Istanbul Tour Packages | Upto 40% Off

Istanbul Tour Packages - If you are looking for a fantastic trip to one of the most magical lands in Western Asia, Thrillophilia’s Istanbul tour packages can craft your ultimate getaway! Our packages start from just INR 70,760 for 7 days and can go up to INR 1,20,000 for 12 days, promising you a seamless experience with expert guidance. Not just that, whether you are seeking a romantic trip with your partner or a wholesome trip with your family, our wide range of 30+ packages is sure to cater to all your interests.

Our hand-curated Istanbul packages include accommodations, transfers, select meals, and guided sightseeing tours.  If you're planning a romantic escape, our Istanbul honeymoon packages offer special touches like private experiences and charming stays You can also customise the packages and change activities or excursions of your choice, and even choose the accommodation that suits your style and preferences. Our well-connected on-ground vendor network and 24/7 customer support further enhance your vacation experience by catering to all your queries and requirements.

Istanbul is a place where dreamscapes come alive with a tinge of history and culture. Places like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Galata Tower, and Dolma Bache Palace are some of the best ones to explore here. Also, you can go for a great shopping experience at the Istanbul market, acquiring unique spices, ceramics, and rugs as souvenirs. Also, if you are visiting Istanbul with our Turkey tour packages this spring, make sure to attend the Istanbul Tulip Festival as well! Furthermore, if you really wish to indulge in some adventure activities like hot air balloon rides or Bosphorus cruise rides, Thrillophilia can arrange it all for you!

With the opportunity of direct departures from Delhi and Mumbai, getting to Turkey is quite an easy feat. So, get your visa, pack your bags, and get ready to make your dream vacation come true with our Istanbul holiday packages!

You can explore Istanbul through Thrillophilia's various tour packages available from different cities across India, including Istanbul tour packages from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and more. These packages are designed to enhance your Istanbul experience with Thrillophilia.

Visa Requirements

Indians can avail of two forms of tourist visas to travel with Istanbul vacation packages and explore its ancient marvels-

Type of Visa required-

1. E-Visa- For Indians who have a valid visa or residential permits from the UK, the US, Ireland or the Schengen areas (Single entry)

2. Sticker Visa- For most Indian tourists visiting Istanbul, a sticker tourist visa is mandatory (Single or multiple entry)

Processing time-

For E-Visa- 3 to 5 days

Sticker Visa- 10 to 15 days

Processing Fee-

E-visa- Approximately INR 4,500

Sticker visa- Around INR 17,500

Validity-

E-visa- 180 days with a stay period of 30 days

Sticker Visa- 90 days with stays up to 90 days

Documents required-

• Completed visa application form
• Valid passport with 6 months' validity from the date of departure
• Return Ticket and proof of accommodation
• 2 recent passport-size photos
• Travel insurance
• Bank Statements
• Detailed travel itinerary
• Police clearance certificate
• Invitation letter (if you have anybody residing in Turkey)

Tips- 

Make sure you have at least two pages for a visa stamp on the passport

Submit valid and up-to-date documents to acquire a visa and travel with Istanbul vacation packages.

Best Time to visit Istanbul

Istanbul is a year-round destination and the best time to consider booking Istanbul holiday packages completely depends upon your seasonal preferences and schedule.

Peak Season: The months between May and September are considered to be the peak season in Istanbul. During these periods of the year, the weather of Istanbul is pleasant with little or no humidity. This is the perfect time for tourists to enjoy outdoor activities like sightseeing at historical places and going on a beach day out as a part of the Istanbul tour packages. You are suggested to plan your trip and book your hotels and flights well in advance if planning to visit in peak season.

Shoulder Season: From March to April and October to November, Istanbul experiences its shoulder season. This is the time when you can enjoy cool weather and soak in the sight of blooming tulips everywhere. This is the perfect time to enjoy sightseeing, walking, as well as food tours in the city with the Istanbul vacation packages.

