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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: TRY
- Languages: Turkish, English, Arabic, Kurdish
- Climate: Mediterranean
- Timezone: Europe/Istanbul
- Population: Approximately 15.5 million people
- Best Time to Visit: times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries, including the US, EU, and UK, can obtain an e-visa online before arrival or enter visa-free for short stays depending on nationality. Some nationalities may require a visa on arrival or must apply in advance. Generally, passports should be valid for at least six months, and proof of onward travel may be required.
About Istanbul
Istanbul is a vibrant city where East meets West, blending rich history with modern culture. Straddling two continents, Europe and Asia, it offers a unique fusion of diverse traditions, architecture, and cuisine. Visitors are drawn to its stunning skyline dotted with domes and minarets, bustling bazaars, and scenic waterways like the Bosphorus Strait. The city’s deep historical roots are visible in landmarks from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras, making it a living museum. Istanbul’s dynamic arts scene, lively street life, and culinary delights provide a compelling experience for travelers seeking both culture and adventure. Whether exploring ancient palaces, cruising the Bosphorus, or savoring Turkish tea in a café, Istanbul captivates with its timeless charm and warm hospitality.
Top Attractions
1. Hagia Sophia – A magnificent architectural masterpiece that has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum, renowned for its massive dome and stunning mosaics. 2. Topkapi Palace – The opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring lavish courtyards, imperial treasures, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus. 3. Blue Mosque – Famous for its six minarets and beautiful blue Iznik tile interior, it remains an active place of worship and a top tourist draw. 4. Grand Bazaar – One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offering a labyrinth of shops selling everything from spices to jewelry. 5. Bosphorus Cruise – A scenic boat trip along the strait that separates Europe and Asia, providing breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline and waterfront mansions.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy cultural tours of historic sites, shopping in vibrant bazaars, and sampling street food. Adventure seekers can take a Bosphorus boat cruise or explore the Princes’ Islands by bike or horse-drawn carriage. Traditional Turkish baths offer a relaxing wellness experience. The city’s nightlife includes rooftop bars with views, live music venues, and theaters showcasing Turkish arts. Cooking classes and calligraphy workshops provide immersive cultural experiences.
Istanbul Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Turkey
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy cultural tours of historic sites, shopping in vibrant bazaars, and sampling street food. Adventure seekers can take a Bosphorus boat cruise or explore the Princes’ Islands by bike or horse-drawn carriage. Traditional Turkish baths offer a relaxing wellness experience. The city’s nightlife includes rooftop bars with views, live music venues, and theaters showcasing Turkish arts. Cooking classes and calligraphy workshops provide immersive cultural experiences.
- Group Size: Private or shared tours
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather. Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a scarf for mosque visits. Respect local customs by dressing modestly in religious sites. Stay vigilant in crowded places to avoid pickpocketing. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash in Turkish Lira is advisable. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases enhances interactions.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $55
Highest Price Tour: $250
3163 Available Tour Excursions in Istanbul
From kebabs to baklava to Turkish delight, Turkish food is famous worldwide. While many people have enjoyed more than the odd kebab in their time, there is so much more to Turkish food than just kebabs, as you will discover on the 5- 6 hour Istanbul Food Tour. The tour takes you off the beaten track so you can sample the authentic tastes of Istanbul and experience delicious Turkish delicacies you may not have known existed. While discovering local markets, you will also gain an overview of Turkish history and culture while appreciating the unique architecture of Istanbul. Whether you are a food expert or love food, the Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour - Taste of Istanbul will fulfill your eating dreams.
Price: $210.00
Duration: 5-6 hours
Alhamdulillah We are the most well known ERTUGRUL TOUR organizer in Turkey for 3 years.We are expert on Ottoman and Islamic History and especially Ertugrul tour is our main focus. Ertugrul tour with us gives you Top satisfaction InshaAllah and you will not be only having free time around like drivers and some illegal people doing it without knowing what to do Our tours are run daily everyday starting from your hotel in Istanbul and ending in your hotel . So upon arrival until departure you are in safe hands . We provide the best breakfast and best lunch .Wifi on board on our tours.So you have full access to internet all day . Free water is provided.
