Things to Do in Istanbul

Enjoy a 2h 15min Bosphorus boat tour departing from Ahırkapı Pier, near Sultanahmet. Start with unique sea views of Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia and Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula, then cruise along the Bosphorus past iconic waterfront landmarks. No prepayment required — pay on board.

Buy your Dolmabahce Palace ticket and tour and get your ticket online and skip the ticket lines at Dolmabahce Palace, enjoy a highlights tour. Highlights Dolmabahce Palace fast track Audioguide in 10 languages Stay inside the Palace as long as you want! We will send you your Dolmabahce Palace ticket via email or WhatsApp. You will get your audio guide and can enjoy the inside of the Dolmabahce Palace at your own pace. You can spend the whole day inside or just have a quick glance on its impressive beauty. The Palace will stun you with its beautiful location at the Bosphorus and its more than 1, 5 Billion USD worth luxury decoration. How the Dolmabahce Tour works: -After your order you will receive your instant confirmation -We will send you your Dolmabahce Palace ticket via email or WhatsApp -The security check can take some time, so please come a bit early. The museum officials will ask for an ID as a deposit for the audio guide, you will get your ID when you return the audio guides at the exit. Important information You will skip the ticket lines, but can not skip the security line. Languages Audioguide available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic and Chinese.

Take a fascinating guided tour through the depths of Istanbul to uncover the secrets of the Basilica Cistern . Skip the queue and immerse yourself in history with your knowledgeable guide. Marvel at the remarkable architecture and see the fascinating Medusa Heads. This underground structure was commissioned by Emperor Justinian and built in

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If you’re looking for places to understand Turkey’s art, architecture, history, culture, and faith, some of the best places to visit are its mosques. With more than 3, 000 mosques in Istanbul alone, we’ll take you on a half-day walking tour of some of the city’s most beloved places of worship. We’ll meet at the Sultanahmet area and stroll to our first mosque, Hagia Sophia . Built-in the sixth century A. D. by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I, this famous mosque was originally an Orthodox Christian cathedral in early day Constantinople (now Istanbul). In its nearly 1, 500 years, this iconic landmark has been used as a Catholic church, mosque, and museum. Up next, we’ll head to the magnificent Blue Mosque . The mosque was originally named The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, after Sultan Ahmed I who built it. Back in the early 1600s, mosques were built only by sultans who had achieved success in war. Despite having no colourful achievements to his name and against his counsellors’ advice, Sultan Ahmed built this grand edifice that would serve as his most lasting legacy. Today, it is nicknamed the Blue Mosque due to the blue hue coming from the blue tiles outlaid in geometric patterns and floral designs in the mosque. Our last stop of the day is Suleymaniye Mosque . Located on the Third Hill of Istanbul, the Suleymaniye was known as the largest mosque in the city for more than 450 years before it was dethroned of its title in

