Skip to content
Vacantier

Activity Istanbul, Turkey

Best Of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3 Day Private Guided Tour

4.8 (540 reviews) 3 days Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Best Of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3 Day Private Guided Tour

About this activity

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.

Multi-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Walking Tours Ports of Call Tours Car Tours

At a glance

Duration
3 days
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–15
Guide
German, English, Spanish
Operated by
Moira Travel Agency

Ages: Infants (0–1 years) · Children (2–6 years) · Adults (7–99 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Professional guide
  • Included: Private Tour
  • Included: 1 , 2 or 3 days (depending on option selected)

Not included

  • Not included: Food and drinks
  • Not included: Gratuities (suggested)
  • Not included: Entrance fees: Museum/Attraction Tickets
  • Not included: Lunch
  • Not included: Transportation from/back to hotel and between sites (unless option selected)

Itinerary

Day 1 · Private istanbul Guided Tour Day:Blue Mosq,Hagia Sophia,Topkapi Palace,Basilica Cistern,Grand Bazar

  1. Blue Mosque

    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. TopkapI Palace

    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

  3. Hippodrome

    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.

  4. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

    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

  5. 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

  6. Sultanahmet District

    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.

  7. Basilica Cistern

    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

Day 2 · Private istanbul Guided Tour : Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise, Dolmabahce Palace, Istiklal Street, and Taksim

  1. Dolmabahce Palace

    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. Taksim Square

    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.

  3. Bosphorus Strait

    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

  4. Bosphorus Bridge

    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

  5. KIz Kulesi

    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

  6. Galata Tower

    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.

  7. Misir Carsisi

    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.

Day 3 · Private istanbul Guided Tour : Suleymaniye Mosque ,Fener Rum ,Pier Loti Hill

  1. Suleymaniye Mosque

    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.

  2. 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.

  3. Pierre Loti

    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.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

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

End 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

Pickup points

  • Atlantis Royal Hotel
  • Serhat Apart Otel
  • Vardar Palace Hotel
  • Gulseda Otel Apart
  • Imagine Istanbul - Sultanahmet
  • Union Hotel Port
  • Xenia Hotel Istanbul
  • AHC Ayasofya Hotel - Special Class
  • Meddusa Hotel
  • Gulhane Corner Hotel
  • Chambers of the Boheme
  • Arts Hotel Taksim

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.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • 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

  • N-A

Options

  • 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

Traveller ratings

4.8 out of 5 · 540 reviews
5
90%
4
5%
3
2%
2
1%
1
2%

Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Best Of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3 Day Private Guided Tour

Pick a day to see the times and the price

Necessary cookies keep the site running and cannot be switched off. With your consent we also load Google Analytics, which tells us how the site is used, and our affiliate partners' scripts (Travelpayouts, Kiwi.com), which set cookies to credit us with bookings made through us. Details in the Cookie Policy.

  • Necessary

    The session, form protection, signing in, your chosen currency and this choice. The site does not work without them.

    Always on
  • Analytics

    Google Analytics. Counts visits and which pages and offers are used, so we know what to improve. It never receives your name, email or account.

  • Marketing and affiliate

    The Travelpayouts scripts and the Kiwi.com flight search. They set their own cookies, through which the partner knows you came from Vacantier.