5–6 hours
Activity Istanbul, Turkey
out of 5
540 reviews
Discover Istanbul’s vibrant culture and rich history with a customizable private guided tour. Whether you have one, two, or three days, your expert guide will tailor the experience to your interests and preferences.
1-Day Tour:
Visit top attractions including the German Fountain, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and Grand Bazaar.
2-Day Tour:
Enjoy all Day 1 highlights plus a Bosphorus Cruise by public ferry, Dolmabahce Palace, Istiklal Street, Taksim Square, Cicek Passage, an exterior view of Galata Tower, and the Spice Market.
3-Day Tour:
Delve deeper with Pierre Loti Panoramic Hill, the colorful Fener and Balat districts, Suleymaniye Mosque, and St. Stephen Church (Iron Church).
Enjoy the flexibility to adjust your itinerary, the personal touch of a private guide, and the convenience of complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off—making the most of your short time in Istanbul.
Ages: Infants (0–1 years) · Children (2–6 years) · Adults (7–99 years)
45 min
Blue Mosque The Blue Mosque (Called Sultanahmet Camii in Turkish) is an historical mosque in Istanbul. The mosque is known as the Blue Mosque because of blue tiles surrounding the walls of interior design
2 hours Admission not included
Topkapi Palace Topkapı Palace was not only the residence of the Ottoman sultans, but also the administrative and educational centre of the state. Initially constructed between 1460 and 1478 by Sultan Mehmed II, the conqueror of Constantinople, and expanded upon and altered many times throughout its long history, the palace served as the home of the Ottoman sultans and their court until the middle of the 19th century. ENTRANCE TICKET IS 50 EURO PER PERSON
45 min
Hippodrome Hippodrome of Constantinople, located in Sultanahmet/Istanbul, was a public arena mainly for chariot races. The word hippodrome comes from the Greek hippos (horse) and dromos (way). The Hippodrome of Constantinople was also home to gladiatorial games, official ceremonies, celebrations, protests, torture to the convicts and so on.
one hour Admission not included
Hagia Sophia Mosque The Hagia Sophia, one of the historical architectural wonders that still remains standing today, has an important place in the art world with its architecture, grandness, size and functionality. The Hagia Sophia, the biggest church constructed by the East Roman Empire in Istanbul, has been constructed three times in the same location.ENTRANCE TICKET IS 25 EURO PER PERSON
Grand Bazaar
2 hours
Kapali Carsi One of the largest and oldest covered bazaars in the world, the Grand Bazaar is 30,700 square meters with over 60 streets and alleys and 4,000 shops
Passing by
Home to some of Istanbul’s most recognizable attractions, the Sultanahmet District is an ideal place to explore the city’s complex history. With the rose-colored Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) sitting across from the six minarets of the Blue Mosque and down the street from the energetic Grand Bazaar, this neighborhood packs in a wealth of culture.
45 min Admission not included
The Basilica Cistern, also known as the Yerebatan Cistern or the Sunken Palace, is an ancient underground water reservoir located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions and a remarkable architectural wonder.
Historical Background:
The Basilica Cistern was constructed during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century AD. Istanbul, known as Constantinople at the time, was the capital of the Byzantine Empire. The cistern was built to provide a reliable water supply for the Great Palace of Constantinople, which stood nearby.
Architecture and Features:
The cistern is an enormous underground chamber that spans an area of about 9,800 square meters (105,000 square feet). It is supported by a forest of 336 marble columns, arranged in 12 rows, with each row consisting of 28 columns.
