How to Experience the Best of Turkey in 8 Days: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Turkey Tour from Istanbul

Do you dream of exploring the stunning cultural and historical wonders of Turkey? Do you long to discover the fascinating ruins of Troy, the ancient city of Hierapolis, and the impressive battlegrounds of Gallipoli? If you said yes, then you should definitely consider joining the 8 Day Best of Turkey Tour from Istanbul Pamukkale Bursa Troy Gallipoli Ephesus. This amazing tour will take you on a journey of a lifetime, visiting the top attractions of Istanbul and exploring the fascinating history, culture, and natural beauty of Turkey. With seven nights of 4-star accommodation, airport transfers, and a professional tour guide, you can sit back and relax while you embark on an adventure of a lifetime.

Day 1: Istanbul City Tour

Your tour begins in Istanbul, where you will be picked up from the airport or your hotel and transferred to your hotel. Once you settle in, it’s time to start exploring Istanbul’s cultural highlights. This includes a city sightseeing tour where you’ll visit the stunning Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. Marvel at the exceptional Islamic architecture, learn about the fascinating history of Istanbul, and take in breathtaking views.

Day 2: Bursa, Green Mosque, Green Mausoleum

On the second day, you’ll journey to Bursa, the former Ottoman Empire capital, where you’ll be amazed at the natural beauty and stunning architecture. Visit the Green Mosque, which features unique tiles and marvelous calligraphy, and the Green Tomb, which is a mausoleum of sultans Mehmet I and his sons.

Day 3: Troy, Canakkale

On day three, you’ll head to Canakkale through the Dardanelles Strait, a narrow waterway that separates Europe from Asia. Upon arrival, you’ll visit the ancient city of Troy, where you’ll learn about the legend of the Trojan horse, the excavations of the site, and the history of the city’s inhabitants.

Day 4: Gallipoli, Helles Sector

Day four will take you to the battlefields and memorials of Gallipoli. It was a significant battle in the First World War, and it left a lasting impact on the ANZAC’s and Turkish populations. The ANZAC cove, Lone pine, Chunuk Bair and Hellas sector are the main sites to explore.

Day 5: Pamukkale, Hierapolis

On day five, you’ll experience the natural wonder of Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the fairy-tale-like geologic formations, and soak in the mineral hot springs. Afterward, visit the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis and see the incredible theatre, Necropolis, Roman Bath and much more.

Day 6: Aphrodisias, Kusadasi

On this day of the tour, you’ll journey to the ancient city of Aphrodisias. Wander through the stunning marble ruins, which includes an imposing stadium, unique theatre, well-preserved temple of Aphrodite, and a fascinating museum. After that, you’ll arrive in the charming coastal town of Kusaadasi, where you’ll relax and enjoy your evening in your hotel.

Day 7: Ephesus, Sirince Village

On day seven, you’ll visit one of Turkey’s most famous archaeological sites, Ephesus, which features exceptional Roman ruins, including the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, and the impressive amphitheater. Afterward, indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch, and then visit the delightful boutique village of Sirince, which is famous locally for its fruit wines and olive oil skincare products.

Day 8: Kusadasi to Istanbul, End of Tour

Sadly, all good things must come to an end, and on day eight of your tour, you will return to Istanbul for your onward journey. You’ll be transferred to your hotel, airport or another preferred location. If you have a little more free time in Istanbul, there’s always a possibility to book an exciting sunset Bosphorus cruise or make a visit to a traditional Turkish bath.

What’s Included in the Tour:

• Airport transfers
• Professional tour guide for the duration of the tour
• Transportation in a fully air-conditioned non-smoking vehicle

What’s Not Included in the Tour:

• International/domestic flights
• Personal expenses
• Any other tours that are not mentioned

How to Book the Tour:

To book the 8 Day Best of Turkey Tour from Istanbul Pamukkale Bursa Troy Gallipoli Ephesus, head over to the viator.com. Don’t miss your chance to discover the beauty of Turkey and experience a trip of a lifetime. Book your tour here and enjoy a hassle-free experience with airport transfers, 4-star hotel accommodations, and a professional tour guide to make the most of your time in Turkey.

FAQ About Istanbul

Istanbul is located in Turkey, it is the largest city in the country and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. In this FAQ, we will answer some of the most common questions about Istanbul.

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and cool and rainy winters. The best time to visit Istanbul is in the spring (April-May) or in the fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are lower compared to the summer months. However, keep in mind that during the peak tourist season (July-August), most of the attractions are crowded and the prices are higher.

2. What is the currency of Istanbul and how can I exchange currency?

The currency of Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY). You can exchange foreign currency at exchange offices located throughout the city, banks, hotels and airports. It is recommended to avoid exchanging money on the streets or unofficial exchange offices. Also, most places in Istanbul accept credit cards for payment.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is home to many historical and cultural landmarks. Some of the top attractions include:

– The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

This iconic mosque is known for its six minarets and blue tiles that cover its interior walls. Visitors can tour the mosque for free, but be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.

– Hagia Sophia

Originally a church, then a mosque and now a museum, the Hagia Sophia is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. It features stunning architecture and art dating back to the Byzantine era.

– Topkapi Palace

A former residence of the Ottoman sultans, the Topkapi Palace houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits from the Ottoman Empire.

– Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Here, you can shop for spices, textiles, jewelry, leather goods and more.