Waning Season: The months between December and February are considered to be the waning season in Istanbul. However, if you want to experience snowfall and enjoy the cold weather, this is the perfect time for you to book your Istanbul trip package and visit the place. This is also the time when you will get your flight tickets and hotel charges lower compared to the rest of the year.

How to reach Istanbul:

By Air: You can book direct flights to Istanbul when booking your trip with the Istanbul packages. The Istanbul airport has frequent flights to and from major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. Travellers arriving at the airport can easily access taxis, buses, airport transfer shuttles, or private vehicles to get to their final destination.

1. Direct Flights:

• From Mumbai and Delhi
• To Istanbul, Turkey
• Airlines- Turkish Airlines and IndiGo.

2. Connecting Flights:

• From Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad
• To Istanbul, Turkey
• Airlines- Air India, Flynas, Air Arabia, Oman Air, Kuwait Airlines, and EgyptAir.

Places To Visit on the Istanbul Tour:

Experience the rich culture and history by exploring the top places to visit in Istanbul, from its charming neighbourhoods to its scenic waterfronts and lively bazaars.

1. Hagia Sophia: A Timeless Marvel

Hagia Sophia is one of the most promising Byzantine architecture of its time. The building had once been a cathedral which later turned into a mosque and now it is the most prominent museum of Turkey. Hagia Sophia is the first place that is included in Istanbul packages. The museums are a popular place for admiring the marble pillars and coverings. The mosaic exhibits and mystic wishing column with a marvellous marble door that gains most of the tourists' attention.

2. Basilica Cistern: The Underground Wonder

The Basilica Cistern is the most fascinating architecture in Istanbul. Constructed in the 6th century, the underground structure was meant as a bug water storage for the Byzantine emperors, however, now the place serves as a tourist attraction. The spectacular carvings on the underground pillars are worth seeing. The pillar with the head of Medusa carved on it is a lot of tourist attraction and a must-visit site in Turkey for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike.

3. Istanbul Modern Museum: A Contemporary Gem

The Istanbul Modern Museum is a must-include place on your bucket list of Istanbul tours. Besides the many historic monuments and architecture in Istanbul, this museum boasts modern Turkish art. The huge art gallery regularly hosts many exhibitions for local and international artists. It is the best place to sink in contemporary Turkish art.

4. Rüstem Pasha Mosque: A Hidden Treasure

The Rüstem Pasha Mosque is underrated but this mosque has got brilliance and tranquility in abundance. You can enjoy the peace of this place and wander around exploring the beauty of the mosque and must include this in your Istanbul tour packages. The panel of green, red and blue Iznik tiles covering the walls of the mosque is soothing to the eyes. As the mosque is snuggled in the spice bazaar, it is sometimes difficult to locate. Therefore, the place is less crowded and gives you an opportunity to get a closer look at the marvellous mosque.

5. Blue Mosque: A Symbol of Grandeur

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 and is famous for its turquoise blue tiles on the interior. The mosque is not only a prime tourist attraction but also has religious importance. The Blue Mosque has six minarets similar to Mecca and thus upon its completion, it immediately became the talk of the town. The location of the mosque is more fascinating as there is a sprawling garden between Sultan Ahmet Mosque and Aya Sofya which is a great place to relax your day. Directly behind the mosque is the popular Arasta Bazaar to shop around and have fun. So, don't forget to get this in your Istanbul travel packages.

6. Topkapi Palace: Ottoman Splendor

The Topkapi Palace built in the 15th century by Mehmet was ruled by the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire until the 19th century. The architecture is now used as a magnificent display of Islamic art. The palace not only presents an insight into Islamic history through the art but the interiors of the Harem, Imperial Council Chamber and Palace Kitchens are proof of the affluence of the Sultans. The grandeur of Topkapi Palace adds charm to the Istanbul packages.

7. Süleymaniye Mosque: A Masterpiece of Magnificence

With Istanbul trip packages visit a masterpiece of the Ottoman Empire. Built by the Sinan during 1549 and 1575, the Süleymaniye Mosque glorified the reign of Suleyman the Magnificent. The lofty dome of 53 meters and the serene gardens in front entices a lot of tourists. Outside the garden are the tombs of the Sultan and his wife Haseki Hurrem Sultan. The grandeur of this place is unmatchable as it emblazons the greatness of the Ottoman Sultan.

