Full Day Private Istanbul Tour
Explore the essential sights of Istanbul’s rich past and vibrant present with this full-day guided tour. From imperial mosques and palaces to underground cisterns and legendary bazaars, experience the cultural heartbeat of the city in one unforgettable day.
| Destination |
Historical Istanbul |
| Depature |
Central Hotels or Meeting Point in Sultanahmet |
| Departure Time |
Required |
| Itinerary |
Sultanahmet District Walktrough, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Shopping (Optional) |
| Included |
- Transportation in Deluxe A/C vehicles
- Professional Licensed Local Tour Guide
- Lunch
- Entrance Fees
|
| Excluded |
- Drinks
- Tips and Gratuities
- Personal Expenses
|
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
- Modest dress is required for entry into mosques: shoulders and knees must be covered, and women must cover their hair.
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven surfaces, cobblestone streets, and extended walking distances.
- Please bring sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
- Some sites may close or have limited access during religious holidays, prayer times, or official ceremonies.
- Children may be asked to present a valid passport to verify age-based discounts at museums.
- Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesdays. If your tour falls on that day, the itinerary will include alternate attractions.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture memorable moments throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Question
Is entrance to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque included?
Yes. Entrance to these landmarks is included. Please note that as active mosques, they may close for prayer during the day, and interior access may be temporarily restricted.
How much walking is involved during the tour?
Expect to walk for several hours on uneven and sometimes crowded streets. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. If you have limited mobility, a private tour with a slower pace is recommended.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is included in full-day tours if this option is selected during booking. It is not included in half-day tours. Your guide can recommend restaurants with authentic Turkish cuisine.
Are these tours suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome. However, the duration and walking distance can be tiring for young children, so please plan accordingly. Strollers are not recommended due to cobblestone streets.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Modest clothing is required for mosque visits. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Women must bring a scarf to cover their hair. Skirts, shorts above the knee, and sleeveless tops are not permitted inside mosques.
Can I book this tour as a private experience?
Absolutely. Private tours are available upon request. A private guide allows for a customized itinerary and a flexible schedule.
Do you offer hotel pickup and drop-off?
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for centrally located hotels .
Are museum tickets included in the price?
Yes. All entrance fees to museums and historical sites listed in the itinerary are included unless otherwise specified.
What happens if it rains?
Tours operate in all weather conditions. We recommend bringing an umbrella or raincoat if rain is forecasted.
Details
NOTE: For meetings and pickup, our team will support you. You may head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. After you decide, please inform us.
The Sultanahmet District is the historic heart of Istanbul, where empires rose and fell. As you walk through its ancient streets, you'll see a blend of Byzantine and Ottoman influences at every turn. The area is filled with landmarks, including majestic mosques, Roman-era columns, and imperial courtyards. It's a vibrant space where modern life intertwines with centuries of history. Your guide will bring each corner to life with stories from emperors to artisans.
Originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD, the Hagia Sophia has served as a church, mosque, and museum through centuries. Its massive dome, golden mosaics, and layered religious history make it one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It symbolizes the architectural genius of the Byzantine Empire and reflects the spiritual richness of both Christianity and Islam. Visitors can admire the blend of Christian mosaics and Islamic calligraphy side by side, showcasing the city's multicultural past. A true masterpiece of world heritage, Hagia Sophia continues to inspire awe with its grandeur and historical depth.
Also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this architectural gem was built in the early 17th century. Its six slender minarets and cascading domes dominate the Istanbul skyline. The interior is adorned with over 20,000 hand-painted Iznik tiles in shades of blue, which give the mosque its nickname. It's still an active place of worship and a significant symbol of the Ottoman Empire’s religious architecture. Visitors will find peace in its symmetrical beauty and the spiritual aura that surrounds the prayer halls.
The Hippodrome of Constantinople was the social and political center of the Byzantine Empire. Originally a Roman stadium, it was used for chariot races, ceremonies, and public events. Although most of the original structure is gone, monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column remain. These relics tell the tale of the city's grandeur and its importance as a hub of imperial power. Standing in the Hippodrome today offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of emperors and ancient spectators.
With a history dating back to the 15th century, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. It contains more than 4,000 shops across 60 streets, offering everything from carpets and jewelry to ceramics and spices. The bazaar is a sensory overload of colors, sounds, and scents, capturing the essence of Istanbul's trading heritage. Visitors can enjoy bargaining with local vendors and discovering unique hand-crafted souvenirs. It's more than a market—it's a living piece of Istanbul’s cultural and economic history.
Once the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, Topkapi Palace served as home to sultans for over 400 years. The sprawling complex includes imperial halls, harem quarters, courtyards, and ornate pavilions. Inside, visitors can view sacred Islamic relics, royal garments, and one of the world’s most famous diamonds. Every chamber reveals a different aspect of palace life, from political intrigue to royal ceremonies. A walk through Topkapi is a journey into the power and opulence of one of history’s greatest empires.
Shopping is a delightful part of many Istanbul tours, especially with the city's rich tradition of craftsmanship and trade. From centuries-old bazaars to boutique shops, you'll find an array of souvenirs like handmade carpets, jewelry, leather goods, and aromatic Turkish spices. A visit to the Grand Bazaar or the Spice Market offers not just great finds, but a cultural experience in itself.