Price: $251.35
Duration: 24 hours
Things to consider in airport transfer service You will be met one-on-one at the airport and set off to go to your hotel or address without waiting. Even if your flight is delayed, we will be waiting for you at the waiting point offered to you, a smooth transfer, Our waiting time is 90minutes from the landing time of the plane, and in case of any problem, the airport transfer will be carried out smoothly and safely, as the waiting time may change, provided that you inform us, Note: For a hassle-free airport transfer, please let us know if there is a problem with your passport or luggage.
Price: $25.03
Duration: 0-1 hours
Enjoy your Istanbul trip with a local photographer, get quality of photos and immortalize your vacation by lasting photos. Photo shoot will be covered at -must see- locations; —Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Sevenhills Restaurant, Galata Bridge, Ortakoy Mosque— Receive all photos at same day, choose 40 photos to be edited and retouched within 1-2 days will be delivered. Beside having photos with iconic places you see around and interact with Turkish (my) culture. • For further questions you can message me on IG: @picmeturkey
Price: $144.71
Duration: 2 hours
We are a Professional Photography Team which we offer a tour of Istanbul with professional photography service in the most famous corners of Istanbul. I host this experience to create great memories of your holiday. You will have the chance to discover and catch the most famous places in Istanbul. You will get deep information about History of Istanbul and we will mainly focus on your professional Photoshooting. I will send your photos during same day , All your pictures will be edited and hight quality. If you are looking for private photohooting, Istanbul tour, Istanbul Guide ,this Tour is for you.
Price: $89.38
Duration: 1-2 hours
This private guided tour aims to give you most important information about history of those beautiful monuments such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern and Hippodrome so what actually makes special about these places are the history behind of them and that is where the guide will be giving you all details about history and what happened in back of time until present day. The professional tour guide will ccompany you which will make things easier and comfortable in most of the touristic places, museums and palaces the tour guides have the priority can skip the lines. The best part is the tour is customizable for so you can add new places you would like to see or remove the places you don’t want to see.
Price: $225.23
Duration: 5-8 hours
In Kantarcılar, a district that has been selling weights and measures since Ottoman times, we will visit a local confectionary where Turkish delight has been made and sold for four generations and meet the family upholding this tradition. From there we’ll visit an all-but-abandoned caravanserai where the simple pleasure of a cup of tea brings shopkeepers together through the day. We’ll see a couple of hidden historical sites, an Ottoman-era bozacı and, finally, a full lunch of traditional pit-roasted lamb in a very local, family-run place next to the Byzantine aqueduct (with lots of other edible treats along the way). Istanbul’s most enchanting places are where the medieval and the modern meet and this route through the Old City is a delicious glimpse of the life that exists at this juncture.
Price: $135.00
Duration: 5 hours
This excursion gives you a chance to visit most popular three destinations of Turkey in 4 days with private tour guides and private service with your family with young kids. Cappadocia, Pamukkale and Ephesus will be visited with local tour guides who can expand your vision regarding history in each site with experiences of ancient people in Anatolia since early periods of pre-historic era.
