Istanbul is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, with a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes it a popular destination for travelers. And one of the best ways to experience the city’s many delights is by taking a motorized city tour. With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve scoured the city to find the very best motorized city tours, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy all that Istanbul has to offer in style. In this post, we’ll introduce you to the 3 best motorized city tours in Istanbul.

The 3 Best Motorized City Tours in Istanbul

1. Best of Istanbul in 1 Day
2. Istanbul: Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque Skip-the-Line Tour
3. Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise, Bus Tour, and Cable Car Ride

The 3 Best Motorized City Tours in Istanbul

1. Best of Istanbul in 1 Day

Discover the best of Istanbul in just one day on this 7-hour van tour. Begin at Sultanahmet Square, where you’ll see the stunning Sultan Ahmed Mosque and learn about its rich history from your knowledgeable guide. Next, visit the Topkapi Palace and marvel at its ornate architecture before exploring the Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

As the tour continues, you’ll pass by other notable sites like the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and more. Finally, wrap up the experience with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of Istanbul’s oldest covered markets. Throughout the tour, your guide will regale you with fascinating stories and historical tidbits about this incredible city.

Your tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance tickets to museums and sites, and food and drinks. Note that Topkapi Palace is closed every Tuesday and is replaced with Nakkas Cistern, while some inner parts of the Blue Mosque are currently under renovation. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and the inner parts of the Grand Bazaar are closed every Sunday. Join us for an unforgettable day of exploring the best of Istanbul!

2. Istanbul: Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque Skip-the-Line Tour

Discover Istanbul’s most fascinating historical monuments on this half-day tour. With skip-the-line entry to the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, you’ll avoid the long lines and make the most of your time exploring the stunning interiors of these iconic landmarks. Listen as your local tour guide shares the history of Istanbul under the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. You’ll also get to see and learn about the ruins of the Hippodrome of Constantinople. The tour includes a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, where you can shop for unique local products. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for your convenience, as well as the option to give tips to your guide and driver. Please note that on Friday mornings, the Blue Mosque is closed for Friday prayers, and starting January 1st, 2023, it will be closed for three months with the Nuru Osmaniye Mosque being visited instead.

3. Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise, Bus Tour, and Cable Car Ride

Explore the stunning city of Istanbul like never before on this unique tour. The Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise, Bus Tour, and Cable Car Ride experience will take you on a thrilling cruise between Asia and Europe on the Bosphorus Strait. Admire iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia from the water and discover the historical houses and Roman ruins on the Golden Horn. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Golden Horn from Pierre Loti Hill and enjoy a cable car ride down before visiting the Eyup Sultan Mosque where the figure Abu Ayyub al-Ansari was entombed. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, cruise and cable car tickets, as well as a professional guide to take you through the fascinating sights of Istanbul. Your guide will be waiting for you in front of Buhara 93 Restaurant in Sultanahmet Square holding the Aljazeera Tour logo flag. Don’t miss out on this epic adventure through Istanbul!

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

Istanbul, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, is a lively and exciting city that brings together the best of both the East and the West. However, before planning your trip to Istanbul, you may have some questions. Here, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions that will help you to plan your trip better.

1. When is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (March to May) or the autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer season (June to August) can be hot and humid, and the winter season (December to February) can be chilly and rainy.

2. What is the currency used in Istanbul, and how can I exchange money?

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). You can easily exchange your currency at exchange offices or banks. It is recommended to avoid exchanging money at the airport or in tourist areas as the exchange rates may not be favorable.

3. What is the main language spoken in Istanbul?

Turkish is the official language in Istanbul. However, most people in Istanbul can speak English, especially in tourist areas, and you can easily communicate with them.

4. How can I get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trams, subways, ferries, and taxis. It is recommended to use public transportation as traffic can be chaotic and parking can be a challenge.

5. What are the top attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul has many attractions that cater to all interests. The top attractions in Istanbul include the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, the Basilica Cistern, the Galata Tower, and the Spice Market.

6. What is the street food like in Istanbul?

Istanbul is famous for its street food, which is delicious and affordable. Some of the most popular street foods in Istanbul include doner kebab, simit (Turkish bagel), and baklava (a sweet pastry).

7. Is Istanbul safe to visit?

Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is recommended to be cautious in crowded areas, avoid carrying too much cash, and keep your belongings close to you.

