Istanbul, the cultural and historical capital of Turkey, is a city that spans two continents and offers an unparalleled blend of traditional and modern features. Known for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and vibrant marketplace, Istanbul is a destination that will leave you enchanted. With so much to explore, it can be hard to decide what to do if you have limited time. In this post, we’ll share the top five things to do in Istanbul, so you can make the most out of your visit to this beautiful city. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or culture, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, let’s dive in!
The 5 Best Things to Do in Istanbul
- Circle Istanbul (Extraordinary Istanbul)
- CLASSIC OLD CITY TOUR BY MR.ISTANBUL 1-2 or 3 days (Max : 10 people)
- Istanbul Two Continents and Backstreets
- PubCrawl Istanbul – A night in Istanbul!
- Taksim Nightlife – Rooftop Tour
The 5 Best Things to Do in Istanbul
1. Circle Istanbul (Extraordinary Istanbul)
Experience the vibrant culture, lively neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine of Istanbul with the Circle Istanbul tour. This tour goes beyond the most-visited sights and takes you to the districts of Karakoy, Kadikoy, and Balat. You’ll also cross over to the Asian side of the city and take a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a traditional Turkish bath and indulge in mouth-watering Turkish meals. This intimate tour accommodates small groups of up to six people, ensuring a personalized experience. With the extended tour option, you can explore Istanbul from 9am to 9pm. The package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, beverages, and gratuity for the tour guide and Turkish Bath staff. The meeting point is at Tak-ı Zafer Cd. NO:3/1, Gümüşsuyu, Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey, in front of The Marmara Hotel Taksim at Taksim Square.
2. CLASSIC OLD CITY TOUR BY MR.ISTANBUL 1-2 or 3 days (Max : 10 people)
This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s old city, taking visitors to both well-known sites and hidden gems. Over the course of two or three days, travelers will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the city’s culture and history, with all fees and taxes included in the price. Guests will experience an authentic Turkish experience by traveling via public transportation and will be provided with three lunches throughout the tour. On the first day, guests will explore the Old City and its major tourist attractions, including Topkapi Palace, with the entrance fee included. The second day ventures into the beaten paths of “real Istanbul,” while the third day is dedicated to the Asian and European history of the city, including a visit to Dolmabahce Palace, also with entrance fee included. Pickup is offered, and guests can choose from various meeting points around the city. With a maximum of 10 people per tour, this is a great option for those seeking a more intimate and personalized experience.
3. Istanbul Two Continents and Backstreets
Explore Istanbul like a local on this half-day private tour of the city’s Ottoman European and Asian districts. Your knowledgeable guide will take you on a journey through the backstreets and hidden highlights of the city, avoiding the typical tourist attractions. Discover where locals shop and pick up unique souvenirs at an old Ottoman book bazaar. Learn about Istanbul’s unique history as a bridge between East and West as you explore both continents. Take a scenic ferry ride across the water to the Asian side and visit Kadikoy’s famous fish market. Then, stroll through Pera’s European-style streets. This fascinating tour includes snacks and tea and offers complimentary door-to-door transfers from either the port or your Istanbul hotel. Book your tour today and discover the real Istanbul!
4. PubCrawl Istanbul – A night in Istanbul!
Explore Istanbul’s lively nightlife scene on this PubCrawl tour. Start your evening with a guided tour of some of the city’s top bars and clubs, where you can enjoy a range of alcoholic beverages including shots, beers, and cocktails. You’ll also have entrance fees covered for a few of the city’s hottest nightclubs.
Meet your guide at the designated meeting point at Wabi Sabi Hostels – Istanbul, located on İnönü Papa Roncalli Sk. The first bar is just a 10-minute walk away at the WabiSabi Rooftop near Taksim Square. The tour starts at 08:30 PM and ends at Nevizade Sokak in Beyoğlu.
Expect a fun-filled night with a large group of travelers from all over the world. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with serious medical conditions. However, it is convenient to reach by public transportation and most travelers are welcome to join.
Book in advance to secure your spot on this popular tour. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
5. Taksim Nightlife – Rooftop Tour
Experience the vibrant Taksim neighborhood’s nightlife with ease by joining a group tour of rooftop bars and clubs. With a local guide, visit popular rooftop venues and explore several local bars on scenic streets with rooftop views. Throughout the night, enjoy complimentary drinks of beer and liquor. The meeting point is in front of Tunel Meydan (Square) at 09:00 PM, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. The tour includes entrance fees to bars and clubs and alcoholic beverages. This is a great opportunity to get to know the exciting nightlife scene of Istanbul. Confirmation will be received on time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, with a long and complex history, stunning architecture, and a unique blend of cultures. Whether you’re planning a visit or just curious about this amazing destination, there are plenty of questions that you might have. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul.
1. What is Istanbul famous for?
Istanbul is famous for many things, but one of the most prominent is its fantastic architecture. The city has been home to several empires over the centuries, and each one has left its mark on the city. From the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia to the Ottoman-era Topkapi Palace, there are countless examples of incredible architecture and design to explore in Istanbul. The city is also famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.
2. When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
The best time to visit Istanbul depends on your personal preferences. The city is beautiful year-round, but if you want to avoid the crowds and the heat, the best time to visit is in the spring (April to May) or the fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, and there are fewer tourists. If you don’t mind the crowds and the heat, summer can be a great time to visit as well.