8. Dolmabahçe Palace: Elegance Redefined

With Istanbul holiday packages visit the Dolmabahçe Palace which boasts the Ottoman Empire and the Turkish Renaissance. This palace was built in 1854 by Sultan Abdulmecid and replaced the Topkapi Palace which used to be the old home of Sultans in Istanbul.

The grand gardens decorated with pompous fountains and the interiors flooded with crystal chandeliers, gold, and french furniture is enough to get an idea about the opulent Sultans of the 19th century. The interior of the palace is embellished the Neoclassical, Ottoman and Baroque elements.

9. Grand Bazaar: A Shopper’s Paradise

Istanbul undoubtedly attracts many history buffs and religious devotees for its museums, mosques, and cathedral. However, Istanbul tour packages never miss out on the most important ingredient, shopping! The Grand Bazaar truly satisfies its name for its massive covered area which is another reason why it is considered to be the world’s first mall. The mall was constructed in the era of Mehmed the Conqueror and has an intriguing history. The place has 11 grand entrances and different sections for everything. It is indeed an ideal Bazaar to get a Turkish souvenir. You can get your hands on some of the best souvenirs of Istanbul including ceramics, Turkish Lamps, and Kilim Rugs. Apart from that, there are vendors selling Turkish tea, Nazar eye ornaments and spices.

10. Istanbul Archaeology Museum: A Journey Through Time

The Istanbul Archaeology Museum is one of the prime museums to visit on an Istanbul trip. The three main sections of the museum, The Museum of Ancient Orient, the main Archaeology Museum and the Tiled Pavilion of Mehmed the Conqueror present a ravishing insight into the ceramic art and Turkish artefacts.

Things To Do on the Istanbul Trip:

Here are some of the best things to do in Istanbul:

1. Visit a Turkish Hamam: 

here is no better place to refresh your mind and soul with a relaxing bath than a Turkish Hamam and this is the best thing to do on Istanbul tours. These Hamams had been an integral part of the Ottoman Empire and Islam for a long time. This traditional culture is still carried out with a tinge of modernity and is considered a great source of rejuvenation.

Your experience of a Hamam will start as you ease into the steam bath lying on the hot marble floor and after that, you get a full-body scrub and a massage. There are many modern Hamams but the oldest ones which are the most famous in the city are Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam and Kiliç Ali Pasa Hamam.

2. Eat with the Locals: 

Eating local food and eating with the locals are two completely different experiences. Many tourist cities in the world offer the taste of local cuisines however, in your Istanbul tour package you can get an opportunity to mingle with the locals and dine with them. In Istanbul, you can book your dinner with a local family and visit their home to gobble the traditional flavour, get involved in lively conversations and know more about their culture.

3. Experience the Nightlife: 

In the day you can visit the mosques and museums and at night you can mix up with the sprightly colours of Bars and nightclubs. There are many places to enjoy in Istanbul at night such as Beyoglu and Ortakoy where the clubs are open till late.

There are numerous nightclubs serving alcohol and playing loud music but if you are looking to get moved by the local flavour then you must search for the ones that are buzzing with Turkish rock music. Going to a club in Istanbul is a good way to dance your night on the Turkey trip.

4. Taste the Turkish Brew: 

You must have sipped on the caffeine a million times at different places but the Turkish coffee is something never to be missed. As you sip on the brew you would immerse in the calming and tasteful experience that this special cup of coffee brings.

A Turkish coffee break is what you need on Istanbul tours after a long day of visiting places. The coffee here is not made by following the ordinary steps and perhaps the common ingredients as it tastes more heavenly than any other cup would. Once you are ready to take the last sip of the coffee, you must take a pause as the bottom contains bitter coffee grinds.

