Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque Visits
Two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks stand just steps apart in Sultanahmet Square. Visiting both offers a deep dive into the city’s layered history, where Byzantine and Ottoman legacies meet.
What to Expect:
Explore the grand domes, mosaics, and calligraphy of Hagia Sophia.
Step into the serene, blue-tiled interior of the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque).
Dress modestly: headscarves are available for women at the entrance.
Why It’s a Must:
These two mosques represent Istanbul’s cultural soul—no visit is complete without them.
Tour Recommendation: Historical Istanbul Old City Tour | Half Day Sultanahmet Afternoon Tour
Explore Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar
Step into the splendor of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace, then dive into the vibrant energy of the Grand Bazaar—one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.
What to Expect:
Walk through royal courtyards, treasury rooms, and the Harem section at Topkapi Palace.
Explore over 4,000 shops offering spices, carpets, antiques, and souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar.
Why It’s a Must:
This combo blends royal heritage with local shopping culture—two essential sides of Istanbul.
Tour Recommendation: Istanbul Old City Walking Tour | Istanbul 2 Continents City Tour.
Bosphorus Cruise Experience & Asian Side Exploration
See Istanbul from a whole new angle with a scenic Bosphorus cruise, then step across continents to explore the charm of the Asian side.
What to Expect:
Cruise past landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace, Maiden’s Tower, and Bosphorus mansions.
Visit neighborhoods like Üsküdar or Kadıköy for authentic local vibes and sea-view cafes.
Why It’s a Must:
No other city lets you sail between two continents in one afternoon.
Tour Recommendation: Daily Bosphorus Cruise Tour | Half Day Morning Asian Side Tour.
Fener & Balat Colorful Streets
Wander through Istanbul’s most photogenic neighborhoods, where vibrant houses, cobbled lanes, and a mix of cultures create a uniquely local atmosphere.
What to Expect:
Snap photos of rainbow-painted stairways and Ottoman-era homes.
Discover hidden churches, cozy cafés, and antique shops in every corner.
Why It’s a Must:
This area captures the soul of old Istanbul—authentic, artistic, and full of surprises.
Tour Recommendation: Istanbul Golden Horn Tour | Half Day Afternoon City Tour.
Wear modest clothes for mosques, comfy shoes for walking are essential.
Use Istanbulkart for cheap, easy rides on trams, ferries, and metros.
Choose hotels near Sultanahmet or Taksim for easy access to landmarks.
Enjoy street food like simit or dine in rooftop Bosphorus-view spots.
Mild weather and blooming tulips. Visit during the Istanbul Tulip Festival for colorful views.
Hot and lively. Expect crowded spots—book Bosphorus Cruises and tours well in advance.
Cooler days with fewer tourists. Ideal for walking tours and peaceful sightseeing.
Chilly and less crowded. Great for museums, hammams, and cozy Bosphorus view cafes.
Fluent historians and foodies.
Free changes up to 24 hours before your tour.
We support eco-friendly cruises and local artisans.