How to Plan your Circle Istanbul (Extraordinary Istanbul) Tour

Istanbul, famously known as the ‘City of Seven Hills,’ is a destination like no other. It serves as a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment. From stunning architecture, delicious traditional cuisine to soulful music and dance, Istanbul has everything one could ask for. If you’re planning to explore Istanbul outside the most-visited sights, then Circle Istanbul Tour is the right choice for you.

Tour Overview

Circle Istanbul tour is a full-day sightseeing tour that takes you beyond the most touristy areas to explore Istanbul’s lively neighborhoods, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. The tour covers some of the best districts in Istanbul, including Karakoy, Kadikoy, and Balat. Moreover, you will also cross over to the Asian side of the city and take a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus. Along the way, you will get to savor some delicious Turkish meals and experience a traditional Turkish bath-like a local.

Why Choose Circle Istanbul Tour?

If you’re wondering why you should opt for Circle Istanbul Tour, let us tell you the reasons:

Extended tour:

The tour is a full-day tour and lasts for 12 hours from 9 am to 9 pm. The extended hours give you enough time to explore the city and witness the beauty of Istanbul’s neighborhoods.

Savor Turkish Cuisine:

The tour offers a chance to try mouth-watering Turkish dishes as the tour includes Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Turkish Bath Experience:

The tour offers a traditional Turkish bath experience where you can relax and rejuvenate yourself.

Small Group:

Circle Istanbul Tour offers an intimate small group experience with a maximum of six people. It ensures personalized attention from the tour guide.

Inclusion:

The tour includes everything from breakfast, lunch, dinner to alcoholic beverages. The gratuity for the tour guide and Turkish Bath staffs are also included in the package.

What’s Included in Circle Istanbul Tour?

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Gratuity for tour guide and Turkish Bath staffs
• Small group tour with a maximum of six people

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point is at Tak-ı Zafer Cd. NO:3/1, Gümüşsuyu Tak-ı Zafer Cd. NO:3/1 34437 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Türkiye, the front gate of The Marmara Hotel Taksim, located at Taksim Square. The tour starts at sharp 9 am, and all the participants are requested to be present at the meeting point, half an hour prior to the starting time.

Book your Circle Istanbul Tour here:

To book your Circle Istanbul (Extraordinary Istanbul) tour, click on this link. The tour is offered by Viator, a third-party company, and all the booking and payment details will be handled by them.

In conclusion, Circle Istanbul Tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore Istanbul like a local with an intimate and personalized small-group tour. The tour takes you beyond the touristic spots to give you a glimpse of Istanbul’s lively neighborhoods that are filled with culture, history, and variety of delicious cuisines. With everything taken care of, this tour is a great option for those who want to make the most out of their Istanbul experience.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul: Answered

Istanbul, the city that straddles Europe and Asia, is a stunning and cultural hub that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is famous for its history, food, and architecture, but there are many questions people have before they visit. This post answers the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul and helps you plan your trip accordingly.

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul has a warm and pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between April and June, and then in September and October. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak tourism months of July and August. October also has the added bonus of the Istanbul Biennial art fair, which attracts artists and visitors from all over the world.

2. Is Istanbul a safe city to visit?

Yes, Istanbul is a safe city to visit, but as with any major city, tourists should always take precautions. It is best to avoid the more isolated areas of the city, especially at night. Also, be mindful of pickpocketers in crowded areas, such as in the Grand Bazaar. Women should dress modestly and not walk alone at night. The Turkish people are known for their hospitality and are likely to offer help or guidance if you are lost or in need of assistance.

3. What are the must-visit places in Istanbul?

There are many attractions in Istanbul, but some of the must-visit places include:

– Hagia Sophia: This sixth-century church-turned-mosque-turned-museum is a marvel of Byzantine architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

– Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque is known for its distinctive blue and white tiled interior and six minarets.

– Topkapi Palace: The Topkapi Palace was the home of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years and is now a museum showcasing the Ottoman Dynasty’s history and artifacts.

– Grand Bazaar: The Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices to jewelry to Turkish rugs.

4. What is the currency used in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY). The exchange rate varies daily, but at the time of writing, one United States Dollar (USD) is equivalent to 8.43 TRY. Credit cards are widely accepted in Istanbul City Center, but it is always a good idea to have some Turkish Lira on hand, especially when traveling outside the city.

5. What is the food like in Istanbul?

Turkish cuisine is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Mediterranean flavors. Some of the must-try foods in Istanbul include:

– Kebabs: Succulent meat skewered with vegetables, cooked over charcoal, and served with rice or bread.

– Baklava: A rich, sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey or syrup.

– Turkish Delight: A confectionary made of sugar, cornstarch, and flavorings, including rosewater, lemon, and pistachio.

– Meze: Small dishes similar to Spanish tapas that are meant to be shared among the table, including cheese, olives, dips, and grilled vegetables.

6. How do I get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro, tram, and ferry. The Istanbulkart is a reusable pre-paid card that can be used on all public transport in Istanbul. Taxis are also widely available, but it is advisable to agree on a fare before getting in the cab. Walking is also a great way to see the city, especially in places like the historic Sultanahmet district, where many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

7. Do I need a visa to visit Istanbul?

Most visitors to Istanbul need a visa to enter Turkey. These can be obtained online through the official Turkish government website, or in person at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate. The visa is valid for up to 90 days and costs vary depending on the country of origin.

8. What is the language spoken in Istanbul?

The official language of Turkey is Turkish, but many locals and tourist industry workers speak English, especially in tourist areas. It is always a good idea to learn a few basic Turkish phrases such as “hello” (merhaba), “please” (lütfen), and “thank you” (teşekkür ederim).

Conclusion

Istanbul is a beautiful and vibrant city with so much to offer visitors. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope to have given you a better understanding of what to expect on your trip to Istanbul. Whether it’s taking in the stunning architecture, trying the local cuisine, or exploring the city’s rich history, Istanbul is sure to be an unforgettable experience.