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Offered languages
- English
Discover the heart of Istanbul with a fully private guided Old City highlights tour designed for a personalized and flexible experience. Explore the most iconic landmarks of the historic peninsula in a carefully planned route including Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar, while learning the rich history of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.
Unlike group tours, this experience allows you to move at your own pace, ask questions freely, and enjoy a more comfortable and intimate exploration of Istanbul’s Old City.
This tour is perfect for visitors who want to experience the essential highlights of Istanbul in a limited time with a knowledgeable local guide.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
You will be picked up from your hotel or the port (Galataport) by your guide.
German Fountain
Itinerary
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1Hippodrome
Discover the Ancient Heart of Istanbul: Step into history of the Hippodrome, the ancient sporting and social center of Istanbul and hear captivating stories and secrets from an expert local guide, bringing the ancient site to life.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Blue Mosque
Unveil the Splendor of Istanbul through one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, the Blue Mosque. Admire the intricate designs, grand dome, and beautiful calligraphy that adorn the mosque's interior. As you gain deep insights from an experienced local guide who will share captivating stories and lesser-known facts.
25 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Experience the Majesty of Istanbul through the centuries with our guided tour of Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul's most iconic and historic landmarks. Learn from a knowledgeable local guide who will share fascinating stories and insights about this magnificent monument, learn from a knowledgeable local guide who will share fascinating stories and insights about this magnificent monument.
45 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
4TopkapI Palace
Step into Royalty! Discover the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire with our guided tour of Topkapi Palace, the heart of imperial power in Istanbul. Gain exclusive insights into the secluded world of the palace harem and its intriguing history and benefit from the deep knowledge of a local guide who will bring the history of the palace to life with engaging stories and facts.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included -
5Basilica Cistern
Dive into the Mysteries of Istanbul on an enchanting journey through the subterranean marvel of the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul’s ancient and awe-inspiring underground treasure. Discover the impressive engineering of this ancient underground cistern. Experience the eerie yet captivating ambiance created by the dim lighting, echoing water, and forest of columns, capture stunning photos of this unique and atmospheric location, perfect for creating lasting memories.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
6Grand Bazaar
Immerse Yourself in Tradition. Explore one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops spread across 61 streets. Discover an incredible variety of goods, from exquisite jewelry and handcrafted ceramics to luxurious textiles and aromatic spices, enjoy tastings of Turkish delights, teas, and other local delicacies as you wander through the bazaar.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
- Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
- Carrying cash is advised to skip the line in some places.
- When visiting mosques, men should cover their knees, and women should cover their hair with a scarf, shoulders, and legs.
- Please be aware that if you choose to start the tour after noon, some locations may not be visited due to their closing hours.
- Entrance to paid attractions is optional.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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