Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour: How to Plan Your Tour

If you are planning to visit Istanbul, the capital of the Ottoman Empire, and to experience rich history and culture, then the Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour is perfect for you. This tour will help you witness the must-see wonders of Ottoman Istanbul and let you explore top Istanbul attractions including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar and the glorious Hagia Sophia. Upgrade your experience by visiting the Hagia Sophia in the early morning or evening for a crowd-free tour. This blog post is an ultimate guide for planning your full-day private tour of Ottoman Istanbul.

Overview of the Tour

The tour begins with the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, located in the heart of Istanbul. This mosque is famous for its six minarets and stunningly decorated interiors with blue tiles. From there, visit the Topkapi Palace, the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans, and learn about Ottoman Empire history from your expert guide. Explore the museum and its collections of Ottoman costumes, armor, and weaponry. Next, we make our way to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Discover the variety of stalls selling Turkish textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and souvenirs. The bazaar is a vibrant place, and wandering around its colorful alleys and absorbing Istanbul’s history and culture is an unforgettable experience. After eating lunch at a traditional restaurant, visit the infamous Hagia Sophia, the 6th-century basilica turned into the Ottoman mosque in 1453. Admire the incredible architecture of the building and learn about its history along with the Ottoman Empire’s history. Upgrade your experience to see the treasures of Hagia Sophia without having to face the crowds. Before the tour ends, enjoy the view of Istanbul’s skyline from the Bosphorus waterfront with your guide.

Why the Private Tour is Ideal

The Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour is a private tour, which means you can personalize your experience by choosing your pick-up time and location. By choosing a private tour, you can also spend more time at the places you are most interested in to make the most of your visit to Istanbul. Another advantage of a private tour is that you can get an intimate tour with expert guides who provide you with more in-depth knowledge and insight into Ottoman culture, history, and locations. This tour comes with an included lunch at a carefully selected traditional restaurant so you can taste the local cuisine.

Upgrade Opportunities

The tour offers an upgrade opportunity to visit the Hagia Sophia before or after its opening hours. This upgrade allows you to experience Hagia Sophia without running into crowds, making your visit more enjoyable.

Tips for Tourists

Here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of your Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour:

1. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. You will walk for long periods, and Istanbul can be hot in the summer.
2. Bring a hat and sunscreen as the tour is mostly outdoor, and Istanbul is generally sunny throughout the year.
3. Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the unforgettable moments of Ottoman Istanbul.

Book Your Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour

To book your Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour, visit the following link: Book the tour here and choose your preferred date and pickup location.

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The Private Tour Ottoman Istanbul Full Day Tour provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the highlights of Ottoman Istanbul, explore the city’s ancient culture and history, and taste traditional food. With an expert guide to show you around, you can create unforgettable memories of your trip to Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a vibrant and historic city that attracts millions of visitors every year. As a gateway between East and West, it’s famous for its stunning architecture, rich culture, delicious food, and lively shopping districts. But, whether you’re planning to visit for the first time, or are a seasoned traveler, you’re likely to have questions about Istanbul. To help you out, we’ve created this detailed and informative FAQ guide.

What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is in the spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) seasons. During these months the temperatures are mild, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer. Istanbul can be hot and crowded in the summer months (July-September) making it difficult to explore the city comfortably. Winter in Istanbul (December-March) is usually cold and rainy.

What are the top tourist attractions to see in Istanbul?

Istanbul is packed with an abundance of tourist attractions for visitors to explore, the top ones being:

• Hagia Sophia
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar
• The Basilica Cistern

What are the best places to shop in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a shopping paradise, and visitors can find everything from traditional Turkish handbags, clothes, and shoes to modern designer labels. Some of the best places to shop in Istanbul are the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Nisantasi, and Bagdat Street.

What are the transportation options in Istanbul?

Istanbul has an excellent transportation system, and visitors have many options to get around the city. These options include metros, buses, trams, ferries, and taxis. The Istanbulkart is a prepaid card system that can be used on all public transport. It’s a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city.

What is Turkish food like?

Turkish cuisine is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences. Some of the most popular dishes include kebabs, shish, meze, and baklava. Vegetarians can also find plenty of options in Turkish cuisine, such as borek, dolmas, and pide.

What is the currency used in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish lira. Credit cards are accepted at most establishments, and ATMs are widely available. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

What is the dress code in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern and cosmopolitan city, and visitors can wear whatever they’re comfortable in. But, when visiting religious sites, such as the Blue Mosque, it’s important to dress modestly, covering legs and arms.

Is Istanbul safe to visit?

Istanbul is generally considered a safe city for visitors, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take necessary precautions to avoid pickpocketing and scams in tourist areas. It’s also important to be mindful of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas.

What language is spoken in Istanbul?

The official language of Istanbul is Turkish, but English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas. Visitors can easily communicate with locals for their day-to-day activities.

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Istanbul is a beautiful city that offers a mix of culture, history, food, and shopping that visitors will never forget. We hope this FAQ guide has helped you answer some of your questions about Istanbul and made your trip planning more comfortable. Remember to plan your visit ahead of time, pack accordingly, and budget wisely. Enjoy your trip to Istanbul!

How to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul is a vibrant city with a rich history that spans over 2500 years. The city’s diverse culture, food, and vibrant energy make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, this guide will help you make the most out of your time in the city.

1. Visit the Historical Sites

Istanbul is known for its historical landmarks, and there are plenty of them to explore. The Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace are some of the most significant sites. You can start your tour with the Hagia Sophia, a historic mosque that served as the center of the Ottoman Empire, and then move on to the Blue Mosque, which is known for its impressive architecture and blue tiles. Topkapi Palace, the Ottoman Empire’s main palace, is another must-visit destination.

2. Enjoy the Views from the Bosphorus

The Bosphorus Strait is the body of water that separates Europe from Asia. You can take a boat tour of the strait to see the city from a different perspective. The views are breathtaking, especially during sunset.

3. Shop at the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. There are over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices, jewelry, textiles, and ceramics. Be sure to bargain with the vendors to get the best deals.

4. Explore the Neighborhoods

Istanbul is a city of contrasts, and one of the best ways to experience it is by exploring its diverse neighborhoods. Beyoglu, with its Bohemian charm, is known for its nightlife, art galleries, and cafes. Karakoy, a fishing village turned hipster haunt, is known for its street art, coffee shops, and boutiques. Uskudar, on the Asian side of the city, is a traditional neighborhood with historic mosques, markets, and tea houses.

5. Indulge in Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is famous around the world for its delicious flavors and unique combinations. Istanbul is a foodie’s paradise, and there are countless dining options to choose from. Don’t miss out on the classic Turkish dishes like kebab, pide, and baklava, and be sure to try the local breakfast specialty menemen.

6. Relax in a Turkish Bath

The Turkish bath, or hammam, is a traditional bathhouse where visitors can relax and detoxify their bodies. Turkish baths are usually divided into separate men’s and women’s quarters, and the experience typically involves a sauna, steam room, and a massage. The Cagaloglu Hamami, located near the Hagia Sophia, is one of the oldest and most famous Turkish baths in the city.

7. Experience the Nightlife

Istanbul’s nightlife is legendary, and it’s not hard to find something that suits anyone’s taste. From rooftop bars with stunning views of the city to live music venues in the neighborhoods, the variety is endless. Some of the popular nightlife spots include 360 Istanbul, Reina, and Babylon.

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In conclusion, Istanbul is a city with a lot to offer. With its rich history, diversity, and mouth-watering cuisine, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks, indulging in delicious Turkish cuisine, or experiencing the city’s famous nightlife, Istanbul has something for everyone.