A 7-Day Tour Plan from the Philippines to Istanbul
Istanbul is known for its rich history, bustling markets, delectable cuisine, and architectural splendor. So, you'll never have a dull moment when you visit this place with the help of a visitor visa to Turkey.
But you must be curious as to what makes Istanbul so special. Let's explore that below.
Why Choose Istanbul for a 7-Day Vacation?
This city is the kind of place that is both timeless and contemporary, due to the presence of many historical monuments, culture and the influence of modern culture on this city.
A Brief Look at its Unique Nature
Originally, it was known as Constantinople and was captured by Sultan Mehemed II, who bought citizens from Greece, Salonika, etc. He built the Eyup Mosque, and the Topkapi, and the Mosque of the Faith.
After his passing, the city experienced a peaceful time in the form of cultural harmony, architectural growth, and economic stability. The reigning sultans built many architectural marvels like fountains, mosques, palaces, and charities.
The following years of various wars, like the Greek and Turkish War, World War I, World War II, etc. led to the gradual modernization of the city, though the transition wasn’t exactly a smooth one.
Hassle-free Travel Options from the Philippines
Another reason you can choose Turkey is due to its easy accessibility from the Philippines. You can board a flight from Manila, and reach Istanbul within 13 hours and 10 minutes if you take a direct flight.
This will vary depending on your flight(s). We would recommend some popular carriers like Kuwait Airways, Saudia, Emirates, Philippine Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Gulf Air, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, etc.
Do remember to check for the ticket fares, and connecting or direct flights. That’s because taking a connecting flight will increase your journey time, so do plan accordingly.
Furthermore, if you have the option for a web check-in, then you should opt for it, as it will save you a lot of time when you arrive at the airport.
Preparing for Your Trip to Istanbul
As we mentioned previously, you’ll have to apply for a visitor visa to Turkey if you wish to visit the country. But, you’ll have to fulfil several conditions or parameters before you can do so. Before we talk about those parameters, let’s talk about what this visa is.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues this visa digitally, as per the authority issued to it by the Government of the Republic of Turkey. You will be allowed to stay up to 30-90 days, depending on which country you belong to. Check here.
Now, continue reading to know the eligibility conditions.
Visa Requirements for Philippine Citizens
You’ll have to first have and gather documents like a valid passport that should stay valid for at least six months from your eTA in Turkey, financial stability proofs like bank statements, etc.
Furthermore, you should also carry proof of employment like salary slips (if applicable), medical insurance documents and a police clearance certificate.
Apart from that, you should possess a valid credit/debit card and email address.
This way you will not face unwanted problems during the application process.
To apply for the visitor visa Turkey, you have to visit the website, fill in the details, pay the fee, and then wait for 1-2 days to receive the visa online.
Best Time to Visit Istanbul
Turkey experiences beautiful weather from March-May, and September-November. So you should visit between these months to enjoy a beautiful trip.
Day-by-Day Itinerary for a 7-Day Istanbul Tour
Continue reading to learn more about how you can spend an amazing week in Istanbul.
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul and Evening Exploration
After you land at Istanbul airport, you will have to showcase your visitor visa Turkey to clear immigration. Once you’re through with that, you should head to the nearest baggage claim counter, as instructed by the flight steward, stewardess or captain.
Once you collect your luggage, you should get in touch with your hotel manager to check if they have arranged for a taxi to take you to your hotel. If not, you can book a taxi, take the Metro, board a bus, or the airport shuttle.
Don't miss out on the experience of walking in the Sultanahmet square at night.
That’s because you will be transported back in time as the lights illuminate the space. You can explore timeless landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Mosque, the Hippodrome, the Basilica Cistern, and more.
Day 2: Discovering Historic Istanbul
On your second day, you should include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar in your itinerary. The Hagia Sophia Mosque has a rich history, with its transition from a church, to a mosque.
