2-Day Istanbul Sightseeing and Food Tasting Tour
Escape from the bustle of your city and discover the highlights of Istanbul in two days. You will travel down Turkey's timeline and sense its history, dating back to the Byzantine Empire, take a ferry between Asia and Europe, walk in a local bazaar, and taste the local cuisine.
Days
2
Price
US$499 p/p
Best For
First-timers
Best Time
All year round
Tour Highlights
We have just returned from an amazing trip to Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Our travel adviser Albee Ning prepared a wonderful itinerary taking us to great locations with creative activities highlighting local culture.
We traveled with Asia Highlights (Lissie was our agent) several years ago when we went to Saigon, and the experience was so positive, we automatically went to Asia Highlights again for an extensive trip to Southeast Asia.
Itinerary Details
The itinerary below is only a typical sample and you may alter any aspect of it. Tell us your needs and our travel advisors will tailor-make it to meet your requirements.
Meals provided: lunch
Istanbul, located in the west of Turkey, is the only city to have served as the capital of three empires and to have land in both Europe and Asia. The Old Town of Istanbul, also known as the Historical Peninsula, is the oldest part of the city and is a must for travelers.
Upon arrival in the morning, your guide would meet you at the airport and escort you to discover the Historical Peninsula. You would first head to the Hippodrome, where you can see the Obelisk of Theodosius (approximately 3,500 years old) is still in excellent condition. Have a short break there.
Then, we would then enter both the Blue Mosque, which is the only mosque with six minarets, and the Hagia Sophia that is officially known as the Noble Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and was formerly known as the Church of Holy Wisdom. Hold your breath and step quietly into Turkey's legendary history. Of course, your guide would be glad to answer any of your questions.
After experiencing the local cuisine for lunch, we would visit Topkapi Palace, which is the largest palace in the area and is now a large museum. Witness the captivating treasures there, and listen to engrossing stories about the rich sultans in ancient times.
Optional trip to enrich your tour
Night club & restaurant (food, music, folklore show, and belly dance):You will enjoy an evening with a delicious full course meal of fineTurkish cuisine.Be entertained byclass acts of music and dance in traditionalsurroundings. This feast for the senses is presented in an orientalatmosphere, where you can discover the delights of Turkish musicalinstruments, a typical folk orchestra, and experience a danceextravaganza focusing on the traditions of Turkish and Anatolian folklore,including belly dancing.
Meals provided: breakfast and lunch
You are recommended to try a traditional Turkish breakfast at your hotel, though ordinary breakfast is available too. Your guide would be happy to help you order.
After breakfast, we would explore the Spice Bazaar, which is one of the oldest markets in Istanbul, famous for its numerous spices and dry fruits.
Then, we would walk to the pier for a cruise of about 1½ hours that crosses the Bosphorus, visiting both Europe and Asia with stops en route for you to take photos of sights with natural beauty and attractive architecture.
After the cruise, we would drive you to the Asian side of Istanbul to explore bustling Kadikoy Market, which sells various delicious foods. Your exquisite lunch would be arranged there. After lunch, your guide and driver would then escort you to the airport for your departure. We hope you have great memories of this magical place and wish you a happy journey home!
Trip Notes
Each part of the itinerary above can be customized. Feel free to let us know your preferences and we will be pleased to adjust the elements for you.
Accommodation
Many types of accommodation are available including 5-star hotels, superior 4-star hotels, the best value 3-star hotels, or popular boutique hotels in various Turkish styles. We will select the perfect one for you.
Transportation
You will have a private vehicle with air-conditioning for transfers between attractions, hotels, and airports.
Meals
Lunches are prepared in local restaurants for you to taste authentic Turkish food. Please tell us your special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, Indian, gluten-free, or halal. Your guide will take care of it for you.
Price Includes
Price from: $499 (tour code: gh-tk-6)
Why Travel with Global Highlights During the Pandemic
- Tailor-made experience: All of your ideas/needs will be carefully considered to create your ideal trip.
- Worry-free planning: Your 1:1 travel consultant in Asia will take all the uncertainty out of your planning, helping you navigate any travel restrictions.
- No-risk booking: 100% refund policy! (prior to 3 weeks before departure, more details)
