How to Plan Your Istanbul Tour with Istanbul Welcome Card Classic

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul but feeling overwhelmed with the number of options available for transportation and attractions? Consider getting the Istanbul Welcome Card Classic, which includes public transportation, discounts at local attractions and restaurants, and an evening sunset cruise. In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of planning your Istanbul tour with Istanbul Welcome Card Classic.

Overview of Istanbul Welcome Card Classic

Istanbul Welcome Card Classic is a package that includes various discounts and services for visitors to Istanbul. The package includes public transportation, discounts at local attractions and restaurants, a 90-minute Istanbul Bosphorus Tour, and an evening sunset cruise. This package is perfect for first-time visitors who want to hit the ground running and avoid spending time planning their itinerary.

Benefits of Istanbul Welcome Card Classic

Here are some of the benefits of the Istanbul Welcome Card Classic package: – Enjoy lower prices at over 80 local attractions, restaurants, and bazaars – Get 3 free rides and a 45% discount on public transportation after your rides – Collect your Welcome Card at Atatürk Airport or have it sent to your hotel – A map of the city’s free WiFi zones makes it easy to keep friends back home updated

What’s Included in Istanbul Welcome Card Classic

The Istanbul Welcome Card Classic package includes the following: – 90-minute Istanbul Bosphorus Tour: A scenic boat tour that takes you along the Bosphorus Strait, which divides the city into two continents, Europe and Asia. You’ll see some of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, such as the Maiden’s Tower, Galata Tower, and Dolmabahçe Palace. – Public transportation rides: You’ll get 5 free rides with Istanbul’s public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, metro, and ferries. After your free rides, you’ll get a 45% discount on all public transportation fares. – City map and discounts at top attractions: You’ll receive a detailed city map that includes the locations of free WiFi zones, as well as discounts at over 80 local attractions, restaurants, and bazaars.

How to Book Istanbul Welcome Card Classic Tour

Booking the Istanbul Welcome Card Classic tour is easy. You can book the tour online at Viator, a third-party booking website. Here’s how: 1. Go to the Istanbul Welcome Card Classic tour page on Viator’s website. 2. Select your travel dates and the number of travelers. 3. Choose whether you want to collect your Welcome Card at Atatürk Airport or have it sent to your hotel. 4. Proceed to the checkout page and enter your payment details. 5. Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive a voucher via email that you can exchange for your Istanbul Welcome Card upon arrival in Istanbul.

How to Use Istanbul Welcome Card Classic

Using the Istanbul Welcome Card Classic is simple. Here’s how: 1. Collect your Welcome Card at the Istanbul Airport Havalines Ticket Office (Floor -2nd Gate 17) if you chose to collect it in person. If you chose to have it sent to your hotel, it will be delivered to your hotel reception desk. 2. Activate your Welcome Card by using it for the first time on public transportation. You’ll get 5 free rides with your card. 3. Enjoy discounts at over 80 local attractions, restaurants, and bazaars. Simply show your Welcome Card at the participating venues to get the discounts. 4. Use your Istanbul Bosphorus Tour ticket to join the 90-minute boat tour. The tour runs daily at 1:30 PM and starts at Kabataş Dock.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul Welcome Card Classic is a great option for visitors to Istanbul who want to save time and money. With the package, you’ll get public transportation, discounts at local attractions and restaurants, and a scenic boat tour on the Bosphorus Strait. To book the tour, visit the Istanbul Welcome Card Classic tour page on Viator’s website and follow the instructions. With the Welcome Card, you can enjoy your time and explore the city without worrying about transportation or the cost of admission to top attractions. Book now and have a great trip to Istanbul! Book the tour here

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

Istanbul is a fascinating city that straddles two continents and offers an incredible mix of cultures, traditions, and experiences. If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, you may have some questions about the city. In this FAQ, we’ll cover everything from the weather and transportation to the best things to see and do in Istanbul.

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April and May) and the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid, and the winter months (December to February) can be cold and rainy.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is home to a wide range of tourist attractions, from historic sites to modern museums. Some of the top tourist attractions in Istanbul include:

• The Hagia Sophia
• The Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace
• The Grand Bazaar
• The Spice Bazaar
• The Bosphorus Strait
• The Istanbul Archaeology Museum
• The Basilica Cistern

3. How do I get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has a well-developed public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card that can be used on all forms of public transportation and offers discounted fares. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

4. What should I wear in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a relatively conservative city, and visitors should dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and wear skirts or trousers that cover the knees. Men should not wear shorts or sleeveless shirts. Comfortable footwear is also recommended as the city has many cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks.

5. What is the local currency in Istanbul?

The local currency in Istanbul is the Turkish lira (TRY). Most shops, restaurants, and hotels accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.

