Small Group Tour: Essential Istanbul
Recommended by 93% of travelers
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Istanbul, Turkey
- 8 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Discover the charm of Isstanbul on a full-day tour led by a guide. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, browsing its countless treasures. You'll also explore the Hippodrome, admire the exterior of Hagia Sophia, and have the option to visit Topkapi Palace (entrance extra), while uncovering Istanbul's rich history in an intimate group setting.
- Discover the highlights of Istanbul's Old Town in one day
- Learn about Istanbul, the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire
- Enjoy a more relaxed pace and personal attention in a small group
- Relax with hassle-free central Istanbul hotel pickup and drop-off
What's Included
- Professional English speaking guide
- Hotel/port pickup and drop-off (hotel locations should be in city centre, please check our radius)
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan. If your hotel is located in centre of old city we don't use it
- Entrance fee - Topkapi Palace skip the line entrance ticket (everyday except Tuesdays)TRY2,400.00 per person
- Meals and drinks
- Pick up and drop off at airports or hotels out of city centre (additional fee)
- Gratuities
- Entrance fee - Underground (Basilica) Cistern skip the line entrance ticket (just for Tuesdays)TRY1,500.00 per person
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup
Operating hours.9:00 am
Itinerary
After pickup from your central hotel—or nearby if road access is not an option—continue to Sultanahmet to discover Istanbul’s old city. Beside your guide, there’s a maximum of 10 travelers in the group, and you do most of your exploring on foot.
First, visit the Blue Mosque, Sinan’s masterpiece. (Please note: women should wear a headscarf and modest clothes that cover shoulders and legs, although scarves and wraps are available for rent.)
Next, explore the Grand Bazaar, with its spices, carpets, and Turkish delight. (On Sundays, when it is closed, stop at the Spice Bazaar instead.) Continue to the Hagia Sophia, a mosque that was once a 6th-century Christian church, to explore its exterior, and the Hippodrome, Roman Constantinople’s racetrack.
Finish with a tour of Topkapi Palace (entrance fee extra), where Ottoman sultans and their harems lived in splendor. (On Tuesdays, when the palace is closed, visit the Basilica Cistern.) Finally, your guide drops you at your hotel.
First, visit the Blue Mosque, Sinan’s masterpiece. (Please note: women should wear a headscarf and modest clothes that cover shoulders and legs, although scarves and wraps are available for rent.)
Next, explore the Grand Bazaar, with its spices, carpets, and Turkish delight. (On Sundays, when it is closed, stop at the Spice Bazaar instead.) Continue to the Hagia Sophia, a mosque that was once a 6th-century Christian church, to explore its exterior, and the Hippodrome, Roman Constantinople’s racetrack.
Finish with a tour of Topkapi Palace (entrance fee extra), where Ottoman sultans and their harems lived in splendor. (On Tuesdays, when the palace is closed, visit the Basilica Cistern.) Finally, your guide drops you at your hotel.
1
Blue Mosque
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
2
Grand Bazaar
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
3
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
4
Hippodrome
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
5
TopkapI Palace
2 hours 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infant seats available
- Most travelers can participate
- Please Note:Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and replaced with Underground Cistern. The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and will be replaced with Spice Bazaar.
- Our accredited guide will give you all the detailed explanations about the world famous historical building from outside of the mosque. General entrance of mosque is available only for Turkish citizens. Foreign tourists can only visit Gallery Section with an additional entrance fee (25 Euro per person). Gallery section visit of Hagia Sophia is not included in our tour.
- While visiting a mosque in Istanbul, women need to cover their heads, shoulders, knees. You can carry your own scarf to cover your head but please note scarves are provided at the entrance of every mosque (available at a charge). If you are wearing leggings, tights or skirts, wraps will be provided at the entrance (available at a charge).
- For the ladies, a headscarf and decent dress covering shoulders and legs are required during their visit to mosque. You can carry your own scarf to cover your head but please note disposable scarves are provided at the entrance of every mosque (.available at a charge).
