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Istanbul Tour Packages | Upto 50% Off March Mega SALE

Istanbul Tour Packages - Browse through a wide range of Istanbul Holidays Packages with exciting offers at Thrillophilia. Book customized Istanbul vacation packages with exciting deals & offers.

If you are looking for ease, convenience, and unlimited adventure in your trip to Istanbul, you must consider checking out the best Istanbul tour packages from Thrillophilia. These packages are carefully crafted by professional travel experts and include the perfect accommodation options, comfortable sightseeing tours, 24/ travel assistance and much more to ensure you enjoy a memorable trip in Istanbul.

The well-planned itinerary of the Istanbul packages by Thrillophilia lets you make the most of your trip, offering you the chance to cover maximum attractions within your planned schedule. You can also get your Istanbul travel package customized according to your needs and preferences. Some of the top landmarks of the city that you can expect to cover with the Istanbul vacation packages include Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Sultanahmet Square, the Spice Market, Basilica Cistern, and the Golden Horn.

These Istanbul tour packages are also affordable and convenient making sure you enjoy your Turkey trip to the fullest and just focus on making memories of a lifetime.

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Visa Requirements

If you are traveling to Turkey with an Istanbul holiday package, you need to have a valid visa. Apply for a Turkish Sticker Visa for tourists at the Turkish embassy in your country before your departure.

While you are applying for your Turkey visa, you need some mandatory documents including a passport with at least six months of validity, last 3 months bank statement, 2 passport size photographs, travel insurance with a minimal coverage of €30,000, return flight tickets, proof of confirmed accommodation in Turkey, and a police clearance certificate. It takes around 15 business days for the Turkey tourist visa to process, depending on the country from which you are applying for the visa.

Best Time To Go On Istanbul Tour

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 to 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. Travelers 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 India- Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.
  • To Turkey- Istanbul
  • Airlines- Turkish Airlines, Air India, Indigo, Flynas, Air Arabia, Oman Air, Kuwait Airlines, and EgyptAir.

Places To Visit on Istanbul Tour:

1. Hagia Sophia: Hagia Sophia is one of the most promising Byzantine architecture since 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 which 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 marvelous marble door gains most of the tourist attention.

Book Now: Hagia Sophia Tickets, Istanbul

2. Basilica Cistern: 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 gains a lot of tourist attraction and a must-visit place on your Istanbul tours.

Book Now:Basilica Cistern Tickets & Guided Tour, Istanbul

3. Istanbul Modern Museum: 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: The Rüstem Pasha Mosque is being 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 marvelous mosque.

5. Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)The Sultan Ahmet Mosque was built during 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 a 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 forgate to get this this in your Istanbul travel packages.

You Can Click Here & Book: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour, Istanbul

6. Topkapi PalaceThe 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 is proof of the affluence of the Sultans. The grandeur of Topkapi palace adds on the charm to the Istanbul packages.

Book Now: Topkapi Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets

7. Süleymaniye Mosque: With Istanbul trip packages visit a masterpiece of the Ottoman Empire. Built by the Sinan during 1549 and 1575, the Topkapi palace 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.

Click Here To Book Now: Suleymaniye Mosque Walking Tour

8. Dolmabahçe PalaceWith Istanbul holiday packages visit the Dolmabahçe Palace which boasts the Ottoman Empire and the Turkish Renaissance. This palace was built in 1854 by the 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, french furniture is enough to get an idea about the opulent Sultans of the 19th century. The interior of the palace embellishes the Neoclassical, Ottoman and Baroque elements.

Book Now: Dolmabahce Palace Tickets, Istanbul

9. Grand BazaarIstanbul 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 that include ceramics, Turkish Lamps, and Kilim Rugs. Apart from that, there are vendors selling Turkish tea, nazar eye ornaments and spices.

Click Here To Book:  Istanbul Day Tour to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Cruise & More

10. Istanbul Archaeology MuseumThe Istanbul Archaeology Museum is one of the prime museums to visit on 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 artifacts.

Things To Do on Istanbul Trip:

Here are some of the best things to in Istanbul:

1. Visit a Turkish Hamam: There is no better place to refresh your mind and soul with a relaxing bath at a Turkish Hamam and this is the best things to do on istanbul tours. These Hamams had been an integral part of the Ottoman Empire and Islam since a long time. This traditional culture is still carried out with a tinge of modernity and is considered as a great source for rejuvenation.

