How to plan your Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch & Transfer in Istanbul

Are you looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Istanbul? The Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch & Transfer might be the perfect day trip for you. You’ll get to breathe in the fresh sea breeze, explore two of the Princes’ Islands, take a guided walking tour of Kınalıada, ride an electric vehicle, relax on a tranquil beach, and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to plan and book this tour.

What to Expect

Start your day trip by getting picked up from your hotel in Istanbul and driven to the boat that will take you away from the city. On this tour, you’ll be able to admire the beauty of the deep-blue waters of the Marmara Sea as you cruise towards the Princes’ Islands. The tour will make stops at two of the most stunning islands, where you’ll be able to explore and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. First, you’ll have the chance to take a guided walking tour of Kınalıada, the smallest of the Princes’ Islands. Following the walking tour, you will step back on the boat to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch while taking in the stunning views of the sea. After lunch, you will have the option to rent an electric vehicle and ride it around the imposing mansions of Büyükada. Finally, the tour will take you to a tranquil beach where you can relax and take a swim away from the big city crowds. You’ll end the tour with a comfortable ride back to your hotel in Istanbul.

Tour Inclusions

The Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch & Transfer tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat trip, a tour guide, a buffet lunch, an optional electric vehicle rental (to be paid on location), and drinks.

How to Book

To book the Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch & Transfer tour, use this link: book the tour here. Make sure to select the date of the tour, the number of people in your group, and provide all necessary information during the booking process.

Tips for the Tour

– Wear comfortable shoes for the guided walking tour of Kınalıada. – Bring sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun during the tour. – Pack a swimsuit and a towel for the beach visit. – Don’t forget to bring some cash with you for any additional purchases you may want to make.

Book Your Tour Now

The Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch & Transfer is a relaxing and refreshing day trip from Istanbul. With its stunning views, delicious buffet lunch, and peaceful surroundings, this tour is perfect for anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and experience the beauty of the Princes’ Islands for yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful city that straddles two continents and has a rich history and culture. As a popular tourist destination and a place with a complex history and diverse population, there are many questions that people often have about Istanbul. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul.

1. What is the history of Istanbul?

Istanbul has a long and complex history that dates back to ancient times. It was first founded as the Greek city of Byzantium in the 7th century BCE. Later, it became the capital of the Roman Empire and was renamed Constantinople. From the 13th century to the 15th century, it was the capital of the Byzantine Empire. During the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul became the capital of the empire and was an important cultural, economic, and political center.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul has many tourist attractions that showcase the city’s rich history and culture. Some of the top tourist attractions include:

• Hagia Sophia
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar
• Galata Tower
• Basilica Cistern
• Spice Bazaar
• Dolmabahce Palace
• Bosphorus Strait
• Chora Church

3. What is the cuisine of Istanbul like?

Istanbul has a diverse and delicious cuisine that reflects the city’s history and culture. Some of the most popular dishes in Istanbul include:

• Kebabs (grilled meat)
• Baklava (sweet pastry)
• Manti (dumplings)
• Lahmacun (Turkish pizza)
• Dolma (stuffed vegetables)
• Pide (Turkish flatbread)
• Borek (savory pastry)
• Manti (Turkish ravioli)
• Meze (small plates of food)

4. What is the weather like in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a temperate climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The best time to visit Istanbul is in the spring (April to June) or the fall (September to November) when the weather is milder and there are fewer tourists.

5. How do I get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has a well-developed public transportation system that consists of buses, trams, metro, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card that can be used on all public transportation in the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are also available, but these can be more expensive than public transportation.

6. What is the local currency in Istanbul?

The local currency in Istanbul is the Turkish lira (TRY). ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.

7. What are the cultural customs in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a Muslim-majority city, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites, and remove your shoes before entering. Alcohol is widely consumed in Istanbul, but it is not legal to drink in public places.

8. What are the best areas to stay in Istanbul?

Istanbul has many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions. Some of the best areas to stay in Istanbul include:

• Sultanahmet (historical center)
• Taksim (modern city center)
• Beyoglu (artsy neighborhood)
• Kadikoy (hip neighborhood on the Asian side)
• Nisantasi (upscale shopping and dining)

9. Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, but visitors should still be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes. Terrorism is a concern in Turkey, and visitors should stay up to date on the latest travel advisories and avoid political demonstrations or large crowds.

10. What is the language spoken in Istanbul?

The official language of Istanbul is Turkish, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas. Some signs and menus may also be in English or other languages. It can be helpful to learn a few basic Turkish phrases before visiting Istanbul to help communicate with locals.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a tourist’s paradise with its rich culture, history, and beautiful landmarks. If you’re planning to visit Istanbul, you’re in for a treat as the city has a lot to offer. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul.

1. Visit the Historical Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia, originally built as a church in the sixth century, was later converted into a mosque and a museum. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the top tourist attractions in Istanbul. The awe-inspiring structure of the building is a true testament to the city’s rich history and culture.

Reasons to Visit Hagia Sophia

• Visit the famous dome of the building, which is truly a masterpiece of engineering
• View the stunning mosaics and frescoes inside the building
• Experience the rich history of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires
• Enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the top of the building

2. Explore the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it’s a shopper’s paradise with everything from traditional Turkish carpets and spices to clothing and jewelry. The Grand Bazaar is not just a shopping destination but also a cultural experience, as it has been around for centuries and has witnessed the city’s history.

Things to do in the Grand Bazaar

• Browse through the antique and traditional shops that sell authentic Turkish goods
• Have a cup of traditional Turkish tea or coffee at one of the many cafes inside the market
• Explore the architecture and history of the Grand Bazaar
• Bargain with the shopkeepers for a better deal on your purchases

3. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

A Bosphorus cruise is a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Istanbul. The Bosphorus Strait divides Istanbul into two continents, Europe and Asia. During the cruise, you’ll see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Rumeli Fortress, Dolmabahce Palace, and the Maiden’s Tower.

What to Expect on the Bosphorus Cruise

• Enjoy stunning views of historic landmarks
• Experience the serene waters of the Bosphorus
• Capture beautiful photos of the city from the water
• Listen to informative commentary about the city from the cruising guide

4. Visit the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul. Built in the early seventeenth century, it is a masterpiece of Ottoman-era architecture. The mosque’s most notable feature is its six minarets and the beautiful blue tiles that adorn the interior.

What to See at the Blue Mosque

• The stunning interior with its beautiful blue tiles and chandeliers
• The six minarets that make it one of the most unique mosques in the world
• The courtyard that is perfect for taking pictures
• The peaceful atmosphere that will allow you to take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle

5. Try Turkish Street Food

Istanbul is famous for its street food culture. You can find street food vendors all over the city, offering a range of tasty treats. Try some of Istanbul’s most famous street foods like Simit (a type of sesame-covered bread), roasted chestnuts, and Turkish Doner Kebabs.

Popular Turkish Street Foods to Try

• Simit – a sesame-covered bread ring
• Baklava – a honey-soaked pastry dessert
• Kofte – Turkish meatballs
• Kumpir – a baked potato stuffed with a variety of toppings

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a beautiful city with so much to see and do. With this guide, you’ll be able to experience the best of what the city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Istanbul. Take your time exploring the city and make the most of your visit to this majestic destination.