Istanbul Highlights Tour Including Airport Transfers

The Istanbul Highlights Tour offers an efficient and comprehensive way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. Featuring skip-the-line access, guided walking tours, and authentic cuisine tasting, this tour promises an enriching cultural experience. With the added convenience of airport transfers, travelers can maximize their time in Istanbul without the hassle of navigating public transportation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour provides an opportunity to uncover the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Key Points

• Comprehensive one-day tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar.
• Secure and comfortable transportation with hotel, airport, or Galataport pickup and drop-off services.
• Guided walking tour with skip-the-line access to maximize time at top attractions.
• Authentic Turkish cuisine tasting for an immersive cultural experience.
• Convenient booking and cancellation policies, with a "reserve now & pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Istanbul Highlights Tour offers visitors a comprehensive one-day exploration of the city’s most iconic landmarks and cultural experiences.

This tour provides airport transfers and covers top attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar. Priced from $185 per person, the tour is flexible, allowing participants to reserve now and pay later.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and a private group option is offered.

Explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture in a secure and comfortable setting with this convenient one-day package.

Transportation and Accessibility

Secure and comfortable transportation is provided for the Istanbul Highlights Tour.

Secure and comfortable transportation is provided for the Istanbul Highlights Tour.

Pickup from the hotel, airport, or Galataport is included. Participants will also be dropped off at their desired location, whether it’s the hotel, airport, or Galataport.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility for all. Plus, a private group option is available for those who prefer a more personalized experience.

With reliable and comfortable transportation, travelers can focus on exploring the highlights of Istanbul without worrying about logistics.

Tour Highlights and Activities

The Istanbul Highlights Tour immerses visitors in the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

The guided walking tour takes guests to major sites, including:

1. The iconic Blue Mosque, commissioned by Sultan Ahmet, and Hagia Sophia, a remarkable architectural marvel that has transitioned from a Greek Orthodox church to a mosque.

2. The bustling Grand Bazaar, dating back to the 16th century, offering a unique shopping experience.

3. Opportunities to taste authentic Turkish cuisine favored by locals, providing an immersive cultural experience.

Visitors can skip the ticket lines for the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, maximizing their time and access to these captivating landmarks.

Historical and Cultural Insights

Visitors exploring the Istanbul Highlights Tour will discover the significance of the Blue Mosque, commissioned by Sultan Ahmet in the early 17th century.

They’ll learn about Hagia Sophia‘s transition from a Greek Orthodox church to a mosque, reflecting the city’s complex religious history.

The tour also provides insight into the historical context of the Hippodrome, once a lively social and political center.

The Hippodrome, once a lively social and political center, offers insight into Istanbul’s rich historical context.

Throughout the experience, travelers gain insider perspectives on Istanbul’s iconic architecture and the rich cultural tapestry that defines this captivating city.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

As the Istanbul Highlights Tour includes various services, it’s important to understand what’s covered.

The tour package includes:

1. Secure and comfortable transportation, with hotel/airport/Galataport pickup and drop-off.

2. Guided walking tour of major sites, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome, along with skip-the-line access for these attractions.

3. Authentic Turkish food tasting, allowing you to savor the local cuisine.

However, the tour doesn’t include gratuities or entry fees for Topkapi Palace, which is closed on Tuesdays.

Visitors are advised to bring their passport or ID card, as well as a hat for sun protection.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

To book the Istanbul Highlights Tour, visitors can reserve their spot and pay nothing today.

This "reserve now & pay later" option allows guests to secure their tour and pay when they’re ready.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

Guests can check availability and starting times to plan their visit.

With these convenient booking and cancellation policies, travelers can easily experience the highlights of Istanbul without hassle.

What to Expect on the Tour

With the booking taken care of, guests can expect an engaging and informative exploration of Istanbul’s top landmarks on the Istanbul Highlights Tour.

The guided walking tour will lead visitors through the iconic Blue Mosque, the former Greek Orthodox church of Hagia Sophia, and the historic Hippodrome.

Guests will also have the opportunity to:

1. Explore the expansive Grand Bazaar, a bustling marketplace dating back to the 16th century.

2. Savor authentic Turkish cuisine and delicacies preferred by locals.

3. Skip the ticket lines at major sites, maximizing time spent exploring these remarkable historical and cultural treasures.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Though the tour provides a comprehensive experience, there are a few additional tips and considerations for guests to keep in mind.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves extensive exploration on foot. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Bring local currency for purchases at the Grand Bazaar.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the tour’s extensive exploration. Dress modestly for visits to religious sites. Bring local currency for the Grand Bazaar.

Be prepared for crowds, as the major attractions can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Lastly, while the tour includes entry fees, guests may wish to bring extra funds for optional purchases or personal expenses.

With these considerations in mind, visitors can make the most of their Istanbul highlights tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Blue Mosque?

Visitors can take photographs inside the Blue Mosque, but they must remove their shoes and cover up appropriately. Flash photography is generally not allowed to preserve the mosque’s sanctity.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Religious Sites?

There’s a dress code for visiting religious sites in Istanbul. Visitors should cover their shoulders, arms, and legs, and women must wear headscarves. Appropriate attire is required to enter the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Do I Need to Remove My Shoes When Entering the Mosques?

Yes, visitors are typically required to remove their shoes when entering mosques. This is a common courtesy to preserve the sanctity of the holy space and avoid tracking in dirt or mud.

Can I Purchase Local Handicrafts at the Grand Bazaar?

Yes, visitors can purchase a variety of local handicrafts like carpets, ceramics, leather goods, and jewelry at the Grand Bazaar. It’s a great opportunity to find unique souvenirs and support local artisans.

Is It Safe to Explore Istanbul on My Own After the Tour?

It’s generally safe to explore Istanbul on your own after the tour, but be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid wandering alone at night. Exercise caution when accessing ATMs or handling valuables.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul Highlights Tour offers an all-inclusive and accessible experience, allowing visitors to discover the city’s iconic landmarks with ease. Featuring skip-the-line access, guided tours, and authentic cuisine, the tour ensures a hassle-free and enriching exploration of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage. With convenient airport transfers and flexible cancellation policies, this tour is an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable introduction to the vibrant city.

You can check availability for your dates here: