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12 Best Bus Tours in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that can be best explored on foot or by public transportation. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed and guided city tour, there are plenty of bus tours!

Here are the best bus tours Istanbul has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just taking in the sights and sounds of this fascinating city, there’s sure to be a perfect tour!

Where Is Istanbul?

Istanbul Ciityscape

Istanbul is one of the most special and oldest cities in the world. It had been under the rule of many empires and civilizations throughout its long history.

The city is located on two different continents, Europe and Asia. You can easily cross from one continent to another through one of the Bosporus straits. The other strait is called the Dardanelles. 

Istanbul has a lot of historical and cultural places which are the legacies of those past empires. You can visit magnificent palaces, ancient temples, awesome mosques and stunning museums all around Istanbul.

The city also offers a unique culinary experience with its delicious food. There are many things to discover in Istanbul; its endless beauty will never cease to amaze you.

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Famous Tourist Destinations In Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. This vibrant city has something to offer everyone, from its rich history and culture to its delicious food and stunning architecture.

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find plenty to explore in Istanbul.

Some of the city’s most popular attractions include the Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral that was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest, and the Blue Mosque, a 17th-century mosque with an iconic blue-and-white tile exterior. 

Istanbul is also home to the Topkapi Palace, a lavish former residence of the Ottoman sultans, and the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world.

For a taste of traditional Turkish culture, be sure to visit one of the city’s many hammams or public baths. And of course, no visit to Istanbul would be complete without sampling some of its delicious cuisine, which combines influences from both East and West.

With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Istanbul is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

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12 Best Bus Tours Istanbul

Istanbul Cityscape and Sunset

Istanbul is a city that has something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its delicious food and vibrant nightlife, there is truly something for everyone in Istanbul.

And what better way to see the city than on a bus tour?

Bus tours provide an ideal way to see all that Istanbul has to offer, without having to worry about getting lost or missing something important. 

Here are 12 of the best bus tours in Istanbul:

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1. The Original Istanbul Tour

Istanbul Ocean and Skyline

This tour covers all of the city’s major landmarks and attractions, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapi Palace.

2. The Night Tour

Istanbul Night Lights

See Istanbul in a whole new light on this evening tour that takes in the city’s major monuments and squares, illuminated against the night sky.

3. The Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul Cruise and Skyline

This cruise offers breathtaking views of the cityscape as you sail down the Bosphorus Strait past Ottoman palaces, mosques, and mansions.

4. The Spice Market Tour

Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of one of Istanbul’s most iconic markets on this guided tour through the Spice Bazaar.

5. The Asian Side Tour

Discover another side of Istanbul on this tour of the city’s Asian neighborhoods, including a visit to the Çamlıca Mosque.

6. The Princess Islands Tour

Istanbul Houses

Escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul with this tour of the serene Princes’ Islands, located in the Sea of Marmara.

7. The Bosporus by Boat Tour

Bosporus Sunset

See Istanbul from the water on this boat tour of the Bosphorus Strait, taking in views of both the European and Asian sides of the city.

8. The Grand Bazaar Tour

Explore one of Istanbul’s most famous markets on this guided tour through the sprawling Grand Bazaar.

9. The Byzantine Hippodrome Tour

Learn about Istanbul’s Byzantine past on this tour of the Hippodrome, once the site of chariot races and other public events.

10. The Turkish Baths Tour

Tourists on Turkish Baths

Experience a traditional Turkish bath, or hamam, on this tour of one of Istanbul’s many bathshouses.

11. The Whirling Dervishes Tour

Witness a traditional Sufi ceremony featuring whirling dervishes at the Mevlana Museum on this tour.

12. The Haggling Skills Tour

Learn the art of haggling from a local expert on this tour of Istanbul’s markets, so you can get the best deals on souvenirs and gifts.

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Tips To Have An Amazing Istanbul Bus Tour Experience

Istanbul is one of the most unique and interesting cities in the world. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, Istanbul is a must-see for any traveler. A bus tour is an excellent way to see all that the city has to offer. 

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your Istanbul bus tour experience:

First, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Istanbul is a large city, and you will do a lot of walking during your tour. 

Second, bring along a bottle of water and some snacks. You will likely be spending several hours on the bus, and it’s important to stay hydrated and fueled up. 

Third, dress for the weather. Istanbul can be quite hot during the summer months, so be sure to wear light, airy clothing. 

Finally, have an open mind. Istanbul is a culturally diverse city, and you will see and experience things that may be unfamiliar to you. Embrace the newness and enjoy your journey!

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What Is The Best Time To Take A Bus Tour To Istanbul?

Istanbul is a bustling city that is full of energy and life. The best time to take a bus tour to Istanbul is during the spring or fall. The weather is milder during these seasons, making it more comfortable to walk around and explore all that the city has to offer. 

Additionally, the days are longer, so you’ll have more time to see everything on your list. The downside of taking a bus tour during the spring or fall is that there may be more crowds.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, plan your trip for the winter or summer. Although the weather may not be as ideal, you’ll still be able to experience all that Istanbul has to offer.

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