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IstanbulCulture & history

Our most recommended Istanbul Culture & history

Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table

1. Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table

Enjoy magical views of Istanbul from the Bosphorus on this dinner cruise. Sail on a yacht and watch a show with traditional Turkish folk dancing. Enjoy dinner and drinks while seeing sights like the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus Bridge.  Choose from a cruise with hotel pickup and drop-off from Istanbul via an air-conditioned van or meet directly at the port. Enjoy drinks like Turkish coffee, tea, unlimited soft drinks, and unlimited alcoholic drinks (depending on option selected). Pick between a standard meal or a VIP option. Savor an appetizer plate with options like a seasonal salad or hot starters. Choose a main course like mixed grilled meat, seasonal fish, or a vegetarian menu. Finish your meal with a sweet dessert.  Dine on your tasty food while watching live entertainment like Turkish folk dancing, Latin flamenco dancing, and a DJ. Gaze out the window at the imposing Galata Tower and Maiden's Tower, which has stood since the medieval Byzantine period. Enjoy shows such as live music, Dervishes, Turkish dances, Latin dance, flamenco, Sirtaki, and belly dance in the middle of the Bosphorus. Capture pictures of the Baroque Revival architecture of Dolmabahçe Palace and the Ortaköy Mosque. Admire the Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges which span the Bosphorus strait. Take in the waterside Ottoman architecture of the Beylerbeyi Palace. Vip Menu Starters: • 10 types of mixed Turkish appetizers or mixed seafood appetizers • Vegetable pastrami pie • Fish pastry • Shrimp stew • Fish meatballs • Grilled squid Main Dishes: • Mushroom beef stragozate • Beef medallion • Mixed grill plate (meatballs, lamb skewers, steak, chops) • Vegetarian vegetable casserole • Seasonal seafood grill • Italian pasta types • Salad • Mediterranean Turkish salad Desert and Fruit: • Mixed Special Turkish desert or fruity chocolate cake • Unlimited local and non-alcoholic beverages

Istanbul: Topkapi Palace Skip the Line Ticket & Audioguide

2. Istanbul: Topkapi Palace Skip the Line Ticket & Audioguide

After you meet your local guide, you will skip the ticket lines and get inside the fastest way. Once inside the Topkapi Palace, you can discover the three courtyards, terraces with astonishing views, as well as precious collections at your own pace and enjoy the highlights of this stunning. Starting from the square and fountain in front of the Topkapi Palace, you can see explore each of the famous gates while listening to interesting stories and surprising details about legendary figures from history.

Dolmabahce Palace Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio

3. Dolmabahce Palace Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio

Meet your guide at the main entrance of the Dolmbahce Palace, skip the long ticket lines and enter the world's most luxurious Palace the shortest way. Save up to 2 hours by not standing in the famous ticket lines. Follow your guide through a 10-minute tour inside the garden of Dolmbahce Palace. Learn about the highlights inside the Dolmabahce Palace and its famous Harem and find out where the best spots are to capture the most amazing pictures. Afterward, receive your audio guide so you can explore the inside of the Palace, Harem, and Painting Museum at your own pace. Spend the whole day inside or just have a quick glance at its impressive beauty. Gaze in awe at the palace's beautiful location on the Bosphorus and its more than $1.5 billion worth of luxury decoration.

Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia Tour

4. Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia Tour

Enjoy stress-free sightseeing and total flexibility with this combination tour of Istanbul. Decide the best time for you to visit each attraction across 2 days, skip the long lines at the Basilica Cistern, and learn about the fascinating history of the Blue Mosque. Visit the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Hagia Sophia by choosing from multiple daily departure times. Meet your guide in the heart of the Old City and start your tour at the best time for you. 60-Minute Blue Mosque Tour: Daily except Tuesdays at 11:00 A.M. or 1:45 P.M. (Fridays only at 2:30 P.M.) Journey back in time in the courtyards ot the Blue Mosque. Then, step inside and admire the architecture and the famous blue Iznik tiles. As you explore, learn about Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, Islam, and Istanbul's rich history from your guide. After the tour, you can stay as long as you want. 30-Minute Basilica Cistern Tour: Daily tours at 10:00 A.M., 11:00 A.M., 12:00 P.M., 1:00 P.M., 2:00 P.M., 3:00 P.M., 4:00 P.M., and 5:00 P.M. Skip the long ticket lines with your guide and discover the Basilica Cistern beneath the streets of Istanbul. Wander through the ancient cistern and admire the architecture and Medusa heads from Greek mythology. Stay inside as long as you wish after the tour finishes. 60-Minute Hagia Sophia Tour: Daily except Tuesdays at 10:00 A.M., 2:00 P.M., and 3:15 P.M (Fridays only at 2:00 P.M. and 3:15 P.M.) Discover fascinating facts about this 1,500-year-old landmark as you explore with your guide. Get a closer look at the massive dome, beautiful mosaics, and the wishing column. After your tour, stay as long as you want to test the wishing column. Important Information: During high season the security check waiting time for Hagia Sophia is around 60 minutes and at Blue Mosque 45 minutes.

Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour

5. Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour

Discover the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Hippodrome on a private or shared guided walking tour in Istanbul. Admire the historic architecture and unique views of the city. Get an insider perspective of these must-see sights. Meet your guide in the Sultanahmet neighborhood at an easy spot and check out Istanbul's greatest monuments on a walking tour. Start with the Blue Mosque, the most visited monument in Istanbul famous for its stunning blue tiles. Marvel at this imperial Ottoman Mosque, commissioned by Sultan Ahmet. Witness the evocative power and splendor of its past as you enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the Blue Mosque. Afterward, enjoy the courtyard for breathtaking views of modern Istanbulites and take a stroll around the neighborhood. Walk through the Hippodrome, the social and political center of the city, and learn about the significance of the famous obelisks. Visit the Hagia Sophia and witness the most significant site of the Greek Orthodox religion in Istanbul and learn how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Explore the stunning monument with elements of a mosque and a church standing next to each other. Admire the basilica’s stunning dome and minarets, and countless mosaics, paintings, and Roman columns. Learn how the impressive İznik tiles were added over time in the Mosque, how the stunning Virgin Mary mosaic was made, and why the Ottomans chose to bury their sultans in the courtyard. Explore the Arasta Bazaar nestled right under the shadow of the Blue Mosque to understand 17th Century architecture of public buildings. It is a well-known but modest open-air market in the heart of Sultanahmet. Enjoy a last-minute tea break and hunt for gifts to take home. End your tour in Sultanahmet Square with enough information and hints to help you be independent for the rest of your time in Istanbul.

Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket

6. Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket

Discover the Topkapi Palace on a guided tour with skip-the-line tickets. Learn about Ottoman history in the Palace and the life of Sultan's family in the harem. Explore the splendor of Topkapi Palace, the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Discover how the complex of buildings, pavilions, and courtyards was a self-contained city, which most inhabitants rarely left. Explore the outer-terraced gardens and admire the view over the Golden Horn. Immerse yourself in the heart of the great Ottoman Empire. Stroll through the palace, and imagine the ruling Sultans who lived in its hundreds of rooms with their vast families and countless servants. Visit the harem, ruled by the Queen Mother who wielded domestic and political power. The harem housed hundreds of women and family members as well as hundreds of eunuchs, who performed a wide range of duties. Take a moment to spot the cupboard doors inlaid with mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell. Walk through the Harem is also the only way to see the very early, exceptionally-crafted Iznik tiles decorated with floral designs and verses from the Quran. The tour ends with a visit to the holy relics and the imperial kitchens.

Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour

7. Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour

Travel back in time to experience the story of the ancient Hagia Sophia on a guided tour in Istanbul. Trace how this iconic site has transformed over time with a local guide. Uncover stunning details as you explore this architectural gem. Meet with your professional local guide in front of Hagia Sophia. Hear a short history of the Old City then start the Hagia Sophia tour.  Your guide will explain the mystery of the magnificent Hagia Sophia. Hagia Sophia is a great architectural beauty and an important monument both for the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires. Once a church, later a mosque, the Hagia Sophia has always been a precious building for the locals.

Istanbul: Blue Mosque Guided Tour

8. Istanbul: Blue Mosque Guided Tour

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the most famous monument in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque. After extensive renovations for more than 5 years, you can now tour the Blue mosque with a passionate local guide. Meet your guide across from the Blue Mosque get first hand information about latest renovations and historical facts. Go on a journey back in time and start with an expedition to the courtyards at Blue Mosque and the Old City around it, which is part of the Unesco World Heritage Site. Inside the Blue Mosque admire the architecture, the famous blue Iznik tiles, learn about the Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, the Islamic religion, and Istanbul's rich history from your official licensed guide, and get a sense of the culture from both past and present. The tour ends inside the Blue Mosque giving you the chance to keep exploring and taking amazing pictures. At the end of the tour, you will have enough information and tips to help you explore independently for the rest of your time in Istanbul.

Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show

9. Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show

The Bosphorus night tour with dinner and "Turkish Night Show" is a luxurious and entertaining way to experience Istanbul's beauty and culture. This tour combines a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait with a delicious dinner and a vibrant cultural performance. The tour typically starts from the pier where the boat awaits. You'll board a comfortable and modern vessel equipped with indoor and outdoor seating areas, as well as a bar serving refreshing drinks and snacks. As the boat sets sail, you'll be treated to a stunning view of Istanbul's iconic landmarks, such as the Bosphorus Bridge, Dolmabahce Palace, and Maiden's Tower, all illuminated by the city lights. You'll also see the European and Asian sides of the city, which are divided by the Bosphorus Strait. The highlight of this tour is the delicious dinner that will be served on board, featuring a variety of Turkish specialties. The dinner is accompanied by a selection of local wines and soft drinks, creating a true feast for your senses. After dinner, you'll be entertained by a "Turkish Night Show", featuring traditional music, dance, and costume performances. The show includes belly dancers, folk dancers, cultural dances and live music, all of which showcase the vibrant and colorful culture of Turkey. You'll be invited to join in the fun and dance along to the music, creating a memorable and interactive experience. The tour usually lasts for around three hours, and once it's over. The Bosphorus night tour with dinner and "Turkish Night Show" is a fantastic way to experience Istanbul's beauty, culture, and cuisine all in one unforgettable evening. It's perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends who want to enjoy a special night out in Istanbul. ~MENU~ • TURKISH STARTER PLATE Spicy Paste, Fava, Muhammara, American Salad, Feta Chese, Cheddar Cheese, Haydari, Tomato, Cucumber • GREENS SALAD • PAÇANGA PASTRY • MAIN COURSE Grilled Meatballs, Spicy Chicken Skewers, Baked Seasonal Fish (Vegetarian Menu: Grilled Vegetables with Rice or Pasta) • TURKISH BAKLAVA PLATE • UNLIMITED LOCAL ALCOHOLIC & SOFT DRINKS Beer, Raki, Vodka, Red and White Wine, Gin and Soft Drinks NOTE: Imported alcoholic drinks are extra charged. There are 50 kinds of imported alcoholic beverages on board.

Istanbul: Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers

10. Istanbul: Best of The City Full-Day Tour with Transfers

Learn about the historical development of the city under the Roman Empire and Ottoman Empire on a private tour. Compare the different cultures and religions of these empires while exploring iconic Istanbul sights like Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia Mosque. Travel stress-free with private roundtrip transportation. Enjoy unhurried visits to the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, and the Hippodrome of Constantinople. Visit the famous Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as Blue Mosque, due to its unique interior decoration of blue royal Iznik tiles. At the Hippodrome, see where the Romans used to organize chariot races and gladiators' fights. Admire its remaining Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, Constantine Column, and German Fountain. Finish your day by learning about Turkish handicrafts at the famous Grand Bazaar and its 4,000 shops (replaced with the Arasta Baazar or the Spice Bazaar on Sundays). With your private guide leading the way, there's no chance of getting lost in the bazaar. This tour is a good start for first-time visitors to Istanbul. You'll gain a good idea of the past, present, and future of Istanbul while visiting some of the city's must-see sights and monuments. You can pause the tour at any point to ask questions or adjust the itinerary.

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What people are saying about Istanbul

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 3,125 reviews

We met our knowledgeable and friendly tour guide Ilke Nur at the entrance to Topkapi Palace and after a short queue for security walked through the Topkapi Palace Gardens with views of the Bosphorus. Ilke spoke to us about the Hagia Irene and the palace on the way. Ilke collected our museum entrance tickets and explained that we can visit all of the three museums with this ticket, the archeological, the Asian or the tile. Ilke then spent a generous amount of time explaining the highlights of the museum at each particular exhibit focusing on the ground floor. She also mentioned that the ticket price includes the beautiful park opposite the museums. This is a great tour to find out more about the ancient history of Turkey and the museums and parks are in themselves beautiful places to visit.

Highly recommended to take the full package, including all the drinks and hotel transfers. Food and entertainment is very good and the tour is well organised.

Very knowledgeable guide and overall a nice experience. Ride was comfortable and the meal enjoyable.

Nice experience! The food was relatively ok. The view worth all the money. I recommend it!

A very nice experience. It was a surprise for my parents and they love it