Private Layover Sightseeing Experience of Istanbul

4.9 (9 reviews) Istanbul, Turkey
Duration6h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Turkish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Transform your layover in Istanbul into an unforgettable journey! With a professional, English-speaking driver, enjoy a fully customizable, private tour of Istanbul’s iconic sights. Begin at the Blue Mosque, renowned for its blue tiles and grand minarets. Next, explore Sultanahmet Square and marvel at Hagia Sophia’s blend of Christian and Islamic artistry. Descend into the haunting Basilica Cistern and discover Topkapi Palace’s rich Ottoman heritage. Enjoy panoramic views from Galata Tower, visit the grand Dolmabahçe Palace, and immerse yourself in the lively Grand Bazaar. Return to the airport in time, filled with memories of Istanbul.

You can explore all the places on the list or choose your favorites! Just inform your driver about your selections before the ride. Please note that tickets are not included, but your driver can assist with booking any necessary tickets for your chosen stops.

What's included

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Fuel and Tolls
  • Water
  • WiFi on board
  • Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
  • Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
  • All taxes and handling charges
  • Meals and beverages
  • Tips and Gratuities
  • Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
  • Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)
  • Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı)
  • Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)
  • Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı
  • Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions

What to expect

  1. Blue Mosque
    30m
    Or Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a still-functioning place of workship featuring stained-glass windows with intricate designs and hand-painted blue tiles.
  2. Sultanahmet Square
    30m
    Οnce the centre of public life in Constantinople, the Hippodrome was the scene of ferocious chariot races. The Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine are located here.
  3. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
    30m · Admission ticket not included
    The former Greek Orthodox Christian patriarchal cathedral dedicated to Holy Wisdom, later an Ottoman imperial mosque and now a museum.
  4. Basilica Cistern
    30m · Admission ticket not included
    The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground reservoir in Istanbul, built in the 6th century. Famous for its eerie columns and Medusa carvings, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Byzantine history.
  5. TopkapI Palace
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    An opulent complex of four courtyards, a harem, and a garden that served as the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans.
  6. Galata Tower
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    Called Christea Turris by the Genoese — is a medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karaköy quarter of the city.
  7. Dolmabahce Palace
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    A 19th-century, baroque-style building is one of the most glamorous palaces in the world. It was the administrative center of the late Ottoman Empire.
  8. Grand Bazaar
    1h
    The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, dating to the 15th century, is one of the world's largest covered markets. With over 4,000 shops, it’s a vibrant hub for jewelry, textiles, ceramics, and spices.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Your Welcome Pickups driver will be waiting for you at the selected pickup location and time.

Before your ride, you’ll receive your driver’s details — including their name, phone number, and car information — so you can easily recognize them.

Your driver will arrive on time and be ready to assist you and any special requests before starting your journey.

Please note that our sightseeing tours does not automatically include airport pickup or drop-off. If you wish to start or end your tour at the airport, simply select the option with airport pickup included when booking if available.

Kindly share any special requirements, such as traveling with a service animal or needing extra assistance, when booking your ride. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for you.

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • For 1-3 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.
  • For 4-8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
  • Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs, or bikes) may be subject to restrictions—please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage can be accommodated. Please note: If your group consists of 3 travelers and each person has large luggage, a minivan may be required for a comfortable fit. To ensure a minivan is assigned, please make the booking for 4 passengers
  • Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.
  • Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.
  • Please note that this experience is for everyone.The drivers are trained to adapt the experience depending on the type of participants. Whether you have kids or elders participating, the drivers know exactly how to handle special requests and provide an enjoyable experience accordingly.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.9 (9)
From
€160.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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