Private Istanbul Old City Tour: Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque & More
Highlights
- Visit the famous Blue Mosque
- Explore the historic Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Marvel at the ancient Basilica Cistern
- Shop at the bustling Grand Bazaar
- Discover the opulent Topkapi Palace
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Small Group Tour
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Duration 5 to 7 hours
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Guiding services included
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Coffee and tea provided
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All fees and taxes included
Experience the real Istanbul with a private tour that feels like visiting an old friend. Forget the typical tourist spots, as your knowledgeable guide takes you to a local special restaurant for a truly authentic experience. From the stunning Blue Mosque and historic Hagia Sophia Mosque, to the underground wonders of the Basilica Cistern, you'll explore the city's rich history and culture. Discover the bustling Grand Bazaar, with its 4,000 shops and 61 covered streets, and wander the opulent halls of the Topkapi Palace. Finally, immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the ancient Roman Hippodrome. Throughout the tour, your guide's passion for meeting new people and sharing their knowledge shines through, ensuring you have a memorable and personal experience. Book now and uncover the secrets of Istanbul with a true local guide.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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5 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Experience Istanbul like a local on a 5-7 hour tour with personalized attention from expert guides and discover hidden gems of the city.
Included
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Fast Track Ticket Avaliable
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Professional Private Guide
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Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.)
Excluded
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Gratuities (suggested)
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In-vehicle air conditioning
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Private transportation
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Admission fees
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Lunch
Meeting Point
In front of German fountain i will be holding a blue flag
Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul , Turkiye
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Once the beating heart of Byzantine social life — imagine a stadium where 100,000 people gathered to cheer chariot races and witness imperial ceremonies. Today, we walk its echoes and uncover stories hidden beneath the stones.
An architectural gem blending grace and grandeur. With its six minarets and iconic blue tiles, the Blue Mosque isn’t just beautiful — it tells a story of faith, ambition, and artistic mastery.
A mysterious underground world right beneath your feet. We’ll admire the entrance and talk about how this 6th-century water reservoir kept the city alive — and how Medusa ended up at the bottom!
A church, a mosque, a museum, and again a mosque — Hagia Sophia is a mirror of Istanbul’s soul. From outside, we’ll explore its epic transformations and its powerful symbolism across empires.
This was no ordinary palace — it was the center of Ottoman power for over 400 years. From the outside, we’ll talk about sultans, secrets, and the centuries of drama that unfolded behind its walls.
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
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Try local street foods near Tophane.
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Visit nearby cafes for authentic Turkish coffee.
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Check out local shops after the tour.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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Bring a reusable water bottle along.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Istanbul with a private tour guided by a local expert. The Private Tour in Istanbul with Guide is not just a typical touristy experience – it's like spending time with a dear friend who knows the city inside out. From the moment you meet your guide, you'll feel a sense of comfort and trust as they take you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Istanbul.What to expect?
During this comprehensive tour, you can expect to visit iconic landmarks such as the legendary Blue Mosque, a masterpiece with its intricate domes and towering minarets. Explore the fascinating Hagia Sophia Mosque, a marvel that has witnessed the transformation of empires throughout history. Take a step back in time at the Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir that once quenched the water needs of the Great Palace. No trip to Istanbul would be complete without a visit to the bustling Grand Bazaar. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine streets as you browse through thousands of shops offering everything from traditional handicrafts to exquisite textiles and spices. Finally, indulge in the opulence of the Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans.Who is this for?
This private tour caters to all types of travelers, whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone seeking an authentic experience in Istanbul. Solo travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends will all find something to enjoy in this immersive journey.Why book this?
What sets this tour apart is the personal touch and genuine passion of your guide. Unlike a traditional tour, this experience is not just a job for them – it's a true pleasure. With their wealth of knowledge and love for sharing it, they will make you feel like you're uncovering Istanbul's secrets with the guidance of a knowledgeable friend. The itinerary is carefully crafted to showcase the most fascinating and iconic sites of Istanbul, ensuring that you don't miss out on any must-see attractions. By booking this private tour, you'll have the freedom to explore at your own pace and ask any questions that come to mind, making for a truly tailored and enriching experience.Good to know
To make your experience as enjoyable as possible, the meeting point for the tour is conveniently located near the Sultanahmet Mosque and tram station – easily accessible for everyone. The duration of the tour ranges from 300 to 420 minutes, allowing ample time to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Istanbul.Reviews
Previous travelers have raved about their experiences with this private tour in Istanbul. They praise the guide's deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, which brings the historical sites to life. Travelers were particularly impressed by the personalized attention and the insider tips they received throughout the tour. Overall, the reviews highlight the guides' passion for their city and their ability to create a memorable and unique experience for each guest.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is