Istanbul, Turkey
Boat Trips
Istanbul, Turkey
Boat Trips
All Boat Tours
Best Things To Do
1. Explore the Historic Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is the oldest covered market in the world, featuring over 4,000 shops. This bustling market offers a wide range of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and antiques, making it a must-visit attraction in Istanbul.
2. Bosphorus River Cruise
Take a scenic cruise down the iconic Bosphorus River. Choose from party boats, sunset dinner cruises, or relaxing tours to nearby islands, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline and landmarks.
3. Stroll Down Istiklal Street
Visit Istanbul’s most famous street, Istiklal. This vibrant, cobbled street is lined with stunning architecture, cafes, restaurants, and a variety of shops, perfect for a leisurely day out.
4. Museums
Explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture through its excellent museums. Must-visit sites include the Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul Archaeological Museum, and the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.
5. Escape to Belgrad Forest
Located north of the city, Belgrad Forest is a beautiful park popular among both tourists and locals. It offers numerous walking and biking trails, as well as a quad bike safari for an adventurous day out.
6. Turkish Baths
Experience the ultimate relaxation in one of Istanbul’s famous Hammams. These traditional Turkish baths, such as Çemberlitaş Hammam and Mihrimah Sultan Hamamı, offer a unique way to unwind and rejuvenate.
7. Climb the Galata Tower
This historic 14th-century watchtower offers unmatched panoramic views of Istanbul. Climbing to the top is a must for capturing breathtaking photos of the city.
8. Take an Istanbul Food Tour
Indulge in a culinary adventure with an Istanbul food tour. Taste the city’s renowned cuisine and spices while learning about the local culture and culinary traditions.
9. Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic buildings, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful interior. It’s a must-see landmark for any visitor to the city.
10. Attend a Football Match
Istanbul is home to Turkey’s top football teams: Beşiktaş, Galatasaray, and Fenerbahçe. Watching a match in this football-mad city is an unforgettable experience for sports fans.
Best Things To Do
1. Explore the Historic Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is the oldest covered market in the world, featuring over 4,000 shops. This bustling market offers a wide range of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and antiques, making it a must-visit attraction in Istanbul.
Best to visit early to avoid crowds; haggling is expected.
2. Bosphorus River Cruise
Take a scenic cruise down the iconic Bosphorus River. Choose from party boats, sunset dinner cruises, or relaxing tours to nearby islands, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline and landmarks.
Book in advance during peak season to secure the best seats.
3. Stroll Down Istiklal Street
Visit Istanbul’s most famous street, Istiklal. This vibrant, cobbled street is lined with stunning architecture, cafes, restaurants, and a variety of shops, perfect for a leisurely day out.
Best visited in the evening when the street comes alive with lights and performances.
4. Museums
Explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture through its excellent museums. Must-visit sites include the Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul Archaeological Museum, and the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.
Purchase a Museum Pass Istanbul for convenient access to multiple museums.
5. Escape to Belgrad Forest
Located north of the city, Belgrad Forest is a beautiful park popular among both tourists and locals. It offers numerous walking and biking trails, as well as a quad bike safari for an adventurous day out.
Ideal for a picnic or a peaceful nature walk; visit early in the day to enjoy the tranquility.
6. Turkish Baths
Experience the ultimate relaxation in one of Istanbul’s famous Hammams. These traditional Turkish baths, such as Çemberlitaş Hammam and Mihrimah Sultan Hamamı, offer a unique way to unwind and rejuvenate.
Reserve your session in advance, especially on weekends.
7. Climb the Galata Tower
This historic 14th-century watchtower offers unmatched panoramic views of Istanbul. Climbing to the top is a must for capturing breathtaking photos of the city.
Tickets start from 7 Euros; consider visiting at sunset for the best views.
8. Take an Istanbul Food Tour
Indulge in a culinary adventure with an Istanbul food tour. Taste the city’s renowned cuisine and spices while learning about the local culture and culinary traditions.
Choose a tour that includes a variety of stops to experience a wide range of flavors.
9. Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic buildings, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful interior. It’s a must-see landmark for any visitor to the city.
This is an active place of worship, there is a dress code and tourists should dress accordingly.
10. Attend a Football Match
Istanbul is home to Turkey’s top football teams: Beşiktaş, Galatasaray, and Fenerbahçe. Watching a match in this football-mad city is an unforgettable experience for sports fans.
Purchase tickets in advance, and be prepared for passionate crowds and an electrifying atmosphere.
Top Tips
1.
Istanbul Megapass
This pass offers tourists free access to various attractions as well as free public transport.
2.
Where to Stay
Sultanahmet is popular for its proximity to iconic sights, while Taksim Square offers a more vibrant atmosphere.
3.
Europe vs Asia
Istanbul is divided by the Bosphorus Strait, with the European side housing major sights and the Asian side offering local culture.
4.
Embrace the Chaos
Istanbul is busy and chaotic year-round, so be prepared for bustling streets and crowded attractions.
5.
Utilize Public Transport
Istanbul has excellent public transportation options, with the metro being particularly efficient for getting around.
6.
Beware of Tourist Scams
Common scams include the shoe cleaning scam, carpet shop scam, and taxi scam, so stay vigilant.
7.
Safety
Istanbul is generally safe, but tourists should be cautious of theft and pickpockets.
8.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Istanbul is during spring and shoulder months when the weather is most pleasant.
9.
Currency
While Euros are accepted in some places, the official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira.
10.
Tipping Etiquette
It is customary to tip 10-15% in restaurants while visiting Istanbul.