Price: $1,900.00
Duration: 96 hours
This is one of the most preferred Private tours among visitors-don’t miss out! 1. ATTENTİON♦️Ticket: 25€ euro per person.You have to give in cash to your guide at the begining of the tour. Admission fee is not included in the price. You will pay for the entrance ticket separately. Kids under 7 are free with valid ID or passport. 2.Dress Code: Women must cover head, shoulders and knees.Men must cover shoulders and knees.No tank tops or short shorts.Scarves available at entrance (1–3€). 3.Entry: We skip the ticket line, but there may be wait at the security check. 4.Access:Strollers and wheelchairs not allowed upstairs. Upper gallery stairs are steep may be difficult for those with mobility issues. 6. Tips:After the tour, feel free to ask about where to eat or shop happy to share trusted local spots for unique pieces of rugs, leather and any kind of gifts 7. Meeting at Hagia Sophia The tour is organized by a travel agency that is a member of TURSAB 18212 Septillion Travel Agency
Price: $74.99
Duration: 0 hours
Beginning with a selection of specialties in a timeless neighborhood Lokanta, we’ll visit a pickle-maker and other artisans. Winding our way through the district’s atmospheric side streets, there will be specialties from across the country, ranging from the far Northeast to the Black Sea to the distinct cuisine of Hatay in the Southeast. We’ll visit a hidden Armenian church inside a bustling fish market between samplings at street vendors fishmongers and grill joints and, finally, we’ll treat ourselves to the best Turkish coffee in the city. Depending on the day and what the walk comes across, there will be several other culinary surprises along the way of this food tour in Istanbul, all of them telling the fascinating tale of what is perhaps the city’s most iconic neighborhood.
Price: $135.00
Duration: 4-5 hours
Join our special tour and experience the best of Istanbul's historical landmarks with a guide who has broad experience in the tourism sector. I am passionate about ensuring my guests' satisfaction and meeting their expectations, while also being mindful of the importance of time during their travels. My fluency in Turkish, English, and Russian allows me to provide an immersive and personalized experience for guests from all over the world. From the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to the hidden gems like the Basilica Cistern and Spice Bazaar, we will explore the fascinating history and culture of Istanbul. What sets my tour apart is the attention to detail and the personalized approach to each guest's needs. I believe that every traveler deserves a memorable experience, and I strive to deliver just that. Join me on this journey and discover the magic of Istanbul like never before.
Price: $202.59
Duration: 5-6 hours
Step into the world of traditional Turkish craftsmanship! In this immersive experience, you’ll not only learn the art of carpet weaving but also connect with centuries-old heritage. Create a beautiful hand-woven piece to take home, making your travel memories last forever. Workshop sessions are not fixed by default. As a result of discussion, the event is held at a time that is convenient for both parties. We have flexibility. Authentic Cultural Experience Hands-on Learning No Experience Needed Take Home a Unique Souvenir Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity
Price: $28.60
Duration: 2 hours
istanbul visitors hoping to snap some fantastic vacation photos shouldn't settle for smartphone selfies when you can book a photographer to take great photos for you. With this photo shoot experience, just meet-up with your photographer and enjoy a shoot with the iconic buildings in the background. Photo shooting spots in istanbul: - Blue Mosque - Hagia Sophia - Suleymaniye Mosque - Bosphorus Private Yacht(extra charge) - Ortakoy - Galata Tower - Taksim Red Tram - Umbrella Street - Balat Colorful Stairs Capture your most memorable moments during this private photo shoot. Return from your trip with beautiful, high-quality vacation photos — the best souvenir ever. PLS NOTE: This photo shoot package covers only one location from the list. Adding more locations will increase the package fee. Please specify your preferred spot from the list with your booking.
Price: $68.52
Duration: 1 hours
We guide the tourists and make them taste local street delicacies and taste different delicious dishes at different points. This includes appetizers, entrees, main course, dessert, tea or Turkish coffee. We will drink tea and coffee while relaxing and chatting in a place that was a madrasa, a place where education was given in the Ottoman period, and where locals now stop by after work and drink tea, coffee smoke hookah./ sisha.
