Top Highlights of Istanbul in 1 Day: How to Plan Your Tour

If you’re short on time but want to experience the best of Istanbul, the Top Highlights of Istanbul in 1 Day tour is the perfect option for you. This guided tour takes you to the most iconic and culturally significant sites in the heart of the city. From ancient churches to former Ottoman Empire palaces, this tour packs a lot into just one day. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour of the top highlights in Istanbul.

Overview of the Tour

The Top Highlights of Istanbul in 1 Day tour takes you to four significant sites in the heart of Istanbul. The tour includes skip-the-line entrance tickets to all attractions, a professional licensed tour guide, service charges, local taxes, and lunch. You can choose to meet your guide at the Hagia Sophia Museum or request hotel pickup.

Itinerary

The itinerary for the Top Highlights of Istanbul in 1 Day tour includes the following sites:

Hagia Sophia

The tour begins at the Hagia Sophia, an ancient church turned mosque turned museum. This iconic structure is one of the most famous sites in Istanbul and was built in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It served as a church for over 900 years before being converted into a mosque in the 15th century. Today it is a museum that houses various exhibits of religious art and architecture. With your skip-the-line ticket, you’ll avoid the long lines and enter freely to explore.

Topkapi Palace

From the Hagia Sophia, the tour heads to the Topkapi Palace, the former seat of the Ottoman Empire. This impressive complex served as the primary residence of Ottoman Sultans for almost 400 years. The palace houses various exhibits, including the Harem, where the Sultan’s wives and concubines lived. With your skip-the-line ticket, you’ll avoid the long lines and enter freely to explore.

Hippodrome

After the Topkapi Palace, the tour takes you to the Hippodrome, an ancient chariot-racing stadium that dates back to Roman times. Today, you can still see the remnants of the stadium and learn about its history and importance.

Blue Mosque

The last stop of the tour is at the Blue Mosque, one of the most iconic structures in Istanbul. Built in the early 17th century, this mosque is known for its stunning blue tiles and cascading domes. As a working mosque, visitors are asked to respect the dress code and remove their shoes before entering.

Additional Information

Language Options

The tour is available in both English and Japanese, making it accessible to a wider range of visitors.

Hotel Pickup

If you choose the hotel pickup option, your tour guide will meet you at your hotel lobby at a designated time.

Meeting Point

If you prefer to meet your guide at the Hagia Sophia, the meeting point is at the Hagia Sophia Museum Entrance Gate at 09:15 AM.

Pickup Points

If you are staying at a centrally located hotel, the tour provides free pickup. Simply select your pickup point when booking.

End Point

The tour ends back at the meeting point, the Hagia Sophia Museum.

Booking Your Tour

To book the Top Highlights of Istanbul in 1 Day tour, visit the Viator website at https://www.viator.com/tours/Istanbul/Top-Highlights-of-Istanbul-in-1-Day/d585-6804P66?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383. You can choose to pay online or in person.

Book Your Tour Now

The Top Highlights of Istanbul in 1 Day tour is an exceptional opportunity to experience the most iconic sites in Istanbul in a single day. With skip-the-line entrance tickets and a knowledgeable tour guide, you’ll avoid the long lines and gain insight into the rich history and culture of Istanbul. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful city located in Turkey that has a rich history and cultural heritage. It is among the most visited cities in Europe, but many people still have questions about what to expect when they visit this magnificent city. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul, Turkey.

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

There is no “best time” to visit Istanbul since the city is beautiful and vibrant all year round. However, the most popular time to visit is between April and May when the weather is mild, and the crowds are still relatively small. Autumn is also a great time to visit Istanbul, but it can get chilly during November and December.

2. How long should I spend in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a vast city, and there is no limit to the number of things you can see and do here. However, for first-time visitors, three to four days should be enough to get a good sense of what Istanbul has to offer. If you have more time to spare, you can always explore more of the city’s neighborhoods and hidden gems.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Istanbul?

Yes, you need a visa to enter Turkey, but the process of obtaining it is straightforward. You can apply for an e-visa online, which is valid for 180 days and allows you to stay in Turkey for up to 90 days. The visa fee varies depending on your nationality.

4. Is Istanbul safe to visit?

Yes, Istanbul is a safe city for tourists, but as with any other major city, it is essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. It is best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas, and always keep your valuables close to you.

