Best Istanbul tour with private guide by skipping ticket line

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque stands as a testament to architectural brilliance, originally built by Constantine the Great in the 4th century and magnificently reconstructed by Justinian in the 6th century. This historic masterpiece is truly a marvel worth experiencing. Please note that visits are not possible on Fridays until 3:00 PM due to prayers. To ensure a respectful atmosphere, a dress code is in place: women are required to wear scarves to cover their head and shoulders, while both men and women should don long pants. Embrace the beauty while upholding tradition! Hagia Sophia admission fee per person 25 Euro is not included

   1 h

2. The Blue Mosque, or Sultanahmet Camii, stands as Istanbul's most iconic mosque, renowned for its stunning blue Iznik tiles. Please note, visits are not permitted on Fridays until after 3:00 PM due to the Friday Prayer. To ensure a respectful experience, a dress code is required. Ladies should bring scarves to cover their head and shoulders, while both men and women should wear long pants.

   1 h

3. The Hippodrome stands as the vibrant heart of sports activities, showcasing four remarkable monuments: the striking German Fountain gifted by Wilhelm II, the majestic Egyptian Obelisk, the intricate Serpentine Column, and the historical Walled Obelisk. Each monument adds a unique character, making this location a must-visit for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

   30 min

4. Discover the enchanting Topkapi Palace, the majestic residence of the Ottoman Sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries. This stunning palace showcases an extraordinary collection of precious gems, intricate jewelry, and the magnificent thrones of the sultans. Explore the royal costumes, captivating miniatures, and the revered Holy Mantle housed in the Chamber of Sacred Relics. Please note that a dress code is in effect: ladies must wear scarves to cover their heads and shoulders, while both men and women should dress in long pants for respectfulness. Remember, Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit to instead explore the fascinating Turkish Islamic Art Museum! Topkapı palace fee 2750 TL per person not included

   2 h

5. The Hagia Irene Church was constructed in the 4th century, contemporaneously with its renowned neighbor, Hagia Sophia. Following the conquest of Istanbul, it became part of the Topkapı Palace complex and, like many other churches, was transformed into a mosque. Remarkably, this conversion did not lead to significant alterations in the church's original structure. (Please note that Hagia Irene Church is closed on Tuesdays.) Admission included on the visit of topkapı palace ticket

   30 min

6. **Explore the Enchanting Grand Covered Bazaar!** Get ready to immerse yourself in a dazzling maze of over 4,000 shops, each brimming with unique treasures waiting to be discovered! Wander down the vibrant streets lined with goldsmiths, where you’ll find shimmering jewelry that catches the eye. Browse through exquisite carpets that tell stories in every weave, and be captivated by the stunning array of Turkish arts and crafts. Marvel at the beautifully hand-painted ceramic plates, meticulously crafted copperware, and elegant brassware that will take your breath away. Don’t miss the enchanting onyxware and the intricately designed meerschaum pipes that showcase remarkable artistry. For an extraordinary shopping adventure, be sure to visit the recommended stores! (Just a heads-up: The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays, but don’t fret—the delightful Arasta Bazaar is ready to welcome you!)

   2 h

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 132 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Istanbul

• Its from-price is 48% below the median of the 530 city tours we list in Istanbul.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 44 of 530.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Istanbul

Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus, with Byzantine and Ottoman monuments, busy bazaars and ferries crossing between continents.

The historic peninsula holds the greatest landmarks. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome face each other in Sultanahmet, the Basilica Cistern lies beneath the streets, and Topkapı Palace spreads across the hill above the Golden Horn. A short walk away, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar have traded for centuries, and Süleymaniye Mosque, built by the great Ottoman architect Sinan, crowns one of the city's seven hills.

Top-ranked sights in Istanbul: Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi), Bosphorus, Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu).

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