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- English
Discover the History of Istanbul with a Local& Licensed Guide!
Join us on a private 5-7 hours journey through Istanbul’s historic Old City. Explore the ancient Hippodrome and the magnificent Blue Mosque (free admission), with optional visits to Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace (entrance tickets are extra). Complete your experience with a walk through the world-famous Grand Bazaar.
Led by a licensed local guide, this personalized experience brings the stories of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Istanbul to life.
Choose Your Preferred Transportation
Walking Tour: If your hotel is within walking distance of the Old City, your private guide can meet you directly in your hotel lobby. No transportation is needed.
Hotel Pickup & Drop-Off: Staying farther away? Choose our private transfer option. We will pick you up from your hotel and return you to the same location after the tour.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Pickup & Meeting Point Information:
We offer two convenient options:
Walking Tour: If your hotel is within walking distance of the Old City, your private guide can meet you directly in your hotel lobby. No transportation is needed.
Hotel Pickup & Drop-Off: If your hotel is farther away, choose our private transfer option. We will pick you up from your hotel by private vehicle and drop you off at the same location after the tour.
Please provide your hotel name and address after booking so we can arrange your pickup accordingly.
Please provide your hotel or cruise port name and full address when booking. For the walking tour, your guide will meet you at this location. If you select round-trip transfer, our private vehicle will pick you up here and return you to the same address after the tour. Please check your details now.
Itinerary
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1Hippodrome
The Hippodrome was the social and sporting center of the Byzantine Empire, where chariot races, celebrations, and public events took place. Today, you can still see historic monuments such as the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the German Fountain.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Blue Mosque
Built in the early 17th century, the Blue Mosque is famous for its beautiful blue İznik tiles, impressive dome, and six minarets. It remains an active mosque and is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Dress Code: Modest clothing is required. Women should cover their hair, shoulders, and knees. Men should wear clothing below the knees. Scarves are available at the entrance if needed. Children under 12 do not have a strict dress code.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Built in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I, Hagia Sophia served as a church, a mosque, a museum, and today is once again a mosque. Famous for its massive dome and unique blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, it is one of the most important landmarks in Istanbul and a symbol of the city’s rich history. Dress Code: Modest clothing is required. Women should cover their hair, shoulders, and knees. Men should wear clothing below the knees. Scarves are available at the entrance if needed. Children under 12 do not have a strict dress code.
45 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
4TopkapI Palace
Home to the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, Topkapi Palace was the political and administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire. It offers beautiful courtyards, imperial treasures, sacred relics, and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.
2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
5Basilica Cistern
Built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, the Basilica Cistern is the largest ancient underground water reservoir in Istanbul. Famous for its atmospheric lighting, marble columns, and mysterious Medusa heads, it is one of the city’s most fascinating Byzantine sites.
25 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
6Grand Bazaar
One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar dates back to the 15th century. With thousands of shops spread across dozens of streets. Before entering the Grand Bazaar, your guide can recommend trusted local shops for Turkish carpets, ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, and spices. This can help you learn about traditional craftsmanship, compare quality, and enjoy a more comfortable shopping experience. Afterward, you will have free time to explore the Grand Bazaar on your own.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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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