- Please be aware of that there is a lot of walking in this tour. We can't use vehicle between sites since centre of Sultanahmet area is closed to traffic.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.7
based on 714 reviews
Jennifer_O, Mar 2026
I had a lovely tour with Zel who was informative and tailored the tour as it was just me. She collected me at my hotel and gave me information on tram stops and tips about the area I was staying in. She is passionate and knowledgeable about all aspects of Istanbul and Turkey and I liked her immediately. She gave me plenty of photo opportunities and became my photographer for certain photos! We toured the Blue Mosque, the Topaki Palace, the Hippodrome, the
Grand Bazaar, & had lunch. I would 100% recommend Zel on this tour as your guide. Thank you Zel.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Dear Jennifer,
Thank you for this great review. We are pleased to know that you liked our tour and guide very much. Hope to see you again in our country. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Angela_B, Feb 2026
Turns out it was just me on the tour. It was a wonderful day. My guide tailored the tour since we had some time and I got to see a pottery demonstration and a rug knotting demonstration. I learned about the way the tiles for the Sultan’s palace were made and saw some amazing Turkish carpets. The Blue Mosque is so beautiful and the tour of the Grand Bazaar was great. I really enjoyed and highly recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Dear Angela,
Thank you for this great review. It is really appreciated. Hope to see you again in another tour of our company. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Christel_D, Feb 2026
My tour guide Zel was excellent. She was knowledgeable, kept a good pace and answered all my questions.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Dear Christel,
Thank you for your review. We are pleased to know that all went well during the tour. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Jennifer_J, Dec 2025
This tour ended up being just me, and it turned into one of the most meaningful experiences of my trip. Lale was absolutely wonderful, knowledgeable, warm, and incredibly attentive.
Beyond the historical and cultural depth she brought to Istanbul’s landmarks, she was immensely helpful as a solo traveler. She generously shared practical tips on language, customs, transportation, and what and where to eat, all in a way that felt thoughtful and personal rather than scripted.
The pacing was relaxed, the conversation engaging, and the experience felt more like being shown the city by a trusted local friend than taking a formal tour. I truly appreciated her care and insight and look forward to staying in touch with her.
I couldn’t recommend this tour, and Lale, more highly.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Dear Jennifer,
Thank you very much for this detailed review regarding our tour. We are pleased to know that you had an unforgettable memory. Hope to see you again for a longer tour with our company and Lale. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
nadine_l, Nov 2025
The guide Ace was incredible very knowledgeable great communicator very interesting visit of major sites but also learned a lot about Istanbul and Turquia. We wish we had more time. We loved the cetamic visit the delicious turquish delight and the cashemir scarfs… we will definitely come back thanks to this amazing guide!!!
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Dear Nadine,
We are pleased to know that you had a great time during our tour. Hope to see you again in our country for a longer trip. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Aimee_S, Oct 2025
We did quite a bit of walking so wear comfortable shoes. I learned a lot and visited many sites on our day tour. Our guide, Alev was a gem. I enjoyed her very much and would highly recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Dear Aimee,
Thank you for recommending our tour. It is really appreciated. Hope to see you again for more tours. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
gail919, Sep 2025
Be able to walk and stand in lines. This was a good tour of the grand market area and at a good pace.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Dear Guest,
Thank you for writing a review for us. We are pleased to know that you had good time in our tour. Hope to see you again. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Irene_S, Sep 2025
Ms Ozlem Karakafa, our guide, was outstanding. Very knowledgeable with a great personality. We had a wonderful time with her.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Dear Irene,
Thank you for writing a review for us. It is very important. Hope to see you again in our country. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Bilqis_A, Sep 2025
Simply terrific guide. Bless her what a wonderful soul. I enjoyed seeing the different places and the rich culture heritage in Istanbul. Highly recommended ❤️
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Dear Bilqis,
Thank you for these nice words about our guide and tour. It is really appreciated. Hope to see you again. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Thomas_G, Sep 2025
Zel was great! She was very knowledgeable and fun to talk to. She took us to a great place for lunch and the group had a great time.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Dear Thomas,
Thank you for your review. We are pleased to know that you had a great time with our guide. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Elizabeth_H, Sep 2025
Zel our travel guide was absolutely amazing. So knowledgeable on all the historic landmarks we visited and such a lovely person to talk to
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Dear Elizabeth,
Thank you for this nice review. Hope you can have chance to visit Istanbul again. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Zak_M, Aug 2025
This was the best day! I made 3 new friends on the tour, and there were only 4 of us on it. That’s a 100% success rate 👍😃 Tim was our guide, and he got me the best bargain on the most beautiful jacket. Cheers Tim, I owe you one. The Blue Mosque I will remember forever ❤️
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Dear Zak,
Thank you for this great review and nice words. It was a pleasure for us to made a great day for you. Hope you can visit our country again for more memories. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Christine_W, Jul 2025
I was very lucky to have undivided attention in this tour. Zel was extremely knowledgeable, friendly and passionate about Istanbul.
