Istanbul Private Customized Highlights Tour with Van Upgrade

Do not limit yourself with a fixed itinerary. If you book this service you will be able customize your trip just as you wish. You will be accompanied by a local licensed tour guide all day long, you may visit off beaten narrow streets in Istanbul and taste local foods and visit most important tourist monuments such; # Hagia Sophia # Blue Mosque # Topkapi Palace # Dolmabahce Palace # The Grand Bazaar # Egyptian Spice Market

Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is an architectural masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and museum over its 1,500-year history. Built in 537 AD by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was the world's largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years. Its massive dome, stunning mosaics, and grand interior reflect both Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest in 1453, it later became a museum in 1935 and was reconverted into a mosque in 2020. Today, it remains a symbol of Istanbul’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, renowned for its stunning blue İznik tiles and elegant domes. Built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Sultan Ahmed I, it features six towering minarets and a grand central dome. Located opposite Hagia Sophia, it remains an active place of worship while also welcoming visitors. The mosque’s intricate interior, adorned with thousands of blue tiles and beautiful calligraphy, makes it a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and a must-visit site in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet Square is the historic heart of Istanbul, surrounded by some of the city's most famous landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern. Once the site of the ancient Byzantine Hippodrome, it was a center for chariot races and public events. Today, the square is a lively gathering place with fountains, historical monuments like the German Fountain and the Obelisk of Theodosius, and a vibrant atmosphere. It serves as a gateway to Istanbul’s rich history and a starting point for exploring the city's cultural treasures.

Topkapi Palace, the grand residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, is one of Istanbul’s most significant historical landmarks. Built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, it served as the political and administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The palace complex features opulent courtyards, stunning pavilions, and the famous Harem. It houses an impressive collection of imperial treasures, including sacred relics, exquisite ceramics, and the legendary Topkapi Dagger. Overlooking the Bosphorus, Topkapi Palace offers a glimpse into the grandeur and intrigue of Ottoman history.

The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water reservoir in Istanbul, built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Located near Hagia Sophia, this vast cistern features 336 marble columns, creating a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere. Originally designed to supply water to the Great Palace, it is now a popular tourist attraction known for its eerie lighting, the famous Medusa head carvings, and its serene, reflective waters. The Basilica Cistern offers a fascinating glimpse into Byzantine engineering and history.

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, dating back to the 15th century during the reign of Sultan Mehmed II. With over 4,000 shops spread across a maze of bustling alleys, it offers a vibrant shopping experience featuring handmade carpets, jewelry, ceramics, spices, and textiles. The bazaar's historic atmosphere, lively bargaining culture, and stunning Ottoman architecture make it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore Turkey’s rich artisanal heritage.

A Bosphorus Cruise offers a scenic journey between Europe and Asia, showcasing Istanbul’s stunning skyline, historic palaces, and iconic landmarks along the strait.