Byzantium to Ottoman Splendor Private Old City İstanbul Tour

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8 to 10 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Unlike standard sightseeing tours, your journey through Sultanahmet brings history to life with captivating stories, hidden legends, and insider insights. From the grandeur of Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace to the vibrant alleys of the Grand Bazaar, we combine historical depth with engaging storytelling, interactive experiences, and carefully curated highlights that most tourists miss. This is more than a tour—it’s a journey through centuries of culture, mystery, and the living soul of Istanbul.

What's Included

Hippodrome
Bottled water
Tramway
Blue Mosque
Coffee and/or Tea
Hagia Sophia requires fees
Topkapı Palace
Archeological Museum

Meeting and pickup

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

Please wait in your hotel lobby or, if you are arriving by cruise, at the passenger exit gate of the Galataport Cruise Terminal. Your guide will be holding a sign with your name.

OR
Meeting point
Galataport Istanbul

Galataport exit terminal

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 to 10 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

    Step inside Hagia Sophia and marvel at its soaring dome, glittering Byzantine mosaics of Christ and the Virgin Mary, and grand Islamic calligraphy medallions added during the Ottoman era. Explore the imperial door, the coronation Omphalion, the legendary Weeping Column, and the stunning upper galleries—all blending centuries of Christian and Islamic heritage in one breathtaking monument that tells the story of empires, faith, and timeless artistry.

    1 hour • Admission ticket not included
  • 2
    Blue Mosque

    Visit the Blue Mosque, Istanbul’s iconic masterpiece with six elegant minarets and a cascading series of domes. Step inside to admire the dazzling blue İznik tiles, intricate calligraphy, and serene prayer halls that reflect the height of Ottoman architecture. Built to inspire awe, this living mosque combines spiritual devotion with breathtaking artistry, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of history and devotion.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Grand Bazaar

    Step into the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, where centuries of trade come alive. Wander through its labyrinth of over 4,000 shops filled with colorful carpets, dazzling jewelry, spices, ceramics, and traditional crafts. Every corner tells a story of old civilizations, vibrant culture, and Istanbul’s timeless energy, making it a must-see destination for history lovers and shopaholics alike.

    2 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    TopkapI Palace

    Step into Topkapı Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, where history, power, and legend intertwine. Explore lavish courtyards, the sultan’s private chambers, the mysterious Harem, and dazzling treasures including jewels, thrones, and sacred relics. Every corner tells a story of imperial life, political intrigue, and the grandeur of an empire that shaped Istanbul for centuries

    2 hours • Admission ticket not included
  • 5
    Hippodrome

    Explore Istanbul’s ancient Hippodrome, once the bustling center of Byzantine public life and chariot races. Stroll past monumental relics like the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk, each with its own fascinating story. This historic arena, where emperors paraded and crowds cheered, offers a vivid glimpse into the grandeur, intrigue, and excitement of a city that has shaped empires

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 6
    Basilica Cistern Museum

    Antique Byzantine Cinsten with 367 columns

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 7
    Istanbul Archaeological Museum

    Discover the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, home to thousands of artifacts from ancient civilizations across Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and beyond. Marvel at intricately carved statues, mythological sculptures, sarcophagi, and relics that bring history and legends to life. Each exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into the art, culture, and stories of empires that shaped human civilization.

    1 hour • Admission ticket not included
  • 8
    Grand Bazaar

    Among 4000 shops finding out the most famous Products of the city with best quality and reasonable price.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Mr. Horizon

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Ports of Call Tours
City Tours
Trolley Tours
Shore Excursions
Additional fees
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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