Your experience of a Hamam will start as you ease at 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 flavor, 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 colors of Bars and nightclubs. There are many places to enjoy the nightlife of Istanbul 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 flavor then you must search for the ones that are buzzing with the 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 with following the ordinary steps and perhaps the common ingredients as it tastes more heavenly than any other cup would. Once you ready 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 SquareThe Taksim square is one of the important places to visit on Istanbul trip that 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 a 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 their musical instruments, artifacts, 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 CruiseIn comparison to the historic sites in the city, the Bosphorus Cruise is pushed in the backseat but if you stick on the decision of going on a Bosphorus Cruise you would 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.

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 at 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 Chiken, and Hyderabadi Biryani.

3. India Gate Restaurant: 

Offering an airy and pleasant ambiance, 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 pidesi, 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 favorite dish, you can also catch glimpses of St. Irina Church and Hagia Sophia.

5. Kat Restaurant & Cafe Bar: Flaunting pure elegance and relaxed ambiance, 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 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.

Browse a variety of Istanbul packages from various Indian cities, including: Istanbul Tour Packages From SuratIstanbul Tour Packages From VadodaraIstanbul Tour Packages From ChandigarhIstanbul Tour Packages From NagpurIstanbul Tour Packages From JaipurIstanbul Tour Packages From LucknowIstanbul Tour Packages From IndoreIstanbul Tour Packages From CochinIstanbul Tour Packages From MangaloreIstanbul Tour Packages From Rajkot.

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Istanbul Tour FAQs

What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is in the spring season from April to June and in autumn from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures, a little humidity and low rainfall. These weather conditions are ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities like cultural festivals and concerts and a relaxing day at the beach.

How much does a trip to Istanbul cost?

Istanbul is not an expensive place to spend a holiday. On average, you would need to spend TRY 1324 or Rs. 16,000 for a one week trip to Istanbul. Meals in Istanbul would cost you TRY 35 (Rs. 431) and transportation around the city is TRY 15 (Rs. 180) each day. A decent hotel for two would cost TRY 263 (Rs. 3,164).

When should I visit Istanbul?

Istanbul beckons visitors with enchanting allure throughout the year. In spring (March to June), vibrant blooms and pleasant weather make strolling through the city a heavenly experience. Summer (June to August) brings a lively atmosphere, ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and the city's vibrant energy. Autumn (September to November) ushers in comfortable temperatures, enhancing the allure of Istanbul's rich history. Even winter (December to January) has its charm, offering a unique ambiance with fewer crowds. No matter the season, Istanbul unveils its treasures, ensuring a positive and memorable experience for every traveler.

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Do I need a visa for Istanbul?

To enter Turkey and Istanbul you would require a visa. But there are 78 countries that have a visa exemption on traveling to Turkey. These countries include Argentina, Bahamas, Japan, Brazil and many more.

Is Istanbul safe for female tourists?

Istanbul is one of the safest cities for women in Europe but you must stay aware of the pickpockets and thefts that go on in Istanbul, especially in bazaars and public transport.

How far is Cappadocia from Istanbul?

Cappadocia is 567 km away from Istanbul and the road distance is 790km. It can be easily accessed by road, rail or air.

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How much does a meal cost in Istanbul?

To have a hearty meal at a decent restaurant, you have to spend 20-25 Turkish Liras for one person.

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Is food cheap in Turkey?

Food and beverages have always been cheap in turkey but recent years have seen a major hike in food prices. Some of the restaurants can cost you loads for a good meal while others have the same cost as any other European city. Nevertheless, if you go out to have a decent meal in Istanbul you would need to spend TRY 35 or Rs. 421 each day.

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What should I avoid in Istanbul?

Your Istanbul tour package might have covered all the big but you must also focus on the things to avoid on the Istanbul tour.
- Avoid staying close to tourist sites.
- Avoid eating at the overpriced restaurants near famous places.
- Avoid buying things at Bazaars without haggling.

How many days are enough in Istanbul?

To enjoy Istanbul to the fullest, an Istanbul package for 3 days is enough. You can spend the first day walking around Sultanahmet Square covering the major tourist attractions around it. On the next day you can visit the local markets and shop souvenirs of Istanbul. The final day at Istanbul can be used for visiting the museums while reserving the nights for partying at the clubs.

What is Istanbul famous for?

Istanbul is famous for presenting a blend of European and Islamic cultures in a stunning manner. Besides, the Turkish artifacts, decorative items and the spices of Istanbul are quite popular.

Is it safe to walk around Istanbul at night?

Wandering around at night in Istanbul is safe. You don’t have to worry as long as you do not stroll faraway from the Istiklal Cad.

