Istanbul Private Guided City Tours
- 7–8 hours
- Free cancellation up to 24h before
- Guided in English
- Instant confirmation
Highlights
Skip the lines and save time! All entrance fees are included in this full-day tour, so you can focus entirely on exploring the most captivating landmarks of Istanbul without the hassle of waiting for tickets. Taking you to the heart of history in the Sultanahmet district, this tour offers a seamless and enriching journey through Istanbul's unique historical and cultural heritage. Discover the treasures of this extraordinary city with ease and comfort!
Inclusions
What's included
- All entrance fees to the attractions included in the itinerary are covered.
- Professional Tour Guide
What's not
- All Personal Expenses
- Lunch
Itinerary
Built by Sultan Ahmed I in the 17th century, this elegant mosque is also known as the "Blue Mosque" due to the thousands of blue İznik tiles that adorn its interior. With its six minarets, it stands as one of the most important architectural masterpieces of its era, symbolizing the peak of Islamic and Ottoman art. Your guide will share insights on the mosque’s architectural features, historical stories, and its religious significance.
The Hippodrome was the social and cultural center of the Roman and Byzantine empires, hosting chariot races and ceremonies. Today, you can see key remnants like the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, the Walled Obelisk, and the German Fountain. Your guide will explain the original uses of these monuments and the historical context behind them.
One of the world’s most iconic architectural wonders, Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It was later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era and is currently used as a mosque. The massive dome, mosaics, and its historical importance hold great significance for both Christianity and Islam. You’ll hear about the mosaics, the dome’s architecture, and the transformation of Hagia Sophia during the Ottoman period.
Topkapi Palace is one of the most important historical landmarks in Istanbul. It served as the main residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years and today offers insight into imperial life, court traditions, and Ottoman history.
This underground water reservoir, built during the Byzantine era, was designed to supply water to the city. It’s supported by hundreds of marble columns, creating a mystical ambiance. The iconic Medusa head columns are a highlight of the visit. Your guide will explain the purpose of the cistern, its construction, and the fascinating mythological stories linked to it.
Built in 1664 as part of the New Mosque Complex, the Spice Bazaar served as a marketplace for Eastern spices. Today, it’s filled with a colorful array of spices, Turkish delights, dried fruits, nuts, and handmade souvenirs. Your guide will share details on the history of the Ottoman trade system, as well as the origins and uses of the products sold in the bazaar. You'll also have the opportunity to shop for unique local products.
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.
Know before you go
- Meeting point
- We will meet next to the historic German Fountain, known as the 'Alman Çeşmesi,' located in Sultanahmet Square. Our guide will check your ticket.
- Pickup
- Everyone meets at the starting point; there is no pickup.
- Ticket type
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Operated by
- Local Explore Tours
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The tour involves moderate walking, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Be prepared for all weather conditions. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sunny days.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque. Backpacks, large bags, and large umbrellas are not permitted inside Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque due to security reasons.
- Modest attire is required to enter the Blue Mosque. Shoulders must be covered, and shorts or short skirts are not allowed.
- Since the Blue Mosque is an active place of worship, visitors may need to wait outside during prayer times.
- The tour may not be suitable for children under the age of 6, as they may have difficulty walking for extended periods.
How it compares in Istanbul
- Its from-price is 137% above the median of the 3649 experiences we list in Istanbul.
- Its length is typical for the group.
- 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).
Special offers in Istanbul
Was/now prices come from the operator, never from us.