5. Take a Tram at the Taksim Square: 

The Taksim Square is one of the important places to visit on an Istanbul trip It depicts the modernity of the city through several restaurants, cafes, hotels, and brands. The best way to reach Taksim Square is the old-school way of trams. As the tram squirrels on the streets of Istanbul, you can get entertained by the hustle-bustle of the city. As the tram crosses the busiest streets honking, you can crane your neck to absorb the sight of the mixed culture and diverse people of Istanbul.

6. Watch the Whirling Dervishes: 

There are places where you can sense the hold of Sufism in Istanbul city. There are tekke or lodges that organize the shows of dervishes, one of which is the Galata Mevlevihanesi. The building was constructed in 1451 and now it is a museum to depict the beliefs, rituals, and music of the Mevlevi Order.

It has a grand collection of musical instruments, artefacts, calligraphy, clothing, and accessories. The place sees a rush on Sundays as the museum organizes a sema or whirling dervish at 17:00. As the tickets can be booked online and offline you should not miss the show while in Istanbul. Watching the whirling dervishes is one of the best things to do while on the Istanbul tours.

7. Visit Miniatürk: 

One of the best things to do on Istanbul tours is visit the Miniatürk or the miniature park. This park has a staunch of 60,000 square meters and has a mini version of all the important places of the city. There are over 100 models that consist of historic architectural marvels and other important places from Turkey and Istanbul.

Almost 50 of them are the landmarks of the city and thus this park gives a closer look at the huge city through the mini models. Some of the models are also representations of well-known places from other countries like the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus. The park also has a children’s playground and a gift shop to pick up the best souvenirs.

8. Istiklal Avenue: 

Istiklal Avenue is the busiest avenue of Istanbul city and apparently the most famous one to explore on your Istanbul tours. This place is the best to sink in with the rhythm of the hubbub of the city as millions of people cross their way at Istiklal Avenue. There are popular restaurants and shops that are loved by tourists to a great extent. The avenue is home to widely visited places such as Saray Muhallebicisi, Galata Mevlevihanesi, trams, Flower Passage and many others.

9. Go on a Bosphorus Cruise: 

In comparison to the historic sites in the city, the Bosphorus Cruise is pushed in the backseat but if you stick to the decision of going on a Bosphorus Cruise you will not regret it. It presents you with a cool breeze, deep blue waters and a striking view of the city. There are several cruises that go for a short or a long distance. You can hop on the one that takes you to the second suspension bridge and back or you can sit back in the long one that gives you a ride to the Black Sea and back. Here is a pro tip, the window seats are occupied quickly so make sure you get the best seat for the best experience and don't forget to include this in your Istanbul tour packages.

10. Go For Paragliding:

Glide the skies with the best Istanbul tour packages for an incredible adventure. This adventure sport is an unforgettable way for you to explore Istanbul’s landscapes from a new perspective. At Çatalca/Ormanlı, just 75 km from the city, you can soar over the stunning Black Sea coastline for a perfect opportunity for photography. Silivri, located on the city's edge, offers exciting flights for those seeking a quick escape. The Şile Coast, with its gentle slopes, is ideal for beginners, while Aydos Forest provides a unique mix of forest trails and panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline.

Popular Restaurants in Istanbul

1. Bombay Masala Indian Restaurant: If you are looking for authentic Indian delicacies in Turkey, look no further than the famous Bombay Masala Indian Restaurant. This restaurant is known to serve hot and spicy Indian gastronomical pleasures for lunch and dinner. Some of the most recommended dishes to order when you are dining at this restaurant are chicken biryani, lamb kadhai, chicken tikka, and paneer butter masala.

2. Dubb Indian Restaurant: Flaunting a very simple yet quirky atmosphere, Dubb Indian Restaurant is a well-known place to eat in Istanbul. Lying in the city centre, this Indian restaurant offers an extensive preparation of super delicious authentic Indian delicacies. You can enjoy Hyderbadi, Goan, and Punjabi cuisines in this restaurant. While you are dining at Dubb Indian Restaurant, remember to order Mango Lassi, Chana Masala, Gajar Ka Halwa, Vindaloo, Prawn Tikka, Kebabs, Parathas, Butter Chicken, and Hyderabadi Biryani.