3. What are some must-see sights in Istanbul?
There are so many must-see sights in Istanbul that it’s hard to list them all, but here are a few that you definitely don’t want to miss:
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Blue Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Spice Bazaar
- Basilica Cistern
- Galata Tower
- Dolmabahce Palace
4. What is Turkish cuisine like?
Turkish cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and rich history. Some of the most popular dishes include:
- Doner kebab
- Lahmacun (Turkish pizza)
- Baklava
- Manti (Turkish dumplings)
- Iskender kebab
- Borek (savory pastry)
Turkish cuisine is also famous for its mezze, which are small plates of appetizers and dips that are perfect for sharing. Some common mezze dishes include hummus, baba ghanoush, and stuffed grape leaves.
5. What are some cultural customs in Istanbul?
Istanbul is a diverse and cosmopolitan city, but there are still some cultural customs that you should be aware of. For example:
- It is customary to take off your shoes before entering a mosque.
- It is considered polite to greet people with a handshake and to use formal titles (such as “Mr.” or “Mrs.”) when addressing someone you don’t know well.
- Don’t be afraid to haggle at the markets – it’s expected!
- It’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- It is considered rude to point the soles of your feet at someone, so try to avoid crossing your legs or putting your feet up on a table.
6. What are some good day trips from Istanbul?
If you have some extra time in Istanbul, there are plenty of great day trips that you can take. Some popular options include:
- Princes’ Islands – a chain of nine small islands in the Sea of Marmara, just a short ferry ride from Istanbul.
- Sapanca and Masukiye – two picturesque towns near Istanbul that are perfect for a day trip.
- Edirne – a historic city near the border with Greece and Bulgaria, known for its stunning architecture.
- Troy – the site of the legendary Trojan War, located about 4 hours from Istanbul by car.
7. How do I get around Istanbul?
There are several convenient ways to get around Istanbul:
- Metro – Istanbul has a modern and efficient metro system that covers most of the city.
- Tram – The T1 tram line runs along the historic peninsula and is a great way to get between the major sights.
- Taxis – Taxis are abundant in Istanbul and can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or don’t want to navigate public transportation.
- Uber – Uber is available in Istanbul and can be a good alternative to traditional taxis.
Conclusion
Istanbul is an amazing city that offers something for everyone. With incredible architecture, rich history, delicious cuisine, and a unique blend of cultures, it’s no wonder that so many people are drawn to this fascinating destination. Hopefully, this blog post has answered some of your questions and provided some useful information for your future travels.
The 5 Best Things to Do in Istanbul: Frequently Asked Questions
Istanbul is one of the most fascinating and vibrant cities in the world. It is a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and traditions that offers a unique blend of history, architecture, cuisine, and entertainment. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, there is always something new and exciting to discover in Istanbul. In this post, we answer some of the frequently asked questions about the five best things to do in Istanbul.
What are the Top Five Things to Do in Istanbul?
There are hundreds of attractions and activities in Istanbul, but we have identified the top five that you should not miss:
- Visit the Hagia Sophia
- Explore the Blue Mosque
- Stroll along the Bosphorus
- Discover the Grand Bazaar
- Enjoy Turkish Cuisine
Why Should I Visit the Hagia Sophia?
The Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul. It was originally built as a Christian church in the 6th century and later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. Today, it is a museum that showcases the architectural and historical beauty of Istanbul. You can admire the stunning mosaics, frescoes, and dome of the Hagia Sophia while learning about its rich history and cultural significance.
What Makes the Blue Mosque Unique?
The Blue Mosque is one of the most famous mosques in Istanbul. It is known for its impressive six minarets and stunning interior design. The mosque was named after the blue tiles that adorn the interior walls and ceiling. It is still an active mosque, but visitors are welcome outside of prayer times. You can admire the intricate calligraphy, geometric patterns, and colorful tiles of the Blue Mosque that reflect the Ottoman architectural style.
Why Should I Stroll Along the Bosphorus?
The Bosphorus is the strait that separates Europe and Asia in Istanbul. It is a breathtakingly beautiful area where you can see both sides of the city, Europe and Asia, from the water. You can take a Bosphorus cruise or a walk along the waterfront to enjoy the stunning views of the skyline, the elegant mansions, and the ancient palaces.
What Can I Find in the Grand Bazaar?
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It has over 4,000 shops that sell everything from spices, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. It is a vibrant and bustling place that showcases the rich culture and traditions of Istanbul. You can haggle with the merchants, admire the intricate craftsmanship, and experience the lively atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar.
What Are the Must-Try Turkish Dishes?
Turkish cuisine is famous for its aromatic spices, rich flavors, and hearty dishes. Some of the must-try Turkish dishes include:
- Kebabs – grilled meat on skewers, served with rice and vegetables
- Manti – small dumplings filled with ground beef or lamb, served with yogurt and garlic sauce
- Baklava – sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough and honey syrup, filled with nuts and spices
- Meze – a variety of small appetizers such as hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and eggplant salad
- Turkish coffee – strong and rich coffee that is served in small cups with a side of Turkish delight
Conclusion
Istanbul is a city that will capture your heart and soul. It offers a unique blend of ancient and modern, East and West, tradition and innovation. By visiting the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Bosphorus, Grand Bazaar, and enjoying the Turkish cuisine, you will experience the best of Istanbul. We hope that this post has answered some of your questions and inspired you to plan your next trip to Istanbul.
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