Full Day Istanbul Tour with Russian Speaking Guide

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. After meeting at our office, conveniently located near Gülhane Park, and receiving your headsets along with a brief orientation, we begin our journey with a visit to this historic and peaceful park, immersing ourselves in its natural beauty and cultural charm.

   Passes by

2. During our visit to Topkapi Palace, we explore the First Courtyard, a beautiful and historically significant area that is open to the public free of charge. This courtyard provides a unique opportunity to step inside the palace grounds and experience the atmosphere and texture of this iconic landmark. Our guide will provide detailed explanations about the history and importance of Topkapi Palace, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the grandeur of this remarkable site.

   45 min

3. Together, we will visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia, where our guide will provide detailed historical information about this iconic structure from its exterior. You’ll also have the chance to capture stunning photos at the most picturesque spots around the site, recommended by our guide. Today, Hagia Sophia serves as a mosque. While the prayer area is reserved for worshippers, other sections, such as the upper gallery, are accessible with an entry fee. Please note that our tour does not include entry to the paid areas, but you will still have the opportunity to admire the architectural splendor of this historic landmark and learn about its rich heritage from the outside.

   30 min

4. Our tour includes a visit to the fascinating Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century. Known for its stunning rows of columns and atmospheric lighting, this ancient water reservoir once supplied the Great Palace of Constantinople. Our guide will share intriguing stories about its history and the mysterious Medusa heads that continue to captivate visitors.

   1 hAdmission included

5. Next, we will visit the iconic Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul's most renowned landmarks. Known for its stunning architecture and intricate blue tilework, the mosque offers a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Inside, our guide will provide detailed explanations about its history, architectural significance, and cultural importance, giving you a deeper appreciation of this magnificent structure.

   45 min

6. Our journey continues at the historic Hippodrome, once the social and sporting center of Constantinople. This iconic square was the heart of Byzantine life, hosting grand chariot races and imperial ceremonies. Today, you can explore its fascinating remnants, including the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk, while our guide brings its rich history to life with engaging stories and insights.

   30 min

7. After enjoying a delightful lunch, we will stroll through the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With its vibrant atmosphere, winding streets, and countless shops offering everything from spices to handcrafted goods, the Grand Bazaar provides a unique glimpse into Istanbul's rich cultural heritage and bustling trade traditions.

   Passes by

8. Our journey continues with a visit to the majestic Süleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece designed by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. As Istanbul's largest mosque, it reflects the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire and offers breathtaking views of the city. Inside, our guide will share the history and significance of this remarkable structure, highlighting its intricate design and serene ambiance.

   45 min

9. Our tour continues with a walk through the vibrant Mahmutpaşa district, a lively area filled with local shops and authentic Istanbul charm. From there, we head to our final stop, the Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarşısı), renowned for its colorful stalls offering a variety of spices, sweets, and traditional goods. This iconic market is the perfect place to end our journey, immersing you in the rich flavors and aromas of Istanbul's cultural heritage.

   30 min

Cancellation

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

Reviews

Ratings come from 14 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 233% above the median of the 3649 experiences we list in Istanbul.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 843 of 3649.
• 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).

See all 3649 experiences in Istanbul