How to Plan Your Istanbul: Art Deco, Prosecco & Agatha Christie Private Tour

If you are planning a trip to Istanbul and love history, art deco, and literature, then the Istanbul: Art Deco, Prosecco & Agatha Christie Private Tour is the perfect choice for you. You will get to experience the city from a unique perspective and learn about its rich cultural history. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of planning your private tour in Istanbul.

Experience

On this private tour, you will:

• Discover Istanbul from Agatha Christie’s perspective
• Explore the historic Orient express station
• Taste strong and delicious Turkish coffee
• Cross the legendary Galata bridge famous for the fishermen
• Visit the historic neighborhood that stood out as a cultural center of the West in the 19th and 20th centuries
• Enjoy a high-tea buffet by a Michelin recognized chef in the historic tea lounge
• Sip on a glass of bubbly prosecco and a glass of quality local Turkish wine

Highlights

Some of the highlights of this private tour include –

• Learning about the rich cultural history of Istanbul
• Experiencing the tastes and smells of traditional Turkish coffee
• Discovering the historic Orient express station and Agatha Christie’s connection to the city
• Enjoying a high-tea buffet in a Michelin recognized restaurant in the historic tea lounge
• Sampling the bubbly prosecco and local Turkish wine

How to Book the Tour

Booking the tour is very simple. You can book the Istanbul: Art Deco, Prosecco & Agatha Christie Private Tour through GetYourGuide using the link provided.

Full Description

The tour starts at the historic Orient express station. Here, you will get to experience the taste and smell of traditional Turkish coffee, just like the passengers from the past used to do while waiting for their journey. You will learn about the history of the station and Agatha Christie’s connection to the city. Afterwards, you will take a stroll through the old city and cross the legendary Galata bridge famous for the fishermen. You will cross into the historic neighborhood that stood out as a cultural center of the West in the 19th and 20th centuries. You’ll be able to explore the art deco buildings and learn about the fascinating history of the neighborhood. Finally, you’ll get to enjoy a high-tea buffet by a Michelin recognized chef in the historic tea lounge. You can sip on a glass of bubbly prosecco and a glass of quality local Turkish wine while soaking up the ambiance and enjoying the delicious delicacies on offer.

Book Your Tour Now

Booking the Istanbul: Art Deco, Prosecco & Agatha Christie Private Tour is a fantastic way to experience the city from a unique perspective while learning about its rich cultural history. Whether you are a fan of Agatha Christie or just love exploring new places and trying new things, this tour is a great option for you. Book your tour today and have an unforgettable experience in Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, Turkey, you might have some questions about the city. Istanbul is a vibrant and exciting destination, and there’s a lot to explore. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about Istanbul.

1. Where is Istanbul located?

Istanbul is located in the northwest of Turkey, on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait. The city lies in both Europe and Asia, making it a transcontinental city. The European side is separated from the Asian side by the Bosphorus Strait, which connects the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea.

2. What is the weather like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a humid subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and cold and damp winters. The average temperature in summer is around 28°C, while the average temperature in winter is around 10°C. The best times to visit Istanbul are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is home to many fantastic tourist attractions, including:

• Hagia Sophia

Once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, the Hagia Sophia is one of the most significant landmarks in Istanbul. The building is impressive, with its soaring dome and beautiful mosaics.

• Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is an iconic landmark in Istanbul, with its impressive domes and intricate tilework. Visitors can explore the mosque’s interior, including the stunning main prayer hall.

• Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Visitors can explore the palace’s beautiful gardens and impressive interiors, including the Harem.

• Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s most massive covered markets, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from leather goods to spices.

• Bosphorus Cruise

A Bosphorus cruise is a great way to see Istanbul’s beautiful waterfront and skyline. Visitors can take a boat tour or ferry ride and enjoy stunning views of the city.

4. What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Istanbul?

Istanbul is home to many vibrant neighborhoods, each with its unique character and charm. Some of the best neighborhoods to explore in Istanbul include:

• Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is the heart of historic Istanbul, home to many of the city’s top tourist attractions.

• Beyoglu

Beyoglu is a trendy and hip neighborhood, with many restaurants, cafes, and shops.

• Kadikoy

Kadikoy is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is known for its beautiful waterfront and lively atmosphere.

• Nisantasi

Nisantasi is one of Istanbul’s most affluent neighborhoods, home to high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.

5. What is the food like in Istanbul?

Istanbul is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Some of the must-try dishes in Istanbul include:

• Kebabs

Kebabs are a staple in Turkish cuisine, and there are many variations to try, from lamb to chicken to vegetarian.

