How to Plan Your Constantinople to Istanbul Day Tour

If you’re visiting Istanbul, the city’s rich history and stunning landmarks can seem overwhelming. That’s why we recommend taking a full-day tour of Istanbul’s historic peninsula. The tour offers round-trip transportation from your hotel, lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant, and the chance to experience some of Istanbul’s most iconic attractions in one day. Here’s what you can expect from the Constantinople to Istanbul Day Tour:

Overview

The tour offers a perfect balance of Byzantine and Ottoman attractions, making it ideal for anyone interested in Istanbul’s history. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and transported to the historic peninsula, where you’ll visit the Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Along the way, you’ll also get to experience Turkish culture and cuisine. This tour is a great way to see the top sights of Istanbul without the headache of navigating the city on your own.

What’s Included

• English-speaking and professional tour guide
• Expert commentary and knowledge about Topkapi Palace
• Fast track access to the sites with skip-the-line tickets
• Lunch and beverages
• Gratuities
• Admission fees to museums

Itinerary

Here’s what your day will look like:

Meeting Point and Pickup

The tour starts at Hereke Carpets in Cağaloğlu Mollafenari Nuru Osmaniye C. The pickup time is typically between 8:00-9:00 am, depending on your hotel’s location.

Hagia Sophia

The first attraction you’ll visit is Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. This former basilica and mosque is now a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll learn about its history and architecture from your knowledgeable guide.

Hippodrome

The Hippodrome is next on the agenda. It was once the heart of Constantinople’s political and social life, and now it’s home to several impressive monuments, such as the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, and the Constantine Column.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, with its stunning blue tiles and six minarets. It’s still an active mosque, so be prepared to remove your shoes and dress modestly before entering.

Lunch

The tour includes lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant. You’ll get to sample a variety of Turkish dishes, including meze, kebabs, and baklava. Vegetarian options are also available upon request.

Topkapi Palace

The final attraction on the tour is Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace is now a museum and offers a fascinating glimpse into Ottoman court life. You’ll see treasures such as the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond.

Turkish Rug-Making Demonstration

The tour also includes a demonstration of Turkish rug-making. You’ll get to see how traditional rugs are made and learn about the history and symbolism behind them.

Drop-off

The tour ends with drop-off at your hotel. You can expect to be back at your hotel by 5:00-6:00 pm.

Final Words

The Constantinople to Istanbul Day Tour is a perfect way to experience Istanbul’s rich history and culture in just one day. To book the tour, visit here. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, modest clothing, and a thirst for knowledge as you explore Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul

Istanbul, a transcontinental city, is a dynamic and vibrant melting pot of history, culture, art, and gastronomy. Known as the gateway to the east, Istanbul has been a bridge between Europe and Asia for centuries. It is a city that offers something for everyone, and it’s no wonder that it attracts millions of tourists every year. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul to help you get the most out of your trip.

1. What is Istanbul famous for?

There are many things Istanbul is famous for, but the most well-known is the Hagia Sophia, a stunning monument that has served as a church, mosque, and museum throughout history. Other famous landmarks include the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the Basilica Cistern.

2. When is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is between March and May and September to November when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summers can be hot and humid, and winter can be chilly and rainy.

3. How do I get around in Istanbul?

Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, metros, trams, ferries, and funiculars. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable smart card that allows you to use all forms of public transportation. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are also available.

4. What is the local currency and how much should I budget?

The local currency in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira. As of August 2021, 1 USD is equal to approximately 8.5 Turkish Lira. Istanbul is a relatively affordable city, and you can expect to spend around $50-70 USD per day on food, transportation, and activities.

5. What are some local dishes I should try?

Istanbul is known for its rich and diverse cuisine, and there are many local dishes you should try. Some of the most famous include:

• Kebabs: grilled meat served with rice, vegetables, and bread
• Baklava: a sweet pastry filled with pistachios or walnuts and honey
• Meze: a variety of small dishes served as appetizers
• Doner: a type of Turkish gyro made with lamb or beef
• Kumpir: baked potatoes stuffed with toppings like cheese, vegetables, and meat

6. Is Istanbul safe?

Istanbul is generally a safe city, but like any big city, it’s important to take precautions. Avoid crowded areas and be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas. It’s also advisable to carry only the cash you need and leave valuable items in a hotel safe.

7. What should I wear in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or other religious sites. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.