8. What is the dress code in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern city, and you can dress according to your comfort level. However, when visiting religious sites, it is recommended to dress conservatively and cover your shoulders and knees.

9. What are some cultural etiquettes I should be aware of in Istanbul?

Some cultural etiquettes to be aware of in Istanbul include removing your shoes when entering a mosque, tipping at restaurants, and greeting people with a handshake or a nod.

10. What are the best souvenirs to buy from Istanbul?

Istanbul is famous for its unique souvenirs like Turkish delight, spices, ceramics, carpets, and traditional textiles. You can buy them at the Grand Bazaar or Spice Market.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city that is rich in history, culture, and beauty. Plan your trip carefully, and you will have an unforgettable experience in this magical city.

I hope this article has answered some of your questions and helped you to plan your trip. Don’t hesitate to ask us if you have further questions or concerns.

The 3 Best Motorized City Tours in Istanbul: Your Ultimate Guide

Istanbul is a city home to vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture. There’s a reason why it’s a popular tourist destination, and one of the best ways to explore its beauty is through a motorized city tour. These tours are a fantastic way to discover Istanbul’s best landmarks, learn about the city’s history and culture, and enjoy the incredible views. In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at the three best motorized city tours in Istanbul and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about them.

1. Bosphorus Cruise:

Bosphorus Cruise is hands down, one of the best motorized city tours in Istanbul. It’s an excellent way to explore the city’s waterside and take in some fantastic panoramic views of Istanbul’s two continents. The tour usually takes about two hours, and you can choose between two options – a regular cruise or a private cruise. A regular cruise will be the more affordable option, while a private cruise will allow you to customize your experience and itinerary while enjoying extra privacy. Regardless of the option you choose, you will get to see some of Istanbul’s top landmarks, including the Dolmabahce Palace, Bosphorus Bridge, and Rumeli Fortress.

What does Bosphorus Cruise cost?

The cost of a Bosphorus Cruise will depend on the type of cruise you choose. A regular cruise will usually cost around $20-$25 per person, while a private cruise can range anywhere from $200-$500, depending on the boat’s size, amenities, and tour length.

What should I wear on a Bosphorus Cruise?

It’s best to dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. In the summertime, you can wear light clothing and bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. In the wintertime, you should dress warmly, as it can get chilly on the water.

2. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour:

The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is another fantastic way to explore Istanbul’s beauty, and it’s ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with convenience. This tour allows you to hop on and off the bus at any of the designated stops, allowing you to explore the city’s top landmarks at your own pace. The buses are air-conditioned and equipped with audio guides in several languages, making it an extremely informative and enjoyable experience.

What does the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour cost?

The cost of a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is around $25-$30 per person, and it’s usually valid for 24 hours. Some tours may offer a 48-hour validity period, so it’s best to read the tour details carefully before booking.

What are some of the top landmarks covered in the tour?

The tour covers over 30 top landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Taksim Square. You can hop on and off the bus as much as you want to explore the landmarks that interest you the most.

3. Istanbul Night Tour:

If you’re looking for a more unique experience, the Istanbul Night Tour is the perfect option for you. This tour takes you on a magical journey through Istanbul’s nightlife and illuminates the city’s beauty after dark. You will get to see the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Galata Tower, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia, lit up against the night sky. To make the experience even more memorable, some tours also include a dinner or a show with traditional Turkish entertainment.

What does the Istanbul Night Tour cost?

The cost of an Istanbul Night Tour will depend on the tour operator and the tour inclusions. Some tours may cost around $50-$60 per person, while others may be more expensive if they include dinner or a show.

Is the Istanbul Night Tour safe?

Istanbul is generally a safe city, and the Istanbul Night Tour is a safe activity. However, it’s always best to take precautionary measures such as being aware of your surroundings and belongings and following the tour guide’s instructions.

Conclusion:

Istanbul is an incredible city, and a motorized city tour is an excellent way to explore its beauty and learn about its history and culture. Whether you choose a Bosphorus Cruise, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, or Istanbul Night Tour, each has its unique experience and charm. By knowing what to expect from each tour, you can choose the best one that suits your interests, budget, and schedule. Don’t forget to book your tour early to secure your spot and enjoy your Istanbul adventure to the fullest!