Top Istanbul How to Get Around

Boasting more than 1,600 years of history, discovering Istanbul on your own can be challenging. Make the most of your limited time on a group day tour of the Old City. Explore iconic attractions like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Blue Mosque, plus overlooked landmarks like Sogukcesme Sokak and Caferaga Medrese. Immersive commentary transports you to the days of the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.

Discover the otherworldly landscapes and cultural heritage of Turkey's Cappadocia region on a 2-day small-group tour from Istanbul. With accommodation, hotel pickup, transportation, guided tours in English and Japanese, and some meals provided, this excursion is perfect for travelers who hate travel planning. The itinerary covers the Underground City of Kaymakli, Goreme Open Air Museum, Rose Valley, Uchisar Castle, and other intriguing sites.

If you’ve already seen the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, this Circle Istanbul tour will take you beyond the most-visited sights to discover Istanbul’s lively neighborhoods, vibrant culture, and tasty cuisine. Visit the districts of Karakoy, Kadikoy, and Balat, cross over to the Asian side of the city, and take a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus. Along the way, enjoy delicious Turkish meals and a traditional Turkish bath experience.

Visit two of Turkey’s heritage sites from Istanbul with ease on this two-day group tour of Ephesus and Pamukkale. Depart by plane from Istanbul and fly to Izmir, continuing on to a guided tour of ancient Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. In the evening, relax by the seaside in Kusadasi. Spend the second day exploring Pamukkale and Hierapolis and swimming in Cleopatra’s Pool before returning to Istanbul.

Discover Istanbul through its majestic waterway, the Bosphorus River. Cruise along the scenic river that divides Europe and Asia and see many landmarks and highlights in just a few hours. Enjoy insightful commentary as you pass Süleymaniye Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and Galata Tower. Optional stop at Beylerbeyi with palace visit is available only on 10:00 am and 1:15 pm departures.

Float down the UNESCO-listed Bosphorus Strait-with a cold drink in hand-on a sunset cruise aboard a luxury yacht. Fun for solo travelers, couples, and families alike, this shared aquatic excursion is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. As you float past iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Dolmahbace Palace, and Rumeli Fortress, snack on freshly prepared canapes and Turkish baklava.

Enjoy the convenience and flexibility of hiring a private driver and guide to explore Istanbul. Enjoy the freedom to decide where you want to go and for how long. Your personal tour guide and driver will give you detailed information about places you visit and will be happy to answer any questions.

See Istanbul’s most notable landmarks and secret backstreets on this small-group walking tour. Learn about the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman history from an English-speaking guide. Pass by Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar. On this tour, learn about the attractions, but not venture inside. Discover where locals eat and drink.

Istanbul looks at its most dazzling when seen from the water. Enjoy a private yacht trip on an all-weather vessel with a transparent tent for cooler evenings. Sip on soft drinks and nibble on snacks as you sail. Choose from various options such as half- and full-day options, a speedboat adventure, a sunset journey, and longer island voyages that include swimming stops.

Get the perfect introduction to Istanbul’s most iconic places during a half-day tour of the Old City with an experienced guide. Step into the world of Ottoman sultans and Byzantine emperors as you make your way from the Hippodrome to the Blue Mosque and the underground Basilica Cistern. Explore the gleaming mosaics at Hagia Sophia, then immerse yourself in the bright colors, vivid scents and bustling aisles of the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy the personal experience of a small-group tour, with insider tips and advice from a local.

Enjoy a private half-day food tour through Istanbul's Karakoy and Kadikoy districts, guided through hidden alleyways to savor authentic local flavors. Take the ferry across the Bosphorus Strait, admiring views of Istanbul’s European and Asian sides. Wander through Kadikoy and the Spice Market to indulge in tastings like freshly baked simit, börek, baklava, lahmacun, and street food favorites such as mussel dolma. Conclude at a coffeehouse for a classic Turkish ending.