I learnt so much about the city’s history. We visited places ahead of the larger tour groups which was fantastic.
True there is a lot of walking, but it is mainly inside the attraction sites and there are stops for self exploration and photos.
I definitely recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Dear Christine,
Thank you for this nice review. We are pleased to know that you had great time with Zel. Thank you also for recommending us. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Marcia_P, Jul 2025
I was going to Africa and had a layover in Istanbul for a day. I booked my tour, there it said it was a three hours tour that was perfect for the day.
Mr. Burhan was my guide tour, he seems very knowledgeable about the history of Istanbul and also took me to the Grand Bazaar which he help me to buy some souvenirs from my trip. I was fortunate enough that I was by myself doing this tour. I love it and recommend. Thank you!
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Dear Marcia,
Thank you for all your kind words about our tour and guide. Hope to see you again for a longer period in Istanbul. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Michael_T, Jul 2025
Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. Good tour. Mehmet had studied his Turkish history and was very informative.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Dear Michael,
Thank you for your nice review. We are pleased to know that you learned a lot about Turkish history. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Mario_M, Jul 2025
Tour was really good! Guide was knowledgeable and everything was well organized. Had a great time and would recommend it
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Dear Mario,
Thank you for your review. We are pleased to know that you enjoyed our tour. Hope to see you again in Istanbul. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Cynthia_A, Jun 2025
This small group tour was excellent - our tour guide made all the difference. The group was 7 big - a great size. Our guide explained the history of Istanbul and Turkey as it related to the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace and the artifacts in the museum. She pointed out other buildings and their historical significance in the old town. We also went to the Grand Bazaar where the guide provided shopping tips and what to watch out for and ended the day in an art studio to see ceramic made on a wheel. A full educational and cultural day!
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Dear Cynthia,
Thank you very much for these detailed review. It is really helpful for others. Hope to see you again in our country. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Shane_H, May 2025
Özlem was an incredible guide! She brought the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace to life with her knowledge and stories. The local food stops she shared were delicious and authentic — places we’d never have found on our own. A perfect mix of history, culture, and cuisine. Highly recommended!
Response from Host, May 2025
Dear Shane,
Thank you very much for all these kind words. It is a great motivation for all of our team. We are pleased to know that you had a great day with Ozlem. Hope to see you again one day. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
russcity, May 2025
A lot information on the subject,so you get all necessary details. Our guide was excellent Ms Zeliha she is a human dynamo. She is great at getting ahead of the queues, definitely recommend.
Response from Host, May 2025
Dear Russell,
Thank you for your encouraging words about our guide. It is really appreciated. Hope you have chance to visit our city again. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
kathryn, May 2025
Zehlia was great. So knowledgeable. It was a small group so she answered every question. She navigated the crowds really well.
Response from Host, May 2025
Dear Kathryn,
Thank you for your review. We are pleased to know that all was good in your tour. Hope to see you again. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Andreas_R, Apr 2025
Fantastic tour guide. Very knowledgeable and good fun. We learned a lot, visited all the locations outlined.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Dear Andreas,
Thank you for your review. It is really appreciated. Hope you can have chance to visit our country again. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Kathleen_S, Apr 2025
The tour guide was excellent and because this was a small tour she was able to modify the agenda slightly to take us to the hamam to get some information.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Dear Kathleen,
Thank you for your review. It is good to know that you had a good time with our small group. Hope to see you again. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Heather_E, Apr 2025
Our tour was amazing! We loved our guide Lale, who asked that we call her Tulip. She was extremely knowledgeable, very accommodating, and just generally wonderful to be around. We learned so much from her and she was so patient with all of our questions. The tour description was a little different than the experience that we had, however. For instance, there was no air-conditioned vehicle, but everything is in walking distance, so it would have not been helpful to have a vehicle. Also, we thought we would go into the Hagia Sophia. The tour description was a little unclear here. There was no way to jump the line with a guide, and it would have been a waste of our precious time with Tulip to wait in the line, so we didn't go in. It was definitely okay, but the tour description could have been clearer here. Overall, our day could not have been better and Tulip was awesome, so we have only praise for the tour itself, but the tour description should be perhaps updated and made a little clearer.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Dear Heather,
Thank you very much for writing a detailed review for us. We are pleased to know that you enjoyed the time with our guide, Lale (Tulip).