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Ideal for travellers seeking the ultimate Istanbul experience, the Premium Card offers access to the city's most popular attractions such as Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern, as well as comprehensive coverage for public transport, tours and cruises . You also get discounts on additional experiences. Get your card and join the tours whenever you want, on any day! Make your own programme and have fun! Highlight Tours with Official Guide and Audio Guide Discover the Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern with a local specialist! Meet your guide at the entrances, skip the lines and enter the shortest way inside. Save up to 2 hours by not standing in the famous queues. Benefit of the highlight tours, get the most important information and orientation tips how to discover each attraction the best way. Afterwards you can explore each sight on your pace, stay inside as long as you want, listen to the exiting stories in the audio guide and capture amazing pictures. Topkapi Palace Tour duration: 15 minutes Daily except Tuesdays at 09:30, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 Basilica Cistern * Tour duration: 15 minutes Daily at 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 120 Min. Bosphorus Cruise & Audio Guide Our Officer will welcome you at the meeting point and help you on the boat. You will enjoy this breathtaking cruise over the shimmering waters of Istanbul’s magnificent Bosphorus, and admire the cosmopolitan city from a completely different perspective while watching the beautiful views of the Orient and the Occident at the same time. Be ready to explore the highlights between Europe and Asia, pass by Historical Palaces, Fortresses and below the Bosphorus Bridge. Daily cruise times: 12:00, 15:30, 18:30 10 Rides Public Transportation Card Valid at Metro, Tram, Ferry, Funicular, Bus and Metrobus. Inclusions: Tickets Boat Ride Digital guidebook Digital guidebook Guide Audioguide Exclusions: Hagia Sophia entrance Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Once the seat of the powerful Ottoman Empire, today Istanbul is home to more than 14 million people and a diverse range of cultures. Take in architectural masterpieces such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia as your guide leads you to the city’s most spectacular landmarks before finishing the trip at Istanbul’s famous Grand Bazaar. Boasting over 4, 000 shops and tiny cafés under its roof, it is believed to have the most individual stalls of any marketplace in the world. Begin your tour by driving to the very heart of old Istanbul, Sultanahmet Square. Once the sporting and social center of Constantinople with a huge horseracing circuit, it is now a beautiful square in the heart of the city and still contains relics of the original structure. Tour its key points and learn about the atmospheric events that would regularly take place here. Proceed to the Blue Mosque, one of the most striking buildings in the city and one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. With its domes, secondary domes, and minarets, the mosque is a striking visual spectacle and its blue-tiled interior provides its nickname. Next head to Hagia Sophia, considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture. Having been used as both a cathedral and a mosque, the vast and intricate building is now a fascinating museum. Finish your unforgettable city tour at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, renowned for its multitude of stores and stalls. Browse the vast array of goods on display and make sure to barter and haggle the price with the stall owners! Important information – There may be restrictions Hagia Sofia ticket is included only if the option "Tour with ticket" is selected Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. As mosques are closed on Fridays, there will only be external visits on that day. Inclusions: Guide Admission, only if the option is selected Pick-up available from the hotel. Exclusions: Drop off at the hotel. Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

On this 30-minute tour, visit the 4th-century Basilica Cistern and discover the mystery of the Medusa heads from Greek mythology. Visit the Basilica Cistern, built in the 4th century and enlarged in 532 AD, which was used for water storage during the Byzantine period. Listen to your guide explain the mystery of the Medusa heads from Greek mythology. Explore this cathedral-sized cistern built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in 532 AD to supply water to the Great Palace. It stores up to 80, 000 cubic metres of water, brought by 20 kilometres of aqueducts from a reservoir near the Black Sea. Descend the fifty-two stone steps to the entrance of the cistern. The cistern is surrounded by a 4-metre-thick wall of firebricks coated with a waterproofing mortar. Hear how the water of the Basilica Cistern comes from the Eğrikapı Water Distribution Centre in the Belgrade Forest and travels through the 971-metre-long Valens Aqueduct and the 115-metre-long Mağlova Aqueduct, built by the Emperor Justinian. Book your spot today and get ready for an exciting day filled of history and exploration!