4. What is the transportation system in Istanbul like?

Istanbul has a well-developed public transportation system that includes metro, tram, bus, ferry and funicular lines. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card that can be used to pay for public transportation in Istanbul. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available.

5. What are some popular dishes to try in Istanbul?

Istanbul is known for its delicious cuisine that blends flavors from the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Some popular dishes to try include:

– Kebabs

There are many types of kebabs to try in Istanbul, including shish kebab, doner kebab and Adana kebab.

– Meze

Meze are small dishes that are served as appetizers. Some popular meze dishes include hummus, baba ghanoush and dolma.

– Baklava

This sweet pastry is made with layers of filo dough and filled with chopped nuts and syrup.

6. Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

Istanbul is generally a safe city, but it is recommended to take usual precautions like avoiding carrying large amounts of cash-on-hand and walking alone in unlit or isolated areas. For the up-to-date information on the safety of the city, it is always a good idea to check the travel advisories from respected government agencies.

7. What is the dress code in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern and cosmopolitan city, however, it is recommended to dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites. Visitors should avoid revealing clothing, short shorts or revealing tops when touring the city.

8. What are some popular neighborhoods to visit in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a large city with many diverse neighborhoods, some of the most popular neighborhoods to visit include:

– Sultanahmet

This historic neighborhood is home to many of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.

– Beyoglu

Beyoglu is modern, vibrant neighborhood that is known for its shopping, nightlife and cultural attractions.

– Karakoy

Karakoy is a trendy neighborhood that is home to many art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. It’s also a great place to catch the ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul.

9. How can I get to Istanbul from the airport?

Istanbul has two main airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). Visitors can get to the city using the airport’s shuttle buses, metro, train, taxis, or private airport transfer services.

10. Is it easy to communicate in Istanbul?

The official language of Istanbul is Turkish, but many locals also speak English, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases in Turkish can be helpful. Keep in mind that the Turkish alphabet is different than the English alphabet.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul, one of the most vibrant cities in the world, boasts of ancient history, breathtaking architecture, and diverse cultures. Whether you are an art lover, history enthusiast, foodie, or adventurer, Istanbul has something to offer for everyone. In this guide, we will explore the best ways to spend your time in Istanbul as a tourist.

1. Visit Hagia Sophia

Your visit to Istanbul is incomplete without a tour of the Hagia Sophia, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Built in the 6th century AD, it was originally a church, then a mosque and now a museum. The stunning architecture of the building is a master class in itself. You will be amazed to see the giant dome supported by four stone arches, huge windows, and delicate mosaics. Make sure to hire a knowledgeable guide to get the most out of this historical monument.

2.Research Different Mosques to Visit

Visiting a mosque is an essential aspect of Istanbul’s Islamic culture, and Istanbul has many beautiful mosques worth exploring. The mosques not only offer a calm and serene environment but also provide an insight into the Islamic way of life. Some famous mosques include the Blue Mosque, Suleymaniye Mosque, and Fatih Mosque.

3. Stroll Through the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest bazaars in the world and a must-visit for shopping enthusiasts. The bazaar has more than 5000 shops selling jewelry, carpets, leather goods, spices, and souvenirs. You can experience the traditional Turkish bargaining system and get a feel of local commerce while you navigate through the endless alleys of the bazaar.

4. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

One of the unique ways to explore Istanbul is by taking a Bosphorus cruise, which lets you witness the city’s beauty from the water. You can watch the sun setting behind the Istanbul skyline or catch a glimpse of Istanbul’s famous architectural landmarks, such as the Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and Bosphorus Bridge. You can experience the beauty of both Asia and Europe, as the Bosphorus Strait separates the two regions.

5. Explore Turkish Cuisine

Istanbul is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of unique and tasty Turkish dishes to savor. From traditional Turkish kebabs to mouth-watering Baklava, Turkish cuisine is sure to delight every traveler. Be sure to try the local street food such as fish sandwiches or midye dolma, filled mussels that are an integral part of Turkish culture.

6. Visit Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for more than 400 years and is a reflection of their lavish lifestyle. The palace consists of four main courtyards, each with its unique architecture and design. You can stroll through the imperial gardens, admire the beautiful ornate tiles or visit the imperial harem, which is now open to the public.

7. Visit the Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is a unique underground structure located in the heart of Istanbul. The cistern was built in the 6th century and has more than 300 columns, making it a stunning piece of architecture. The cistern is also home to two famous Medusa heads, which are a mystifying sight to witness.

8. Try Turkish Bath

The Turkish bath, or Hammam, is an essential part of Turkish culture and a rejuvenating experience for travelers. It is a traditional cleansing experience that combines steam, hot water, and massage, leaving you feeling relaxed and refreshed. There are many different types of Turkish baths across Istanbul, and each provides a unique experience.

9. Visit Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul’s historical landmarks and offers an excellent panoramic view of Istanbul. It was built in the 14th century and is located in the heart of Istanbul. You can climb to the top of the tower and witness the breathtaking view of Istanbul’s skyline.

10. Watch a Whirling Dervish Show

The Whirling Dervish Show is a unique experience that speaks to the spiritual side of Turkish culture. The show is a form of traditional dance that combines music and symbolism, and it is an excellent way to appreciate the artistry and culture of Turkey.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city of contrasts and an excellent destination for travelers who want to explore history, culture, and architecture. This guide has highlighted the top ten things to do in Istanbul, ensuring that you make the most of your visit to this beautiful city. Regardless of what you choose to do, the rich history and cultural diversity of Istanbul are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.