Best of Istanbul: 2-Day City Tour of Landmarks & Culture (Istanbul City Sightseeing Packages)
Highlights
- Explore Istanbul’s Historical Gems – Visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern.
- Experience Local Culture – Stroll through the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest markets in the world.
- Bosphorus Cruise – Enjoy a scenic boat ride with breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline and palaces.
- Discover the Vibrant Spice Bazaar – Immerse yourself in the colorful aromas of exotic spices and Turkish delights.
- Visit Asian & European Sides – Cross the Bosphorus to explore both continents in one city.
- Delicious Turkish Cuisine – Savor authentic Turkish dishes and local flavors throughout the tour.
Overview
Experience the magic of Istanbul in just 2 days, exploring its iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to the bustling Grand Bazaar, this tour offers a deep dive into the city's fascinating heritage. Sail along the breathtaking Bosphorus Strait, where Europe and Asia meet, and enjoy stunning waterfront views. This comprehensive 2-day itinerary is perfect for travelers looking to make the most of their time in Istanbul.
Route
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View the route on Google MapsItinerary
Pick up at 09:00am from your hotel for the full day tour of old Istanbul city. Our first visit will be to Hippodrome. Ancient Hippodrome was the scene of chariot races, with the three monuments; the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine. Then we will visit Sultanahmet Imperial Mosque. Across from Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, it was built in the 16th century by the architect Mehmet, is known as the Blue Mosque because of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles.Our next visit will be to Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, previously known as the Church of Divine Wisdom, is simply the best of its kind! Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is the greatest surviving example of Byzantine Architecture. For 1000 years, it was once the largest church in the world, decorated with stunning 6th century golden mosaics. Today it is a mosque. Lunch break at 1:00 pm. After lunch, you will be taken to Exotic Spices and Herbs, Turkish Baklava, delicious fresh Turkish Delights, Turkish Coffee, nuts and fruits, souvenirs such as Ceramic Handicrafts, Evil Eyes totems, all naturel olive oil, soaps and many other goods in Souvenir Shops and stores. After the tour, transfer back to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
If you would like to visit with entrance below sites;
Topkapi Palace Museum Entrance Fee. You pay the door price.
The Basilica Cistern Museum Entrance You pay the door price.
Hagia Sophia Museum Entrance Fee. You pay the door price.
Please Note: Please do not forget to carry Scarf with you because of visiting to Blue Mosque & Haghia Sophia Mosque.
Pick up at 08:30 am from the hotel and depart for the Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise and Shopping Tour. BOSPHORUS BY BOAT a traditional excursion by boat along the waterway separating Europe and Asia. The shore is lined with old wooden villas, palaces of marble, fortresses, and small fishing villages. During the excursion you will see the magnificent sights of the following attractions from your boat. See Dolmabahce Palace, and further along, the parks and imperial pavilions of Yildiz Palace. On the coastal edge of this park, is Ciragan Palace, 300 meters of its marble facade faces the shore. At Ortakoy a great variety of artists gather every Sunday to display their work along the street. Ortakoy is a symbol of tolerance with a church, a mosque and a synagogue existing side by side for centuries.
RUMELI FORTRESS Built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452 prior to the conquest of Istanbul was completed in only four months to control and protect the infamous Bosphorus passage. It is one of the most beautiful works of military architecture anywhere in the world. BEYLERBEYI PALAS (PALACE) The summer residence of Ottoman sultans exists in its original renovated glory featuring original antique furniture and magnificent gardens with the Harem on the Asian side of Istanbul.
BOSPHORUS BRIDGE enjoy a unique chance to step from one continent (Asia) to another (Europe)
CAMLICA HILL the highest point in Istanbul. At the top of it you can rest and admire the magnificent panorama of Istanbul and the Bosphorus from the beautiful gardens, landscaped in traditional Turkish Ottoman style. SHOPPING TOUR (after cruise) Experience the traditional silk weaving skills of Turkish women at the carpet weaving courses provided by The Ministry of National Education. You will get the opportunity to see jewellery, handcrafts centre and a modern leatherwear show. Enjoy the experience of shopping whilst gaining the knowledge of the ancient craftsmen, with Murti's Tour's local escort full of knowledge about how to haggle the streets of Istanbul. The rest of the evening is yours to explore Istanbul
Trip includes
Included
Professional English - speaking tour guides
Guiding Method Fully guided
Transportation during the tour (Hotel pick-up and drop-off)
Transportation in a fully air - conditioned, non - smoking coach
Guided Istanbul City Tour
Guided Istanbul Bosphorus Tour
✔ Tour Duration: 2 Days
✔ Tour Type: Guided cultural and historical tour
✔ Meeting Point: Central Istanbul (hotel pick-up available)
✔ Transportation: Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and Bosphorus cruise boat
✔ Accommodation: Not included (optional upon request)
✔ What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes (some sites require moderate walking)
- Light, breathable clothing (modest attire for mosque visits)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (especially in summer)
- A camera to capture Istanbul’s stunning sights
- Turkish Lira (TRY) for personal expenses and shopping
✔ Weather Tips:
- Spring & Autumn (March-May, September-November): Ideal for sightseeing with mild temperatures.
- Summer (June-August): Warm and busy—stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
- Winter (December-February): Cool and rainy—bring a warm jacket.
✔ Additional Notes:
- The itinerary may be slightly adjusted based on local conditions or special events.
- Modest dress is required when visiting religious sites.
- Entrance fees to major landmarks are included in the tour package.
Join us for an unforgettable 2-day journey through Istanbul’s past and present, blending culture, history, and scenic beauty into an enriching experience!
Excluded
Lunch
Insurance: All types
Topkapi Palace Museum Entrance Fee. You pay the door price.
The Basilica Cistern Museum Entrance You pay the door price.
Hagia Sophia Museum Entrance Fee. You pay the door price.
Tipping
Turkey entry visa
Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry
Any others expenses which are not mentioned at the included section
Need help or have a question about this tour?
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Availability
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