Enjoy an unforgettable day tour in Istanbul covering most of what the city has to offer. Istanbul is always associated with the very famous Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia but with this off the beaten track tour, you will visit some of the most beautiful mosques of the city along with the unmissable Spice bazaar with an afternoon cruise on the Bosphorus. On this tour our first stop will be the Süleymaniye Mosque , built on the third hill of historic Istanbul is one of the largest mosques in the city and designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan , also Sultan Süleyman's Tomb which is located inside the Süleymaniye Mosque complex and is made up of an octagonal plan. He rests between his daughter and brother. That is followed by, Hürrem Sultan´s Tomb, the wife of Sultan Süleyman, and she located adjacent to his Tomb, in the courtyard of the Süleymaniye Mosque. You will then wander to the Architect Sinan´s Tomb, as the architect of the Süleymaniye Mosque, his tomb is located just north of the Sultan´s. From there we will then visit Rüstem Paşa Mosque, which is an ottoman mosque also designed by the architect Mimar Sinan. We then make our way to the Spice bazaar, the most famous covered shopping complex after the Grand Bazaar before stopping for lunch. You will then emark on the famous Bosphorus Cruise in the afternoon and take in all the sights the city has to offer. Finally the last stop is the Pierre Loti Hill Park with the bonus experience of a cable car ride. Important information - There may be restrictions Grand Bazaar (One of the largest covered markets in the world) is closed on Sundays and replaced with authentic shops around the area. Inclusions: Lunch Cable car ticket Hotel pick-up and drop-off for selected hotels Boat Ride Guide Exclusions: Drinks Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. ;As this tour involves a fair amount of walking, please wear comfortable shoes. Redeem Info: VOCUHERLESS - Printed voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Second in size only to Rome in antiquity, Ephesus is a treasure trove of ruins that include one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and the last home of the Virgin Mary. This full-day tour will allow you to explore this vast outdoor museum that has been at the crossroads of history for thousands of years. Ephesus is in the south west of Turkey and to reach it you can choose either an early morning flight to Izmir or a coach journey to Kusadasi the night before. At Ephesus, which was a major city in ancient Greece and rose to even greater prominence during Roman times, we will stroll along the Marble Street, the Odeon theatre, Odeon, the Bouleuterion, the Temple of Hadrian and Serapis, the Agoras, the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre – believed to have been the largest in the ancient world - the Double Church, the Arcadian Way, the Gate of Magnesia and much more. Then we’ll visit Mount Koressos to see the house that is believed to have been the last home of Our Lady. It is now a shrine and there is also a wishing wall where the faithful and the not-so-faithful leave requests. We’ll take a break for lunch at Selcuk, the city close to these ancient sites, before continuing the tour at the historic Isabey Mosque and the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Afterwards, you will return to Ⅰzmir for an evening flight or to Kusadasi for the night bus to Istanbul. Includes round trip plane or bus tickets, transfers to and from central hotels, English-speaking professional guide (other languages are available on request), lunch, museum entrance. Excludes drinks and transfer from the bus station to the hotel (in the bus package) in Is tanbul at the end of the tour. Languages: English. Inclusions: Lunch Guide Tickets Hotel pick-up Transportation between sites Entrance fee Exclusions: Hotel drop-off Drinks Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Day 1| Arrival in Istanbul and leisure time Upon arrival at the airport, you´ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After checking in and settling into your room, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Take this opportunity to explore the vibrant surroundings of your hotel, soak in the local atmosphere or simply relax and unwind in preparation for the exciting day ahead. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in İstanbul with breakfast included. Day 2| A tour of Istanbul´s classics plus Tokapi Palace and Hagia Irene After breakfast, embark on a half-day guided tour of Istanbul´s historic heart . Highlights include an exterior visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia , followed by stops at the Sultan Ahmet Center , the stunning Blue Mosque and the ancient Hippodrome , where you´ll see the Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpentine Column and the German Fountain of Wilhelm II. The tour concludes at the bustling Grand covered Bazaar , a treasure trove of local crafts, textils and souvenirs. After that, we'll have lunch at a Turkish restaurant. Then, we'll venture to the magnificent Topkapi Palace , a stunning representation of Ottoman imperial grandeur. Situated on the historic penninsula of Istanbul , the palace offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. As you stroll through the palace´s courtyards and gardens, you´ll learn about the Ottoman Empire´s history , its rulers and its lavish court life. The highlights include the imperial treasury, where you´ll fins priceless artifacts such as the Tokapi Dagger and numerous dazzling jewels. You´ll also visit the Sacred Relics Room , which contains revered Islamic relics, including items believed to have belonged to the Prophet Muhammed. The palace´s exquisite tiles, decorative arts, and architecture showcase the fusionof Ottoman and Islamic design, with intricate craftsmanship and elegant interiors. Afer exploring Tokapi Palace your tour continues with a visit to Hagia Irene , an early Byzantine church that holds great historical significance. Located just outside palace walls, Hagia Irene was built in the 4th century and remains one of the few Byzantine structures in Istanbul that was never converted into a mosque. The church´s soaring columns, peaceful atmosphere and Byzantine mosaics create a sense of awe. The structure was originally a Christian basilica and played an important role during the Byzantine Empire. During the Ottoman period, it was used as a military warehouse but retained its christian character. Today, it serves as a museum and concert hall, maintaining much of its original charm and beauty . Its tranquil environment makes it a perfect contrast to the lively Tokapi Palace. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in İstanbul with breakfast included. Day 3| Exploration through the heart of Istanbul Get a bird's-eye view of the Golden Horn from the bus, the arm of the Bosphorus and a natural harbour of the historical peninsula separating the old and the new parts of Şehir where the first colonies settled during the Byzantines. This area was home to Byzantine Jews, Italian traders and other non-Muslim minorities. Then, as you drive along the traces of history in Balat, you'll get to see the incredible Metal Church of St. Stephen the Bulgarian, the Jewish Hospital (Or-Ahayim), the Fener Orthodox Patriarchate and the 22 km-long Byzantine City Walls , the strongest fortification of the Middle Ages! After the scenic drive, your morning begins with a visit to the vibrant Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar), one of Istanbul´smost colourful and aromatic markets. Wander through the lively stalls filled with exotic spices, herbs, Turkish delights, dried fruits and local handicrafts. The rich scents and bustling energy offer an unforgettable sensory experience. Next, you´ll head to the Bosphorus for a scenic cruise along the strait that separates Europe and Asia. As you glide through the water, take in the breathtaking views of historic palaces, Ottoman mansions and charming villages lining both shores. A highlight of the cruise is the sight of the Rumeli Fortress , a mafnificent 15th-century structure built by Sultan Mehmed II before his conquest of Constantinople. The fortress, with its imposing towers and strategic location, stands as a powerful reminder of the city´s storied past. We will visit a leather showroom if time permits and the stop for lunch at a Turkish Restaurant. Welcome to the awe-inspiring Dolmabahçe Palace , the opulent residence of the Ottoman Sultans! Built by the renowned architects Karabet and Nikogos Balyan, this magnificent complex spans an impressive 110, 000 m². Once the bustling administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire, this palace is a true testament to the rich history and cultural splendour of Istanbul. The palace is home to an awe-inspiring collection of European antiquities, furniture and a whopping

