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Istanbul

Istanbul

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4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS ISTANBUL

DAY 1: Arrival in Istanbul & Dinner Bosphorus Cruise

Welcome to Turkey! Arrive in Istanbul and transfer from the airport to your hotel for check-in. In the evening, between 19:30 and 20:00, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the boat for the Dinner Cruise on the Bosphorus. After the tour, you will be dropped off back at your hotel.

During the cruise, you will see historical places like Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Maiden’s Tower, Rumeli Fortress, Bosphorus Bridge, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, and Beylerbeyi Palace. After dinner, you can dance the night away to entertaining music provided by a professional DJ and traditional show programs, or simply relax with a drink and enjoy the view. The combination of a delicious meal and unparalleled views of Istanbul, along with live entertainment, creates the city’s leading Bosphorus Dinner Cruise. The entertainment will end around midnight, and you will be transferred back to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.

DAY 2: Two Continents Tour (Breakfast & Lunch Included)

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. You will be picked up for the tour at 09:00 to enjoy a full day in Istanbul.

Your first stop will be Hagia Sophia, the 4th largest church in the world. Construction dates back to the 4th century, and it was chosen as the 2nd-best engineering structure of human history by BBC.

Next, visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its stunning interior with 20,000 pieces of İznik tiles. It is unique for its six minarets.

Afterward, explore the Hippodrome, the center of Byzantine entertainment where 30,000 civilians were killed by order of the queen with arrow rain during the Nika revolt.

At 13:00, enjoy a lunch break. After lunch, you will visit the Grand Covered Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With more than 58 covered streets and over 4,000 shops, it attracts between 250,000 and 500,000 visitors daily. It is known for its jewelry, pottery, spice, and carpet shops. You will also have the chance to witness a handmade Turkish carpet demonstration.

Return to your hotel after the tour.

Optional Tour: Topkapi Palace (Additional cost of 45 EUR): Explore the grand palace of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th to 19th centuries, housing an exquisite collection of crystal, silver, Chinese porcelain, robes worn by the sultans and their families, famous jewels from the Imperial Treasury, miniatures, and the Holy Mantle enshrining relics of Prophet Mohammed.

DAY 3: City Tour with Basilica Cistern (Breakfast Included)

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up at 09:00 for a full day tour in Istanbul.

Your first stop will be the Basilica Cistern, an underground cistern that was called “Basilica” because it was located under a large public square, the Stoa Basilica, on the First Hill of Constantinople. The cistern was reconstructed by Illus after a fire in 476.

Next, discover the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, which have origins dating back to the nearby Hagia Irene Church. After the conquest of Istanbul, the church’s location close to the barracks of the Janissaries saw it transformed into a de facto “inner arsenal” for storing weapons. By 1726, it had functioned as a full-fledged armory known as Dar-ül Esliha, or “House of Weapons” in Turkish. By the 19th century, the church was also being used to store the varied artifacts amassed by the Ottoman Empire.

Your final stop will be the Süleymaniye Mosque, designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan. It was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in memory of his son Şehzade Mehmed. The mosque was built on the site of the old Topkapi Palace, which had to be demolished to make way for this grand structure.

Return to your hotel at the end of the tour.

DAY 4: Departure from Istanbul (Breakfast Included)

After breakfast, one of Marhaban’s adventures concludes. We hope you have enjoyed your journey through Turkey and wish you all the best for your flight. A transfer from the hotel to the airport will follow.

 

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  • user
    February 19, 2025

    I had a fantastic experience with Marhaban Istanbul Tours! The trip was well-organized, covering all the iconic sights with a perfect balance of history, culture, and local experiences. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey even more enjoyable. Highly recommend Marhaban Istanbul Tours for an unforgettable Istanbul adventure!