8. What are some popular day trips from Istanbul?

There are many exciting day trips you can take from Istanbul, including:

• Princes’ Island: a group of nine car-free islands just a short ferry ride from Istanbul
• Bursa: a historical city known for its hot springs and Ottoman architecture
• Troy: an ancient city located in western Turkey and famous for the Trojan War
• Gallipoli: a former battlefield that played a significant role in World War I
• Ephesus: an ancient Greek city famous for its well-preserved ruins

9. What should I buy as souvenirs in Istanbul?

There are many unique souvenirs you can buy in Istanbul, including:

• Spices: Istanbul is famous for its colorful and aromatic spices
• Turkish Delight: a sweet candy made with sugar and starch
• Ceramics: Istanbul is known for its intricate and colorful ceramics
• Carpet and Kilim: handmade carpets and rugs are a specialty of Istanbul
• Tea and Coffee: Turkey is famous for its strong and aromatic teas and coffees

10. What are some useful Turkish phrases I should know?

Learning some basic Turkish phrases can be helpful during your trip to Istanbul. Here are a few examples:

• Merhaba: Hello
• Teşekkür ederim: Thank you
• Ne kadar?: How much?
• Hayır: No
• Evet: Yes

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a fascinating city full of history, culture, and delicious food. By following these tips and suggestions, you can make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories. Remember to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and always keep an open mind to new experiences.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful city situated in Turkey and is steeped in history and culture. It is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, and is famous for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and warm hospitality. If you are planning a visit to Istanbul, it is important to plan your itinerary in advance so that you can make the most of your stay. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul.

Day 1: Explore the Old City

Start your trip by exploring the Old City, which is home to some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Begin your tour with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, one of the city’s most iconic buildings. The Hagia Sophia was originally built as a church in the 6th century, but was later converted into a mosque. Today, it is a museum that showcases the history and culture of Istanbul. Next, head to the Blue Mosque, which is also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. It is one of Istanbul’s most famous mosques, and is named after Sultan Ahmed who commissioned its construction in the early 17th century. The Blue Mosque is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful blue tiles, and is a must-visit attraction in Istanbul. After visiting the Blue Mosque, explore the Grand Bazaar, which is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. The Grand Bazaar is famous for its colorful shops and stalls that sell a wide range of products including handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Make sure to bargain and negotiate prices before making a purchase.

Day 2: Cruise the Bosphorus

On the second day of your trip, take a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. The Bosphorus is the waterway that divides Istanbul into two continents, Europe and Asia. The cruise will give you a beautiful view of the city’s skyline, as well as a glimpse of some of the city’s famous landmarks including the Maiden’s Tower, Rumeli Fortress, and the Bosphorus Bridge. After the cruise, explore the charming neighborhood of Ortakoy, which is located on the European side of the Bosphorus. Ortakoy is known for its beautiful Ottoman architecture, picturesque streets, and delicious street food. Try the famous Turkish snack “kumpir”, which is a baked potato filled with toppings such as cheese, corn, and olives.

Day 3: Visit the Asian Side

On the third day of your trip, head to the Asian side of Istanbul for a change of pace. You can take a ferry from the European side to the Asian side, which will give you a beautiful view of the Bosphorus. Once you arrive, explore the neighborhood of Kadikoy, which is known for its authentic Turkish markets, cafés, and restaurants. Make sure to visit the Haydarpasa Train Station, which is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. The train station was built in the early 20th century and has a beautiful neoclassical architecture. If you have time, take a train ride to Ankara or Konya to experience the Turkish countryside.

Day 4: Experience Turkish Culture

On your final day, experience Turkish culture by visiting some of Istanbul’s famous museums and cultural centers. Start your tour with a visit to the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, which is home to some of the world’s most famous artifacts, including the Alexander Sarcophagus and the Tomb of Tabnit. After the museum, head to the Topkapi Palace, which was once the residence of Ottoman Sultans. The palace has a beautiful architecture, stunning gardens, and is home to some of the most valuable artifacts of the Ottoman Empire. End your trip with a visit to a traditional Turkish hammam, which is a type of bath that dates back to the Ottoman era. The hammam is a great way to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the city.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, Istanbul is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture that is just waiting to be explored. By following this step-by-step guide, you can be sure to make the most of your time in this stunning city. Make sure to try the delicious Turkish food, explore the charming neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the local culture.