Istanbul

A unique mix of cultures, nationalities and architecture is what attracts tourists from all over the world to Istanbul. Its territory is divided by the Bosphorus Strait. The Old Town of the European part has preserved its medieval appearance , and on the Asian side you can immerse yourself in the local color and get acquainted with the traditions and life of the Turks. To soak up this incredible atmosphere, you need to find and select an online tour to Istanbul. 

✔️ A bit of chronology and facts

The city has been associated with many important events in history. People have lived here since the Neolithic Age. The Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans visited these territories, and later founded the Byzantine Empire. Then the Turks conquered the city, and it became the capital of the Ottoman Empire. After the founding of Turkey, Ankara began to perform its functions, and Istanbul received its current name.

Despite the transfer of the capital, Istanbul remains the main cultural, commercial and tourist city of the country. Travelers from all over the world come here. Prices for holidays in Istanbul are quite different. Everything depends on your wishes, possibilities and interests.

✔️ Entertainment Features

For fans of excursion programs, the former capital has many attractions and museums of various directions. Pay special attention to traditional treats, because this city is ideal for gastronomic tours. The beaches here are also at a high level. And the best hotels in Istanbul constantly receive a lot of positive reviews from their guests

✔️ Possible transfer options

The city has two airports that accept international flights. From there, you can take a regular bus, taxi, or book a private transfer from your hotel if it offers this service. The city is located on both sides of the Bosphorus, so you may need to take a ferry if you choose to stay on the opposite side from the airport.

✔️ Weather conditions

Istanbul is located in the subtropical zone, but due to the northern winds it is often cool here. In summer the city is warm, there is no extreme heat, in winter it is cool and humid. It is best to plan a trip to Istanbul in the spring or autumn, as these are the periods when the temperature is most comfortable for visiting. The most favorable months for a beach holiday are the summer months.

✔️ What to bring back from your trip

Shopping in Istanbul attracts shopping lovers from all over the world. There are large shopping centers with boutiques of world and local brands, and various shops, and many markets - both modern and traditional. You can buy the usual souvenirs - Turkish sweets, tea, coffee, ceramics, hookahs, carpets with national ornaments. Also popular purchases are clothes and leather goods. It is worth visiting the authentic bazaars , even if you are not going to buy anything - their atmosphere seems to transport you to the times of the Ottoman Empire.

✔️ Reasons to buy a tour or trip to Istanbul, search and selection of tours online 

You can take a weekend trip to Istanbul to see some sights and recharge a little. If you have more time, you can fully soak up the spirit of this vibrant city.

▶️ Beach holidays

Istanbul beaches are located on the coasts of two seas - the Marmara and the Black Sea. Tourists have the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable stay.

The most famous places for swimming in the Marmara Sea are in the Asian part of the city, the Kadikoy district. The sea here is shallow, which is why it warms up very well. In Fenerbahce Bay there is a small beach that will appeal to lovers of peace and privacy. The European part is famous for Florya Beach, where there is a large selection of entertainment: water sports, incendiary parties, etc.

The Black Sea coast is famous for its beaches in the Kilyos district and the resort of Şile. On Agva Beach you can not only sunbathe, but also spend time actively - take a yacht ride, test your strength in water sports, go fishing. A more peaceful holiday awaits you in Şile.

The Princes' Islands will delight you with the atmosphere of a real seaside resort. People often buy weekend tours to Istanbul to relax here. Tourists are attracted by the beautiful landscapes, the clear and warm sea, the ecological environment, because transport is prohibited here, you can only travel by bicycle and horse-drawn carriages.

▶️ Ancient landmarks

The city is a real cultural and historical treasure trove. It is definitely worth buying a tour to Istanbul just because of the wealth of attractions. An amazing mix of the past and the modern, European and Asian, active life and tranquility.

Of the interesting architectural attractions, you need to see the Blue Mosque, one of the most magnificent in the world. It was built at the beginning of the 17th century by Sultan Ahmed I in the hope that it would help him defeat his opponents, since he could not win a single battle. Tiles with different floral patterns and stained glass were used to decorate the interior of the cult building. The floor is covered with luxurious hand-made carpets.

The Galati Tower is one of the symbols of the city, it can be seen from many of its corners. The tower was built by the Genoese in the 14th century. It is interesting not only in itself, but also offers a stunning panorama of Istanbul. At the top of the tower, you can also dine in a cozy restaurant, and at the foot - visit a nightclub.

Another place with its own unique atmosphere is the Grand Bazaar. This is one of the largest markets in the world. Its history dates back to the 15th century. Here you can go on a grand shopping spree or just stroll through the shopping arcades, like an interactive museum, and enjoy the oriental spirit, architecture and special aroma, which mixes the smells of spices, sweets, tea, coffee, hookahs and much more.

An amazing example of the fusion of cultures is the Hagia Sophia or the Great Mosque of Hagia Sophia. It was originally built by Christians, but later it was converted into a mosque. The interior and exterior of the religious building harmoniously combine Byzantine and Turkish elements.

If you want to see the buildings of the Byzantine era, visit the Church of St. Irene. It is considered the oldest of those preserved here. The religious building was built in the 4th century, it has survived many destructions and restorations. Inside you will see a sarcophagus, which, according to legend, contains the remains of Emperor Constantine the Great.

▶️ Nature

People come to Istanbul mainly for sightseeing, shopping and relaxing by the sea, but there are also cozy corners of nature here. You can take a break from the bustle of the city in several parks of the city.

Yildiz was once a place where sultans hunted. Today it is accessible to everyone. It has areas with paved paths, flower beds, and there are wilder corners with paths and a variety of trees and bushes.

Gulhane is one of the oldest in the city. Today it attracts with a variety of flowers, tall trees and beautiful landscaping. You will also have the opportunity to admire the views of the city and the sea from the observation deck.

▶️ Additional entertainment

Rest in Istanbul is not only about architecture. To relax after an active day, visit a traditional hammam. Restaurants with national Turkish cuisine will delight you with delicious and hearty dishes. You can have fun in water parks, night clubs, amusement parks. And in the aquarium and oceanarium - enjoy the bright and amazing underwater world.

Istanbul offers a variety of recreation and immersion in a colorful oriental fairy tale. That is why many people choose this city for their vacation.