How to Plan Your Istanbul City Highlights Tour w/Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque

If you’re looking for a tour that covers the classic monuments of Istanbul, look no further than the City Highlights Tour with Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. During this half-day guided tour, you’ll visit the most iconic sites of Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Additionally, you’ll learn about the amazing history of Istanbul under the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires and see the ruins of the Hippodrome of Constantinople. You’ll also have the chance to visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Overall, this tour is an excellent way to explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture.

Experience

The Istanbul City Highlights Tour is a half-day guided tour that will take you around the most iconic sites in Istanbul. Starting with a hotel pickup, you’ll head to the Hagia Sophia, one of the most significant historical monuments in Istanbul. The Hagia Sophia was originally a Christian basilica, then a mosque, and now is a museum. You’ll have the opportunity to explore this impressive structure and learn about its fascinating history from your expert guide. From the Hagia Sophia, you’ll head to the Blue Mosque, one of the most famous mosques in the world. This incredible mosque was built in the early 17th century and is famous for its stunning blue tiles. You’ll learn about the mosque’s history and significance from your guide as you wander through this beautiful structure. After exploring the Blue Mosque, you’ll visit the ruins of the Hippodrome of Constantinople. This ancient chariot racing track has been around since Roman times and is now a public square. You’ll have the chance to see the various historical monuments and structures on this site, including the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain. The final stop on the tour is the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. You’ll have the opportunity to explore this colorful and lively market and shop for unique local products. From jewelry to textiles to spices, the Grand Bazaar has something for everyone. Throughout the tour, you’ll experience vivid narration and storytelling from your expert guide. You’ll step into the past and learn about Istanbul’s rich history and culture in an engaging and informative way.

Booking Information

To book the Istanbul City Highlights Tour with Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, visit this link. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a local tour guide, and sightseeing. Guide and driver tips are optional.

Book Your Tour Now

The Istanbul City Highlights Tour with Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque is an excellent way to explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture. From the stunning architecture of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to the colorful and lively Grand Bazaar, this tour has something for everyone. Book your tour today and experience Istanbul’s classic monuments with an expert guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, chances are you have a lot of questions about this beautiful city. From its rich history to its bustling markets, Istanbul is a city with a lot to offer. In this FAQ, we’ll cover some of the most common questions people have about Istanbul, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

1. What’s the best time of year to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (April to May) or the fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. If you’re planning to visit in the summer, be prepared for hot temperatures and big crowds.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is packed with cultural and historical landmarks that are definitely worth visiting. Some of the top tourist attractions in Istanbul include:

• Hagia Sophia
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar
• Spice Bazaar
• Bosphorus Bridge

3. How do I get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has a great public transportation system that includes buses, the metro, and trams. You can buy an Istanbulkart from metro stations and other authorized vendors, which allows you to use all of these modes of transportation. Taxis are also available but can be expensive.

4. What should I wear in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it’s also a conservative city with a strong Muslim culture. To respect local customs, it’s recommended that you dress modestly, especially when visiting religious monuments like mosques. Women should cover their hair with a scarf when entering mosques.

5. What’s the currency in Istanbul?

The currency in Istanbul (and all of Turkey) is the Turkish Lira. While some businesses may accept other currencies like US dollars or Euros, it’s best to use Turkish Lira for all transactions.

6. Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

Istanbul is a safe city to travel to, but like any big city, there are some areas that are best avoided. Stick to well-lit and busy areas, especially at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

7. What’s the food like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a vibrant food scene, with influences from both Turkish and international cuisine. Traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs, mezze, and pide are popular, as are street foods like simit (a sesame bread) and roasted chestnuts. Istanbul also has a thriving coffee culture, with lots of cafes serving up delicious Turkish coffee.

8. What language do they speak in Istanbul?

The official language in Istanbul (and all of Turkey) is Turkish, but you’ll find that many people speak English as well, especially in tourist areas.

9. Can I drink alcohol in Istanbul?

Yes, alcohol is legal in Istanbul and you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs throughout the city. However, it’s important to be mindful of local customs and not to indulge in public places.