• Meze Platter

Meze platters are a selection of small dishes that are perfect for sharing. Some commonly found meze dishes include hummus, baba ganoush, and stuffed grape leaves.

• Baklava

Baklava is a famous Turkish dessert made of layers of phyllo pastry, filled with nuts and sweet syrup.

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

Istanbul has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable smart card that can be used on all forms of public transportation, making it an easy and affordable way to get around the city. Taxis are also available, but they can be more expensive during peak hours.

7. What is the currency used in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish lira. While some businesses may accept euros or dollars, it’s best to have lira on hand for most transactions.

8. What is the language spoken in Istanbul?

The official language of Istanbul is Turkish, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

9. Is Istanbul a safe city for tourists?

Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, so it’s best to keep valuables secure and in sight.

10. What is the best time of year to visit Istanbul?

The best time of year to visit Istanbul is in spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October), when the weather is mild and pleasant, and crowds are smaller. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and crowded, while the winter months (December to February) can be rainy and cold.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that blends the best of Europe and Asia. It is a city that has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant nightlife. If you’re planning to visit Istanbul as a tourist, you have come to the right place. In this post, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time in Istanbul.

1. Visit the Historic Monuments

Istanbul has a long and colorful history, and as a result, it is home to many historic monuments. The top historic sites in Istanbul that you can’t miss include:

• Hagia Sophia: It was built as a church in the 6th century, later became a mosque and is now a museum. The architecture of this monument is breathtaking with a perfect blend of Islamic and Christian art.
• Topkapi Palace: This palace was once the primary residence of the Ottoman emperors. It is home to royal artifacts and an extensive collection of Islamic art.
• Blue Mosque: Also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman-era architecture. It has six minarets and intricate blue tilework.
• Basilica Cistern: An ancient underground water storage system. It is a magical place where you can walk and enjoy the grand architecture, and see the fish swimming at your feet.

2. Explore the Local Markets

Istanbul is famous for its grand markets that offer a wide range of goods from around the world. Here are some of the top markets that you can visit:

• Grand Bazaar: This market is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It is a bustling hub of shops offering everything from spices to carpets to gold jewelry.
• Spice Bazaar: This market is famous for its smells and tastes. The spice bazaar is like stepping into an ancient trade center. Here you can buy traditional Turkish flavors – such as spices, tea, and sweets.
• Beyoglu Market: This market is a modern shopping complex with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s a perfect place for souvenir shopping and sampling delicious desserts.

3. Take a Boat Tour on the Bosphorus Strait

The Bosphorus Strait is a waterway that separates Europe and Asia. Istanbul is a unique city divided into two continents, and where else can you take a boat ride between continents? During the boat tour, you will see some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, including:

• Rumeli Fortress: This fortress was built in 1452 and is a prominent symbol of Ottoman-era architecture. It stands on the European side of the Bosphorus.
• Maiden’s Tower: This tower is located on a tiny islet in the middle of the Bosphorus. The tower dates back to 408 BC and has a fascinating history.
• Dolmabahce Palace: This palace was once the primary residence of the Ottoman Empire’s last sultan. It is located on the European side of the Bosphorus.

4. Taste the Delicious Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is world-famous, and Istanbul is the perfect place to sample it. Here are some of the must-try Turkish dishes in Istanbul:

• Kebabs: Turkish kebabs are a scrumptious combination of meat, vegetables, and spices. They come in various forms like Adana kebab, shish kebab, and doner kebab.
• Baklava: A sweet and flaky dessert made with layers of filo pastry filled with walnuts or pistachios and sweetened with syrup.
• Meze: Meze is a selection of small dishes served as appetizers or a light meal. Choose from a wide array of cold and hot meze including eggplant salad, stuffed grape leaves, and meatballs.

5. Enjoy the Nightlife in Istanbul

Istanbul has a vibrant nightlife that is a mix of traditional and modern. Here are some of the top places to experience Istanbul’s nightlife:

• Nevizade Street: This street is the heart of Istanbul’s nightlife with numerous restaurants, bars, and pubs. It’s hectic, but it’s a favorite among tourists.
• Babylon Bomonti: A world-renowned music venue that attracts top international artists to Istanbul. The venue has two floors and a rooftop terrace with a perfect view of the city.
• 360 Istanbul: A popular rooftop bar and restaurant that offers breathtaking views of Istanbul. It’s a perfect place for a romantic night out.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a city that captivates and mesmerizes everyone with its rich cultural heritage, world-class architecture, and delicious cuisine. Use this guide to make the most out of your time in Istanbul, and you won’t be disappointed. It’s a city you will never forget!