The cistern has a capacity to hold up to 80,000 cubic meters (2,800,000 cubic feet) of water. ENTRANCE TICKET IS 40 EURO PER PERSON
2 hours Admission not included
Dolmabahce Palace The Dolmabahce Palace is located along the European shore of the Bosphorus Strait. Originally there was a shallow bay where the Ottoman fleet used to anchor their ships. After the 17th century the coast was filled in and converted into a nice garden with a couple of pavilions named as Besiktas Waterfront Palace complex, where the sultans used to relax enjoying the views. ENTRANCE TICKET IS 50 EURO PER PERSON
2 hours
Taksim Square Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani), Istanbul’s main modern hub, is located at the end of the pedestrian thoroughfare Istiklal Avenue (Istiklal Caddesi). A popular meeting place, Taksim Square is anchored by the Monument of the Republic and buzzes with activity day and night. The area historically hosts public celebrations, parades, and demonstrations.
2 hours Admission not included
Bosphorus Strait The Bosphorus Strait defines Istanbul. It is the divide between Europe and Asia, and the main connection between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Dotted with parks and elaborate Ottoman mansions, including Dolmabahce Palace, and spanned by three intercontinental bridges, the Bosphorus is the veritable heart of the city. Bosphorus cruise is a public ferry . ITS TICKET IS 250 TL PER PERSON
Passing by
Bosphorus Bridge The Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu) in Istanbul is one of three continent-spanning bridges over the Bosphorus Strait, connecting Europe and Asia. When it opened in 1973, the 5,118-foot (1,560-meter) bridge was the fourth-longest suspension bridge in the world. And though it has since slid down the rankings, it is still an impressive sight to behold
Passing by
KIz Kulesi Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) Located on an islet in the Bosphorus Strait, just offshore from Istanbul’s Uskudar neighborhood, Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) is a historical site that has inspired myths and legends. The Ottomans expanded and rebuilt the structure, and today it contains a restaurant and bar with views of the city
Passing by
Galata Tower Rising high above its namesake neighborhood, Istanbul’s Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) dates back to the Genoese presence in Constantinople in the 14th century. An elevator takes you up to a viewing platform located under the roof, which offers panoramic views of the Old City peninsula and Beyoglu neighborhood.
one hour
Built in the 17th century, the covered Spice Bazaar is Istanbul’s fragrant hub for all things flavorful. Piles of pepper, saffron, teas, and dried apricots nestle alongside shops selling colorful Turkish delight, silk scarves, and glass mosaic lamps. Take time to chat with vendors, sip tea, and haggle for the perfect price.
one hour
The Suleymaniye Mosque, also known as the Suleymaniye Camii in Turkish, is a magnificent mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built during the Ottoman Empire under the rule of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and was completed in 1557.
The mosque was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, who also designed many other important buildings throughout Istanbul. The Suleymaniye Mosque is considered one of Sinan's greatest works and is one of the most important examples of Ottoman architecture.
The mosque is known for its impressive size and striking beauty. It features a large central dome, as well as four smaller domes and two minarets. The interior of the mosque is decorated with intricate tile work and calligraphy, and the central prayer hall is surrounded by a colonnade of marble columns.
In addition to its religious significance, the Suleymaniye Mosque also has a rich cultural and historical significance.
Patriarchate Of Constantinople
one hour
The Fener Rum Ortodoks Church, also known as the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, is a historic Greek Orthodox church located in the Fener district of Istanbul, Turkey. It is the primary church of the Eastern Orthodox Church and serves as the spiritual center of the Orthodox Christian world.
The church was originally built in the 4th century, and over the centuries it has undergone numerous renovations and additions. It is considered one of the most important churches in the Orthodox Christian tradition, and it has served as the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate since the 6th century.
The church features a striking combination of architectural styles, reflecting its long history and the various cultural influences that have shaped Istanbul over the centuries. It features a large central dome, as well as numerous smaller domes and minarets. it is considered one of the most important examples of Byzantine architecture in the world.
one hour
Pier Loti Hill, also known as Pierre Loti Tepesi in Turkish, is a popular hilltop viewpoint located in the Eyüp district of Istanbul, Turkey. The hill offers stunning panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the city of Istanbul, and it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The hill is named after the French author Pierre Loti, who was known for his love of Istanbul and his frequent visits to the city. Loti was a regular visitor to the hill, which was named in his honor after his death in 1923.
