Turkey Trip

Tours are the best way to truly discover Istanbul. Covering everything from Turkish food to traditional hammams, here are the best tours in Istanbul!

Istanbul has got to be one of my favourite places in the world. The city oozes charm at every corner, and it’s got that elusive perfect blend of Eastern and Western culture.

You’ll find a number of fascinating historic attractions, a rich and beautiful culture, and glorious views of the stunning Bosphorus. The architecture is on another level too – I could take photos in Istanbul all day long.

And then, there’s the drool-worthy food.

​

Just within the city of Istanbul itself, there’s plenty to keep you occupied for a good few weeks.

I’ve travelled all over Turkey and one of the best things I’ve done there is go on a food tour in Istanbul. Just learning all about the history and culture of the city through its food was the best.

​

While there’s a lot that you can see and do yourself, there are some incredible tours in Istanbul if you want to really immerse yourself in the city’s culture.

There are plenty of good Istanbul tours to choose from, covering pretty much all that the city has to offer.

From learning more about the must-see sights such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to taking part in local experiences such as hammam rituals to whirling dervish shows, there’s definitely something for everyone.

​

A tour of Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sofia is one of the largest places of worship in the entire world. And it’s a truly impressive structure, both inside and out.

Although you can wander around yourself, a guided tour really is the best way to enhance your visit. You get to learn so much more about this ancient church-turned-mosque-turned-museum.

I think this ‘Skip-the-Queue Guided Tour’ is fantastically well organised. It gets you straight into the magnificent monument without having to spend precious exploration time waiting around. This is perfect if you’ve only got a couple of days in Instant. 

​

Food tour of Istanbul

For me, Istanbul is even more magical and alluring in the evenings. It’s a city that really comes alive at night with so much to see and do. Well, this 2 hour walking tour is ideal to soak in the evening ambience. You’ll also learn a little more about the history of the city from your local guide.

And don’t worry, you’re not walking for the entire 2 hours! This excellent night tour in Istanbul also includes a number of food tastings. I got the chance to try local delicacies from four different food vendors during the walk between Sultanahmet and Galata. The baklava was probably one of the best I’ve ever tasted.

You can’t beat a walking tour, especially when food’s involved.

​

Bosphorus boat tour

One of my favourite things about Istanbul has got to be the beautiful Bosphorus, the river that separates the European and Asian side. I love having brunch in one of the many riverfront cafes and taking an evening cruise along the Bosphorus. The views of the city are incredible as you’re floating along on a boat and also you can feed as many birds as you want if you bring breads with you.

The good news is that there are many Istanbul tours that revolve around the river. This Bosphorus boat tour is highly recommended, as you’ll get a guided tour as you sail past famous sights such as the Ortaköy Mosque and Dolmabahçe Palace. It’s a super comfortable way to check out some of the city’s best spots.

​

The beauty of a traditional Turkish bath

This is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Istanbul. With this tour, you can (quite literally) immerse yourself into Turkish culture. It includes an authentic Hammam experience in a five-century-old bath in the heart of the historic city. This involves a traditional Turkish bath massage and you get to relax in the steam bath after. Which may be just what you need after all the city exploration and walking you’ve done! And with this time trying, we’re using the coffee massage bath 

If you’re looking to experience a hammam while in Istanbul, this experience at blur resort is just the place to do it. I can’t tell you how relaxing and enjoyable this one is!

Cost: From £39 ($50) per person

​

Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul

Get ready to embark on a spiritual journey as you witness the beautiful Sufi performance of the Whirling Dervishes. This mystical ancient show is an unforgettable experience, and this is undoubtedly one of the most magical tours in Istanbul. It’s just so mesmerising watching them go round and round. Makes me dizzy just typing about it.