Tours/Viator
Viator · Private tour

Private Guided Istanbul Highlights Tour Top Historical Sites

5.0(48)1 hour
VIATOR5.0(15)TRIPADVISOR5.0(33)

Description

Discover the heart of Istanbul with a fully private guided Old City highlights tour designed for a personalized and flexible experience. Explore the most iconic landmarks of the historic peninsula in a carefully planned route including Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar, while learning the rich history of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Unlike group tours, this experience allows you to move at your own pace, ask questions freely, and enjoy a more comfortable and intimate exploration of Istanbul’s Old City. This tour is perfect for visitors who want to experience the essential highlights of Istanbul in a limited time with a knowledgeable local guide.

Tour Options

Private Tour & Transfer
  • Mercedes Vito: Vehicle is used for pickup & drop-off only. The tour itself is a walking tour through the pedestrian-only Old City. Pickup included
Private Walking Tour
  • Walking: Your guide will meet you at your hotel, cruise port (Galataport), Airbnbs or designated meeting points. Pickup included

Itinerary

20 min

Discover the Ancient Heart of Istanbul: Step into history of the Hippodrome, the ancient sporting and social center of Istanbul and hear captivating stories and secrets from an expert local guide, bringing the ancient site to life.

25 min

Unveil the Splendor of Istanbul through one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, the Blue Mosque. Admire the intricate designs, grand dome, and beautiful calligraphy that adorn the mosque's interior. As you gain deep insights from an experienced local guide who will share captivating stories and lesser-known facts.

Admission not included45 min

Experience the Majesty of Istanbul through the centuries with our guided tour of Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul's most iconic and historic landmarks. Learn from a knowledgeable local guide who will share fascinating stories and insights about this magnificent monument, learn from a knowledgeable local guide who will share fascinating stories and insights about this magnificent monument.

Admission not included120 min

Step into Royalty! Discover the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire with our guided tour of Topkapi Palace, the heart of imperial power in Istanbul. Gain exclusive insights into the secluded world of the palace harem and its intriguing history and benefit from the deep knowledge of a local guide who will bring the history of the palace to life with engaging stories and facts.

Admission not included30 min

Dive into the Mysteries of Istanbul on an enchanting journey through the subterranean marvel of the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul’s ancient and awe-inspiring underground treasure. Discover the impressive engineering of this ancient underground cistern. Experience the eerie yet captivating ambiance created by the dim lighting, echoing water, and forest of columns, capture stunning photos of this unique and atmospheric location, perfect for creating lasting memories.

45 min

Immerse Yourself in Tradition. Explore one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops spread across 61 streets. Discover an incredible variety of goods, from exquisite jewelry and handcrafted ceramics to luxurious textiles and aromatic spices, enjoy tastings of Turkish delights, teas, and other local delicacies as you wander through the bazaar.

Highlights

Licensed Tour Guide

What's included

Included
Licensed Tour Guide
Not included
(Use of public transportation depends on the location of your accommodation and your preference.)
Lunch
Museum Entrance Fees

Pickup Locations & Times

You will be picked up from your hotel or the port (Galataport) by your guide.

Traveller Ratings

5.0
48 reviews
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48
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Important Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
  • Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
  • Carrying cash is advised to skip the line in some places.
  • When visiting mosques, men should cover their knees, and women should cover their hair with a scarf, shoulders, and legs.
  • Please be aware that if you choose to start the tour after noon, some locations may not be visited due to their closing hours.

Reviews(48)

5.0
Based on 48 verified reviews
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