Visit Istanbul for free during a long layover: Touristanbul!
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Istanbul, a city of two continents, vibrant and buzzing, colorful and unique, modern and ancient, and a major transfer hub. Now, we all dislike long layovers, but when you have a stopover in Istanbul, why not take advantage of this opportunity to visit the city? Did you know that if you are flying with Turkish Airlines and your layover in Istanbul is between 6 and 24 hours, you can discover Istanbul for free with Touristanbul? Surely it beats killing time at the airport!
Istanbul Panorama
How does Touristanbul work?
Turkish Airlines offers a free guided tour in Istanbul to passenger with a connecting international flight in Istanbul and a layover between 6-24 hours. Their Touristanbul service from Istanbul Airport requires that you have a visa for Turkey unless of course, you are exempt from a visa. If you meet the requirements, a tour guide will pick you up, taking you for a guided tour of Istanbul, including a delicious Turkish and traditional Ottoman meal.
Spice Bazaar
How to apply for Touristanbul?
First, go through passport and customs controls. After that, proceed to the Hotel Desk in the International Arrivals Terminal to sign up for Touristanbul. Make sure you turn up at the Hotel Desk half an hour before your tour starts and get ready to be wowed by Istanbul.
Seagull In Istanbul
What to expect from your Istanbul layover visit?
Each tour schedule is different, but in a city like Istanbul, you are surrounded by famous buildings. So regardless of the trajectory, your visit is bound to leave a profound impression. Trust us, Istanbul gets under your skin! In any case, this is the perfect way to get to know the city, and even if you have visited before, it is far more fascinating than a long layover-wait at the airport. And the best thing is, you get to do it for free, without the risk of missing your connecting flight. If you want a teaser of what Istanbul has installed for you, have a look at these 44 fun things to do in Istanbul.
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Check the weather
Never wonder about the weather in Turkey again. The Turkish climate is as diverse as the country with significant differences between the regions.
This page contains the current weather and weather statistics for all regions in Turkey.
Prepare your trip
How to order a tourist visa for Turkey?
What about public transport?
Can you skip the line at Istanbul Airports?
General Turkey travel information, essential to help prepare your trip, on one page!
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Check the weather
Never wonder about the weather in Turkey again. The Turkish climate is as diverse as the country with significant differences between the regions.
This page contains the current weather and weather statistics for all regions in Turkey.
Prepare your trip
How to order a tourist visa for Turkey?
What about public transport?
Can you skip the line at Istanbul Airports?
General Turkey travel information, essential to help prepare your trip, on one page!
Work with us
Get direct access to your target audience with a proven interest in Turkey. People call us their Turkey Bible!
Contact us for a feature on our map, a destination guide, a photo shoot, or any form of professional Turkey-related content.
Ask a traveler
Are you unsure about a destination, activity or hotel? Why don’t you ask other travelers about their experience?
We have a closed Facebook group where you can ask all Turkey-related questions. You’ll get solid advice and travel inspiration.
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