6. What is Turkish cuisine like?

Turkish cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with a mix of Arabic, Ottoman, and Mediterranean influences. Some popular Turkish dishes include:

• Kebabs
• Gozleme (folded pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables)
• Manti (Turkish dumplings)
• Baklava (sweet pastry with nuts and honey)
• Turkish delight (a sweet, chewy candy)

7. Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any major city, there is some risk of petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft. Visitors should be cautious in crowded areas like the Grand Bazaar and take precautions such as carrying a money belt and keeping valuables out of sight.

8. What is Turkish hospitality like?

Turkish hospitality is famous around the world, and visitors can expect to be warmly welcomed by locals. Turkish people are known for their generosity and kind nature, and visitors are often invited to share tea or a meal with locals.

9. What are some off-the-beaten-path things to do in Istanbul?

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, here are a few suggestions:

• Visit the Istanbul Modern Museum of Art
• Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands
• Explore the historic Balat neighborhood
• Visit the Suleymaniye Hamam, a traditional Turkish bath

10. What should I know about Turkish culture before I travel to Istanbul?

Turkish culture is rich and diverse, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Some things to keep in mind include:

• Remove your shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home
• Use your right hand for eating and greeting
• Avoid pointing the soles of your feet at someone
• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites

Istanbul is a city with so much to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or shopping, there’s something for everyone. With this FAQ, we hope you have a better understanding of what to expect when visiting Istanbul, and we wish you an unforgettable trip to this magical city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul – A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re planning to visit Istanbul anytime soon, you’re in for a treat. Istanbul, the city where East meets West, is a fascinating blend of cultures, cuisines, and history. From the iconic landmarks to the hidden gems of the city, Istanbul has something for everyone. To make the most of your visit, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul. So, let’s dive in!

1. Visit Istanbul’s Landmarks

Istanbul is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, and a visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without exploring them. These include:

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Istanbul. Once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, the building has a rich history that reflects Istanbul’s diverse cultural heritage. The dome of the Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel, and the interior is adorned with stunning mosaics, calligraphy, and marble.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was once the residence of the Ottoman Sultans and is now a museum that gives a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire. The palace is famous for its gardens, courtyards, and stunning views of the Bosphorus.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque or Sultan Ahmed Mosque is one of the most stunning landmarks in Istanbul. The mosque’s interior is adorned with blue tiles that inspired its name, and the six minarets are a sight to behold.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is the world’s oldest and largest covered market, and it’s the go-to destination for shopping in Istanbul. With over 4,000 shops, the market is home to everything from Turkish rugs to spices, jewelry, and ceramics.

2. Explore Istanbul’s Neighborhoods

Istanbul is a city of neighborhoods, each with its unique vibe and attractions. To get a feel for the city, we recommend exploring some of the following neighborhoods:

Beyoglu

Beyoglu is the modern heart of Istanbul and is home to some of the city’s most popular streets and landmarks. Istiklal Avenue is a bustling pedestrian street that’s lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, while Galata Tower offers stunning views of the city.

Kadikoy

Kadikoy is a bohemian neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul that’s brimming with art, culture, and history. Here you can explore the colorful fish market, sample delicious street food, and browse the art galleries and boutiques.

Ortakoy

Ortakoy is a picturesque neighborhood situated on the Bosphorus that’s known for its stunning views of the Bosphorus Bridge and its vibrant nightlife. The streets are lined with seafood restaurants, cafes, and bars that come alive at night.

3. Sample Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is one of the world’s most diverse and flavorful, and a visit to Istanbul wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of its delicacies. Here are some dishes you must try:

Baklava

Baklava is a sweet pastry that’s made of filo dough, honey, and nuts. It’s a staple dessert in Turkish cuisine and is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Doner Kebab

Doner kebab is a popular street food in Istanbul that’s made of roasted meat, vegetables, and spices that are packed into a pita bread. It’s a filling and delicious meal that’s perfect for a quick bite.

Meze

Meze is a selection of small dishes that are served as an appetizer or snack in Turkish cuisine. Meze can include everything from dips, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats, and it’s an excellent way to taste a variety of Turkish dishes in one meal.

4. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus is the body of water that separates Europe and Asia and offers stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline. One of the best ways to experience the Bosphorus is by taking a cruise that will take you past some of the city’s most famous landmarks while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a city that’s bursting with culture, history, and beauty, and we hope this guide has helped you plan your visit. Remember to explore the iconic landmarks, sample the delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture. Whether you’re exploring the bustling neighborhoods or taking a leisurely Bosphorus cruise, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in Istanbul. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of this vibrant city.