General
Istanbul is a city of history, culture and amazing beauty. Home of the Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia and many more incredible wonders.
Hagia Sofia
Part of Istanbul’s UNESCO World Heritage skyline, Hagia Sofia (Ayasofya) is not only a stunning building, but also provides a unique insight into the city’s Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history. Built by Justinian I as a church it was converted to a Mosque under Ottoman rule. In 1935, Ataturk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, decreed that it should be a museum. The immense size of the building and it’s vast dome are breath-taking and it’s adorned throughout with stunning frescoes and mosaics.
Blue Mosque
Officially called the Sultanahmet Mosque, the Blue Mosque got it’s nickname due to interior, which is clad in thousands of blue Iznik tiles, matched only by some spectacular stained glass. The exterior of the building is no less impressive. Built in the 1600s, it was the first Mosque with six minarets and the numerous domes seem to cascade down into green gardens that surround it.
Topkapı Palace
Topkapi Palace was the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans for most of their 600- year reign. The vast complex is perched overlooking the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara. Stroll through beautifully landscaped courtyards and see some of the fortunes amassed by the Ottomans during their reign, as well as arms and traditional dress.
Bosphorus Tour
The strait that splits Istanbul between Europe and Asia has always been of great strategic and commercial importance. Running from the Black Sea in the north to the Sea of Marmara, Istanbul grew on the shores of the Bosphorus and it’s an integral part of the city’s history. A boat tour the Bosphorus is not only a lovely way to spend a sunny afternoon, but gives you insight into how the city has been shaped by the waters that surround it. We also offer private boat tours.
Beyoğlu
This district north of the Golden Horn has been inhabited for thousands of years, but the history here mixes with the modern bustling metropolis. The 14th century Galata Tower is just a stone’s throw from Cicek Passage, home to many fish and meze restaurants popular with for a night out in Turkey. This area is also a cultural and artistic hub, with the wonderful Pera Museum and SALT, as well as numerous other art galleries and museums.
Other Things to Do / See
Basilica Cistern - A 6th century underground cistern near Topkapi Palace
Grand Bazaar - It’s chaotic but that’s part of the fun. Don’t forget to haggle!
Spice Bazaar - Smaller but often busier than the Grand Bazaar, this is the place to get your spices and teas.
Kariye Museum - A Byzantine church with some remarkably well-preserved mosaics.
Gastronomy Tour - Discover the full range of Turkish cuisine and some of the culinary highlights of the city.
Crossing the Bosphorus - Take a boat across the Bosphorus at sunset to get the best view of the Istanbul skyline.
Kadikoy - Istanbul’s alternative neighbourhood is home to some great restaurants.
Princes’ Islands - Stroll or cycle round green and peaceful islands, just a short boat ride from Istanbul.
Sile - The Black Sea coast of Istanbul shows a different face of the city.
Pierre Loti - A hilltop with a view down the Golden Horn, favoured by and named after the French writer.
Istanbul Modern - This fantastic art gallery display modern and contemporary Turkish art. One of the city’s best.
Golden Horn - Experience the hustle and bustle of the ports of Karakoy and Eminonu.
Turkish Cooking Classes - Learn how to cook amazing Turkish food.
In this 3-night, 4-day tour you will get a chance to discover the essential sites of Istanbul. A great city break option.
Daily Highlights
Day 1
A boat tour of the gorgeous Bosphorus.
Day 2
Discover the Old Town and see Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar and the Basilica Cistern.
Day 3
Discover new Istanbul with a visit to Istanbul Modern and a night experience in Beyoglu, Taksim.
Day 4
Transfer to airport.
Hotels, Transfers and Guides
You will be staying at some of the highest rated hotels of Istanbul.
Private transfers or shuttle transfers are available. The choice is yours.
Expert guides will be assisting you in every step of your tour.
Prices
All of our tours are tailor-made so prices will depend on your preferences. Please ask.
You can combine this tour with another tour. See multi-centre tours tab for more details.
In this 7-night, 8-day tour you’ll explore both old Istanbul with its amazing history and the as well as the modern new face of Istanbul.
Daily Highlights
Day 1
A boat tour of the gorgeous Bosphorus.
Day 2
Discover the Old Town Part I: visit the magnificent Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque.
Day 3
Discover new Istanbul with a visit to Istanbul Modern and a night experience in Beyoglu, Taksim.
Day 4
A relaxing day in the stunning Princes’ Islands with a view over the water to Istanbul.
Day 5
Discover the Old Town Part II: visit Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar.
Day 6
Experience the hustle and bustle of Golden Horn and enjoy the great views of the city from Pierre Loti.
Day 7
A visit to Dolmabahce Palace and quarter of Pera and Galata.
Day 8
Transfer to airport.
Hotels, Transfers and Guides
You will be staying at some of the highest rated hotels of Istanbul.
Private transfers or shuttle transfers are available. The choice is yours.
Expert guides will be assisting you in every step of your tour.
Prices
All of our tours are tailor-made so prices will depend on your preferences. Please ask.
You can combine this tour with another tour. See multi-centre tours tab for more details.
Why not combine an Istanbul tour with another tour to get a proper Turkey experience?
Best Time to Visit - Istanbul has a different kind of beauty in any season. However, if you’d like to visit this amazing city in pleasant warmth then your best bet is between April and June or between September to the end of November. Thought it’s hot, it’s considerably quieter in summer months as most Istanbulites go to their holiday homes which means less crowded streets and less traffic. Mind you, this is only relative so there’s still a lot of bustle!
What to Pack - Summer months are hot so light clothing is recommended. There may be odd showers outside summer so make sure you bring an umbrella or a raincoat with you. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of ground to cover. Istanbul has a lot of exchange office so with reasonable rates don’t worry too much about not having enough Turkish lira.
Available departures
All of our Istanbul tours are on demand tours so please tell us the dates you'd like to travel and whether you're interested in a 4 day, 8 day or a tailor made tour option in the enquiry form.