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Can you use euros in Istanbul?

You can use euros at some places like the hotel, shops or big stores but euros are not acceptable at all places in Istanbul.

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Which are the best adventurous activities to do on an Istanbul tour?

  1. Scuba diving: Istanbul travel packages offer scuba diving at Sivriada, Yassiada, Kursunburnu, Andros Island and Cakal Limani. Apart from the vibrant fishes, rare aquatic species  and colourful coral reefs, you can also witness submerged caves, sunken ships and war remnants underwater. 

  2. White water rafting: Enjoy a thrilling white water rafting ride in the waters of Melen and Coruh rivers with Istanbul vacation packages. The Melen River has friendly rapids and takes about 1.5 hours to raft the 11-kilometres long route while Coruh River offers 20-kilometres of challenging rapids. As you raft, you can enjoy the splash of the waters and witness breathtaking vistas of the scenery.

  3. Jeep safari: For an ultimate adventurous experience, go on a 90-minute jeep safari in Belgrad forest with our Istanbul holiday packages. The safari takes you through an off-road forest trail surrounded by protected woodlands featuring oak, beech and chestnut trees. You can witness picturesque views of the landscape, visit nearby villages and relish a scrumptious lunch in the middle of the forest.

  4. Rock climbing: Located 66 kms from Istanbul city centre, Ballikayalar National Park is the popular location in Istanbul travel packages for rock climbing. It has over 100 routes on good quality limestone rocks that are suitable for both beginners and experts.

Which are the romantic things to do in Istanbul?

1. Relax at the Camellia Hill: If you are planning on choosing romantic Istanbul packages then you must make sure that it includes Camellia Hill. This romantic hill in Uskudar presents a bewitching view of the Bosphorus Bridge and Golden Horn. As you reach the top, there are many cafes, restaurants, and parks where you can sit and rejoice in nature.

2. Get a bird’s eye view from the Maiden's Tower and Galata Tower: Both the skyscraping ancient tower gives a 360-degree view of the city. From these two places you can spend some romantic time with your partner as you both enjoy the view of the lively Istanbul city.

3. Experience the thrill at Prince Islands: This heavenly place is an ideal spot for couples during Istanbul trip. As the ferry drifts on the blue waters to reach the Prince Islands you can see tall pine trees, narrow streets, and horse carriages afar. You can also take a bicycle on rentals and have an adventurous yet romantic time cycling around the Islands.

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Istanbul to Princess Island Ferry

4. Watch the setting sun at Golden Horn: Golden Horn is the best romantic place for couples to explore on Istanbul tours. Here you can watch the setting sun as it decorates the city with golden lights. As the sun goes down you can take pleasure in the flickering lights of the floating ships at harbor. It is a complete joy if you come here with your partner.

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Which are the best palaces & pavilions in Istanbul?

1. Topkapi Palace: The magnificent palace of Ottoman sultans is now a rich museum that houses a phenomenal collection of Chinese porcelain, precious jewels, artifacts, and seals and this is must visit place on Istanbul tours.

Click Here To Book: 
Topkapi Palace Tickets

2. Dolmabahçe Palace: With Istanbul tour packages visit this palace which experiences an abundance of tourists for its European-baroque style architecture built with white marble. It consists of jewels, gold, grand shimmering chandeliers, and many more alluring items.

Click Here To Book: Dolmabahce Palace Tickets

3. Yildiz Palace: The Yildiz Palace or the “Star Palace” is a grand complex of Pavilions and Villas. Built-in 1880, this is another Ottoman Palace which now consists of a famous museum, mosque, and gardens along with many other buildings.

4. Ciragan Palace: With Istanbul trip packages visit this palace which is popular for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views. It was constructed by Sultan Abdulaziz in 1974 and is now a grand hotel for tourists.

5. Ihlamur Pavilion: The Ihlamur Pavilion also popular as Linden palace was constructed by Sultan Abdulmecid and used as a summer palace. The place has beautiful architecture, a big pool and a sprawling garden with peacocks roaming around. It now has a small cafe and is used for private gatherings, so don't forget to include this in your Istanbul vacation packages.

6. Maslak Pavilion: Built in the late 19th century in the Ottoman Empire, the Maslak Pavilion is one of the most adored pavilions. Situated on a shady hill with a lot of greenery, this place is worth including in your Istanbul tour package.

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Which are the famous Istanbul Markets?