5. What is the currency in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira. You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices, or at the airport. Credit cards are widely accepted in Istanbul, but it is always best to carry some cash with you.

6. What are some must-visit attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is home to many historic and cultural landmarks that are worth visiting. Some of the must-visit attractions in Istanbul include:

• The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace
• Bosphorus Strait
• Grand Bazaar
• Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)
• Chora Church
• Galata Tower
• Princes’ Islands
• Istanbul Archaeology Museums

7. What is the best way to get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, metro, trams, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card that you can use on all modes of public transport. Taxis are also widely available, but it is best to agree on a price before getting in.

8. What are some local dishes to try in Istanbul?

Istanbul is famous for its cuisine, which is a fusion of Turkish, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern flavors. Some of the must-try dishes in Istanbul include:

• Doner Kebab
• Meze Platters
• Baklava
• Menemen (Turkish-style scrambled eggs)
• Lahmacun (Turkish-style pizza)
• Börek
• Kebabs
• Manti (Turkish dumplings)
• Iskender Kebab

9. Where are the best places to shop in Istanbul?

Istanbul is home to some of the largest markets and malls in the world. Some of the best places to shop in Istanbul include:

• Grand Bazaar
• Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)
• Istinye Park Mall
• Kanyon Mall
• Zorlu Center

10. What is Turkish hospitality like?

Turkish people are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming attitude. They have a reputation for making visitors feel at home and are always ready to lend a helping hand. You can expect to be treated with kindness and respect when you visit Istanbul.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a beautiful city with a rich culture and history, and there is always something new to discover. Visiting Istanbul can be an experience of a lifetime, but it is essential to plan your trip thoroughly and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. With its mesmerizing scenery, delicious food, and friendly people, Istanbul is undoubtedly a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul – A Comprehensive Guide

Istanbul is a city that is steeped in history and culture, with a rich past that spans over thousands of years. As a tourist, there are numerous things to see and do, and it can be challenging to decide where to start. In this blog post, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul, including the must-visit attractions, food, and activities.

1. Visit The Blue Mosque

One of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks is the Blue Mosque, with its six towering minarets and cascading domes. Locally known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, it is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. The mosque is free to enter, but it is closed to visitors during prayer times. Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque.

2. Marvel At Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is another popular tourist attraction in Istanbul that cannot be missed. It is a perfect example of the city’s rich history, having undergone several transformations, from a church to a mosque and now a museum. Visitors can marvel at the mosaics, frescoes, and impressive architecture that have withstood the test of time.

3. Explore The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4000 shops selling everything from Turkish carpets to spices and souvenirs. It is a bustling and vibrant place to visit where visitors can interact with locals, and immerse themselves in the rich Turkish culture. Haggling is expected, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best price.

4. Take A Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul is surrounded by water, and a Bosphorus cruise is an ideal way to experience the city’s beauty. The cruise offers an opportunity to take in the stunning views of the city’s skyline while enjoying a leisurely boat ride. Visitors can also spot some of the city’s iconic landmarks from a unique angle, such as the Maiden’s Tower and the Bosphorus Bridge.

5. Visit Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was once the residence of the Ottoman Sultans and is now a museum that houses some of the empire’s most precious relics. It is an excellent place to explore the Empire’s history, including its military and political legacy, and gain insight into Ottoman court culture. The palace also boasts stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the Sea of Marmara.

6. Try Turkish Delights

No visit to Istanbul is complete without trying Turkish delights, the sugary confections the city is famous for. Lokum, as it is locally known, comes in various flavors, including rose, pistachio, and lemon. Visitors can indulge in these sweet treats from one of the many sweet shops that line the city’s streets.

7. Relax In A Turkish Bath

A visit to a traditional Turkish bath, or hammam, is a relaxing activity that should not be missed. The bath features a steam room, sauna, and a range of treatments, including a massage that uses a rough mitt to exfoliate the skin. It is an ideal activity to unwind after a day of sightseeing and immerse oneself in Turkish culture.

Book Your Tour Now

With its rich history, culture, and numerous attractions, Istanbul is a must-visit destination for tourists. The experiences highlighted in this blog post offer an excellent starting point for visitors to explore the city’s best sights, food, and activities. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning tourist, there is always something new to discover in the city.