Historic Istanbul Old City Tour: Visit Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Istanbul’s old town on this guided tour. Explore iconic landmarks, indulge in Turkish delights, and marvel at the breathtaking views from the Blue Mosque.

Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Basilica Cistern - Largest of several hundred ancient Byzantine cisterns built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I (527-565). Huge underground Roman water source held up with 336 marble columns covering 9,800 sq. meters.
What's Included
  • Professional Guide
  • Small Group
What's Not Included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Gratuities
  • Basilica Cistern Admission (TRY 900 pp)
Additional Information

Embark on a journey to Istanbul’s lively ‘old town’ steeped in history. Get your camera ready for the remarkable religious landmarks in Sultanahmet – the Underground Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque. Immerse yourself in the fragrant spice bazaars following your exploration of the Hippodrome’s Byzantine past. Experience the convergence of Roman,…

Location
Foodie-ist Cafe and Brasserie
Muhterem Efendi Sokak
Meet your guide in front (outside) of FOODIE-IST CAFE AND BRASSERIE. It is approximately 2 minutes walking distance from (T1) Sultanahmet tram stop. Your guide will wear a tour guide badge and will be easy to spot.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(73 Ratings)
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Buddhaha
Sep 29, 2024
A Must Do In Istanbul - Huseyin was amazing! Definitely a walking dictionary - he knew the answers to everyone’s questions and was happy to share his knowledge. We learned so much in such a short period of time!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jjjfish
Sep 25, 2024
Great introduction to Istanbul Sultanahmet - Excellent tour with Errol, a very considered and knowledgeable guide who is as keen to talk history and culture as we were to learn. A great introduction to Istanbul and the Sultanahmet area. We would very much recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lornapf
Sep 23, 2024
Istanbul, Turkey was an unforgettable experience! - My small group had the pleasure of exploring Istanbul, Turkey with Ahsen as our guide and we had an absolutely wonderful experience! From the moment the tour began, Ahsen was warm, welcoming and knowledgeable. Ahsen's knowledge of Istanbul’s rich history was astounding, from the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia to the intricacies of the Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern, the stories behind every landmark were delivered with passion and expertise. Every question we asked was met with detailed answers, and we learned so much more than we could have on our own.  Beyond being knowledgeable, Ahsen was approachable and incredibly patient. She made us feel comfortable throughout the tour even when navigating the bustling Grand Bazaar! If you’re visiting Istanbul and want to truly experience the essence of this magnificent city, I cannot recommend Ahsen enough. She made Istanbul’s history, culture, and beauty so much more vibrant and meaningful.  Thank you, Ahsen, for making our Istanbul adventure unforgettable!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
H1124xbbillb
Sep 16, 2024
Historial Istanbul Tour - We really enjoyed this tour! Our guide Erol was excellent and extremely knowledgeable about Istanbul. We visited most of the places that, as tourists we wanted to see. He explained in detail the time line of the city’s history and its place in the history of the world at that time. He had anecdotal evidence that was both amusing and interesting to us. We would definitely recommend him to any friends that plan on visiting Istanbul in the future. A truly five star experience!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
106andrewt
Sep 14, 2024
Lovely Tour Guide and Tour - This is a great tour to see the highlights of the city. Our tour guide Hüseyin was very knowledgeable, friendly and professional. He knew so much about the city and its history and was able to answer every question. I would definitely recommend this tour. It is also worth paying the extra money to go inside the Basilica, it was beautiful! Make sure to wear clothing appropriate for going inside a mosque and women need a head scarf.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Andrew_t
Sep 13, 2024
Great tour for highlights of the area - Our tour guide Hussein was lovely! Very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend this tour!
Review provided by Viator
Vincenzopd3182ew
Sep 11, 2024
Very disappointing - A beautiful city, shame that run 80% by jackals, do not respect tourism, try to rip you off in every possible way, the first scam I took the taxi not even 15 minutes from the port to grand bazaar 50 euros, to the grand bazaar a kebab and a coke 31 euros, inside the grand bazaar hallucinatory prices, to blow up, another scam when they make the Turkish lira currency with euros, however I was quite disappointed, I'm sorry to say but it's right for future tourists who go to open their eyes, because they are cheaters and have no respect for those who make them live.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Wendy_a
Sep 6, 2024
Great start to our Turkey Family trip! - Our tour guide Elif was fabulous! She is extremely knowledgeable and shared important historical facts relevant to every site we toured. She also courteous and kind with our entire family. Thank you Elif and Viator!
Review provided by Viator
Adelina_gorcea
Sep 4, 2024
Cisten on our own - This is the best thing to do in Istanbul. Better with a tour guide. We have done it on our one this time. For a better experience we recommend tour guide.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Priya_p
Sep 18, 2024
Great tour - Great tour, erol was very knowledgeable. He took the time to explain things in detail and give us tips and hints for the rest of our time here.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 8 guests
1 Adult
November 2024
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