4. 5 tons chandelier. With 285 rooms and 46 halls, it's a true architectural marvel. And just wait until you experience the Bosphorus Bridge, a unique opportunity to transition from one continent (Europe) to another (Asia) in the blink of an eye! On Camlıca Hill , you can experience the most breathtaking sunset and the widest bird's eye panoramic view of İstanbul from Marmara Sea to the Black Sea . Get ready for the experience of a lifetime as you soar high above the city, witnessing the majestic Bosphorus and Golden Horn from one of the highest and most appealing places of the city. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in İstanbul with breakfast included. Day 4| Free day in Istanbul and a Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you choose to explore Istanbul´s charming neighbourhoods, indulge in a traditional turkish bath or simply relax at a cafewith a view, the day is all about leisure and discovery. In the evening, embark on a magical dinner cruise along the bosphorus , where East meets West. Enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by unlimited local drinks and an entertaining folklore show, showcasing traditional music and dance from across Turkey - all set against the shimmering backdrop of istanbuls illuminated skyline. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in İstanbul with breakfast included. Day 5| Farewell Istanbul Enjoy a a relaxed final morning at your own pace - perfect for a quiet stroll through nearby streets, some last-minute shopping or simply savouring a final cup of Turkish tea while soaking in the atmosphere. Whether you choose to re visit a favourite spot or discover a hidden corner of the city, this free time is yours to enjoy. In the afternoon, you´ll be met for your transfer to Istanbul International Airport, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your journey through this vibrant and historic city. Accommodation options: 4-star hotel: Tryp by Whyndham Dolapdere, Carlton, Radisson Blu President, Zurich, Barin or similar. 5-star hotel: Akgun Istanbul, Barcelçó Eresin, Whydham Old City, Elite World, Gran Cevahir or similar.

