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  • Writer's pictureJacqlyne Mba-Jonas
    • Apr 29
    • 6 min read

Istanbul Itinerary - Tours and Activities

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, with a long and rich history, dating back to the 7th century BC. The city has been ruled by many different empires over the centuries, including the Byzantine Empire, the Ottoman Empire, and the Republic of Turkey. It is home to many important historical and cultural landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, shopping, or nightlife, Istanbul has something to offer you.


If multiple attractions catch your eye, consider getting a City Pass. Conveniently pick up a City Transport Card when you arrive at the airport so you can easily get around.


Disclaimer

Part of the job of a travel agent is to save clients time and money. I looked through hundreds of tours and picked out the best tours to book in various categories that are both the best in quality and price.


Prices listed below are subject to change. Rates are typically discounted for larger groups and children, so use the links provided to see the exact cost for your specific scenario and book what is of interest to you.

Istanbul Highlights Tour

Admire the exterior architecture of opulent mosques and discover the amazing history of Istanbul with this guided tour.


Duration

2.5 hours

Availability

Everyday at 10:30am

Price

Free!

Alternative


Istanbul's Asian Side

Already visited Istanbul’s famous tourist spots? It’s time to explore the Asian area of Kadikoy like a local and get a perspective as an Istanbulian. Hit up favorite domestic food spots and more!


Duration

8 hours

Availability

Everyday at 9:30am

Price

$95

Alternative


Dolmabahçe Palace & Spice Bazaar Tour

Explore Istanbul's Dolmabahçe Palace on a guided tour with skip-the-line entry and access its Harem section. Lose yourself in the Spice Bazaar and marvel at the Rustempasha Mosque by architect Sinan.


Duration

2 hours

Availability

Everyday at 9:30am and 2:15pm

Price

$40 per person

Alternative

2-Day Trip to Cappadocia with Flights

Explore Cappadocia on a 2-day trip from Istanbul and marvel at the iconic fairy chimneys. Enjoy the convenience of flights, accommodation in a cave hotel, airport transfers, and lunch.


Duration

2 days

Availability

Everyday at 5:30am

Price

$430 per person

Alternative


2-Day Ephesus, Pamukkale, & Hierapolis Tour

Explore Cappadocia on a 2-day trip from Istanbul and marvel at the iconic fairy chimneys. Enjoy the convenience of flights, accommodation in a cave hotel, airport transfers, and lunch.


Duration

2 days

Availability

Everyday at 5am

Price

$496 per person

Alternative


Basilica Cistern Guided Tour

Join a guided tour in the heart of Istanbul’s old town, Sultanahmet, to see the Basilica Cistern. Gain priority museum admission with your professional guide.


Duration

1 hour

Availability

Everyday at 9am and 1pm

Price

$32 per person

Alternative

Princes' Islands Full-Day Tour

Immerse yourself in the history of Istanbul and feel like part of the Ottoman dynasty on a full-day cruise to two of the Princes’ Islands: Kinaliada and Buyukada. The tour also includes a delicious Turkish food tasting and a ride on a golf buggy!


Duration

9 hours

Availability

Everyday at 10am

Price

$25 per person

Alternative


Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Drinks & Turkish Show

Sail on the Bosphorus on this boat tour in Istanbul with dinner, unlimited drinks, and optional hotel transfers. Enjoy cultural performances by whirling dervishes, belly dancers, and folk dancers.


Duration

3 hours

Availability

Everyday at 8:30pm

Price

$45 per person

Alternative


Whirling Dervishes Ceremony and Mevlevi Sema

Experience the Mevlevi Sema ritual at the Kizlaragasi Medrese in the heart of Istanbul. Marvel at the musical performance and hypnotic whirling dervishes during your Turkish vacation.


Duration

1 hour

Availability

Everyday at 7pm

Price

$22 per person

Alternative

Pub Crawl

If you’re in Istanbul on a Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, and looking for the best night out ever join this pub crawl and head to 3 of the top bars, pubs, and clubs in the city and enjoy free admission.


Duration

7 Hours

Availability

Wednesday - Saturday at 9pm

Price

$27 per person

Alternative

Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus - $29 per person


Traditional Turkish Dinner

Enjoy a unique 9 course seasonal sharing menu, created with traditional recipes, paired with raki (Turkey's traditional alcoholic drink), at this friendly dinner in the center of Istanbul.


Duration

4 hours

Availability

Everyday at 8pm

Price

$54 per person

Alternative


Aga Hamami Turkish Bath

Aga Hamami is a historical hammam, also known as Turkish Baths, and one of the oldest in Istanbul. The hammam is beautifully decorated, extremely authentic, and very well priced.


Duration

1 hour

Availability

Everyday from 10am to 3pm

Price

$44 per person

Alternative

Instagram Istanbul Photoshoot

Istanbul visitors hoping to snap some fantastic vacation photos shouldn't settle for smartphone selfies when you can book a photographer to take great photos for you. With this photo shoot experience, just meet-up with your photographer-guide and enjoy a shoot with the iconic buildings in the background.