Top Istanbul Archaeology Tours

Dive into Istanbul’s Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history on a small-group 7-hour tour, and visit the city’s historical highlights. Traveling mostly by foot, hear revealing facts and historical anecdotes about the city, and visit must-sees such the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Learn about Istanbul’s remarkable past from your informative guide, and stop for lunch and a shopping session at the Grand Bazaar, home to a myriad of tempting stalls. Numbers are limited to 15 people on this small-group tour to ensure personalized attention from a guide.

Marvel at the mysteries of Gobekli Tepe on this two day private tour from Istanbul. Uncover the history of this mysterious archaeological site located in Southeast Turkey, free from the crowds of mainstream tourists. Learn from your own guide to safely explore the regions culture, mythology, and religious traditions. Tours can be easily customized to cater to your own unique interests and preferences.

Immerse in Istanbul’s spiritual and cultural heritage with a half-day tour. Visit the vibrant Spice Bazaar, sail the Bosphorus, explore historic mosques in Uskudar, and marvel at Dolmabahce Palace’s grandeur. Enjoy a delightful local lunch and discover the city’s rich architectural wonders, including masterpieces by Mimar Sinan.

Visit the landmarks and historic sites of Gallipoli on a full-day tour from Istanbul. Travel in a comfortable bus to the places where many Allied and Turkish troops fought in World War I, including Brighton Beach, ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corp) Cove, The Nek and Johnston's Jolly. You’ll also see Ariburnu Cemetery, the ANZAC Commemoration site, Lone Pine Australian Memorial and Chunk Bair New Zealand Memorial. Learn about the history and impact of the WWI battles in Gallipoli as your guide shows you around this important location.

Istanbul is teeming with must-see historical attractions, but its packed city squares and maze-like streets can be tough for even return visitors to navigate. On this small-group tour, spend a day admiring the lavish interiors of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, soaking up treasures in Topkapi Palace, and haggling for souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar, without stressing over logistics, since a private group guide, lunch, and transportation are included.

Explore the most important site of Istanbul with an expert tour guide and save your time by skipping the lines. You have the flexibility to make your own itinerary or change anything during the tour.

Escape to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia on a small-group day tour from Istanbul. Witness the breathtaking views of the region's unique geological formations and explore the ancient cave dwellings and underground cities. Then, enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch and stroll through the charming town of Avanos, known for its ceramics. With round-trip flights and hotel pickup included, this tour is the perfect way to experience the highlights of Cappadocia stress-free.

Fit all of Istanbul's top attractions into one activity-packed day, with the help of a guide for insider tips. Rather than missing out on details as you explore in a vehicle, stroll Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, brimming with iconic buildings and storied streets. Tour the Blue Mosque, delve into the history of the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Istanbul Hippodrome, as well as the 'sunken palace' of Basilica Cistern.

Ephesus is a must for history and archaeology enthusiasts, but trailing after a large group to hit a checklist of sights doesn’t suit every traveler—especially with limited time. Get a chance to customize your experience on this full-day bespoke private tour, whether you’re on an off-shore excursion from Kusadasi, traveling from Selcuk or Bodrum, or even coming all the way from Istanbul (with round-trip flight tickets to Izmir included).

Highlights • Full Day Ephesus Sightseeing Tour • Explore the majestic ruins of Ephesus including the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven wonders of the Ancient World • Marvel at the Fountains of Trojan and The Temples of Hadrian and Domition • Visit the home of the Virgin Mary • English-speaking local guide  • Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch • Transport by air-conditioned coach Details • Available Days : Everyday • Available From : Old City | Taksim Area • Price Includes : Flight Ticket | Transport | Insurance | Guided Service | Lunch | Entry Fees • Price Excludes : Personal Expenses | Drinks • Duration : Full Day | 17 Hours • Pick up time : Old City 05:00 | Taksim Area 05:00 • Drop off time : Approximately 22:00

Topkapi Palace, which has been home to the Ottoman dynasty for many years, was used for educational administrative and as the art center of the state. Get knowledge about the imperial treasury sacred islamic relics, palace kitchens and weapons. (Closed on Tuesday) The Harem, build at the end of the 16th century, was a labyrinth consisting of around 300 magnificently tiled rooms, connected by courtyards and fountain gardens. At its height, it was home (or prison) to over 1.000 harem women, children and black eunuchs.