3. India Gate Restaurant: Offering an airy and pleasant ambience, India Gate Restaurant is a very popular Indian restaurant that you can include in your Istanbul trip package. The restaurant offers super delicious, Indian, Jain, and Pakistani cuisines and remains open until midnight. This place usually remains crowded with lots of people coming in to enjoy delicious Indian food and Indian music. Some of the most recommended delicacies to try at India Gate Indian Restaurant include chicken tikka masala, dal makhani, onion patties, and lassi.

4. Grace Rooftop Restaurant: Located in Istanbul, Grace Rooftop Restaurant is known to offer the most delicious authentic Turkish cuisine and seafood. As a complement, the restaurant offers its guests Ramazan pieces, which they bake in-house. This place is also known popularly to serve the best meze and kebabs you can get in Turkey. You can also get to enjoy the best view of the Blue Mosque from the rooftop of this restaurant. As you relish your favourite dish, you can also catch glimpses of St. Irina Church and Hagia Sophia.

5. Kat Restaurant & Cafe Bar: Flaunting pure elegance and a relaxed ambience, 5 Kat Restaurant & Cafe Bar is the prettiest restaurant to add to your Istanbul holiday package. You can head to this place for a romantic dinner date or a satisfying fine dining experience. While you enjoy your food here, you can also soak in breathtaking views of some of the very important landmarks of Istanbul like Maiden Tower, Golden Horn Bay, and Sea of Marmara.

What to Eat in Istanbul

1. Kebabs: Your Istanbul trip is incomplete without trying kebabs. From the iconic döner kebab, a vertical rotisserie of lamb or chicken, to the spicy Adana kebab, served with fresh vegetables and pita, You must try it all. Visit places like Zübeyir Ocakbaşı or Adana Ocakbasi where the meat is cooked over a traditional charcoal grill, adding a rich, smoky flavour.

2. Mezes: As part of your Istanbul travel packages, you can indulge in a variety of mezes, which are small plates similar to tapas. Try dishes like haydari (yoghurt with garlic and herbs), hummus, and patlıcan salatası (smoked eggplant salad). You can also dine at Meze by Lemon Tree or Ciya Sofrasi to experience the full spectrum of Turkish flavours.

3. Seafood: Istanbul, being surrounded by water, offers some of the freshest seafood dishes. Make sure to try grilled fish, like sea bass or bream at Balıkçı Sabahattin or Kumkapı Deniz Restaurant. These places are famous for their fresh catches and dishes like octopus salad. Mussels stuffed with rice and grilled calamari, make them essential dishes to try while touring Istanbul with Istanbul tour packages.

4. Street Food: On any Istanbul holiday package, tasting street food is a must. Enjoy a simit (sesame-crusted bread) from vendors near Taksim Square, or midye dolma (stuffed mussels) along Istiklal Street. For the best börek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat, you can visit Tarihi Sarıyer Börekçisi.

5. Desserts: Sweeten your Istanbul trip with Turkish desserts. Try baklava at Karaköy Güllüoğlu, known for its delicate layers and premium pistachios. Don't miss künefe, a dessert made with cheese and shredded pastry soaked in syrup, best enjoyed at Hafiz Mustafa. 

Forex/Currency exchanges in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city with plenty of options for currency exchange while travelling with our Istanbul Tour packages. For the best rates, visit exchange offices like NakitEx in Sultanahmet or Kapali Carsi Döviz in the Grand Bazaar, both known for fair rates and low fees. These places are trusted by both tourists and locals for transparent monetary transactions.

ATMs from major banks such as Isbank, Akbank, and Garanti BBVA offer favourable exchange rates for withdrawing Turkish Lira. They are a good choice if you want to avoid high fees and get competitive rates. For larger amounts, services like Wise or Revolut are popular among travellers. Avoid airport exchange counters, as they tend to charge higher fees and provide less favourable rates. Checking the rates online before making any exchanges is a smart way to ensure you get the best value.