Who are the best tour operators in Istanbul? Also, please name good places for kids under 12 in Istanbul.?

Question

I want to see all historical places, bosphorus cruise, Pincess islands, Grand Bazar etc.

Answer 1

Hi,

I recomended GEO Tourism,

Discover Istanbul Tour - Day 1

Upon arrival in Istanbul you will be collected from the airport and transferred to your hotel for early check-in and breakfast. Late morning we start our guided walking tour of old Istanbul. We start with Haghia Sophia, the most influential church of Byzantium. Originally built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, reconstructed by Emperor Justinian in 6th century and converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century, it still stands today as one of the world's greatest architectural marvels. The magnificent interior is testament to the unique east-west synthesis that is manifest in Istanbul. Shimmering biblical mosaics juxtapose huge plaques bearing the names of Islamic caliphs.

We stop for lunch at an authentic restaurant serving Turkish Cuisine. Next we visit the Blue Mosque, another of the world's most important religious buildings. Built in the 16th century the mosque is unique for it's 6 minarets and it's celestial interior decorated with the famous blue Iznik tiles.

Next, visit the Hippodrome, scene of chariot races. Although little remains of the great stadium which, in its hey day, is thought to have held 100'000 people, the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine are highlights.

From here explore the Basilica Cistern, a vast underground water depot constructed to meet the needs of the Palace of Constantinople.

After lunch visit the grand Topkapi Palace, residence of Ottoman Sultan's from the 15th to the 19th century. With its impressive treasury, exquisite harem, attractive courtyards and pavilions housing huge collections of antiquities, Topkapi Palace offers a true insight into the heart of the Ottoman Empire.

End of the tour and return to your hotel. If requested, dinner and show programs can be arranged at an extra cost.

Discover Istanbul Tour - Day 2

We start the day with a visit to the colourful 17th century Spice Bazaar and its surroundings. The narrow streets lined with shops here beautifully emphasize the atmosphere of old Istanbul. What a joy it is to smell the fresh coffee, herbs and spices, to see the dazzling mixture of nuts, dried fruits, a thousand varieties of Turkish delights and all being sold as they have been for hundreds of years. From here visit the delightful Rustem Pasha Mosque built by master architect Sinan in the 16th century. Its tiled interior, lavishly decorated with the finest Iznik tiles, is perhaps the best example in the city.

Walking through the main Eminonu square you pass the prominent New Mosque, although completed in 1663, it is newer than the other major mosques, hence the name.

We then embark on a boat tour along the Bosphorus waterway separating Europe and Asia. This is a relaxing way to take in some major landmarks including the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace, the Bosphorus Suspension Bridge and the imposing waterfront villas of Istanbul. We disembark to visit the Rumeli Fortress , built by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452 prior to the conquest of Constantinople.

After lunch in a local seafood restaurant, we cross the bridge into Asia. Visit the Beylerbeyi Palace, summer residence of the Ottoman Sultan with its classic Harem. Then cap off the day with a panoramic view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus from Camlica Hill, the highest point in the city. The rest of the evening is at your leisure.

Discover Istanbul Tour - Day 3

Today is your free day. Explore the city yourself, lose yourself in shopping at the Grand Bazaar, a mind-boggling labyrinth of over 4000 shops, take a leisurely stroll along the Bosphorus strait, visit the hightly fashionable Nisantasi district or join one of the "OPTIONAL" following tours: full day Princess Islands or Golden Horn.

Discover Istanbul Tour - Day 4

For those continuing on with Anatolia Programs transfer to the airport early morning for your connecting flight.

For those returning home, free time or join one of the "OPTIONAL" tours. In the late afternoon transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Suggested by GEO Tourism

For prices, reservation and detailed information:
GEO Tourism
Akkavak Sok. 13/4 Tesvikiye 34365 Istanbul Turkey
T: [phone] F: [phone]

Regards and Have Fun

Answer 2

Istanbul is divided between Europe and Asia. There are older sections like Sultanahmet with great historical areas and modern areas like Taksim that have high end European and American stores. You will find Burger King, McDonalds and Starbucks in tourist areas. People are very friendly and welcoming. Istanbul has been the crossroads of the world for centuries and they are used to being hosts. I feel very safe there.This October will be my seventh trip. About 98% of the population is Muslim and they take hospitality seriously. They are very accepting and warm. Be polite and enjoy some tea and a few laughs. As for finding someone to marry Istanbul is a major European city. Turkish woman are not clamoring to marry foreigners. They had the vote in Turkey before women did in Canada. Turkish men are known for being courteous and family oriented. The women are not oppressed. As far as danger be smart and follow the usual tourist dos and donts. Don't buy drugs, be insulting to locals, go with strangers to bars, or get aggressive with the ladies. It is all common sense. Please go and enjoy the magic that is Istanbul. It is like nothing on earth.

Answer 3

We offer a huge variety of Istanbul tours and experiences from history, photograpy, culinary, cruise, sailing, workshops and even rowing tours. You can check our tours form https://istanbultourstudio.com/tours

Our services are also free for children under 12 years old. And Kids love Rahmi Koc Museum: https://istanbultourstudio.com/things-to-do/rahmi-koc-museum

Enjoy!

Answer 4

Tanju didn't leave anythingelse to say. I agree with him and the program looks really good.

Answer 5

i would also check this to find out what tours are available/popular in Istanbul.

http://www.bookmarkistanbul.com/home.html