1. The Big Bazaar: The Big Bazaar is also known as Kapaliçarsi is one of the ancient markets of Istanbul. The market is quite popular for its history than its shopping. You can bargain with the local shop owners and get some Turkish souvenirs, scarves, leather clothes or lamps.

2. Egyptian Spice Bazaar: This bazaar is a perfect place to tantalize your senses with the smell of different spices. It sells many things like olives and condiments. The apple tea of this place makes the Istanbul vacation a pure bliss.

3. Bazaar Findikzade: Shopping at this bazaar is an indispensable part of the Istanbul package as it is one of the biggest local markets in Istanbul. You can find anything and everything with vendors selling clothes to vegetables and many other things.

4. Eskidji Bazaar: The Eskidji bazaar has got everything for home decor ranging from beds, sofas to electronics. There are shops selling both first-hand and second-hand items at a reasonable price.

5. Grand Bazaar: The Grand Bazaar is a covered market which has been popular since its beginning. The market is the best place for shopaholics in Istanbul as there are numerous shops which are divided into sections. These shops offer typical Turkish things like spices, scents, Kilims and many more.

6. Fatih Market: The Fatih Market is the oldest market in Istanbul. Since its establishment, this market sells routine things to people. There are vendors selling fruits, vegetables, clothes and many more. On your trip to Istanbul you must visit this market as it gives an insight into the local middle-class people of the city.

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Where to go In Istanbul for panoramic views?

1. Galata Tower: There is no better place than the soaring Galata Tower to have a bird’s eye view of Istanbul city. The best time to visit is at the time of sunset so that you can watch the Istanbul city in its golden colors.

2. Pierre Loti Hill: The Pierre Loti Hill gets its name from a famous French poet who used to come up at this place and take pleasure in watching the hubbub of Istanbul city. Nowadays you can either reach atop on foot or cableway. The cable car is usually preferred to enjoy the scenic beauty of Istanbul.

3. Halic Bridge: The Halic Bridge is located at the Golden Horn which is another name of this place too. The place truly shows its sumptuous colors especially at the time of sunset. Walking on the bridge and staring at the gaping landscape of Istanbul city is quite a relaxing experience.

4. Maiden’s Tower: The Maiden’s Tower is a major tourist attraction for having a panoramic view of the city on your Istanbul trip. As a legend goes, a Sultan had kept her daughter in the tower for years to save her from the prophecy of her death. Also, to reach the Maiden’s Tower you have to take a boat from Uskudar, which is itself a pleasurable experience.

What are the best places to stay in Istanbul?

1. Sumahan on the Water: Once an Ottoman distillery, the Sumahan on the Water is the most luxurious hotel in Istanbul. The hotel is located at Çengelköy with a sea-facing view and fine contemporary building. The services offered like free wifi, lounge and open restaurant would give you an experience of a lifetime at this hotel and one of the best places to stay during Istanbul trip.

2. Georges Hotel Galata: The hotel is established in the 19th-century building with a stunning facade. Georges hotel stands strong in justifying the old Parisian style architecture with a tinge of modern modifications. The guest rooms with spacious balcony, walk-in shower and rooms loaded with advanced technology is the best part of the Georges Hotel. However the rooftop bar is also commendable as it proffers a picturesque view of Istanbul.

3. Pera Palace Hotel: The hotel is operated in a seven-story building with a Neo-classical facade. The Pera Palace was originally built by Georges Nagelmackers, a Belgium entrepreneur to serve his guests. Till now, the place has preserved its historic interiors and also added to the finest facilities for the tourists and continues to do so. Although the hotel maintains its historic look, it offers the best rooms with all facilities and one of the best places to stay during Istanbul tours.

4. Raffles Istanbul: Raffles Istanbul is an epitome of modern Turkey and stands away from the bustling areas of Istanbul. It has all the qualities to be included in your Istanbul tour package. With the Ottoman inspired glass panels, the Neoclassical style walls, and international art decorating the place, staying at this hotel is a soothing and reviving experience. The eloquent stay facility, indoor swimming pool and an onsite restaurant makes this elite hotel one of the best places to stay during Istanbul trip.

What are the free things to do in Istanbul?

1. Visit the Jewish Museum of Turkey: The Jews in Turkey were a minority in Turkey yet their evidence is still cherished in Istanbul. The famous Jewish museum of Turkey, Zülfaris Synagogue, finds its root to 1671 but later got closed. But now the museum presents the rustic past of the Jews. You can know in-depth about the Sephardi Jews here.