Price: $95.34
Duration: 5 hours
Are you ready to sprinkle some magic on your Istanbul adventure? Let's make your trip unforgettable by capturing those genuine smiles and happy moments together! I am here, ready to present you stunning photos against the backdrop of this enchanting city You can choose one of the following locations for this tour A. Ortakoy area with the background of the Bosphorus Bridge and its birds B. The magnificent Hagia Sophia C. lively Sultan Ahmed Square D. colorful stairs balat E. colored karakoy umbrellas F. Amazing Galata tower and ancient Roman style street called Esteghlal And wherever you like. Whether you're solo, with a partner or in a group, I'll make sure you shine in every frame. Book your private photo session with me today and let's paint the city with your smiles! If you are interested in photographing more than one location, 50% will be added to your cost. Do you have more questions? Connect with me on IG (with blue tick) @raha_mofidy
Price: $89.38
Duration: 1 hours
Discover the uniqueness of our Turkish coffee workshop where cultural immersion meets hands-on experience. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic encounters, families interested in local traditions, and anyone eager to delve into Turkish culture, our workshop offers more than just coffee tasting. You'll gain invaluable insights into the art of Turkish coffee-making, explore the deep-rooted significance of this beverage in Turkish customs, and enjoy delightful Turkish desserts accompanied by traditional music. Engage in lively discussions about coffee lore and traditions, uncovering fascinating stories that add depth to your understanding. Cap off your experience with a personalized fortune reading from your coffee cup and take home special gifts, ensuring a memorable and enriching adventure in Turkish hospitality. Workshop sessions are not fixed by default. As a result of discussion, the event is held at a time that is convenient for both parties. We have flexibility.
Price: $16.68
Duration: 1 hours
This is not just a cooking class—it’s a journey into the flavors, history, and daily life of Istanbul. Our experience begins in the colorful markets of Kurtuluş, a lively district with century-old specialty shops. We’ll visit spice store, charcuterie, and bakery, tasting and learning about the ingredients that give Turkish cuisine its rich and diverse flavors. Then at home, we’ll cook together just like family, using the fresh ingredients we’ve gathered. But this is more than following a recipe—it’s about sharing stories, learning traditions, and experiencing true Turkish home hospitality. We’ll talk about the origins of each dish, how cooking changes across different regions of Turkey, and the special meaning food holds in our culture. By the time we sit at the table, it won’t feel like a class at all—it will feel like a meal shared with old friends. And when you leave, you won’t just take recipes with you—you’ll take memories, friendships, and a piece of Istanbul in your heart.
Price: $80.00
Duration: 4 hours
Gobekli Tours are created for the curious traveler - the one who is wondering about history archaeology, mythology, religions and always ready to learn and discover. Gobekli Tepe, tucked away in Southeast Turkey where you don’t see masses of mainstream tourists, we like to keep it small and focusing on private and personalized custom tours at the same time providing unique unforgettable and safe experience.
Price: $2,760.00
Duration: 48 hours
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2. Check Details
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3. Book Online
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Istanbul’s cuisine is a rich blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Signature dishes include kebabs, mezes (small appetizers), fresh seafood, and the famous Turkish delight. Street food like simit (sesame bread rings), roasted chestnuts, and balik ekmek (fish sandwiches) are must-tries. Traditional desserts such as baklava and Turkish tea or coffee are integral to the dining culture. Noteworthy restaurants include Mikla for modern Turkish cuisine and Çiya Sofrası for authentic regional dishes.
Getting Around
Istanbul is served by two major airports, Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport, with numerous international connections. Local transport includes an extensive metro, tram, bus, and ferry network connecting European and Asian sides. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available. The Istanbulkart travel card offers convenient payment across public transport. Traffic can be heavy, so using public transit is often faster and more economical.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather. Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a scarf for mosque visits. Respect local customs by dressing modestly in religious sites. Stay vigilant in crowded places to avoid pickpocketing. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash in Turkish Lira is advisable. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases enhances interactions.
Culture & Customs
Istanbul’s culture is a blend of traditional Islamic values and modern cosmopolitan influences. Social etiquette includes greeting with a handshake or nod, removing shoes when entering homes, and using the right hand for giving and receiving. Major festivals include Ramadan celebrations and the Istanbul Film Festival. Hospitality is highly valued, and visitors are often invited for tea or meals. Modesty in dress and behavior is appreciated, especially in religious settings.
