Istanbul Gems: Old City Walking Tour & Whirling Dervish Ceremony

Description

⭐ Airport-to-Hotel Arrival Transfer – Enjoy a smooth transfer from IST or SAW airport to your hotel on arrival. ⭐ Guided Sultanahmet Walking Tour – Explore Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar with a licensed guide. ⭐ Whirling Dervish Ceremony – Experience the mesmerizing Mevlevi tradition at Istanbul’s historic Hodjapasha Cultural Center. Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich heritage and vibrant culture during this two-day introduction to the city. On arrival, enjoy a convenient transfer from Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) directly to your hotel. On Day 2, explore the historic Sultanahmet area on foot with your licensed guide, visiting celebrated landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar. In the evening, experience the spiritual and artistic tradition of the Whirling Dervishes with a mesmerizing ceremony at the historic Hodjapasha Cultural Center.

Tour Options

Highlights

What's included

Pickup Locations & Times

On Day 1, an inbound transfer from Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) to your hotel is included. On the following day, no hotel pickup or drop-off service is provided for the guided tour. This guided tour is operated as walking tour, and guests are required to meet their guide at the designated meeting point. The meeting point of the tour is clearly indicated in the itinerary below.

Important Information

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The meeting point for Day 2 is the German Fountain at 9:00 AM. The supplier will provide the exact location details, including a Google Maps link, after your booking is confirmed.
• The meeting point for your guided walking tour has been carefully selected for easy access by public transportation and taxi, making it convenient to reach from your hotel or other locations in Istanbul.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off service will be provided for the Whirling Dervish Ceremony. The pickup time will be communicated separately by the supplier after your booking is confirmed.
• As Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, it will be replaced by a visit to the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum on these days.
• Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and will be replaced by a visit to the Spice Market on these days
• The Grand Bazaar and Spice Market are closed during the Eid holidays on March 09–11 and May 16–19, 2027.

Frequently asked questions