How to Plan Your Full Day Guided Tour to Old City – Cultural Walking Tour of Istanbul

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul and want to see as much as possible in just one day? A full day guided tour to the Old City is a great option for you! With this walking tour, you can visit a wide range of Istanbul sights and learn about the ancient Roman and Byzantine world, the magnificence of the Ottoman Empire, and feel the energy of the Grand Bazaar. This blog post will help you plan your tour and make the most out of your Istanbul trip.

Overview of the Tour

The Full Day Guided Tour to Old City – Cultural Walking Tour of Istanbul is designed to help you see many of the Istanbul highlights in just one day. The tour will take you to the following destinations:

• The Hippodrome
• The Hagia Sophia
• The Topkapi Palace
• The Grand Bazaar
• The Blue Mosque
• The Basilica Cistern

The tour will take approximately eight hours and will include lunch and museum entrance tickets. The tour is available daily, and the start time is at 09:00 AM. Hotel pick-up is available for central hotels in Taksim and Fatih areas of Istanbul.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Full Day Guided Tour to Old City – Cultural Walking Tour of Istanbul includes the following:

• Lunch
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Museum entrance tickets
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Entrance ticket to Harem in Topkapi Palace

Please note that the tour does not include the entrance fee to the Basilica Cistern, which is approximately 20 Turkish Lira per person.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour will start at 09:00 AM, and the pickup points are located in the central hotels of Taksim and Fatih areas of Istanbul. Hotel pick-up and drop-off services are included in the tour price.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Full Day Guided Tour to Old City – Cultural Walking Tour of Istanbul is designed to help you explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture. The tour will take you to some of the most iconic landmarks of the old city, such as the Hippodrome, the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern.

You will learn about the ancient Roman and Byzantine world at the Hippodrome and the Hagia Sophia. You will encounter the magnificence of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, one of the largest and oldest palaces in the world, and explore the Grand Bazaar, the biggest covered market in the world. You will also visit the Blue Mosque, with its stunning blue tiles and six minarets, and the Basilica Cistern, a mysterious underground water reservoir that dates back to the 6th century.

You will travel between the sights in an air-conditioned vehicle, and your guide will help you understand the history of this magnificent city. The lunch included in the tour is a traditional Turkish meal that will give you a taste of Istanbul’s culinary culture.

Additional Information

The Full Day Guided Tour to Old City – Cultural Walking Tour of Istanbul is not wheelchair accessible. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you will be walking and climbing stairs throughout the day.

Book Your Tour Now

If you want to explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture in just one day, book the Full Day Guided Tour to Old City – Cultural Walking Tour of Istanbul through this link. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, bring a hat and sunscreen, and get ready for a day packed with history, culture, and flavors!

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

Istanbul, formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. It straddles two continents, Asia and Europe, and offers a rich history, culture, and scenic beauty. Tourists from all over the world visit Istanbul to experience its diverse culture, cuisine, and explore its ancient wonders. However, there are several questions that travelers have in mind before planning a trip to Istanbul. In this post, I will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul.

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul is a year-round destination; however, the best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are less. Summers in Istanbul can be hot and humid, temperatures are known to reach up to 30°C. Winters in Istanbul can be rainy and cold, but still worth visiting.

2. What is the currency in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira. You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, or withdraw money from ATMs. Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but it is always best to carry some cash with you, especially when visiting the local markets.

3. Is Istanbul safe to visit?

Istanbul is a relatively safe city to visit, and most travelers who visit the city have no issues. However, as with any big city, tourists should always take safety precautions. Be mindful of your surroundings, do not carry large sums of money or any valuables when walking around the city, avoid dark alleys, and only use authorized taxis.

4. What languages are spoken in Istanbul?

The official language of Istanbul is Turkish, but English is widely spoken in the city. Most signs and menus in popular tourist areas are displayed in both Turkish and English, making it easier for non-Turkish speakers to navigate around the city.

5. What are the top attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is home to several must-see attractions that you should not miss, including:

a. Hagia Sophia Museum

The Hagia Sophia Museum is a 6th-century masterpiece and one of Istanbul’s most popular attractions. The Museum was built as a Christian Church was later converted into a Mosque and is now open to the public as a museum housing some of the most important Byzantine artworks.

b. The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. This magnificent mosque is famous for its colossal dome, blue tiles, and six towering minarets.

c. Topkapi Palace Museum

Topkapi Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a former residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost 400 years. The Palace is now open to the public as a museum showcasing Ottoman lifestyle, architecture, and imperial treasures.

d. Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest bazaars in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling traditional Turkish carpets, textiles, spices, souvenirs, and more. This is a must-visit destination for shopping enthusiasts.

6. What is the best way to get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has an excellent transportation system, and there are several ways to get around the city, including:

a. Metro and Tram

The metro and tram are the most efficient modes of transportation in Istanbul. You can purchase Istanbulkart, which is a rechargeable transit pass that you can use on all public transportation vehicles.

b. Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Istanbul, but be sure to use authorized taxis to avoid scams. You can also use taxi-hailing apps, such as Uber and BiTaksi.

c. Walking

Many of Istanbul’s popular attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Walking around the city is also a great way to explore the city’s hidden gems and local culture.

7. What is the cuisine like in Istanbul?

Istanbul’s cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian flavors, making it unique and diverse. The city is known for its delicious street food like kebab, Turkish delight, baklava, kofte, and more. You can also find fine dining restaurants serving traditional Turkish food like fish, lamb kebab, and meze (Turkish tapas).

8. What is Turkish hospitality like?

The Turkish culture is known for its warm hospitality, and the people of Istanbul are no exception. The locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors and love to share their culture and traditions. Expect to be invited for tea or coffee when shopping in the local markets.

9. What is the dress code in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern city with a mix of traditional and contemporary fashion styles. However, when visiting religious sites such as mosques and churches, tourists are advised to dress modestly. It is best to avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city.

10. Can you drink alcohol in Istanbul?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in Istanbul. However, it is best to avoid drinking in public places and respect the local culture.

Conclusion

Istanbul is an extraordinary city that offers a unique blend of cultures and rich history. As with any international travel, it is best to do your research and take necessary precautions when visiting Istanbul. Keep these frequently asked questions in mind when planning your visit to Istanbul, and you will surely have an unforgettable experience.