Istanbul Old City Highlights Private Guided Skip the Line Tours

Recommended by 100% of travelers

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Istanbul, Turkey

8 hours 10 minutes (approx.)
Pickup offered
Group discounts
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

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Overview

With so much to see in Istanbul, getting started can feel overwhelming. Get an in-depth introduction to the millennia-spanning city on this private full-day tour, which checks off the main Sultanahmet attractions. Stroll through the former abodes of Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace, haggle for souvenirs at the historic Grand Bazaar, and descend into the mysterious Basilica Cistern—plus other sights. Round-trip hotel transfers are included for a seamless package.

Private tours ensure a personalized experience, adapted to your tastes and tempo
Choice of morning start times gives you the flexibility to begin your day with ease
No complicated meeting points: Hotel transfers are included for a relaxing day out
Cover Sultanahmet on foot, or opt for minivan transfers in between locations

What's Included

Professional licensed local guide
Private minivan pickup and drop off service from Hotel/Port/Airbnb if chosen options
Private Tour

Breakfast-lunch-dinner and drinks
Gratuities
Ferry-Museum Tickets
Public transportations during the tour

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

Pickup details

For Last-Minute Bookings and Late Departures: Please note that museums and some sites close around 5:30 PM. Alternative tour options will be suggested by your guide during the tour. Meeting Points: Your tour guide will meet you at centrally located Istanbul hotels or Galata Port. If your hotel is not in the city center, the meeting point will be in front of the Basillica Cistern. Transportation: If you do not choose van service, your guide will meet you on foot at your hotel. If you book private van service, please be aware that a surcharge may apply for hotels located outside the city center or on the Asian Side.

Itinerary

Istanbul (Pass By)

Blue Mosque

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Sultanahmet District

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

TopkapI Palace

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

Grand Bazaar

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

Basilica Cistern

45 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

Historic Areas of Istanbul (Pass By)

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Infants must sit on laps
Transportation is wheelchair accessible

Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Most travelers can participate
Topkapı Palace is closed on Tuesday, Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday
Please note that tour guides do not have skip-the-line priority at Hagia Sophia. To avoid waiting in the security line, we recommend departing tour early in the morning, ideally around 8:30 am or 9:00 am. This will give you a better chance of enjoying the site without long queues
If your tour begins after 11 am, please be aware that you might need to skip one or a couple of sites, as they close by 7 pm. Your guide will tailor the program to accommodate your priorities accordingly. Planning your visit earlier in the day ensures you have ample time to explore all the attractions without rush. If you have any specific preferences or questions about the tour, feel free to let us know!
This is a private tour/activities. Only your group will participate
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

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Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

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Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Reviews

5.0

based on 36 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

We perform checks on reviews

Ibrahim and Kenan are my new friends in Turkey.

Tian_L, Jan 2024

It feels like seeing the city with my old friend from Turkey. If you’re someone who is interested in learning more at the places you visit, an audio guide at each place is always a plus to add on. However, if you only have limited time in Istanbul and need someone to guide you to everything you needed to see. You’ve found the right place.

Response from Host, Jan 2024

Thank you very much for your great review and glad to hear that we gain your friendship. Thank you Tian, Thank you Michelle. Hope to see you and host you again