It was initially built by Emperor Constantine I and consecrated by Constantine II in 360 CE. After its destruction by a fire in 404 CE, it was once again built as a church in 415. However, it was burned again in 532 CE, and rebuilt in its current form by 537 CE.
It didn’t undergo many obvious changes until 1453, when Sultan Mehmed II converted it into a mosque, adding a wooden minaret, a mihrab and a pulpit.
The Topkapi Palace served as the home of the Ottoman sultans until the mid-19th century, so expect to see some great classic architecture there. You can also spot some Baroque, and Neo-classical styles due to the influence of Sultan Abdulmecid I.
Last, but not least, the Grand Bazaar is the oldest covered shopping structure in the world, and has everything that you could need. You can spend hours walking and exploring the sights and smells of the place and purchase whatever you need.
Day 3: A Walk along the Bosphorus
If you wish to spend a lazy day, you should not miss out on taking a cruise down the Bosphorus River, and spend some time exploring the sights and smells that the sultans used to.
It will be an unforgettable experience as you will get to see the different city landmarks from a different perspective. You can also choose to have lunch on the boat if you wish to.
Furthermore, you might need to show your visitor visa Turkey, when you’re booking the cruise, depending on your nationality.
You can also visit the Dolmabahce Palace, and Ortaköy Mosque, which were built in the mid-19th century, during the gradual fall of the Ottoman Empire, during the rule of Sultan Abdulmecid I. That’s why you can spot influences of the Neoclassical and Baroque styles of architecture in these buildings.
Day 4: Day Trip to Princes’ Islands
On your 4th day, you can consider visiting the Princes’ Islands, known for their natural beauty, and pretty towns. You can board the ferry after buying tickets at the port. As we mentioned previously, you might have to showcase your visitor visa Turkey at this point.
During the ferry ride, you can sample foodstuffs like toasties, orange juice, etc. which will be prepared freshly in front of your eyes. After you reach there, you can explore the grandeur of Buyukada, via a scooter, on foot or on the cycle.
We would recommend cycles since you will be able to explore the place in a more leisurely manner.
Day 5: Experiencing Modern Istanbul
Towards the end of your excursion to Turkey with your visitor visa Turkey, you can try exploring the Taksim and Istiklal Street, and check out the Karakoy District and Galata Tower of Istanbul.
On Taksim and Istiklal Street, you can explore landmarks like the Hagia Triada Church, Saint Maria Draperies Church, and take a walk through Çukurcuma and Cihangir. You can also explore the Museums of Beyoğlu and soak in a Turkish bath or Hammam.
The Karakoy district houses the Galata Tower, which used to be the banking center during the mid-19th century.
Day 6: Turkish Culture and Shopping Experience
On your penultimate day, you can consider soaking in the therapeutic Hammams, and get some much-needed shopping done in the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, if you haven’t already.
The Turkish Bath will invigorate your senses, and leave you feeling relaxed after the rigors of the previous 5 days.
Day 7: Wrap-Up and Departure
As your trip comes to an end, you can consider putting a bow on it by visiting a nearby cafe for a last breakfast of Turkish Simit, Menemen and Turkish Tea, which will make your stomach full, and stomach happy.
Ensure to pack all your clothes, belongings and souvenirs carefully the previous night, and book a taxi in advance to prevent untimely delays. Also, consider leaving 3 hours before your flight, as you can avoid getting stuck in traffic, and potentially missing your flight.
Travel Tips for Philippine Visitors in Istanbul
The official currency used in Istanbul is Turkish Lira. So, you should exchange all your currency for the same when you land at the airport. You can get in touch with our online helpdesk if you wish to have an idea about how you should budget your finances.
Lastly, do remember that you should research adequately about their social customs, and culture, like dressing modestly, covering your head when you’re entering the mosque, leaving your shoes outside when you do etc.
You should also be open to sharing your food, avoid engaging in displaying affection openly, haggle politely, and avoid disrupting the peace of the locality you’re in. Have a safe journey!