Join the only cruise in Istanbul where you can see both the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus! After sightseeing at Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, relax on this 120-minute Golden Horn and Bosphorus cruise. Meet your guide at the Topkapi Cafe and walk together to the pier behind Hagia Sophia. Explore the Golden Horn and 32km of the Bosphorus. See Istanbul's main attractions, including magnificent palaces, ancient castles, famous hills and parks, and spectacular seaside residences from different centuries, as you pass under famous bridges. You will pass Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, Rumeli Fortress and Beylerbeyi Palace. You will also see historical landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Maiden Tower and Galata Tower from a distance. Book your spot today and get ready for an amazing experience! Inclusions: Guide Canal Cruise Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Located conveniently near Boarding Gate 206 in Domestic Departures Level at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, Plaza Premium Lounge is your perfect lounge of choice whether it’s for business or leisure travels. Experience lounging with a panoramic runway view, and enjoy a variety of lounge comforts designed to elevate your travel experience with comfortable seating, spacious dining area and delights from Turkish to International cuisines. Services and Facilities Food and Beverage:

• Offers an array of dining delights including Turkish and International cuisines

The thermal waters continue to attract thousands of visitors every year, making it one of the most visited attractions in Turkey. The natural phenomenon of limestone pools and be enchanted by its charm. Pamukkale, meaning literally in Turkish is ” Cotton Castle ” consists of a series of limestone terraces formed by the action of the hot springs that create a waterfall. The water contains a high concentration of carbonic acid and lime, which emerges as the particles settle and form these unique terraces, and falls as it flows downhill form stalactites, waterfalls and basins. There are only a handful of these strange formations around the planet, and you have to see to believe. The contrast with the rest of the landscape is breathtaking. Nearby are the ruins of Hierapolis, where the Roman baths converted into a church during the Byzantine period, the Baths and the Roman Theater and a well-preserved ancient thermal baths, which have been restored and turned into an archaeological museum. Inclusions: Lunch Guide Transfer Flight Entrance fee Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Istanbul always causes a striking impression and then leaves a dear lasting memory for its unparalleled mix of Western and Middle Eastern culture, being the city that bridges the European and the Asian continents. Begin by being driven to the nucleus of the Old City: Sultanahmet Square. You are then taken to explore the thrilling Hippodrome, which used to host chariot races in the days of the Byzantine Empire. Then head over to the sprawling and awe-inspiring construction of the Blue Mosque, one of the most impressive sights in the city. After the Blue Mosque, head over to another colossal god-fearing construction: the Hagia Sophia, one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture. Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch before continuing to the Topkapi Palace, one of the single most popular attractions in the whole of Istanbul. It stands on Seraglio Point, also known as Sultanahmet. This 15th century palace was the residence of many of the wealthiest sultans and their respective harems. Later on, visit the tombs of these very sultans in one of the most beautiful examples of 16th century Ottoman architecture; its red, green, purple and blue flower motives will fill you with awe. Round the day off with a visit to one of the largest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar and its more than 4, 000 shops; a true Istanbul experience. Important information – There may be restrictions Tickets are included only for the selected option Please note that the Grand Bazar is closed on Sundays. In this instance you will visit a traditional and authentic shop located near the Grand Bazaar. Hagia Sopha closed on Mondays and replaced with Underground Cistern. Topkapi palace Museum closed on Tuesdays, visit replaced with Tour to Byzantium. Blue Mosque closed on Fridays morning. Inclusions: Guide Lunch Transport Admission, only if the option is selected Important Info: Please be advised that the Tour may be given in several languages. Please provide the hotel name at the moment of reservation. Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Highlights • First Christian cathedral in the world • Enjoy exploring Hagia Sophia • Unlimited stay inside • Audio guide on your own smartphone in 10 languages Buy your Hagia Sophia Ticket Online, enjoy benefit of the audioguide App! Hagia Sophia is a monumental building, which was for 1. 000 years the biggest Church on Earth and since 1453 converted into a Mosque. We will give you your Hagia Sophia entrance ticket and audioguide online. You will stay inside for as long as you wish and enjoy Hagia Sophia and with your audio guide you will not miss any historical information about this monumental building, which was for 1. 000 years the biggest Church on Earth and since 1453 converted into a Mosque. Important Information To save time, you should have the audiotour downloaded on your phone before you visit Hagia Sophia. How does it work After your order you will receive a confirmation with the meeting point at the Hagia Sophia, and the download details for our Hagia Sophia Audio App. Languages Audioguide App available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic and Chinese.