Things to do in Istanbul

Old Istanbul's Highlights: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Tour

Take in the highlights of Istanbul, a truly enchanting city that is full of history, culture, and intrigue at every turn.

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show with Transfers

Relax and have fun on the boat with exciting entertainment activities. A delicious dinner with quality alcoholic drinks (only if you have chosen the option) is waiting for you in the evening time on the Bosphorus River. You will be delivered to one of the harbors of Istanbul. Once you will get on the beautiful ship, it will depart from the port... and your Bosphorus Cruise will start! From the first minutes of sailing, you will be amazed by the spectacular views of the night city. The buildings start to show their night glamour after switching the lights on. And the best way to see it from a distance is - by the river. Nothing will distract you from enjoying amazing views. Fresh river breeze and mild wind will provide more comfort while you are watching all the beauty. Also, you will see ancient buildings of Empires, as they are the most important parts of the history of Turkey. Furthermore, you will be given the opportunity to feel the Turkish culture . And the best way to do that is ... dancing and watching the show. Well-prepared artists will make sure you feel the culture with your muscles and unconsciously you can start dancing as well. You will never get bored as the show is promised to be rich. On the other hand, don`t forget to surprise your stomach with delicious food prepared by the chef and his team specially for your dinner. Don`t hesitate to eat and drink as it is a compliment to the crew that you enjoyed the meal. Take photos as many as you can, because this tour will stay in your memory for the entire of your life! Important information The option with alcoholic drinks includes only two glasses of local alcoholic drinks. However, soft drinks are unlimited. Hotel pick-up is available only for hotels located in Fatih, on the European side.

Istanbul Highlights: Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Underground Cistern - Private Tour

Your guide will warmly greet you at your hotel lobby or cruise pier at your designated pick-up time and you will be transferred in a deluxe, air-conditioned minivan for an unforgettable visit to Istanbul. Your tour begins at Topkapi Palace, the former center of Ottoman government and royal court, from where the Turks once ruled vast regions of Europe and the Middle East. The palace, covering the prime area of the peninsula, reflects the Ottoman ideal of a perfectly balanced life, expressed through its exquisite architecture and meticulously designed grounds. Next, visit the world-famous Hagia Sophia, an extraordinary architectural masterpiece that has inspired generations. Its innovative design and engineering, particularly in supporting its massive dome, set new standards for interior space and construction in basilicas worldwide. Continue to the Roman Hippodrome and the Blue Mosque, a 17th-century Ottoman architectural gem renowned for its original handmade Iznik tiles. The mosque’s rich blue tones and intricate oriental patterns remain iconic, with many tiles now highly prized by collectors at prestigious auctions. Visit the Underground Cistern, a 6th-century engineering marvel designed to solve Istanbul’s water supply needs. Originally built by Constantine in the early 4th century and later expanded under Emperor Justinian in 532, this vast underground space once supplied water to the Imperial Palace. Your final stop is the Grand Bazaar , Istanbul’s most dazzling and historic market, built in 1461 and still vibrant today. With over 3,500 shops employing more than 20,000 people, it offers everything from gold and silver jewelry to rugs, carpets, antiques, tiles, and souvenirs. Experiencing this legendary market is an unforgettable part of your visit. At the end of your tour, your guide will transfer you back to your hotel or cruise pier. Duration From Hotel: 8 hours From Port: 6 hours Important information - There may be restrictions Hagia Sophia Mosque - Open daily Topkapi and Hagia Irene Museum - Closed on Tuesdays Grand Bazaar - Closed on Sundays, the first day of religious holidays and Republic Day Spice Bazaar - Closed on religious holidays, Republic Day. National Palaces (Dolmabahce Palace - Beylerbeyi Palace) - Closed on Mondays Blue Mosque & Hippodrome - Open everyday Çamlıca Hill - Open everyday Every Sunday Grand Bazaar is closed Every Tuesday Topkapı Palace is closed Every Monday Dolmabahce palace is closed Due to Hagia Sophia now being open to the public without skip-the-line access and guided tours not being allowed inside, we will enjoy a panoramic explanation from the exterior instead of an interior visit. Especially during the summer months, long queues under the sun can be tiring. This panoramic visit will offer you a more comfortable and satisfying experience. Please note that the Old City area is restricted to vehicle traffic. As a result, vehicles can only drop guests off at the closest accessible point, and some walking is required to reach the monuments.

Old Town: Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Grand Bazaar - Full-Day Small Group Tour

The city of Istanbul has a history spanning nearly 2,500 years, most vividly reflected in the Old City of Sultanahmet. The tour begins at the ancient Hippodrome, once the center of chariot races and public life during the Roman and Byzantine periods. The next visit is to the Blue Mosque, one of the most photographed landmarks in Istanbul, renowned for its elegant domes and distinctive blue ceramic tiles that define its interior. The tour continues to Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans and the administrative heart of the empire. Today, it is an impressive museum housing priceless imperial collections and the most sacred relics of the Islamic world, including the cloak and sword of the Prophet Mohammed. The experience concludes at the Grand Bazaar, the oldest and largest covered market in the world. Here, you can explore a vibrant maze of shops offering jewelry, rugs, leather goods, antiques, and souvenirs, while enjoying the sights, sounds, and aromas of an authentic Oriental atmosphere. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred safely back to the port/hotel. Note: The carpet demonstration is optional. Guests who prefer not to attend may use this time to stroll, shop independently, or enjoy refreshments.