2. Picnic at Yildiz Park: You can have a fun day at the Yildiz Park and justify that enjoyment does not come with a cost. The park has Ottoman houses on the sides, beautiful greenery, flowers, ducks, ponds and everything to make a perfect picnic spot.

3. Relax at the Blue Mosque: The Sultan Ahmet Mosque is a peaceful place for self-introspection and relaxation and a best free things to do on Istanbul tours. You can spend a quality time here admiring the Iznik tiles and the enormous architecture. The glassed window panes and the interior of the Blue Mosque are soothing to the eyes.

4. Experience Serenity at Zeyrek Camii: The Zeyrek mosque in Fatih was originally a monastery built in the 12th century and a best free things to do on Istanbul trip. This mosque has three buildings out of which two were churches that later converted into mosques. This Byzantine architecture offers a picturesque and serene view.

What are the essential items that one must pack while travelling to Istanbul?

Istanbul is a developed city and you can buy everything from the local markets but it is better to stay a step ahead when it comes to Istanbul tours. The things that you must carry with you are:

- Conservative clothes for the mosques
- A scarf because when you would go into a mosque you would be needing it to cover your head.
- A camera to capture Istanbul's scenic beauty, historic monuments, and amazing architecture.

Which are the best ferry trips to try in Istanbul?

The best ferry trips in Istanbul are offered by the following operators which are recommended to be tried by the tourists:

1. ?ehir Hatlar? Traditional Ferries: It offers 34 traditional ferry boats from where you can see the mesmerising skyline of Istanbul with your loved ones. It serves 45 docks in the city and can be booked via mobile apps.

2. Istanbul Deniz Otobüsleri A ? (?DO): Taking you to the dazzling harbour across the Sea of Marmara, this ferry boat ride is known to be one of the fastest in Istanbul. It serves long rides and a great pick if you are travelling to other cities from Istanbul on a catamaran.

3. TurYol: This private boat owner is well known for offering an exciting Bosphorus cruise. It is a superb 1.5 hour cruise where you can see Eminönü and Galata Bridge on the south shore of the Golden Horn.

4. Dentur Avrasya: This ride will help you explore many routes in Istanbul along the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn in Istanbul.

5. Hop On & Hop Off Bosphorus Tour: This tour operates six rides throughout the day which starts from the Kabatas and offers an excellent loop cruise which can be completed in 1-4 hours. The popular places which are covered in this trip are Be?ikta?, Emirgan, Küçüksu Kasr?, and Beylerbeyi Palace.

Which are the famous mosques to visit in Istanbul?

1. Sultanahmet (The Blue Mosque): Hailed for its exquisite blue tile architecture, this a popular mosque which dates back to the 17th century. It is believed to be one of the last surviving mosques from the Ottoman classical period and portrays a beautiful amalgamation of Ottoman mosque and Byzantine design.

2. Süleymaniye (the Magnificent): This is known as the second largest mosque in Istanbul and offers a picture-perfect view for the beholders. The striking feature of the mosque include the tall cabinets and the half domes which depict the Byzantine style of architecture.

3. Sehzade Mosque: It is also known as ‘Prince’s Mosque’ which was built as a memorial for Prince Mehmet by Sultan Suleiman in 1543. The eye catching geometric designs and the decorations will definitely catch your fancy here. Must visit this place on your Istanbul trip.

4. Hagia Sophia: Hailed as one of the impressive depictions of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia was originally built as a church. Today, it offers a magnificent sight for the tourists with its amazing mosaics and marble pillars.

5. Eyup: This is located near the Golden Horn and is known to be the first mosque which was constructed in Istanbul after its conquest. It is also believed to be an important place of pilgrimage for the Muslims. So, don't forget to visit this on your Istanbul tours.

What should I buy in Istanbul?

The popular items to buy in Istanbul are:
- Ceramics.
- Turkish lamps.
- Nazar evil eye ornaments.
- Turkish tea.
- Kilim rugs.
- Turkish spices and scents.
- Turkish silver and gold jewellery.
- Turkish delight.

Is Istanbul cheap or expensive?

For the tourists, Istanbul is relatively not an expensive destination compared to other European countries. The stay, food and tourist experiences can be enjoyed without shelling a lot of money from your pockets in Istanbul. One week trip to Istanbul usually costs TRY1,324 per person.

Do they speak english in Istanbul?

Yes, English is quite common in Istanbul. Even though the official language of the country is Turkish, you can find many people fluently speaking English in Istanbul.

Which are the some of the famous Istanbul attraction tickets that I can book at Thrillophilia?

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