Exploring Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture is a must for any traveler. The Istanbul City Sightseeing Tour & Turkish Dinner & Show offers an immersive 16-hour experience, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural treasures. From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the lively Grand Bazaar, this tour provides a seamless and engaging way to uncover the heart of this fascinating destination. But the adventure doesn’t end there – a delightful traditional dinner cruise with live entertainment awaits, promising an unforgettable taste of Turkish hospitality.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 16-hour tour exploring Istanbul’s top sights, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, with hotel pickup/drop-off and transportation.
- Evening program features a traditional Turkish dinner cruise with a 4-course meal and live entertainment like belly dancing.
- Tour priced from $195.18 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a pay later option available.
- Itinerary flexibility to accommodate closures of Topkapi Palace or Grand Bazaar, with the emphasis on customer experience and engagement.
- Generally positive customer reviews praising the knowledgeable tour guide and extensive sightseeing coverage, though Topkapi Palace is recommended for a separate visit.
Tour Overview
The Istanbul City Sightseeing Tour & Turkish Dinner & Show is a comprehensive 16-hour experience that lets visitors explore the highlights of Istanbul.
A comprehensive 16-hour experience that lets visitors explore the highlights of Istanbul.
Priced from $195.18 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by luxury coach, and admission to top sights like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
Guests also enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner cruise with a live belly dancing and folklore show.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
The tour is conducted in English and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
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Itinerary Highlights
Morning Tour: Visitors embark on an 8-hour city sightseeing tour by luxury coach, starting with the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hagia Sophia for an external view.
Next, they explore the iconic Blue Mosque. The tour continues to Topkapi Palace, except on Tuesdays when it’s closed.
The Hippodrome, a historic center of Constantinople, is also visited. The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world, offers an opportunity for shopping, except on Sundays when it’s closed.
Evening Program: Guests enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner on a cruise, accompanied by a 4-course meal and unlimited soft drinks.
A live belly dancing and Anatolian folklore show provides entertainment during the dinner.
Included Services
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from city center hotels, as well as transportation by air-conditioned coach.
The package also covers:
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Lunch and entrance fees (excluding St. Sophia Mosque/Museum).
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A belly dancing show and unlimited soft drinks.
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Not included are imported/alcoholic drinks and tips.
Plus, the tour requires participants to bring their passport or ID card, as well as a camera.
Pets aren’t allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
If Topkapi Palace is closed, the itinerary will be adjusted to include Istanbul 2 Continents instead.
Important Information
Participants should bring their passport or ID card, as well as a camera, to the tour.
Pets aren’t allowed. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
If Topkapi Palace is closed, it will be replaced with a visit to Istanbul’s two continents. Similarly, if the Grand Bazaar is closed, additional time will be spent at other locations.
Flexibility is key, as the itinerary may adjust to accommodate closures.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews
Customers have provided generally positive feedback on the Istanbul City Sightseeing Tour.
Customers have provided generally positive feedback on the Istanbul City Sightseeing Tour.
The tour guide was praised for being knowledgeable and providing free time for exploration. Reviewers noted the tour covered an extensive amount of ground, though one remarked that the Topkapi Palace merits a separate visit.
The tour was described as well-arranged, covering key sights and providing entertaining entertainment.
The three-item numeric list below highlights the main customer sentiments:
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Knowledgeable tour guide
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Extensive sightseeing coverage
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Well-organized tour and entertainment
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Getting to Istanbul
How does one get to Istanbul, the historic and vibrant city that serves as the gateway between Europe and Asia?
Istanbul has two major international airports – Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Both airports offer numerous direct flights from major cities worldwide.
Travelers can also arrive by train, bus, or ferry. Once in the city, getting around is easy with a robust public transportation system including metro, buses, and ferries.
Many Istanbul tours, like the one featured, include hotel pickup, making the journey to top sights seamless for visitors.
Top Attractions in Istanbul
Istanbul, the captivating city that straddles Europe and Asia, is home to an array of magnificent historical and cultural attractions.
The city’s highlights include:
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Hagia Sophia: This iconic Byzantine masterpiece, with its impressive domed architecture, has served as both a church and a mosque, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s rich religious heritage.
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Blue Mosque: The stunning Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known for its striking blue tiles and six minarets, is a testament to Istanbul’s Islamic legacy and a must-see for any visitor.
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Topkapi Palace: The former residence of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace, now a museum, showcases the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire through its exquisite architecture, gardens, and priceless artifacts.
Experiencing Turkish Culture
When visiting Istanbul, travelers can enjoy the vibrant Turkish culture through a variety of experiences.
One popular option is the Istanbul City Sightseeing Tour & Turkish Dinner & Show. This package includes a traditional Turkish dinner and live entertainment, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Guests can enjoy a 4-course meal while being entertained by skilled belly dancers and Anatolian folklore performers.
The experience provides a glimpse into the captivating world of Turkish customs, music, and cuisine, allowing visitors to fully engage with the local traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Visa to Join the Tour?
Visa requirements depend on the traveler’s nationality. Visitors from certain countries may need a visa to enter Turkey. It’s best to check the current visa requirements with the Turkish embassy or consulate before booking the tour.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?
Customers can’t typically customize the itinerary, as it’s a pre-designed group tour. However, the tour operator may be able to accommodate special requests or needs with advance notice, depending on availability and feasibility.
Is There a Dress Code for the Dinner and Show?
There’s no strict dress code for the Turkish dinner and show, but guests are advised to dress comfortably and avoid very casual attire. The event give you an authentic cultural experience, so smart casual wear is recommended.
Can I Request Vegetarian or Halal Meal Options?
Yes, the tour provider offers vegetarian and halal meal options upon request. Guests simply need to inform the provider of their dietary requirements when booking the tour or at least 24 hours in advance.
Are There Any Language Interpretation Services Available?
Yes, the tour offers English language services. There are no mentions of interpretation in other languages, so guests should expect the tour to be conducted in English.
The Sum Up
The Istanbul City Sightseeing Tour & Turkish Dinner & Show provides an immersive cultural experience. Guests can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, indulge in a delectable Turkish dinner, and enjoy live entertainment. With convenient hotel transfers, the tour offers a seamless way to discover Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant traditions. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive and engaging introduction to this captivating city.
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