Essential Steps for a Memorable Istanbul Tour

Istanbul tour is not a vacation. It's an experience through the ages, flavor and culture. Istanbul is situated between two continents. It combines Europe and Asia as no other place can. For a unique experience of your trip, a proper plan is essential. This article provides useful Istanbul trip tips and helps arrange Istanbul trip in the best possible way.

Select the Optimal Time to Visit

• Autumn and spring are optimum periods to visit Istanbul. April through June and September through October are cool and pleasant. These periods also have fewer tourists compared to summer. This avoids long lines and crowded streets.
• Try booking your flights well in advance. The fares will be cheaper if you book early. Choose accommodation in Sultanahmet or Taksim. Both these places are within easy reach of most of the attractions.

Know the Entry Rules and Get Documentation Ready

Before you go, make sure you know the visa policy of your country. An electronic visa is available for most nationalities from the website. It takes a few minutes. Always carry a hard copy or save one on your phone. 

Also, carry travel insurance. It can help in case of delays, lost luggage or health issues. A small step like this makes the journey stress free.

Focus on the Best Istanbul Experiences

Istanbul is full of unique spots and hidden corners. To enjoy your time fully, make a list of must see attractions. The best Istanbul experiences often include:

• Visiting Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace
• Exploring the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market
• Sampling fresh fish along the Bosphorus
• Taking a ferry ride across continents
• Experiencing a Turkish bath for total relaxation

Some tourists like to view the sunset from Galata Bridge. Others prefer to sit in a quiet cafe drinking Turkish tea. Whatever your choice, try to balance sightseeing with rest breaks.

To make it private, you can have a private tour. A local guide can share with you stories that you cannot find in guidebooks.

Use Public Transport or Arrange Private Transfer

Public transport is well available in Istanbul. Trams, metro, ferries and buses run across the city. The Istanbulkart is an smart card. Fill up card and use it for time saving.

However, most tourists desire comfort. For elderly individuals and children, a private driver is the best. It avoids long walks and packed vehicles. Especially if you are heading to locations out of the city like Sile or Sapanca, a private vehicle is most convenient. Contact us to arrange safe transfer. 

Taste Local Food and Join Culinary Tours

Turkish food is rich and delicious.

• At breakfast, enjoy olives, cheese, eggs, tomatoes and honey.
• At lunch, enjoy kebab, kofte or lentil soup.
• At dinner, enjoy seafood or plates of meze.
• A plate of street food like simit, chestnuts or grilled corn is seen on every corner.
• Do not forget the sweets of Turkey. Enjoy baklava, kunefe or lokum. Turkish tea after meals is also a tradition to enjoy.

Food tours are a fun method of discovering new tastes and observing local culture. To experience Istanbul by flavors, you can arrange a guided tasting walk.

Acquire Simple Local Traditions

• Obvious customs enhance your visit. When visiting mosques, dress conservatively. Women need to carry a scarf. Shoes must be removed before you enter praying rooms.
• Locals will smile and welcome with Merhaba or Selam. Tesekkur ederim (thank you) is appreciated. The majority of locals will assist if you ask politely.
• Cash is still common, especially in small shops or taxis. Carry a mix of cash and cards to be safe.

Go Both Sides of the City

Istanbul has two halves. The European side has most of the historical attractions. The Asian side is more relaxed and neighborhood-like. It is easy and cheap to travel by ferry from Eminonu to Kadikoy. It gives you a different look at the city from the water.

On the Asian side, find bazaars, go for walks along silent streets and enjoy food at local eateries. This part of Istanbul is normally less crowded. It is a great place to witness the routine life of inhabitants. 

Set Aside Time for Relaxation

Whereas landmarks are to be viewed, breaks are also worth it. Spend the afternoon in a traditional-style hammam. Unwind in a tea house on the Bosphorus. Walk along narrow streets in a neighborhood like Balat, Cihangir or Moda.

These places show the real soul of Istanbul. Painted houses, small cafes and friendly smiles create an atmosphere you will never forget.

Why a Guided Tour Can Help

Some travelers enjoy discovering on their own. Others want guided tours. A guide will inform you about history and answer questions. You also avoid waiting in line for tickets.

A guided tour is especially convenient in large sites like Topkapi Palace or Dolmabahce. For food enthusiasts, a guided market walk is a chance to taste and learn at the same time.

If you don't have a lot of time or special requirements, private tours are the easiest. You control your pace and what you view.

Are you ready to make your Istanbul experience one that will be remembered for a lifetime? Contact our team to book private tours, transfers or customized experiences in Istanbul and other places throughout Turkey.