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Travel Tips

Here are some general travel tips for your 4-day trip to Istanbul:
  1. Currency and Payments:
  • The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While many places accept Euros or USD, it’s best to carry some Lira for smaller purchases, especially in markets and local shops.
  • Credit Cards are widely accepted, but always have some cash on hand for places that may not accept cards.
  • ATMs are common, but it’s a good idea to withdraw cash from a machine inside a bank for better security.
  1. Dress Modestly:
  • Istanbul is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and you’ll visit many religious sites like mosques. Modest clothing is required when entering these places—no shorts or sleeveless tops.
  • Comfortable shoes are a must! You’ll be doing a lot of walking, especially in historic sites and the bazaars.
  1. Public Transport and Taxis:
  • Public transportation in Istanbul is affordable and efficient, including trams, ferries, and metro lines. Consider getting an Istanbulkart, a rechargeable travel card that can be used on all public transport.
  • Taxis are convenient but make sure to ask the driver to turn on the meter. Alternatively, use apps like BiTaksi to book a taxi easily.
  1. Stay Hydrated:
  • Istanbul can get hot during the summer months, so keep a bottle of water with you. Many cafes will give you free water if you ask.
  • Enjoy traditional Turkish tea or Turkish coffee, but be mindful of how much you consume as it can be quite strong!
  1. Beware of Tourist Scams:
  • While Istanbul is a generally safe city, be cautious around tourist hotspots, especially in busy areas like the Grand Bazaar and Taksim Square. Watch out for people trying to distract you or approach you with “special deals.”
  • Agree on prices before purchasing anything from street vendors or taxis.
  1. Haggle at Markets:
  • When shopping in bazaars like the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, haggling is part of the experience. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price, especially if buying multiple items.
  • Keep in mind that respectful bargaining is the norm, so always keep it friendly!
  1. Time Zones:
  • Istanbul operates in Turkey Time (TRT), which is GMT +3 year-round, so make sure to adjust your watch or phone accordingly, especially when coordinating with international flights.
  1. Safety and Security:
  • Istanbul is generally safe, but always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.
  • Stick to well-lit areas at night and use your hotel’s transportation services if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
  1. Learn a Few Turkish Phrases:
  • While many people in Istanbul speak English, learning a few basic phrases can enhance your experience:
  • Merhaba (Hello)
  • Teşekkür ederim (Thank you)
  • Evet/Hayır (Yes/No)
  • Nerede? (Where is…?)
  • Bir kahve, lütfen. (One coffee, please.)
  1. Respect Local Customs:
  • Respect for elders and hospitality are highly valued in Turkish culture. If invited into someone’s home or offered tea, it’s polite to accept.
  • If visiting a mosque, be sure to remove your shoes and be quiet and respectful while inside.
  1. Best Time to Visit:
  • Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–November) are the best times to visit Istanbul as the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller.
  • Summer (July–August) can be quite hot, while Winter (December–February) can be chilly and rainy but offers a quieter experience.
  1. Safety While Eating:
  • Istanbul has a wide variety of street food, from simit (sesame-crusted bread rings) to kebabs and baklava. Always opt for stalls that are busy with locals, as they tend to have the freshest offerings.
  • If you have any food allergies, learn the Turkish names for allergens to ensure you avoid them.
Enjoy your trip to Istanbul! It’s a city full of history, culture, and delicious food that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories. Descriptions:  Istanbul: A City of Two Continents Istanbul, the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, is a captivating blend of ancient history and modern charm. It is a city where East meets West, where centuries of empires, cultures, and religions converge to create a truly unique urban landscape. From the grandeur of Byzantine architecture to the opulence of Ottoman palaces, Istanbul offers a captivating journey through time. Hagia Sophia: A Timeless Masterpiece The Hagia Sophia, one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul, is a masterpiece of architecture that has served as a church, mosque, and museum throughout its history. Originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian, it was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in 1453 and later became a museum in the 20th century. Today, it stands as a symbol of cultural and religious harmony, with its majestic dome and stunning mosaics attracting visitors from all over the world. The Blue Mosque: An Ottoman Marvel The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, more commonly known as the Blue Mosque, is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. Completed in 1616, the mosque is famous for its striking blue tiles that decorate the interior, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. With its six minarets and impressive dome, the Blue Mosque is not only a place of worship but also an architectural marvel that dominates the skyline of Istanbul’s historic peninsula. Topkapi Palace: The Heart of the Ottoman Empire Topkapi Palace was once the residence of the Ottoman sultans and the center of political power for over 400 years. The palace is a sprawling complex with lush courtyards, intricately decorated rooms, and stunning views of the Bosphorus. Today, it houses a remarkable collection of imperial treasures, including jewels, robes, and sacred relics. Visitors can explore the palace’s many chambers, including the Harem, where the sultan’s family and concubines resided, and get a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Ottoman court. Grand Bazaar: A Shopper’s Paradise The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops spread across 58 streets. Dating back to the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar is a vibrant maze of colorful stalls selling everything from spices and jewelry to carpets and textiles. Whether you’re haggling for a beautiful Turkish rug, sipping on a cup of Turkish tea, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Grand Bazaar is an essential part of the Istanbul experience. Basilica Cistern: A Hidden Gem Beneath the City Hidden beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul lies the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. This atmospheric site features rows of towering columns, some of which are adorned with intriguing Medusa heads. The cistern’s cool, dimly lit interior offers a peaceful escape from the city’s heat, making it a must-see attraction for those interested in Istanbul’s lesser-known history.