Small Group Tour of Istanbul In A Day

Discover the ancient wonders of Istanbul on a full-day tour. Explore historic sites, skip the long lines at museums and mosques, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Roman Byzantium, Byzantine Constantinople, and Ottoman Istanbul.

Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Hagia Sophia Mosque - Hagia Sophia, the Church of Divine Wisdom, is one of the most remarkable architectural wonders, originally built as a basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. To visit the interior of the Hagia Sophia Museum, guests need to purchase a ticket for 25 Euros per person.
  • Topkapi Palace - Topkapı Palace, the residence of Ottoman Sultans, showcases the imperial treasury, sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Mohammed, kitchens, Chinese porcelain, weapons, and a calligraphy section. Live guide commentary is not permitted in special sections. (The Harem is not included in the program.)
  • Blue Mosque - The Blue Mosque, located opposite Hagia Sophia, is renowned for its blue İznik tiles and is unique with its six minarets, built in honor of Sultan Ahmet.
  • Hippodrome - The Hippodrome was the center for sporting events (chariot races, athletics) and political activities in the old city. The Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius, and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are the monuments that adorn the Hippodrome.
  • Grand Bazaar - The Grand Covered Bazaar is the most captivating shopping center and the largest “souk” in the world, with nearly 4000 shops selling antiques, jewelry, gold, carpets, leather goods, and souvenirs. (Art demonstrations of handmade Turkish carpets are available upon request.)
  • German Fountain - The German Fountain is a gazebo-style fountain located at the northern end of the old Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Square) in Istanbul, Turkey, and is situated across from the Mausoleum of Sultan Ahmed I.
  • Obelisk of Theodosius - The Obelisk of Theodosius is an ancient Egyptian obelisk of Pharaoh Thutmose III, re-erected in the Hippodrome of Constantinople (now known as At Meydanı or Sultanahmet Meydanı in modern-day Istanbul, Turkey) by the Roman emperor Theodosius I in the 4th century AD.
What's Included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
  • Professional guide
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges included
  • Lunch provided
  • Skip the long lines
  • Fuel surcharges included
What's Not Included
  • Drinks
  • Gratuities
  • Entrance fees of Hagia Sophia Museum €25
Additional Information

Embark on a comprehensive day-long journey through Istanbul’s prime attractions.

Experience a historical journey spanning the eras of Roman Byzantium, Byzantine Constantinople, and Ottoman Istanbul as you visit stunning sites such as the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace. Enjoy these attractions at a social distance and bypass the queues, for museums and mosques

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
  • Tour price includes A/C transportation, guidance in multiple languages, entrance fees of Topkapı Palace, lunch and taxes
  • Drinks are not included during the lunch
  • Please kindly be ready by the hotel reception 10 minutes before departure time
  • Guests who prefer not to spend time at courtesy transfers should be ready at our departure point 10 minutes before given departure time (09:00am)
  • Non smoking on our tours but all tours make frequent stops
  • Local Experiences Istanbul is not responsible for loss or theft of personal belongings during the tour
  • Guests who do not want to wait at the long queues of Hagia Sophia Museum, they can buy the ticket from their guide
Location
Tamara Restaurant
Küçük Ayasofya Caddesi
We also can meet with the guests in front of Hagia Sophia Museum
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
5.0
(4 Ratings)
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1 star
Helen_j
Sep 21, 2023
Tour guide was knowledgeable about history and facts about the places we were visiting. - The visit to Sofia Hagia Mosque was full of history and the guide knew its history which made the mosque more interesting.
Review provided by Viator
563wilmap
Mar 31, 2023
Istanbul Experience - We stayed at the Rast Hotel, and the staff there are just wonderful. The hotel is old, but very clean and well managed. In the best location for visiting all the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Theodorius Cistern , the Grand Bazaar and many more wonderful places. I totally recommend having a Hammam. We were all a bit apprehensive, but just the most wonderful experience. I have to also personally thank Sevki, who worked in the cafe at the Rast Hotel, She made our breakfast each day so enjoyable. So friendly, happy and alway up for a chat with us. xxxx Wilma xx
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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