Private Layover Sightseeing Experience of Istanbul

4.8
(6 reviews)
Istanbul, Turkey

6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Transform your layover in Istanbul into an unforgettable journey! With a professional, English-speaking driver, enjoy a fully customizable, private tour of Istanbul’s iconic sights. Begin at the Blue Mosque, renowned for its blue tiles and grand minarets. Next, explore Sultanahmet Square and marvel at Hagia Sophia’s blend of Christian and Islamic artistry. Descend into the haunting Basilica Cistern and discover Topkapi Palace’s rich Ottoman heritage. Enjoy panoramic views from Galata Tower, visit the grand Dolmabahçe Palace, and immerse yourself in the lively Grand Bazaar. Return to the airport in time, filled with memories of Istanbul.

You can explore all the places on the list or choose your favorites! Just inform your driver about your selections before the ride. Please note that tickets are not included, but your driver can assist with booking any necessary tickets for your chosen stops.

What's Included

Water
WiFi on board
All taxes and handling charges
Fuel and Tolls
Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meals and beverages
Tips and Gratuities
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)
Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı)
Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)
Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı
Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Your Welcome Pickups driver will be waiting for you at the selected pickup location and time. Before your ride, you’ll receive your driver’s details — including their name, phone number, and car information — so you can easily recognize them. Your driver will arrive on time and be ready to assist you and any special requests before starting your journey. Please note that our sightseeing tours does not automatically include airport pickup or drop-off. If you wish to start or end your tour at the airport, simply select the option with airport pickup included when booking if available. Kindly share any special requirements, such as traveling with a service animal or needing extra assistance, when booking your ride. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for you.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Blue Mosque

    Or Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a still-functioning place of workship featuring stained-glass windows with intricate designs and hand-painted blue tiles.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Sultanahmet Square

    Οnce the centre of public life in Constantinople, the Hippodrome was the scene of ferocious chariot races. The Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine are located here.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

    The former Greek Orthodox Christian patriarchal cathedral dedicated to Holy Wisdom, later an Ottoman imperial mosque and now a museum.

    30 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 4
    Basilica Cistern

    The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground reservoir in Istanbul, built in the 6th century. Famous for its eerie columns and Medusa carvings, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Byzantine history.

    30 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 5
    TopkapI Palace

    An opulent complex of four courtyards, a harem, and a garden that served as the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans.

    1 hour Admission ticket not included
  • 6
    Galata Tower

    Called Christea Turris by the Genoese — is a medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karaköy quarter of the city.

    1 hour Admission ticket not included
  • 7
    Dolmabahce Palace

    A 19th-century, baroque-style building is one of the most glamorous palaces in the world. It was the administrative center of the late Ottoman Empire.

    1 hour Admission ticket not included
  • 8
    Grand Bazaar

    The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, dating to the 15th century, is one of the world's largest covered markets. With over 4,000 shops, it’s a vibrant hub for jewelry, textiles, ceramics, and spices.

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • For 1-3 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.
  • For 4-8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
Supplied by Welcome Pickups

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Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
City Tours
Layover Tours
Car Tours
Additional fees
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.8 Based on 6 6 reviews
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