To reach the top of the hill, visitors can take a cable car ride from the Eyüp district. At the top, there is a small café named after Pierre Loti, where visitors can enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee while taking in the breathtaking views.
In addition to its stunning views, Pier Loti Hill is also a popular destination for its historical significance. The hill is home to the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, which is considered one of the most important Islamic sites in Istanbul.
You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.
Your guide will contact you in advance to ensure a smooth start, and on the day of the tour will be waiting just outside the cruise terminal, directly in front of the main EXIT GATE, holding a name board with your name for easy recognition
Contact details of your tour guide will be provided ahead of your trip. This will allow you to get in touch directly to clarify any questions, confirm meeting points, or coordinate arrival times
Your guide will contact you in advance to ensure a smooth start, and on the day of the tour will be waiting just outside the cruise terminal, directly in front of the main EXIT GATE, holding a name board with your name for easy recognition
Contact details of your tour guide will be provided ahead of your trip. This will allow you to get in touch directly to clarify any questions, confirm meeting points, or coordinate arrival times
and 1,052 more pickup points
****If the private Vehicle service is not booked, your guide will meet you ONLY on foot at centrally located hotels or Galataport. If your hotel is not centrally located or not easily accessible by public transportation, the meeting point will be the German Fountain (Sultanahmet Square).
****If private Vehicle service is booked, pickup is available from all centrally located hotels. Please note that an additional surcharge may apply for hotels located outside the city center or on the Asian side.
****Tours without Vehicle service can be comfortably operated using public transportation such as tram, funicular, and ferries.
****Tours starting from the airports must be booked with private van service. As airports are outside the standard pickup zone, an additional fee will apply.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
| If you cancel | You get back |
|---|---|
| At least one day before | 100% |
| Less than a day before | 0% |
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Blue Mosque is closed until 2pm on Fridays
Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays
Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays
For last minute bookings, tour starting time can be flexible.
Galata Tower will be visited from outside as tour guides have no priority to skip the line due to Galata Tower regulations
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1-Day Private Guided & Vehicle
Day 1: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hipporome, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar with vehicle
Duration: 1 day: Duration: 7 hours:
Lunch : Your guide will recommend options based on your preferences and assist with vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free needs.
Mercedes vito or sprinter : On Day 1, all sites are within walking distance, and transportation is only used for hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Pickup included
2-Day Private Guided & Vehicle
For Days 2 , distances between attractions are greater, so a vehicle is recommended for a more comfortable and efficient
Duration: 2 days
Lunch: Your guide will recommend options based on your preferences and assist with vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free needs.
Mercedes vito or sprinter : On Day 1, all sites are within walking distance, and transportation is only used for hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Pickup included
3- Day Private Guided Tour
All Historical area of Istanbul
Duration: 3 days: 3 Day Tour(7 hours each day)
Lunch: Your guide will recommend options based on your preferences and assist with vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free needs.
No transportation for this obt: It is Walking Tour
Pickup included
3-Day Private Guided & Vehicle
For Days 2 and 3, distances between attractions are greater, so a vehicle is recommended for a more comfortable and efficient
Duration: 3 days: Duration: 3 Day Tour(7 hours each day)
Lunch: Your guide will recommend options based on your preferences and assist with vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free needs.
Mercedes vito or Sprinter : On Day 1, all sites are within walking distance, and transportation is only used for hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Pickup included
1-Day Private Guided Tour
Day 1 Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hipporome, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. it is walking tour
Duration: 1 day: 1 Day Tour(7 hours each day)
Lunch: Your guide will recommend options based on your preferences and assist with vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free needs.
No transportation for this obt: It is walking Tour
Pickup included
2-Day Private Guided Tour
Day 1 Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hipporome, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand BazaarDay 2 Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise, Dolmabahce Palace, Istiklal Street, Taksim
Duration: 2 days: 2 Day Tour(7 hours each day)
Lunch: Your guide will recommend options based on your preferences and assist with vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free needs.
No transportation for this obt: It is walking tour
Pickup included
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