Exploring the vibrant cultural tapestry of Istanbul has never been easier. The Full Day Old City & Asian Side Tour offers a captivating blend of historical landmarks, architectural wonders, and breathtaking scenery. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to the serene Beylerbeyi Palace, this comprehensive tour promises an immersive experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of this mesmerizing city. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a delectable lunch included, it’s an opportunity to discover the essence of Istanbul’s past and present. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this tour is sure to leave an indelible mark on your memories.
Good To Know
- Comprehensive tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome, providing a deep dive into the city’s cultural heritage.
- Exploration of the Asian side of Istanbul, featuring panoramic views from Camlica Hill, visits to Camlica Mosque and Beylerbeyi Palace, and a crossing over the Bosphorus Bridge.
- Inclusion of all museum entrance tickets, a provided lunch, and air-conditioned transportation with hotel pickup options for a seamless experience.
- Adherence to a modest dress code for mosque visits, with stroller accessibility but no wheelchair access.
- Transparent cancellation policy, allowing for full refunds for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Overview
Istanbul, a unique city straddling Europe and Asia, offers visitors a chance to explore its rich historical and cultural heritage.
This full-day tour takes you to the city’s most iconic sites, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome. Guests will also discover the Asian side of Istanbul, visiting Camlica Hill, a local mosque, and a palace.
The tour includes lunch and museum tickets, ensuring a comprehensive and convenient experience. Comfortable air-conditioned transportation and hotel pickup options make navigating the city hassle-free.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Istanbul, this tour provides an immersive glimpse into the city’s diverse blend of European and Asian influences.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Istanbul.
What’s Included
The tour includes a professional licensed guide to lead the experience throughout the day.
Travelers will have the convenience of an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable transportation. All museum entrance tickets are provided as part of the tour rate.
Lunch is included, though beverages are at the participants’ own expense. Hotel pickup and drop-off on the European Side are available options.
Guests staying at Airbnb or apartments are advised to select a nearby hotel for the pickup. Visitors should note the dress code requirements for mosque visits – shoulders and knees must be covered.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup from hotels begins 1 hour before departure. Customers will receive a message after booking with their specific pickup time.
Pickup is also available from the Cruise Ship Port. Airbnb and apartment guests are advised to select a nearby hotel for pickup.
When visiting mosques, a dress code is enforced, and modest attire covering shoulders and knees is required.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps, and the maximum group size is 18 travelers.
Daily vehicle disinfection is performed for health and safety.
What To Expect
Confirmation is received at the time of booking.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps, and the maximum group size is 18 travelers.
Visitors must adhere to the dress code, which requires covered shoulders and knees for mosque visits.
For health and safety, the vehicle undergoes daily disinfection. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with mobility challenges may find certain aspects challenging.
Guests are advised to review the tour details and requirements before booking to ensure it meets their needs and expectations.
Cancellation Policy
A full refund is available for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance. The cancellation policy is clearly outlined, providing guests with a straightforward process to follow. To ensure refund eligibility, it is important to adhere to the provided timeline.
Cancellation Timeline | Refund Eligibility |
---|---|
Up to 24 hours in advance | Full refund |
Less than 24 hours | No refund |
Rescheduling | Flexible options may be available |
Review Before Booking | Encouraged to review cancellation terms |
Guests are advised to review the cancellation guidelines before booking to understand the policy fully. This promotes transparency and allows for informed decision-making.
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Historical Sites
Steeped in centuries of history, the tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.
Explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque now transformed into a museum showcasing its awe-inspiring architecture and rich religious history.
Next, visit the Blue Mosque, an architectural masterpiece known for its stunning interior adorned with intricate blue tiles.
The tour also includes a stop at the Hippodrome, the former center of Byzantine public life and sports, where ancient monuments and obelisks stand as reminders of the city’s storied past.
These historical sites offer a glimpse into Istanbul’s role as a cultural crossroads between Europe and Asia.
Asian Side Highlights
Crossing the iconic Bosphorus Bridge, the tour immerses visitors in the captivating Asian side of Istanbul.
Key highlights include:
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Visiting the tranquil Camlica Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait.
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Exploring the impressive Ottoman-era Camlica Mosque, known for its striking architectural design.
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Discovering the opulent Beylerbeyi Palace, a summer residence of the Ottoman sultans.
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Strolling through the charming Kuzguncuk neighborhood, renowned for its colorful houses and vibrant local culture.
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Stopping at the historic Maiden’s Tower, an iconic landmark situated on a small island in the Bosphorus.
This comprehensive tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the cultural richness and scenic beauty of Istanbul’s Asian side.
Tour Details
The Istanbul Old City & Asian Side Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage.
It includes professional licensed guiding throughout, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable travel. Museum tickets are included in the tour rate, and a lunch is provided, with beverages at an additional cost.
Hotel pickup and drop-off on the European side are available, and guests staying at Airbnb or apartments are advised to select a nearby hotel. A modest dress code is enforced at the mosques.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, with a maximum group size of 18 travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code enforced at the mosques requires modest attire with shoulders and knees covered. Travelers should dress appropriately for these religious sites to gain entry during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. Lunch is provided, but beverages are at the traveler’s own expense. The tour includes museum tickets and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?
The tour is not suitable for people with disabilities as it is not wheelchair accessible. However, strollers are allowed. Visitors should check with the tour operator for any specific accessibility accommodations.
What Time Does the Tour Start and End?
The tour starts around an hour after hotel pickup, which begins 1 hour before the tour’s scheduled departure. The duration of the tour is not specified, but it’s a full-day activity with several sightseeing stops.
Can I Get a Refund if I Miss the Pickup?
If the traveler misses the pickup, they may be eligible for a partial refund per the tour’s cancellation policy. However, the refund amount and process will depend on the timing of the cancellation request.
The Sum Up
Enjoy Istanbul’s rich heritage with the Full Day Old City & Asian Side Tour. Explore iconic landmarks, cross the Bosphorus Bridge, and discover the city’s stunning Asian side. Enjoy comfortable transportation, professional guidance, and an intimate group setting for an unforgettable day in this captivating city. This comprehensive tour provides the perfect opportunity to experience the best of Istanbul’s history and culture.
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