Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below
Overview
Experience Istanbul’s imperial history on a private Topkapi Palace, Harem and Basilica Cistern tour with fast-track tickets, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a licensed local guide.
This guided private tour of Istanbul focuses on two key places associated with Istanbul's past: Topkapi Palace, the seat of power in the Ottoman Empire, and the Basilica Cistern, which is one of the best preserved examples of Byzantine architecture that exists below the Old City of Istanbul.
The Istanbul Private Topkapi Palace, Harem & Basilica Cistern Tour is ideal for any travelers who wish to experience Topkapi Palace, Harem and Basilica Cistern efficiently in half a day.
What's included
Museum Tickets & Attraction Fees
Skip-the-Line Tickets: Your guide will arrange priority tickets
Flexible Pick-up Point: Guide will meet you at central Istanbul hotels, Airbnb, or Galataport
Private Tour with a Licensed Professional Tour Guide
Transportation with Private Van (Available upon request)
Gratuities (Suggested)
What to expect
Topkapi Palace Museum
4h · Admission ticket included
Topkapi Palace is made up of several main courtyards, and your guide will take you to see the Palace’s Kitchens, Imperial Council chambers, treasury and collections, and the Sacred Relics. Your guide will also lead you through the Harem of Topkapi Palace. This section of the palace was the private residence of the Ottoman dynasty and palace staff. Your guide will explain daily life and the role that the Harem of Topkapi Palace played in the history of the Ottoman Empire.
Basilica Cistern
1h · Admission ticket included
Basilica Cistern is one of the many marvels of Istanbul. Your guide will explain the many engineering feats of ancient Istanbul and the history of the Cistern as you look at the famous Medusa Head.
Meeting and pickup
Pickup details
- Tour guide meets you at central Istanbul hotels or Istanbul Galataport. If hotel is not centrally located, meeting point will be German Fountain.
- If van service is not chosen your guide meet you at centrally located hotels on foot.
Additional information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.