Spanning two continents, it's tough to figure out where to start your sightseeing in Istanbul, especially if you're short on time. This half-day tour helps you tick off the city’s famous historical landmarks and cultural sights without worrying about wasting time navigating or getting lost. See Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Entrance fees are included, as is hotel pickup and drop-off for your convenience.

Discover the landscape of Cappadocia on a full-day tour from Istanbul. Explore Göreme Museum, Pasabagi, Zelve, and Devrent Valley. Marvel at the fairy chimneys, experience local life, and learn pottery-making in Avanos. Enjoy a Turkish lunch, with internal flights and all transfers included for a seamless adventure. Note that admission fees to Goreme and Zelve Open Air Museums are not included.

Recall the days of ancient Rome on this full-day trip to Ephesus from Istanbul by air. With a professional guide, explore the spectacular Greco-Roman Ephesus, Turkey’s archaeological showpiece. Stroll the ancient streets to marvel at the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis. You also get time to walk through the Ephesus Archaeological Museum to see the excavations of the ancient city and shop for local handicrafts.

Get an in-depth introduction to the ancient ruins of Troy during this full-day private excursion from Istanbul. Travel comfortably by private transportation, with door-to-door pickup and drop-off from select hotels. Discover the well-preserved archaeological site with your own personal guide, from the iconic Trojan horse to the on-site museum. Admission tickets are purchased separately.

Go back in time to the Byzantine times when Istanbul was Constantinople and enjoy an 8-hour small-group guided tour of monasteries and churches. On this tour, uncover the impressive history of Christian sanctuaries that peaked during the reign of the Byzantine Empire. Visit Kariye Museum, once Chora Church, and ogle its frescoes and mosaics. See mosques converted from churches such as Pammakaristos and Pantocrator. Immerse with your guide to discover the history of palatial remains plus enjoy lunch included on this tour. Numbers on this small-group tour for a more intimate experience.

Set out early in the afternoon for a tour of Troy. After lunch in Eceabat, take a boat across the Dardanelles and travel to the famed Trojan Horse from the days of Beautiful Helen, Queen of Sparta, and Paris, the Trojan Prince. After the tour, head back to Istanbul.

Get an in-depth exploration of Istanbul on this full-day or half-day private tour. Enjoy personalized attention from your guide and stroll through the Sultanahmet neighborhood. Visit the Hippodrome, the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar. Choose to add Topkapi Palace to a full-day itinerary.

Orient your visit to Istanbul during this private one or multi-day guided tour. Upgrade to include a private, climate-controlled vehicle with your guide. Learn how the Turkish capital was influenced by Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras. See landmarks like Galata Tower, the Hagia Sophia, and Dolmabahce Palace. Visit local neighborhoods in Fener and Balat. Private tours include hotel pickup.

Discover Ottoman history at the Blue Mosque and the illustrious Topkapi Palace during this guided morning tour in Istanbul. See Istanbul’s most famous monuments and enjoy a visit to the Hippodrome once the heart of Constantinople.

Discover the otherworldly wonders of Cappadocia on a 3-day all-inclusive small-group tour with hotel pickup included. A robust well-paced itinerary ensures you’ll complete your bucket list without breaking a sweat. Highlights include the mysterious fairy chimneys, the cave dwellings of the Goreme Open-Air Museum, and the underground city of Kaymakli. Enjoy immersive commentary that takes you out of the guidebook and into the magic of this mysterious region.

Sail between two continents and into the Black Sea on this full-day cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, with an onboard guide plus a delicious meze lunch on deck. Gaze over the shores of Europe and Asia as you cruise the Bosphorus; stop to visit the pretty Ortaköy neighborhood; and enjoy guided tours of the ornate Küçüksu Palace and Rumeli Fortress. There’s even a chance to swim in the Black Sea.

Make the most of your limited time in Istanbul on this full-day private tour. Admire the Hagia Sophia Mosque, originally a Byzantine church and one of the largest in the world. Explore the Blue Mosque with its 17th-century architecture. Visit the Hippodrome and Basilica Cistern, relics from Roman times. Discover Topkapı Palace's courtyards, royal chambers, and views over the Bosphorus. Browse the Grand Bazaar with its handmade carpets, jewelry, leather, and souvenirs.

Explore Ephesus and Pamukkale on this overnight tour from Istanbul. Traveling with a small group of just 15 people or fewer means you'll get personalized attention from your guide as you learn about the ancient history of these sites. Your guide will lead tours of each UNESCO World Heritage Site and be available to answer any questions. Accommodations, and some meals are included.