Istanbul Delights: A Journey Through Flavor and History | La Vacanza Travel

Istanbul Delights: A Journey Through Flavor and History

Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Destination: Türkiye, İstanbul, Istanbul
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  • 6 to 7 hours
  • Istanbul
  • E-Voucher
  • Lowest Price
  • Not-Cancellable

Overview

"Istanbul Delights: A Journey Through Flavor and History" offers a unique blend of old-city highlights and authentic culinary experiences.

Explore iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Roman Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar, while venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems like hans and caravanserais.

Unlike traditional old-city and food tours, our tour takes place in the back streets of Istanbul, offering genuine flavors and drinks that capture the essence of Turkish cuisine. From savory kebabs to sweet baklava, indulge in a culinary journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and immerse you in the rich cultural tapestry of Istanbul.

Experience the real Turkish food, learn about authentic handicraft workshop, and uncover the secrets of this vibrant city with our expert guides.

Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Mah At Meydani Cad No 7, Istanbul 34122 Turkiye

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this majestic structure takes its name from the striking blue tiles that adorn its interior, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. Step inside to marvel at the expansive prayer hall adorned with intricate hand-painted tiles, delicate stained glass windows, and elaborately designed calligraphy. As shafts of sunlight filter through the windows, the interior comes alive with a warm, ethereal glow, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. Whether you're admiring its exterior from the bustling streets of Istanbul or exploring its sacred interior, the Blue Mosque is a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.

Duration: 45 minutes

Stop At: Hippodrome, Binbirdirek, Sultan Ahmet ParkI No:2, Istanbul Turkiye

Embark on a journey through time at the Roman Hippodrome, an ancient chariot racing arena that once stood as the heart of Constantinople, the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. Step onto the grounds where chariots thundered and crowds roared in excitement during grand sporting events and public gatherings. Today, the Hippodrome is a captivating open-air museum adorned with historic monuments that bear witness to its illustrious past. Marvel at the majestic Obelisk of Theodosius, an ancient Egyptian monument brought to Constantinople by Emperor Theodosius I in the 4th century AD. Admire the ornate Serpent Column, a bronze column adorned with serpent heads, and the elegant German Fountain, a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II to Sultan Abdulhamid II in the late 19th century. With its rich history and magnificent landmarks, the Byzantine Hippodrome offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of Istanbul's imperial past.

Duration: 45 minutes

Stop At: Hagia Sophia Mosque, Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya MeydanI No:1, Istanbul 34122 Turkiye

Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a marvel of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Istanbul's rich history. Originally built as a Christian cathedral in the 6th century, it later became a mosque and now serves as a museum, showcasing stunning mosaics, intricate calligraphy, and awe-inspiring domes. Dive into centuries of culture, religion, and artistry as you explore this iconic landmark.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Basilica Cistern, Alemdar Mahallesi, Yerebatan Caddesi, No:1/3, Istanbul 34410 Turkiye

Discover the mesmerizing Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir that transports you back in time to the heart of Byzantine Istanbul. Built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, this remarkable architectural marvel is an enduring testament to the ingenuity of the Byzantine engineers. Descend into its dimly lit depths and explore the vast forest of marble columns rising from the still waters, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that has captivated visitors for centuries. Admire the intricately carved Medusa heads and listen to the echoes of history as you stroll along the raised walkways. A visit to the Basilica Cistern is a must for anyone seeking to uncover the hidden treasures of Istanbul's rich past.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Grand Bazaar, Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

The Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, is a bustling hub of commerce and culture in the heart of Istanbul. With over 4,000 shops lining its labyrinthine streets, the bazaar offers a treasure trove of treasures, from vibrant textiles and exquisite ceramics to intricate jewelry and aromatic spices.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant sights, sounds, and scents of this iconic marketplace as you wander through its bustling alleys and discover the rich tapestry of Turkish craftsmanship and tradition.

Duration: 30 minutes

Inclusions
  • Licensed Professional Local Tour Guide
  • All Admission Fees
  • Kebab: epitome of culinary delight in Turkish cuisine
  • Local Desserts
  • Traditional Drinks
  • Delicious Street Food
  • Entry/Admission - Hagia Sophia Mosque
  • Entry/Admission - Basilica Cistern

Exclusions
  • Personal Expenses
  • Gratuity to Tour Guide
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Near public transportation
  • Not recommended for travelers with back problems
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Hagia Sophia Mosque will be closed during the prayer times.
  • Blue Mosque is closed on Fridays till 2 - 2.30 pm due to the Sermon. There is only outer visit on Fridays.
  • Grand Bazaar and Spice Market will be closed during Religious Fest of Ramadan (2024 April 10-11-12), during Eid al Adha (2024 June 16-17-18-19) and on Republic Day (October 29)
  • Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
  • This is a walking tour as all the highlights are located in a big pedestrian square and so close to each other. It is not possible to drive from one site to another by car, it is a pedestrian square.
  • There is no pick-up or drop-off service for this small group tour. All our guests are expected to be at the meeting point by 8.30 am.
  • Our tours fill up quickly during high season. Early bookings are highly recommended in the season (April-May-June-July-August-September-October).
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 7 days of travel. In this case confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability
Departure Point

Basilica Cistern, Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye


Departure Time

08:30 AM


Return Details

Grand Bazaar, Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Voucher info

You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

Duration

6 to 7 hours


User's Reviews

783onurp

20 Mar, 2020

It was a very well organized small group tour. As we had a very limited time in Istanbul, it was a great chance to explore the highlights of Istanbul in one day. Our guide Ozgur was amazing and introduced each site that we went in. He was very friendly, attentive, informative and enthusiastic. Lunch was tasty. Timing was just perfect. We had our own free time at the end of the tour in Grand Bazaar. We highly recommend them and will definitely go back and book with them!

EwelinaCalanthe

03 Dec, 2019

I was in Istanbul for short break and I knew I wanted to do a day trip with guide to see the soul of historic Istanbul. This was an excellent option. This tour inlcudes visits to Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Roman Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar. And you don't need to worry about long wait in the queue. Wonderfully organised. I had an amazing time, my guide Perihan was great and she made everything so fun and airy, it was good to be around her. The lunch was delicious too. I would definitely recomment this tour to anyone who would like to experience an amazing and very informative time. I hope you get Perihan as your tour guide, you'll have a an awesome time with her. She is so passionate about her job, can tell you lots of stories about places you visit. I can't wait to back to Istanbul ☺ ☺ ☺

Marion M

15 Oct, 2019

Ozlem, our guide was super in every way. She was very knowledgeable about the history and culture of Istanbul, extremely articulate in English, and had all the answers about the Ottoman Empire. We could have a real discussion! Also, she was careful in keeping tabs on us and very polite and congenial. You have a gem in her!!! The tour company was accessible and organized. Highly recommend.

Jane M

15 Oct, 2019

Ozlem was an excellent tour guide and surpassed all expectations. She physically navigated our small group quickly past several congested entrances in a courteous way and maintained a highly informative dialogue. She invited questions and her knowledge and energy level was high throughout the tour.

Traci A

10 Aug, 2019

Our tour guide Ali was the perfect guide. He spoke fantastic English and was knowledgeable and interesting! During down time/walking he shared thoughts and insight on modern day Turkey. We had a great small group and with Ali's help were comfortable and all chatting in no time! Lunch was a traditional meal, delicious and with good company. The best part is there is no planning on your part. No buying tickets, checking times and days, and you move right through the long lines. I would highly-- highly recommend this tour to see the main sights at ease!

User's Picture Gallery

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Enjoyable İstanbul tour

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Magnificient day !!

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Great Tour and Excellent Tour Guide

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