Two (2) Days Istanbul Old City and Two Continents Walking Tour

Istanbul, a city where the old and new seamlessly intertwine, offers a captivating exploration of its rich history and vibrant culture through the ‘Two (2) Days Istanbul Old City and Two Continents Walking Tour.’ This comprehensive tour guides visitors through the iconic landmarks of the Old City, while also introducing them to the diverse culinary delights of the Kadıköy neighborhood. With a private guide, scenic ferry rides, and hassle-free inclusions, this tour promises an immersive experience that unveils the unique charm of this transcontinental metropolis.

Key Points

• This two-day Istanbul tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s old town and its two continents, spanning historical landmarks, scenic views, and local cuisine.
• The tour includes guided visits to iconic sites like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, and Spice Bazaar.
• Guests can experience a ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait, providing scenic views of the city skyline and the transition between Europe and Asia.
• The tour includes private guidance, entrance fees, public transportation, lunch, and gratuities, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps, with children requiring adult supervision.

Tour Overview

The "Two Days Istanbul Old City and Two Continents Walking Tour" offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s historic Old City and the opportunity to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour is titled "Two Days Istanbul Old City and Two Continents Walking Tour" and takes place in Istanbul, Turkey. It has received 6 reviews with a 5.0-star rating.

The tour price varies based on group size, starting from $415.00 per person. The tour includes a private guide, entrance fees to key sites, public transportation, lunch, and gratuities.

Inclusions

This tour includes a private guide to lead participants through the highlights of Istanbul’s Old City and across the Bosphorus Strait to the Asian side of the city.

The tour package covers the following:

• Entrance fees for the iconic Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace
• Public transportation, including ferry and tram rides
• A delicious lunch
• Availability of alcoholic drinks for purchase

Plus, gratuities are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The tour’s inclusions provide a comprehensive and immersive exploration of Istanbul’s cultural and historical treasures on both the European and Asian continents.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for this walking tour is located outside McDonald’s on Divan Yolu Cd. in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, next to the T1 tram station.

This convenient location allows for easy access to public transportation.

At the end of the tour, you will be provided with details on the different end location, which may vary depending on the itinerary.

Guests are advised to arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour will commence promptly.

The guide will be waiting at the designated spot to greet the group and begin the immersive exploration of Istanbul’s historical sites.

Important Information

Participants will receive confirmation upon booking this walking tour.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is located near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

No heart problems or serious medical conditions are required for participation.

However, security checks are mandatory at the museums visited during the tour.

The key information is as follows:

1. Not wheelchair accessible
2. Near public transportation
3. Infants must sit on laps; children must be accompanied by an adult
4. No heart problems or serious medical conditions required; security checks mandatory at museums

Booking Details

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time).

There is also a reserve now and pay later option.

This tour is offered by a fully registered travel agency, ensuring transparency with all costs itemized, eliminating hidden fees.

Advance tickets are secured for Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia to avoid waiting times.

Exploring the Old City

This walking tour begins by exploring Istanbul’s Old City, a captivating historic district that spans two continents.

Visitors will uncover the city’s rich past, starting at the iconic Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The tour then ventures into the bustling Sultanahmet Square, home to the stunning Blue Mosque.

Guests will also discover:

1. The Hippodrome, an ancient stadium that hosted chariot races and public events.
2. The Basilica Cistern, an underground Byzantine water reservoir with Medusa-head columns.
3. The Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets.
4. The Spice Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace brimming with aromatic spices, teas, and Turkish delights.

Crossing the Bosphorus

After exploring the historic sites in Istanbul’s Old City, the tour next takes participants across the Bosphorus Strait to Asia.

The ferry ride offers stunning views of the cityscape and the two continents.

Once in Asia, the guide leads the group through the lively Kadıköy neighborhood, known for its vibrant markets, cafes, and street food.

Participants can sample local delicacies and observe the daily life of Istanbulites on the Asian side.

The tour then returns to the European side, providing a unique perspective on the city’s cultural diversity and geographic divide between two continents.

Highlights of the Two-Day Tour

The two-day Istanbul Old City and Two Continents Walking Tour provides participants with a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural diversity.

Key highlights of the tour include:

1. Visits to the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace, allowing travelers to enjoy the grandeur of the Byzantine and Ottoman eras.

2. A ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait, offering a unique opportunity to experience the transition between the European and Asian continents.

3. Exploring the vibrant Sultanahmet neighborhood, known for its charming streets, bustling markets, and captivating historical landmarks.

4. Savoring a delicious local lunch, providing a culinary complement to the cultural experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?

The tour can be customized to some extent based on the customer’s preferences. Clients are encouraged to communicate their specific interests or requirements with the tour operator to personalize the experience within the tour’s overall framework.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour is described as a private tour with a professional guide, suggesting that the group size may be flexible or tailored to the needs of the customers.

Do I Need to Book in Advance or Can I Purchase on the Day?

The tour requires advance booking. It is not possible to purchase tickets on the day of the experience. Advance tickets are secured for Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia to avoid waiting times, and a reserve now and pay later option is available.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to More Than Two Days?

The tour company does not offer an option to extend the tour beyond the two-day duration. The itinerary and inclusions are specifically designed for a two-day experience in Istanbul’s old city and across the continents. Extending the tour would require booking a separate tour.

Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?

Yes, you can request a specific language for the tour guide. The tour provider offers guides who speak various languages, including English, and accommodates preferences for language during the booking process. Simply indicate your preferred language when making your reservation.

The Sum Up

The Two Days Istanbul Old City and Two Continents Walking Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant culture. Guests can expect personalized experiences, visits to iconic sites, local delicacies, scenic ferry rides, and a hassle-free experience with all inclusions covered. This tour provides an immersive and well-rounded introduction to the ancient city that straddles two continents.