Istanbul Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with optional Bosphorus Cruise

Discover magnificent sightseeing of the city of Istanbul which is considered as the bridge between Europe and Asia. Unique opportunity for everyone to explore deeply all major touristic highlights within a short time with special audio-guide equipment. Imagine having the opportunity of a sightseeing bus tour with a combination of walking around. By purchasing this tour you will get a 1-day valid ticket that you can use over and over for exploring all must-see highlights of the beautiful city Istanbul at your own pace. This tour is ideally suited for people who want to be independent and make their own ideal route. There is no obligation of getting off at every stop, only you will choose where to get off and walk to explore. Our modern, well-furnished and comfortable buses will provide you with the best bus experience in the world! We have prepared cutting-edge audio-guide equipment and uploaded the most trustful and reliable information about each sightseeing that you will see during the tour. All audio - information has been translated to 8 languages by professionals, so you will enjoy listening in your own language. In addition to all these features, we provide delicious snacks on the bus, a hygiene kit to make your journey safer and most importantly - free Internet access. Bus Stops: The buses move from Taksim Square. A tour lasts for an average of 2 and half hours. Visiting all the historical points - Sultanahmet Sultanahmet is notable for housing the famous, mosaic-filled Hagia Sophia mosque, as well as the magnificent Ottoman-era Blue Mosque with its prominent minarets. Along with the Egyptian Obelisk of Theodosius and the nearby 4th-century Stone of Million pillar ruin, Sultanahmet Square contains a park, gardens, and fountains. Shops, hotels, and traditional eateries line the streets of this renowned region. - Eminönü As boats unload passengers at the ferry docks near the city's bazaars, Eminönü buzzes with bustle. The Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Bazaar, is a colourful jumble of carpets, textiles, lamps, and jewellery, with kiosks full of fruit, teas, and spices, while the Grand Bazaar's halls are a brilliant jumble of carpets, fabrics, lamps, and jewellery. The Süleymaniye Mosque dominates the region, while the Rustem Pasha Mosque, built in the 16th century, is known for its Iznik tiles. - Karaköy Karaköy is a buzzing harborside district where hipster cafes and late-night cocktail bars mingle with neighbourhood bakeries and family-run businesses. Young fashion designers' studios and boutiques are housed in Ottoman-era structures splashed with street art, and there's also a thriving modern art gallery scene. A mosque and therapeutic baths are part of the 16th-century Klç Ali Paşa complex. - Galataport Galataport is a cruise ship port and mixed-use development in Istanbul's Galata neighbourhood. It lies on the European side of the Bosporus Strait, where it meets the Golden Horn. - Dolmabahçe Palace Dolmabahçe Palace was the major administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1887 and from 1909 to 1922 (Yldz Palace was used in the interim). It is located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul, Turkey, on the European coast of the Bosporus Strait. - Naval Museum The Istanbul Naval Museum is a national naval museum, located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul in Turkey. It was established in 1897 by the Ottoman Minister of Navy Bozcaadalı Hasan Hüsnü Pasha. The museum contains an important collection of military artefacts pertaining to the Ottoman Navy. - Beylerbeyi Palace The Beylerbeyi Palace, Beylerbeyi meaning "Lord of Lords", is located in the Beylerbeyi neighbourhood of Üsküdar district in Istanbul, Turkey, on the Asian side of the Bosphorus. An Imperial Ottoman summer residence built between 1861–1865, it is now situated immediately north of the First Bosphorus Bridge. - Beşiktaş Bazaar The Beşiktaş Bazaar is a popular Sunday market that is located in the Beşiktaş district. As you enter the market, myriad colours and friendly smiles will welcome you. It offers an astonishing range of goods that cover a wide span from tomatoes to exclusive jewellery. - Taksim Square Fanning out from Taksim Square with its Republic Monument, Taksim is a busy nightlife, shopping, and dining area. Vintage trams shuttle along Istiklal Caddesi, the city’s main pedestrian boulevard, which is lined with 19th-century buildings housing international shopping chains, movie theatres, and cafes. The dense network of side streets is filled with bars, antique shops, and rooftop eateries with Bosphorus views. - Şişhane For long a district known only for its lighting shops and rather grimy traffic, but now rapidly being transformed, with some of the most handsome of the fin-de-siècle buildings and incredibly accessible thanks to the new metro station. Few know the origin of the name, the 6th (Şeş in old Turkish, now only used in backgammon) Office, in other words, the municipality headquarters of the 6th arrondissement, Istanbul’s first modern municipality. - Egyptian Spice Bazaar The Spice Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey is one of the largest bazaars in the city. Located in the Eminönü quarter of the Fatih district, it is the most famous covered shopping complex after the Grand Bazaar. Panoramic Evening Tour Bus (Duration: 2.5 hours): A highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the drive across the Bosphorus Bridge, the architectural marvel that connects Europe and Asia. As the bus crosses this iconic bridge, passengers are treated to panoramic views of the city's shores. On one side, the shimmering lights of the European side of Istanbul create a captivating spectacle, while on the other side, the enchanting Asian side boasts a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Furthermore, the evening bus tour offers more than just sightseeing. As the tour guide shares fascinating historical and cultural insights, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the city's rich heritage. From the Byzantine era to the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul's history is brought to life through engaging anecdotes and captivating stories. Overall, the Istanbul Panoramic Sightseeing Evening Bus Tour offers a comprehensive and unforgettable experience for anyone wishing to explore the beauty of Istanbul at its finest. From the grandeur of iconic landmarks to the panoramic views of the city from strategic vantage points, this tour provides an immersive journey through Istanbul's rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to capture the essence of Istanbul in all its glory. Optional Bosphorus Cruise 1. Meeting point: Dentur Avrasya Kabataş İskelesi 2. Available departure times: - 12:45pm - 02:45pm - 04:45pm 3. Duration: The Bosphorus Cruise lasts approximately 2 hours during the daytime. We kindly ask guests to arrive at the meeting point around 15 minutes prior to the selected departure time. Languages Audioguide available in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Arabic, Russian, and Turkish.

Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise, Turkish lunch, Dolmabahce Palace and Asian Side - Full-Day Tour

Soak up the sights, sounds and aromas on this comprehensive tour of the unforgettable city of Istanbul.

Experience Sema Ceremony in Kasımpaşa Mevlevihanesi

You're going to love experiencing the spiritual beauty of the Mevlevi Sufi ritual at the historic Kasimpaşa Mevlevihanesi in Istanbul! The Mevlevi Sufi ritual at Kasımpaşa Mevlevihanesi is an incredible experience! The Sema ceremony is a meditative and spiritual whirling dance performed by dervishes to symbolize their path to God. The ceremony is an incredible experience! It's more than just a performance — it's a powerful, spiritual journey accompanied by the beautiful sounds of traditional Mevlevi music. This centuries-old ceremony is a celebration of spiritual ascent through music, poetry, and motion. You will be blown away as they experience the sacred dance, accompanied by the vibrant sounds of live traditional instruments in a setting that transports you back to 1632. The event invites visitors to discover the inner peace and symbolism of Sufism, performed by experienced dervishes in one of Istanbul's oldest Mevlevihanes.

Old Town: Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia – Private Full-Day Tour

The city of Istanbul has a history spanning nearly 2,500 years, and this rich heritage is most vividly experienced in the Old City of Sultanahmet. The tour begins at the ancient Hippodrome, once the center of social and sporting life during the Roman and Byzantine eras, where chariot races were held and imperial ceremonies took place. The next stop is the Blue Mosque , one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, renowned for its elegant domes and exquisite handmade Iznik tiles that give the interior its distinctive blue tones. You will then visit Topkapi Palace , the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans and the administrative heart of the empire. Today, it serves as an extraordinary museum, housing imperial collections and some of the most sacred relics of the Islamic world. The tour continues to the magnificent Hagia Sophia , an architectural wonder originally built as a basilica in the 4th century, later converted into a mosque after 1453, and now standing as a powerful symbol of Istanbul’s layered cultural and religious history. The experience concludes at the Grand Bazaar , the oldest and largest covered market in the world, where you can explore countless shops offering jewelry, rugs, antiques, leather goods, and souvenirs while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this historic marketplace. After the visit, you will be transferred back to the port/hotel.

Istanbul Classics: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Gran Bazaar with Bosphorus Cruise - Full-Day Tour

Vialand Theme Park Tickets with Package Options - Ticket

Enter the most exciting theme park in Turkey , home to the country's first shopping complex that combines shopping , exhibition centers , entertainment , and a complete lifestyle experience . Vialand invites its guests to enjoy world‑class fun with a park full of thrilling rides and attractions. Feel the adrenaline on Nefeskesen , the fastest rollercoaster in the park, which accelerates from 0 to 110 km/h in just 3 seconds . Then experience the 15‑meter sudden drop on the Viking water ride before heading to the 360-degree Entertainment Station , a dynamic area suitable for all ages. Take in breathtaking views of Istanbul from the Tower of Justice , a 50‑meter-high viewing platform where the entire city unfolds beneath your feet. Finally, enjoy the exhilarating Saray Salıncağı swing ride, featuring a 40-person capacity and a 20‑meter diameter cycle. Choose between the Diamond , Gold , or Silver Packages, each offering different meal options, drink selections, and bonus attractions depending on your preferences: DIAMOND Package Theme Park Daily Ticket Parkur (All Courses) Etno Park (Traditional Sports) – One selected activity Fast Pass Hamburger Menu (Hamburger – Chips – Soft Drink) 1 Photo GOLD Package Theme Park Daily Ticket Parkur (All Courses) Etno Park (Traditional Sports) – One selected activity Hamburger Menu (Hamburger – Chips – Soft Drink) 1 Photo SILVER Package Theme Park Daily Ticket Parkur (All Courses) Etno Park (Traditional Sports) – One selected activity 1 Photo