Private Istanbul Old City Tour: Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque & More

Fatih, TR
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (20 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Fast Track Ticket Avaliable
  • inclusion
    Professional Private Guide
  • inclusion
    Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.)

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities (suggested)
  • exclusion
    In-vehicle air conditioning
  • exclusion
    Private transportation
  • exclusion
    Admission fees
  • exclusion
    Lunch

Meeting Point

In front of German fountain i will be holding a blue flag

Meeting point

Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd, 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
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul At Sultanahmet
Tour guide will pick you up from the Hotels or Istanbul cruise Port or Airbnb locations. Topkapı palace is closed on Tuesday Grand baazar is closed on Sunday

What to expect

1
Hippodrome

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.

2
Blue Mosque

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.

3
Basilica Cistern

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!

4
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

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.

5
TopkapI Palace

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

  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Local Istanbul Tours

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.

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