10. What’s the weather like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a mild climate, with hot summers and cold winters. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), while in the winter months, temperatures can drop to freezing. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly!

11. What’s the nightlife like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a vibrant nightlife scene, with lots of bars, clubs, and music venues throughout the city. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include Taksim and Kadikoy.

12. What’s the best way to experience local culture in Istanbul?

To experience local culture in Istanbul, we recommend taking a food tour, visiting a traditional hammam, and attending a Turkish music and dance performance. You can also visit local markets like the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Istanbul. Hopefully, this FAQ has answered some of your burning questions about Istanbul. Of course, there’s a lot more to discover about this amazing city, so start planning your trip today!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul, the former capital city of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires, is a vibrant and bustling city that spans two continents – Asia and Europe. It is home to some of the most significant historical and cultural landmarks in the world, such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Istanbul is full of life, and you can find something to do at any time of day or night. In this guide, we will share our suggestions on how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Istanbul.

1. Visit the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia, formerly a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, is one of the top tourist attractions in Istanbul. The vast structure with its impressive dome houses stunning Byzantine architecture, art, and artifacts. The interior is decorated with mosaics, marble pillars, and chandeliers. The Hagia Sophia is a must-see for any tourist visiting Istanbul.

2. Explore the Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was once the residence of the Ottoman Sultans and is now a museum that showcases the Ottoman Empire’s historical and cultural heritage. The palace is divided into several courtyards and buildings, allowing visitors to explore various parts of the palace. The palace is home to numerous treasures, including the famous Topkapi Dagger, the Spoonmaker’s Diamond, and the Topkapi Scroll.

3. Visit the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most stunning Islamic buildings in the world. It is famous for its blue-tiled interior and six minarets. Visitors are welcome to see the mosque, but they must adhere to the dress code, which requires modest clothing, and women must cover their heads with a scarf.

4. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus Strait runs through Istanbul, separating Europe from Asia. A Bosphorus cruise will allow you to see some of the most beautiful views of the city. During the cruise, you will see some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, including the Dolmabahce Palace, the Maiden’s Tower, and the Bosphorus Bridge.

5. Visit the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is a vast indoor market that dates back to the Ottoman era. It is one of the largest covered markets in the world and is home to over 4,000 shops that sell Turkish carpets, ceramics, pottery, leather goods, and more. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bargain hard.

6. Taste the Local Cuisine

One of the best things about Istanbul is the food. Turkish cuisine is known for its diverse flavors and rich history. You will find plenty of restaurants and street vendors selling traditional dishes such as kebabs, mezze, and baklava. If you have a sweet tooth, try some Turkish delight or the famous Turkish ice cream.

7. Visit the Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is one of Istanbul’s oldest markets. The bazaar is famous for its spices, nuts, teas, and Turkish delight. Visitors can also find traditional Turkish souvenirs such as ceramics, textiles, and jewelry.

8. Take a Turkish Bath

A Turkish bath, also known as a hammam, is a traditional spa experience that involves a steam room, scrubbing, and massage. They are popular among locals and tourists alike. The bathhouses are usually located in historic districts and offer a relaxing way to unwind after exploring the city.

9. Visit the Istanbul Modern Museum

The Istanbul Modern Museum is an exciting contemporary art museum located on the banks of the Bosphorus. It is home to a vast collection of Turkish modern and contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, video, and installations.

10. Stay in a Traditional Ottoman House

If you want to immerse yourself in Istanbul’s history and culture, consider staying in a traditional Ottoman house. These houses have been restored and turned into guesthouses, offering visitors a glimpse into Istanbul’s past. Many of these houses are located in old Istanbul neighborhoods such as Sultanahmet and Beyoglu. In conclusion, Istanbul is a city full of history, culture, and exciting experiences. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. The tips above are just some of the things you can do as a tourist in Istanbul. Keep in mind the dress code when visiting Islamic landmarks, and don’t forget to try the delicious local cuisine. Enjoy your trip to Istanbul!