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Full Day Private Guided Tour of Historic Istanbul

Fatih, TR
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (189 reviews)
Self-guided
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Free Cancellation up to before the experience starts (local time)

    Highlights

    • Captivating history of Istanbul
    • Renowned landmarks and sites
    • Fascinating stories and insights
    • Unique fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman influences
    • Essential experience to understand Istanbul's past
    • Duration 6 to 8 hours
    • Private Tour with Guide
    • Audio Guide in multiple languages
    • Visit Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque
    • Explore Grand Bazaar
    • Professional Tour Guide included

    Step into the captivating history of Istanbul with our meticulously crafted Istanbul Historic City Tour. This tour will take you on a journey through time, allowing you to explore the city's most renowned landmarks and uncover the fascinating stories behind each site. From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, with its Byzantine magnificence, to the vibrant Grand Bazaar, where Istanbul's cultural legacy unfolds, you will gain profound insights into the city's extraordinary heritage. Led by our knowledgeable guides, you will also learn about the unique fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman influences that have shaped this remarkable city. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply curious to explore Istanbul's past, our historic city tour is an essential experience that will help you truly understand and appreciate this captivating city.

    At a Glance

    • Free cancellation
    • 6 hours
    • Instant Confirmation
    • Available in English, French, German, Spanish; Castilian
    • Mobile voucher
    • Private Tour
    • Guided
    • Family friendly

    Featured Reviews

    Excellent (189 reviews)
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    Viator
    juliehH666EZ
    Apr 24
    We booked a tour via our Hotel. Our guide Billur walked with us from there up to Topkapi Palace and we skipped most of the queue. Billur is a fantastic guide who imparted so much historical information, not just about the places we visited but also about the times when they were built. She showed us round the palace and the Harem, giving time to see exhibitions and take the occasional rest. We also saw, as we requested, the Cistern and both Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome and so much more. We cannot recommend Billur highly enough and she made our day really special.
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    Viator
    Victor A
    Mar 24
    I had one day to spare in Istanbul after travelling in turkey for work. Because it was my first time in Turkey I figured I would want a guide to show me the main historic attractions of the Sultanahmet. The hotel where I stayed recommended me Olea Travel and ai trusted them. Suleiman, who was my guide met with me at the hotel, and proceeded to walk with me to the Blue Mosque, continuing to the Sultanahmet square, the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sofia, the Basilica Cistern and the Bazaar. We also visited a very professional rug manufacturer and a Turkish delight store near the Bazaar. During the whole trip, Suleiman was both a great company and an amazing guide. He was knowledgeable about the history of each site and spoke excellent English (he is also fluent in Chinese!). Because of his tour guide accreditation he ensured we could skip the line everywhere (without paying extra for the tickets). The rug manufacturer and the Turkish delight store always also lovely to visit. The owner of the rug store told me they employed over two thousand rural Turkish women, provided them with materials and paid them for their work. His English was impeccable (he spoke five other languages too!) and he was very hospitable, offering tea and a private tour of the rug making process. If you’re in the market for a Turkish rug, this (Gördes rugs) is the place to buy one. I was very tempted, but ultimately had to hold off on a purchase as my girlfriend was not there too At the end of the day I feel like I got to see most of Istanbuls historic attractions and also see some of Turkey’s rich culture with excellent support from Suleiman. It’s a memory I will cherish for a long time!
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    Viator
    timbC1094SV
    Nov 23
    I recently enjoyed the Istanbul Historic City Tour with Olea Travel, and it was a highlight of my trip. Ahmet, our guide, expertly navigated us through the city's iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. His passion for history and personalized anecdotes made the tour both informative and engaging. The well-paced itinerary and Ahmet's friendly demeanor made it a perfect blend of culture and enjoyment. Highly recommend this tour for a captivating glimpse into Istanbul's rich history. Thanks, Ahmet and Olea Travel, for an unforgettable experience!
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    Viator
    O9502MSjuliaw
    Nov 23
    We‘ve had a private tour with our german speaking guide Serra and it was the best decision we could have made! 😍 She was brilliant in explaining everything and showed us all the important stuff and sights in Istanbul. We had amazing turkish delights and great turkish coffee! 👍🏼 Serra always respected our wishes to see and go and had some great recommondations for dinner! 🙏🏼 We had a great day and wonderful experiences! 🫶🏻
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    Viator
    christophery580
    Oct 24
    My wife and I are both so delighted to have met you. We thoroughly enjoyed our day and learned so much. Thank you for being our first tour guide. We will definitely have trouble finding anyone better. 🤗
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    Full Day Private Guided Tour of Historic Istanbul

    Discover Istanbul's rich history with a private tour, exploring iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar, guided by an expert.

    Included

    • inclusion
      Other
      Skip-the-line tickets available upon request
    • inclusion
      Other
      Public Transportation
    • inclusion
      Other
      Soft Drinks
    • inclusion
      Other
      Discover rich tradition of Turkish handicrafts through unique art &shopping experiences in GORDES
    • inclusion
      Other
      Public Transportation Fees
    • inclusion
      Other
      Professional Tour Guide

    Excluded

    • exclusion
      Other
      Entry Fees
    • exclusion
      Private transportation
      Private transportation
    • exclusion
      Other
      Foods & Drinks

    Meeting Point

    Meeting point

    Alemdar, Muhterem Efendi Sk. no:4, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul , Turkiye

    End point

    End Point

    Meeting point

    Alemdar, Muhterem Efendi Sk. no:4, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul , Turkiye

    End point

    Pickup

    Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

    Pickup Location
    Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
    Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus
    Ecole St Pierre Hotel
    Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul At Sultanahmet
    Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
    Ibis Styles Istanbul Bomonti
    Istanbul Marriott Hotel Sisli
    Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul
    Park Hyatt Istanbul - Macka Palas
    Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul
    Sofitel Istanbul Taksim
    Soho House Istanbul
    Swissotel The Bosphorus, Istanbul
    The Marmara Taksim
    The Ritz-carlton, Istanbul
    The St. Regis Istanbul
    Your professional English speaking guide will meet you at your hotel.

