an open mind, respect local customs and traditions, and enjoy all the sights, sounds, and flavors the city has to offer!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful city that connects Europe and Asia. It is known for its beautiful architecture, fascinating history, and vibrant culture. As a tourist, there are a lot of things you can do and see while in Istanbul. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most incredible things you can do in Istanbul to make your stay in the city a memorable one.

Visit the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is an ancient building that has stood the test of time. It was built in the 6th century and has been used as a church, mosque, and museum. As a tourist, visiting the Hagia Sophia should be a top priority. One of the most striking features of this building is its dome shape, which gives it an otherworldly feel. You will also witness its remarkable architecture and beautiful interior. Ensure to arrive early or late afternoon for fewer crowds.

Explore the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. It has been in operation since the 15th century and attracts up to 250,000 visitors daily. There are over 5,000 shops in the Grand Bazaar, offering a vast array of products, including jewelry, carpets, leather goods, spices, and much more. Exploring the Grand Bazaar is an unforgettable experience, albeit a little overwhelming at times. You’ll witness the coordination and efficiency required to pull off such an incredibly vast market.

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

A Bosphorus Cruise is a perfect way to explore Istanbul from a different perspective. The Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, marking the boundary between Europe and Asia. On the cruise, you’ll witness some of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including the Dolmabahce Palace, Maiden’s Tower, and Rumeli Fortress. It’s a romantic and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul’s streets.

Visit the Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace served as the primary residence of Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years. It’s now a museum that showcases the art and architecture of the Ottoman Empire. Visiting the Topkapi Palace is a fantastic opportunity to explore the royal lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire. You can tour the palace’s different rooms, including the Sultan’s bedroom, the Treasury, and the Harem. There are also beautiful gardens and courtyards to explore.

Explore the Sultanahmet District

The Sultanahmet District is the heart of Istanbul’s historic center. It has many historic buildings, museums, and monuments that reflect the city’s rich history. You can visit the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, the Basilica Cistern, and many other beautiful landmarks in the area. It is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Istanbul’s culture and history.

Enjoy a Turkish Bath

A Turkish bath is an ancient tradition whereby you’re scrubbed, massaged, and bathed in a warm environment. It’s a relaxing and refreshing activity that’s recommended you try during your stay in Istanbul. There are many Turkish baths in Istanbul, with varying price ranges. They offer different packages that include massages, drinks, and snacks. The experience is rejuvenating and helps reduce stress levels.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is an incredible city that offers a vast array of things to see and do. This guide has outlined some of the most incredible things Istanbul has to offer, but there’s much more to uncover on your own. Ensure to plan your trip ahead, know the best time to visit each landmark, be patient with the crowds, and immerse yourself in Istanbul’s culture. With the above guide, you can make your stay in Istanbul a memorable one.