In "Additional Info" part of our ad, it is mentioned as below:
"Please be aware of that there is a lot of walking in this tour. We can't use vehicle between sites since centre of Sultanahmet area is closed to traffic."
Since your hotel is located within walking distance to all sites, we didn't use vehicle.
Again in "Additional Info" part of our ad, it says:
"Our accredited guide will give you all the detailed explanations about the world famous historical building from outside of the mosque. General entrance of mosque is available only for Turkish citizens. Foreign tourists can only visit Gallery Section with an additional entrance fee (25 Euro per person). Gallery section visit of Hagia Sophia is not included in our tour."
Actually, we inform customers about all of these conditions. But we can't write all of them in general information part, therefore we write them in "Additional Info" section.
Hope to see you again in Turkey for another tour. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Gigi_M, Mar 2025
Great tour. Our guide was very, very good and she is a beautiful human being as well :). Very manageable pace. A great deal of historical information and very freely can ask questions. Tour went from 9a-6p and it was perfect in every way. Thank you, Ozlem (Ozzie) for a very memorable experience.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Dear Gigi,
Thank you for all these kind words. Our guide and team are very happy to know that you had a great day. Hope to see you again for another tour. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Louise_F, Mar 2025
Our tour guide, Tulip, was absolutely superb. I have done quite a few tours and she was the most knowledgeable guide I have ever had. We were a small group and I learnt a lot not only about the sights we saw but about all of Turkey. The day was extremely interesting and memorable. Highly recommended
Response from Host, Mar 2025
Dear Louise,
Thank you very much for this review. We are pleased to know that you had a great day with our guide. Hope to see you again in our country for more tours. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Makena_M, Mar 2025
Absolutely amazing tour experience! Highly recommend for when you have limited time in Istanbul but want to learn more about the history and culture.
Response from Host, Mar 2025
Dear Makena,
Thank you for your kind words about our tour and also for recommending us to others. It is really appreciated. Hope to see you again. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Michele_B, Jan 2025
Our tour guide Burhan was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. Very personable and nice. Adjusted to our small group’s needs, particularly with some challenging weather conditions. Would definitely recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Jan 2025
Dear Michele,
Thank you for writing a review for us and recommending us to others. It is really appreciated. Hope to see you again in our country for another tour. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Edwin_W, Dec 2024
Very informative with a knowledgeable guide. Excellent summary of major events in the history of Constantinople and Istanbul.
Response from Host, Dec 2024
Dear Edwin,
Thank you for your review. We are pleased to know that you liked our guide and the tour. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Amy_S, Nov 2024
I had a wonderful tour with Mr. Coskun. He shared so much history, including dates and anecdotes. He gave me cultural insight into Istanbul, both now and in the past. Everything went smoothly and both his colleague and he were in touch before the tour to provide details and answer questions. Mr. Coskun also chose a spot for lunch frequented by locals, which was refreshing. I also want to mention that he knew the perfect spots for photos and is a great photographer! I fully enjoyed my tour and would give it 10 stars if I could. It was fascinating!
Response from Host, Nov 2024
Dear Amy,
Thank you very much for all these kind words. It is a great motivation for us. Hope to see you again in our country for a longer tour. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
Carol_F, Nov 2024
Zel was an excellent guide. She reviewed the geography and history of Istanbul, coordinated visits to many sites, and navigated use of public transportation.
Response from Host, Nov 2024
Dear Carol,
Thank you for writing a review for us. It is good to know that you had great time with our guide. Hope to see you again in Istanbul. All the best...
Baris Tugberk (Global Travel Services)
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