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Offered languages
- English
⭐ OVERVIEW
Discover the historic heart of Istanbul on this private Old City walking tour with a licensed local guide. Explore the most iconic landmarks of the former Byzantine and Ottoman capital including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace and the famous Grand Bazaar.
This tour offers a relaxed and personalized experience focused on history, culture and storytelling. As this is a private tour, the itinerary can also be customized according to your interests and pace.
⭐ TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
• Explore Istanbul’s historic Old City with a licensed local guide
• Visit Hagia Sophia and learn about its 1500-year history
• Discover the beauty of the Blue Mosque
• Walk through the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople
• Experience the underground marvel of the Basilica Cistern
• Visit Topkapi Palace, residence of Ottoman sultans
• Explore the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar
• Flexible itinerary that can be customized to your interests
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Tour guide will pick you up from the Hotels or Istanbul cruise Port or Airbnb locations.
Topkapı palace is closed on Tuesday
Grand baazar is closed on Sunday
In front of German fountain
Itinerary
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Hippodrome (Pass by)
Once the beating heart of Byzantine social life — imagine a stadium where 100,000 people gathered to cheer chariot races and witness imperial ceremonies. Today, we walk its echoes and uncover stories hidden beneath the stones.
Admission ticket free -
1Blue Mosque
An architectural gem blending grace and grandeur. With its six minarets and iconic blue tiles, the Blue Mosque isn’t just beautiful — it tells a story of faith, ambition, and artistic mastery.
35 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Basilica Cistern
A mysterious underground world right beneath your feet. We’ll admire the entrance and talk about how this 6th-century water reservoir kept the city alive — and how Medusa ended up at the bottom!
40 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
3Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
A church, a mosque, a museum, and again a mosque — Hagia Sophia is a mirror of Istanbul’s soul. From outside, we’ll explore its epic transformations and its powerful symbolism across empires.
45 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
4TopkapI Palace
This was no ordinary palace — it was the center of Ottoman power for over 400 years. From the outside, we’ll talk about sultans, secrets, and the centuries of drama that unfolded behind its walls.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
5Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With thousands of shops and historic streets, it has been the center of trade and commerce in Istanbul for centuries and remains one of the most vibrant places in the city.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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