Avoid the tourist traps and embark on a private walking food tour of Karakoy and Kadikoy, exploring both European and Asian sides of the city. Roam through markets that most travelers miss, with all tastings included for a seamless experience. From home-cooked dishes and traditional favorites, this tour showcases two different sides of Istanbul through its food.

See Istanbul’s Old City highlights without the stress of navigating crowded streets, long lines, or tight schedules on your own. This small-group experience keeps numbers low for a more personal feel while streamlining access to the city’s most important landmarks. With hotel pickup and efficient routing included, you can focus on the history and atmosphere rather than logistics or waiting.

When visiting Istanbul, see four of the ancient capitol's top attractions on a guided half-day tour of the old city of Sultanahmet. Enjoy skip-the-line access to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern, and time to browse the shops at the Grand Bazaar. Your guide shares the history of Istanbul and Constantinople throughout your tour.

Ideal for travelers short on time, this fast-track guided tour of the Hagia Sophia includes skip-the-line admission tickets. Breeze past the entrance queues, saving time for a longer visit. Listen to the iconic building’s centuries-old history from a private guide. Feel free to linger and explore on your own after the tour.

Get more out of your time in Istanbul by going on a sunset evening cruise on the Bosphorus Strait. Enjoy the personalized service of the onboard crew, and included snacks and soft drinks, as you sail. Sailing past Dolmabahce Palace, Bosphorus Bridge, Rumeli Fortress, Kucuksu Pavilion, and many more highlights, this cruise is a great way to see famous sights without being stuck in large crowds.

Experience the main attractions of Istanbul, as well as the small but equally wonderful details of the city on this small-group tour.  Your guide takes you on an in-depth tour of both Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. You'll hear interesting stories that other tours fail to mention. .

Discover the history of the Sultanahmet neighborhood in Istanbul on a small-group day tour with hotel pickup and drop-off. See the area's major sights without the need to navigate the bustling streets on your own. Learn how to use the city's public transportation from your guide during the tour. Visit attractions such as the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Irene Museum, and enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a carpet weaving village.

Appreciating Istanbul’s many iconic landmarks can be difficult on a self-led tour. Discover the city on a private tour and benefit from your guide’s undivided attention and insights as you explore attractions including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar. Enjoy the flexibility of a private tour to customize your itinerary and departure time to suit you.

See Istanbul lit up for the night as you sail between Europe and Asia on this lively Bosphorus dinner cruise aboard a spacious double-decker boat. Soak up the atmosphere as whirling dervishes spin and belly dancers twist and shake, while Istanbul’s historic skyline glides by. Your package includes dinner, performances, and hotel transfers; alcoholic drinks can be purchased at the cash bar.

The Bosphorus Strait divides Europe and Asia. Watch the dreamy minarets and palaces of Istanbul glide by as you cruise this majestic waterway by night. A delicious Turkish buffet keeps you sated, with free-flow drinks as well (choose between soft or alcoholic packages). Traditional dances provide a cultural spin, while a live DJ gets the party spirit flowing, and round-trip hotel transfers keep life simple.

Venture out into Istanbul after nightfall on this private evening tour. With a local host accompanying you, you'll visit highlights and hot spots, and sample food that only residents know about. This short tour fits easily into busy schedules and ensures you leave with tailored recommendations to enhance your trip.

Cruise between two continents during this entertainment-filled, evening boat ride along the Bosphorus. Drift by Istanbul’s top sights as you dine on a tasty mezze spread, getting a front-row peek at iconic monuments like Dolmabahce Palace, the Spice Market, the Blue Mosque, and the Hagia Sophia. Half-day dinner tours include a folk and belly dancing program.

Avoid wasting time at the wrong stalls and enjoy a stress-free private shopping tour of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. This experience is tailored to your interests, with exclusive deals through local connections. Get inside tips on the best stores for souvenirs, jewelry, carpets, ceramics, and more, so you can shop respectfully and like a local on this private tour.