• German Fountain - The tour will commence at the German Fountain, a gift symbolizing the friendship between the Turks and Germans, which eventually led to their alliance in World War I. This monument offers an opportunity to delve into Turkey’s history and its historical connections.
• Blue Mosque - The tour aims to visit a mosque to discuss Islam. If the queue at the Blue Mosque is reasonable, entry will be attempted. However, as the tours last 2.5 hours, time will be optimized rather than spent waiting in a long line. If the wait is excessive, an alternative mosque will be visited. Note that the Blue Mosque is closed on Fridays, but efforts will be made to enter a different mosque.
• Hagia Sophia Mosque - The Hagia Sophia will be admired from the outside, as entry requires a fee of 25 Euros per person. The local guide will provide insights into its significance, enhancing understanding. If visited later, the Hagia Sophia will be appreciated even more with the knowledge gained from the tour.
• Sultan Ahmet Tomb - A visit to a cemetery where members of the royal family and other notable figures are buried will provide insight into Turkish burial traditions and their evolution since the Republic’s establishment.
• Cemberlitas Sutunu - The guide will introduce the Column of Constantine the Great, emphasizing its historical importance. The city’s rich trade history will also be explored, as this site once marked the end of major trade routes in ancient times.
• Nuruosmaniye Mosque - If the line at the Blue Mosque is too long, the guide may take visitors to an alternative mosque to explain Islam. Since most mosques share common architectural and cultural features, the knowledge gained will aid in understanding other mosques visited during free time.
• Kapali Carsi - The visit to the Grand Bazaar will begin by exploring areas frequented by locals before moving to more tourist-oriented sections. After a brief tour inside, the guide will share tips on haggling and recommend alternative bazaars to explore.

At this point, participants may choose to leave or continue with the guide for a short five-minute walk to enjoy a complimentary sampling of Turkish Delight with fruit tea. This is not a shopping stop—no sales will be attempted. Instead, a peaceful atmosphere with access to a free rooftop view will be experienced. The guide will also share recommendations for local restaurants to consider for lunch after the tour.

• Booking fee.
• Sampling Turkish Delights with fruit tea.
• Guiding by an official local guide.

• Tipping your guide.

Kickstart your Istanbul adventure with this insightful 2.5-hour orientation walking tour. Led by an official tour guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history, Islam, and its most essential landmarks, helping you plan the rest of your trip more effectively. Your guide will also share local tips on where to eat, experience a traditional Turkish bath, and much more.

This is an orientation tour and does not include interior visits to major sites. However, depending on the line, we will make an effort to go inside the Blue Mosque or an alternative mosque.

• Our tour guides are licensed, studied 4 years to be a guide and this is their full-time job. Minimum expected contribution is 400 Try or 10 Euros per person

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