What to do in Istanbul
Tours
PRIVATE EXCURSIONS
Private tours with personalised itineraries can be booked through our local tour guide Serkan Fırat - +90 530 767 50 30 (call or WhatsApp). Please mention you are a guest of Jasmin & Sam.
GROUP TOURS
We have arranged two old city tours with an English-speaking guide, which includes all entrance tickets and a private vehicle. It does not include lunch but your tour guide can provide recommendations based on the tour timings
Thursday June 11th 9:00-17:00
Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar
Friday June 12th 10:00-13:00
Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern
If you are interested in joining one of the tours, please complete the form below, and we will contact you with pricing. Depending on guest numbers, the tour will be €300 - €480 per person for the Thursday full day, and €240 - €420 per person for the Friday half day.
Where to Visit
HAGIA SOPHIA:
UNESCO world heritage site that has served as a Byzantine cathedral, Ottoman mosque, secular museum and now a mosque again. Known for its massive dome, mosaics, and layered religious history.
BASILICA CISTERN
An underground Byzantine water reservoir with eerie lighting, forest-like columns, and the famous Medusa head sculptures.
TOPKAPI PALACE
The opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans. Lavish courtyards, the Sultan’s harem and the eunuchs who tended to it, and sweeping views of the city. A fascinating look at palace intrigue, architecture and traditions of the Ottoman sultans.
GRAND BAZAAR
One of the world’s oldest covered markets, packed with thousands of stalls selling carpets, vintage jewellery, spices, ceramics, souvenirs, (and the occasional counterfeit Hermes).
ARCHEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
A complex of museums housing vast collections of ancient artefacts from civilizations across the Middle East and Mediterranean.
PERA PALACE HOTEL
A historic luxury hotel famous for hosting notable guests like Agatha Christie where she wrote Murder on the Orient Express. Blends old-world elegance with cultural heritage. Many believe it to be haunted. A wonderful place to have a drink and imagine.
NAVAL MUSEUM
A maritime museum showcasing Ottoman naval history, including imperial boats and naval artefacts.
WALKING THROUGH GALATA BRIDGE
A lively bridge connecting old and new Istanbul, known for fishermen, street food, and scenic views of the Golden Horn.
HAMMAM KILIC ALI PASA
A beautifully restored 16th-century Turkish bath, offering a traditional hammam (a relaxing Turkish bath, including a steam session, full-body exfoliation, and a foam massage) experience.
Most hotels also offer hammam experiences if you prefer something closer to home.
Local Options
If you don’t want to venture too far, below are some quick and casual recommendations within walking distance of our wedding venue.
NOSTALGIA CAFE KARAKÖY
Street side cafe with Shisha, chess, and Turkish tea.
KARABATAK CAFE
Morning coffee and cat watching.
WALKING GALATA BRIDGE
Fisherman and fish restaurants with views of the Golden Horn.
GALATA TOWER
Medieval tower in the hills surrounded by gift shops.
MUSEUM OF MODERN ART
Modern and contemporary Turkish an international art housed in a building designed by Renzo Piano.
THE ISTANBUL PAINTING & SCULPTURE MUSEUM
Very close to the Istanbul Modern, exhibits Turkish painting and sculpture from late Ottoman times to present, modern calligraphy and Turkish abstract art.