    What to expect

    1

    Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

    Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

    Hagia Sophia Mosque - Emperor Justinian built it in the sixth century. It is very important in both the Christian and Islamic worlds. The bells, altar, and sacrificial vessels were removed after the Ottoman conquest, and many mosaics were covered to convert the church into a mosque.

    Duration 60 minutes
    Admission Admission Not Included
    2

    Hippodrome

    Hippodrome

    Hippodrome - Where chariot races were held in Roman Empire times, Egyptian Column from Byzantine Empire. Today German Fountain is the cornerstone of the square.

    Duration 60 minutes
    3

    Blue Mosque

    Blue Mosque - Sultan Ahmet I of the Ottoman Empire had it constructed in the early 1600s. The Blue Mosque is a stunningly magnificent architectural masterpiece with remarkably delicate proportions for a structure of its size.

    Duration 60 minutes
    4

    Basilica Cistern

    Basilica Cistern

    Basilica Cistern is an underground water reservoir that was built during the Byzantine era. Visitors can stroll along its dimly lit walkways and admire the 336 columns that support the structure.

    Duration 30 minutes
    Admission Admission Not Included
    5

    Grand Bazaar

    Grand Bazaar

    Grand Bazaar - With more than 4,000 shops, it is the biggest and oldest covered market in the world. Ceramics, leather, rugs, carpets, handicrafts, clothing, silver, and gold products can be found.

    Duration 60 minutes
    6

    TopkapI Palace

    TopkapI Palace

    TopkapI Palace - More than just the Ottoman Sultans' Imperial Residence. For approximately 400 years, it served as the Supreme Executive Council's seat. The Topkapi Palace is a magnificent example of oriental architecture that captures the majesty of the Ottoman Empire.

    Duration 60 minutes
    Admission Admission Not Included

    The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

    Additional Information

    • Additional information
      Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Additional information
      Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Additional information
      Specialized infant seats are available
    • Additional information
      Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Additional information
      Total tour duration includes waiting time for the attraction and personal breaks.
    Provided by Olea Travel

    What our experts say

    • icon
      Try Turkish delight at the Grand Bazaar.
    • icon
      Visit the nearby Basilica Cistern for a unique sight.
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      Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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      Check local transport options for easy access.
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      Consider visiting a local cafe for lunch.

    Why Book with Evendo?

    More About this Experience

    Introduction

    Immerse yourself in the rich and captivating history of Istanbul with our Istanbul Historic City Tour. This meticulously crafted tour allows you to explore the city's most renowned landmarks, each offering a glimpse into Istanbul's extraordinary heritage. From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a symbol of Byzantine magnificence, to the vibrant Grand Bazaar, a tapestry of cultural wonders, this tour takes you on a fascinating journey through time. Led by our knowledgeable guides, you'll uncover the hidden stories behind each site, gaining profound insights into the captivating history and the unique fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman influences that define Istanbul.

    What to expect?

    In this tour, you can expect to spend a total duration of 360 to 480 minutes immersed in the history and beauty of Istanbul. The tour starts at Sultanahmet square, where our guide will be waiting with our logo sign. From there, you'll embark on a journey through Istanbul's storied past, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia Mosque, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Each location offers its own unique insights into the city's history and cultural heritage.

    Who is this for?

    This historic city tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of Istanbul's past. Whether you're a curious traveler or a seasoned explorer, this tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city's most significant historical sites. The tour is designed to be inclusive, welcoming visitors of all ages and backgrounds who have a passion for history and a desire to learn.

    Why book this?

    Embarking on our Istanbul Historic City Tour is like stepping into a time machine that transports you to the glorious past of Istanbul. Our experienced guides bring these historic sites to life, sharing captivating stories and insights that make the city's history come alive. With our carefully crafted itinerary, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the stunning architecture of the Hagia Sophia, marvel at the delicate proportions of the Blue Mosque, and get a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire at the Topkapi Palace. Moreover, the bustling Grand Bazaar offers a sensory feast with its vibrant atmosphere and countless shops brimming with unique treasures. This tour is a perfect blend of education, exploration, and cultural immersion, providing an unforgettable experience of Istanbul's past.

    Good to know

    To join this tour, simply meet our guide at the Sultanahmet square, which can be accessed by bus, taxi, or train. The tour has a duration of 360 to 480 minutes, allowing ample time to explore each landmark. Please note that the tour includes the entrance fees to the Hagia Sophia Mosque, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and excludes any additional expenses. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as there will be moderate walking involved. Our knowledgeable guides will be there to assist and answer any questions you may have throughout the tour.

    Reviews

    Travelers who have experienced our Istanbul Historic City Tour have been astounded by the wealth of history and culture they encountered. They praised our guides for their extensive knowledge and the engaging stories they shared. Many described the tour as a transformative experience that deepened their understanding and appreciation of Istanbul's past. The architectural wonders of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque left visitors in awe, while the Grand Bazaar provided a unique shopping experience like no other. Overall, our customers were highly satisfied with the tour, proclaiming it a must-do for anyone seeking to unravel the captivating history of Istanbul.

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